With over 45 million visitors globally, Body Worlds is one of the world's most visited health and wellness exhibitions. It's also frequently described as a "life changing experience" — visitors can expect to leave with an understanding of the marvel that is the human body. Now, the original exhibition of real human bodies is coming to Australia for the first time this August. The Body Worlds Vital exhibition, on display at the Melbourne Showgrounds from August 13 till November 18, takes attendees on an intricate journey of the workings of the human body, through an authentic, visual display of over 150 donated specimens. The human bodies and body parts, donated for the benefit of public education, have gone through a meticulous process of plastination, and demonstrate the complexity, resilience and vulnerability of the human body in distress, disease and optimal health. The exhibitions were founded by anatomist and scientist Dr Gunther von Hagens and physician and conceptual designer Dr Angelina Whalley. And all the specimens displayed at the exhibitions are from an established body donation program with consenting donors — so far 17,000 bodies from around the world have been donated to Dr von Hagens' Institute for Plastination. The Australian tour specifically focuses on contemporary diseases and ailments and how everyday lifestyle choices can improve health and wellness, to live with vitality. The 150 specimens on display stem are preserved through a scientific process that replaces body fluids with polymers. Interactive elements include the Anatomical Mirror, where visitors will see how organs are positioned in their own body, a photo display that showcases longevity and healthy ageing, and healthy organs shown in direct comparison with diseased organs. The exhibition will be open daily, from 10am–5pm Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, from 10am–6.30pm Thursday and Friday, and 9.30am–6.30pm Saturday and Sunday.
Tender, smoky, rich meaty goodness — this is Meatmother in a nutshell. Swan Street's Slip sleek and minimalist space in Richmond has been long-celebrated for its shudderingly delicious pulled pork, so praised that punters waltz past the Richmond digs just to get a mere whiff of the smoky aroma. But nothing pairs with lip-smackingly good American-style BBQ than crisp, cold beer — and Richmond's Mountain Goat Brewery is just the ticket. The Melbourne-born brewery is inviting the glorious carnivores from Meatmother to set up their epic Silver Creek Smoker inside the Mountain Goat beer hall, serving up that meaty, meaty goodness ever Friday night for three weeks. Think Brisket Buns filled with 12-hour oak smoked Wagyu brisket, as well as pulled pork and chipotle slaw buns. We're already showing signs of the meat sweats. Mountain Goat have also invited their mates from California's North Coast Brewing to pour three rarely seen tap beers at the beer hall's mini bar. But the brewery's got a few tricks up their own sleeve; Mountain Goat will be debuting their new Nitro-Hightail Ale over the three Fridays. If you're wanting to work off a few of those brisket buns afterwards, you can jump on a tour of the brewery. Image: Nice Bike.
Docklands' winter forecast is looking very warm and toasty, as the annual Firelight Festival returns to the precinct from Friday, June 29. The festival's second outing promises to totally eclipse the first, featuring a sprawling program of events and activities, and some particularly lavish celebrations across the opening weekend. Victoria Harbour is set to be transformed into its biggest, brightest self, playing host to nightly fireworks displays, roving performers, fire drums, flame jets and striking installations. You'll even catch three huge wooden sculptures, designed by local artist Christian Patton, set ablaze as they float along the Harbour. Throughout the month, a diverse live music lineup ranges from jazz, to gypsy, to a New Orleans brass outfit, and special guest Jo Stanley heads up a family-friendly Fireside Storytelling session, sharing tales from her literary series Play Like a Girl. Of course, foodies and booze buffs will also find plenty here to keep them off the couch and out of hibernation, including long-table feasts at Collins Square's Chiara, a program of workshops and progressive dinners exploring some of Docklands' finest food spots, and the 1930s-inspired Speakeasy Series, which descends on the area's top watering holes. Image: Grace Petrou.
Prepare to exclaim "yeah, science!" like Jesse Pinkman — and to see a whole lot more of Aaron Paul's Breaking Bad character. The acclaimed series is making a comeback, cooking up a movie that serves as a sequel to the show's finale. In the spotlight: Walter White's former student and protégé, who happens to be in a spot of trouble (again). When we last saw Pinkman in Breaking Bad's final episode six years ago, he had just escaped captivity, all thanks to Walt (Bryan Cranston). The latter was injured in the process, but when he asked his former meth cooking partner to kill him, Pinkman couldn't bring himself to do it. So, Pinkman ran, and Walt lost consciousness just a cop arrived. And, that's how the series ended. As happens when every great show comes to a conclusion, we've all wondered what happened next. Come October 11 — that's in just over two weeks — fans can find out. First revealed last year, and initially given the working title of Greenbriar, El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie will continue Pinkman's tale in a thriller written and directed by Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan. Although this follow-up will span a single package rather than run across multiple episodes, it is still coming to a small screen near you thanks to Netflix. Dropping the debut teaser in August, and another one during this week's Emmy awards, the streaming service has, finally, blessed us with a full-length trailer today. The film is set "in the wake of his dramatic escape from captivity", with Pinkman being forced to "come to terms with his past in order to forge some kind of future", according to the official synopsis. In the trailer, you see him hiding from police, digging holes in the desert and instantly ageing after showering and shaving — all dropping small clues to what you can expect next month. Whether Cranston will show up in El Camino is still the subject of rumour, but the trailer does reveal a couple of familiar faces, with Pinkman seeking shelter with Skinny Pete (Charles Barker) and Badger (Matt Jones). And, right at the end, an unidentified voice asks Pinkman, "you ready?". Could it be Walt? Ed the Disappearer (Robert Forster)? We'll find out very soon. Check out the El Camino trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JLUn2DFW4w El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie hits Netflix on October 11.
After a jam-packed summer, MPavilion is launching into the final month of its hefty five-month season. And to celebrate, it's throwing a good ol' party in the park, complete with live tunes and free vino. Don your dancing shoes and head along from 5pm to catch sounds and performances from the likes of DJ Brontesaurus Sex, hip hop act Roya the Destroya, hula-hooping troupe Marawa and The Majorettes, and master of illusions Kozo Kaos. Then, kicking you on into the evening will be the supremely danceable tunes of Imperial Leather and DJ JNETT. Along the way, expect plenty of dazzling costumes, roving performers and interactive hula hooping sessions. What's more, to help you limber up those hips, the folks from Shadowfax Wines will be pouring a selection of their local drops on the house. [caption id="attachment_835351" align="alignnone" width="1920"] John Gollings[/caption]
Shannon Bennett's new seafood restaurant Iki-Jime on Melbourne's Collins Street is branching out. It's putting seafood on the back-burner for three nights as it puts dessert front and centre. The restaurant is hosting a series of dessert degustations, taking place on a Wednesday each month. On each night, four courses of dessert will be served up to the sweet-toothed guests sitting at Bar Jime (located just in front of the pastry chefs and bartenders at work). While exactly what desserts you'll be eating will change each time, expect interactive and theatrical dishes — such as chocolate domes that melt in front of your eyes and plates that look like paintings. Different cocktail pairings will be available each night, too, with the December ones featuring spicy Christmassy spirits, and February's showcasing Tassie gin. The dessert degustation itself will set you back $55, with cocktail pairings an additional $30. To make reservation, head to the website. Images: Emily Weaving. Updated: December 12, 2018.
For anyone who saw The Craft and never quite got over it, read Goosebumps against their parent's better advice (and couldn't sleep for a week afterwards), or obsessed over collage and other '90s pastimes, this exhibition's for you. Taking two hands to the idea of worship, Beast Cult is a collection of knitted, woven and printed garments. Inspired by everything from beast worship to séances to 90s nostalgia, artists Eileen Braybrook and John Brooks have created a collection of soft sculptural objects and pieces that have been finger painted, potato stamped and collaged to resemble that of the occult. With a background in textile design, pattern making and drawing between them, Braybrook and Brooks have created an oddly unnerving exhibition. It will be on display at Tinning Street gallery until Sunday, March 20.
Comedian Kyle Ayers was enjoying the view from the rooftop of his New York City apartment one day with some neighbours when a couple in the midst of a heated squabble suddenly appeared. So what did Ayers do? Politely look the other way and mind his own business? Of course not. Like any good social (media) Samaritan, he whipped out his smartphone and started tweeting about the whole ordeal. His series of live-tweets of the couple's retorts caused quite a buzz in the Twittersphere and was traceable by the fitting tag, #roofbreakup. He started the sequence on Saturday evening, saying "A couple is breaking up on my roof right now. I was just trying to enjoy the view. Now I will live tweet the breakup." Rapidly reporting the exchange between 'guy' and 'girl' (who we later learnt was named Rachel), Ayers captured their dislikes of friends, questions of moving in together and accusations of infidelity. Highlights include: "Say something else about my fucking wardrobe" -guy #roofbreakup — Kyle Ayers (@kyleayers) November 17, 2013 "I'm not looking for marriage, just what's right below marriage" -girl #roofbreakup — Kyle Ayers (@kyleayers) November 17, 2013 "Your roommates are fucking assholes" -guy #roofbreakup — Kyle Ayers (@kyleayers) November 17, 2013 "You think I'm immature? Calling people immature is immature!" -guy #roofbreakup — Kyle Ayers (@kyleayers) November 17, 2013 "Do you love me?" -girl (OH BOY HERE WE GO, PEOPLE) #roofbreakup — Kyle Ayers (@kyleayers) November 17, 2013 "My roommates are always like 'wheres your boyfriend?' And I'm like 'hmm' and stuff." -girl #roofbreakup — Kyle Ayers (@kyleayers) November 17, 2013 This guy is four cigs deep right now. #roofbreakup #teamrachel — Kyle Ayers (@kyleayers) November 17, 2013 "I don't think we need to talk about this up here with some random guy over there." -guy (uh oh, I'm that guy over here) #roofbreak — Kyle Ayers (@kyleayers) November 17, 2013 "He's just sitting on his fucking phone he doesn't care (talking about me). Answer my question." -girl (hahahahahahaha) #roofbreakup — Kyle Ayers (@kyleayers) November 17, 2013 and the royal cherry on top: "Are we getting pizza or what? I don't mean to change the subject but are we?" -guy #roofbreakup — Kyle Ayers (@kyleayers) November 17, 2013 The guy, who was furiously chain-smoking the entire time, finally declared "I'm not talking about love on a roof in Brooklyn." Clearly, this is the 21st century's adaptation of Clark Gable's famous retort, "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn." How debonair. Read the full #roofbreakup tweets on Storify. Via Huffington Post.
Gauchito Gil is Argentina's Robin Hood. As such, it seems fitting that Australia's own Malbec World Day has been borrowed from the South American country, where the majority of the world's malbec comes from. If this day is a donation from the grape god, it's one we're happy to accept. After a successful three years, Gauchito Gil is once again bringing Malbec World Day to Melbourne with a five-hour wine bonanza at North Melbourne's Meat Market on Sunday, April 17. The event comes from the organisers of the Pinot Palooza and Game of Rhones, and mirrors the free-reign tasting set up. Your $50 ticket will include a wine glass, and from there you'll be able to move around, sampling over 80 Australian and Argentine Malbec varietals. Other events have been known to get a little boozy, so to soak up all that wine there will be top-notch empanadas from Piqueos, The Mill House, El Alamo, Gertrude Street Enoteca and Sydney's Porteño — all vying for the prestigious Golden Empanada award. It really doesn't matter if you know everything there is about malbec or if you don't know much at all, because Malbec World Day is about education and celebration of the Argentine grape. And what better way to celebrate than with an bottomless glass of wine?
Cumulus Up's City Cellar Door series returns for 2017, featuring a revolving door of Victorian wine producers all keen to show off their top-notch drops. The event is the perfect opportunity to taste delicious wine, chat directly to the makers and grab your fave bottles at cellar door prices — all without leaving the CBD. The next instalment in the series — which will run on the first Saturday of every month until November — kicks off at midday on July 1, this month paying homage to the Mornington Peninsula. Wine enthusiasts will be treated to stellar tipples from the likes of Montalto Vineyard, Moorooduc Estate, Prossimo and Taturry, alongside matched snacks available from the Cumulus clan. And what's wine without cheese? To make sure the event has all the trimmings, Prahran Market's Maker & Monger will be on deck dishing out delicious raclette. Entry is by gold coin donation, with all proceeds going to a different charity each month. This is a not to be missed event for anyone who loves wine (and cheese).
Cutting shapes. Busting moves. Throwing down. Whatever you call it, dancing is mandatory at the newly renovated Railway Hotel in Brunswick this weekend. The venue will host Cutting Shapes' latest party, where 12 hours of good times awaits you. Edd Fisher of Wax’o Paradiso will be at the helm for the evening, playing everything from disco, soul, hip-hop, afrobeat and jazz. Other musical guests for the evening include Matt Priddy (Raw Wax), a live performance from Sibling, Chris Kings and resident DJs. The party will begin in the Railway's outdoor area and will slowly move indoors as the evening progresses. Did we mention that entry is free before 7pm and there are $9 jugs all night long? Well, there you have it. In other fun news, the Cutting Shapes crew are implementing a name tag system where attendees must write their name down on entry. The reason? To encourage fellow partygoers to look after one another if they see someone in need of water or positive reenforcement. That’s the spirit.
Looks like we have a new winter arts festival to get excited about, and it’s all going down on the south side. GLOW Winter Arts Festival will hold 50 events — many of which are free. It's happening over 11 days in August, and will feature everything from circus performers and comedy clubs to musical performances and art exhibitions. One highlight open throughout the festival is Architects of Air's Exxopolis, a cathedral-like luminarium that visitors can immerse themselves in. It’s about half the size of a football field, made with 3,000 square meters of plastic and will be placed on the Jam Factory rooftop for those curious for a new experience of colour and sound. Other parts of the festival to look forward to are the Shot in the Dark photographic exhibition, featuring images of people and places of Stonnington after dark. The images will be located in store windows and will only be viewable with a smartphone or tablet; figure that one out. For film buffs there is Flicks 'n' Feasts, which will pair delicious food offerings and free films in an outdoor laneway of the Prahran Market. Think kung fu and dim sum, Godzilla and sushi, and Bollywood and Indian curry. While there are many musical adventures to partake in during the festival, our pick would have to be The Rhythm Spectacular: The Music of Beyoncé where Adam Hall and The Velvet Playboys will reinterpret Beyoncé pop songs through the prism of R&B, New Orleans street beat and jazz. Intrigued? So are we.
Fancy raising funds for some well-deserving four-legged friends while chuckling your way through a hilarious evening of comedy? Then you'd best snap up a ticket for the Stand-Up for SCAR event that's taking over Moon Dog OG on Thursday, May 11. Second Chance Animal Rescue (SCAR) is teaming up with this famously dog-friendly brewery to deliver a big night of giggles, all for an excellent cause. Two Aussie stand-up artists will be taking the stage for the occasion: the oft-subversive Lewis Spears and drag cabaret sensation Frock Hudson. [caption id="attachment_898589" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lewis Spears, by Simon Shiff[/caption] You can snap up tickets to the two-hour show for $45, with all proceeds going to support SCAR's important work rescuing and rehoming Melbourne pets in need, along with hosting outreach programs and other initiatives. And if you're keen to lend those critters even more of a helping hand, $1 from every schooner of Moon Dog beer sold on the night will also be heading to SCAR. The stand-up kicks off at 7pm, though the bar will be open from 4pm if you're after a pre-show tipple. [caption id="attachment_717781" align="alignnone" width="1440"] Moon Dog OG[/caption]
Art meets science for this eye-opening, immersive Treasury Gardens installation, which is shining the spotlight on just how pollution is impacting different corners of the globe. Created by British artist Michael Pinsky, the series of five interconnected Pollution Pods will transport you to Norway's Tautra, London, New Delhi, Beijing and São Paulo, dishing up some confronting truths in the process. Each translucent, dome-like pod features a unique cocktail of ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide, replicating the air quality and environmental factors of one of these cities. You'll kick things off enjoying the crisp clean air of Norway, while the other pods together share a much less cheery story. Pollution Pods are open Thursday–Friday 7pm–midnight and Saturday 7pm–2am. Image: Michael Pinsky
So far in December 2020, Australia has experienced heat, snow and a patch of wet weather that has caused a Byron Bay beach to erode. That's an erratic set of conditions — so if you're wondering what Friday, December 25 has in store, that's understandable. Is a sweltering hot Christmas on the cards, or is it literally set to rain on everyone's festive parade? According to the Bureau of Meteorology, most of the country's capital cities will fall in the middle of those extremes. On the east coast, it'll be warm, but not sweltering, and either cloudy or mostly sunny. If you're still making barbecuing, beach-going and festive-feasting plans, take note. In Sydney, a maximum of 28 degrees is currently forecast, with a medium (30–40 percent) chance of showers and rain possible across the partly cloudy day. It'll also be a little windy, with northeasterly gusts getting up to 15–25 kilometres per hour. Conditions are expected to be mostly the same on Wednesday, December 23 and Thursday, December 24, too. For Melburnians, prepare for a mild Christmas — with the mercury only set to reach 21 degrees maximum (and with a minimum of 12 degrees predicted). Like Sydney, the Victorian capital will be partly cloudy and experience winds up to 15–25 kilometres per hour. There's only a 20-percent chance of rain or a shower, though. In Brisbane, it'll also be cooler than usual. Yes, we know that 25 degrees isn't exactly cold, but it's much, much milder than usual Brissie summer weather. It's also cooler than the temps leading up to December 25, which'll range from 27–33 across the week prior. The temperature isn't forecast to fluctuate much on Christmas day, with a minimum of 21 degrees expected. Also, it'll be cloudy, with light winds and a 50-percent likelihood of showers interrupting your game of backyard cricket. https://twitter.com/BOM_au/status/1339866903884513282 Over in the west, Perth will be hot, getting up to 31 degrees — although, given that temps of 38 and 39 degrees are forecast between Tuesday, December 22–Thursday, December 24, it's likely to feel like a cooler reprieve. There is little expected chance of rain, at just five percent, but winds up to 15–20 kilometres per hour are possible on what's predicted to be a mostly sunny day. Folks in Adelaide can expect sun, warmth and wind. It'll be mostly sunny, like Perth, while the mercury will hit 29 degrees and gusts will get up to 25–35 kilometres per hour. Meanwhile, Darwin looks set to be the hottest state capital for Christmas, getting to 32 degrees with showers, light winds and a possible thunderstorm — and Hobart will be the coldest, at just 16 degrees, with a 40-percent chance of morning rain and winds of up to 15–20 kilometres per hour. And in Canberra, it's expected to hit 28, with a medium (30–40 percent) chance of showers and rain possible and gusts getting up to 15–25 kilometres per hour. Of course, while these are BOM's forecasts just under a week out from December 25, conditions may change — so keep an eye on the Bureau's website for the most up-to-date information. For further details about the Bureau of Meteorology's Christmas forecasts, head to the BOM website.
Now that dining and drinking out are back on the menu in Melbourne, you may want to branch out of the same ol', same ol' bar situation. Don't get us wrong, we love our trusty haunts, but sometimes you want to check out somewhere new. If that's the case, make tracks to Albert Park Lake Club Pop-Up stat. A collaboration between Albert Park venue Power House and locally loved Prahran pub The Smith, the two-month pop-up bar will take over Power House Deck, transforming the popular lakeside venue into a buzzy social space that'll serve up cocktails and fresh, summery bites. Celebrate the end of Melbourne's lockdown — and the glorious sunshine — by sipping cocktails and tucking in to the likes of calamari, wagyu katsu sangas and ice cream sandwiches. You'll be kicking back all while taking in views of Albert Park Lake. And, you can feel good while you imbibe, with $1 from every Lord Somers Spritz sold going straight to the Lord Somers Camp and Power House foundation. There'll be a $35 Bottomless Spritz special available every Monday to Friday from 5.30–6.30pm. On top of an hour of unlimited spritzes, you'll also get a red coral lobster and prawn roll to help line the stomach. Or, for a real treat, book in to The Smith's Brunch with Soul Lakeside Edition, which will include live soul tunes from the resident Gospel Choir, one brunch item and two hours of bottomless spritzes, house wine and select tap beer. The music-filled brunch will run on Sundays, from 11am–1pm and 2–4pm, and set you back $65 per person. Find the Albert Park Lake Club Pop-Up at Power House Deck, 34 Lakeside Drive. To book, head over here.
This time last year, there emerged an unlikely hero of Victoria's COVID-19 pandemic: Victorian Chief Health Officer, Professor Brett Sutton. So enamoured were people, that the obsession spawned a whole line of merch emblazoned with his charming mug. Now, Ashley Ellis, the local artist behind those designs, has turned her talents — and, like many Victorians, her attentions — towards the state's COVID-19 response commander, Jeroen Weimar. A regular face at Victorian press conferences and widely praised for his clear communication style, the eloquent Weimar has become the latest public figure to inspire a range of Ashley Ellis merch. You'll find doona covers, cushions, laptop sleeves, coasters, tote bags, wall clocks, stickers and even bath mats; all sporting a print of his face, available to buy now over at Ellis' Red Bubble online store. Fittingly, there's also a printed face mask in the collection. According to Ellis, the requests for Weimar merch have been flooding in and now seemed like the perfect time to make it a reality. "As a former mental health social worker, I know better than anyone that a bit of gallows humour and light-heartedness can really help get people through in incredibly tough time," Ellis told Concrete Playground. As for how the merch collection has been received by the man himself, it seems he's as humble as you'd expect. "Fortunately, when asked by a friend of mine who is an ex-colleague of Jeroen, he said it's causing great hilarity among his mates and has said he was 'rather incredulous' to be included in my 'pantheon'," Ellis said. "I'd never thought of my little drawings as a pantheon but I was very relieved to hear he didn't think I was a weirdo." Also currently available on Ellis' online store are merch designs featuring Victorian Premier Dan Andrews, CHO Brett Sutton and the infamous 'I've done all of Brighton' lady from last year's lockdown. Snap up some Jeroen Weimar-inspired goodies from Ashley Ellis' Red Bubble store and see more of her designs over on Instagram.
Go green with Australia’s largest sustainability festival when it hits the streets of Melbourne. Since 2000, the Sustainable Living Festival has promoted conscientious social and ecological practices through art, exhibition, workshops, film, public forums and live performance. With three weeks’ worth of events happening all around Victoria, it’d be downright irresponsible not to attend. The opportunities at this year’s festival are practically limitless. Take in a talk on climate change, pop in on the Town Hall Veggie Patch, or catch a pedal-powered movie on the banks of the Yarra River. Art lovers can check out new sustainability-themed works by Jess Leitmanis and Emily Floyd, while the NGV also has an interactive exhibition specially designed for kids. Alternatively, if you’re looking to get a little more hands on, the festival has you covered there as well. Learn to sew, recycle your jewellery or make homemade dye from food scraps at various interactive workshops hosted in locations across town. You can even get a free meal — made using 100% salvaged produce, of course. For the entire festival program, visit their website. Image: Designful.
Booking an interstate holiday is risky business right now. But, we still need to find a way to take a break from the grind to rest and recharge. The solution: book a local staycation (when it's safe to do so, of course). And, thanks to our mates at the City of Port Phillip, you and a mate (or date) can enjoy an urban escape — for free. First up, you'll check in for your overnight stay on Clarendon Street's swish Coppersmith Hotel. Then, take a stroll to a martini masterclass with the superb urban gin makers Patient Wolf Gin Distillery Co over on Market Street. When dinner time rolls around you'll tuck into handmade pasta and expertly matched Italian wines at neighbourhood osteria Park Street Pasta & Wine. And the next day, brekkie is sorted at nearby haunt Dead Man Espresso followed by lunch at Japanese cafe Kuu, too. Sounds pretty tasty, huh? Want to make this food and gin-fuelled staycation in South Melbourne yours? You can. To be in the running to win, tell us in 25 words or less what your favourite spot to visit in South Melbourne is and why. [competition]820121[/competition]
Residents of Melbourne, here's some good news to buoy you in these dark times. Barkly Square in Brunswick will run a pop-up cinema throughout December and January. It'll go down in the laneway of the shopping centre and unlike other outdoor cinemas that have recently been announced — like Moonlight and Sunset — this one has a difference: it's silent. Kind of like when you go to the drive-in and attach the speaker to your car, they'll be transmitting the film's audio through dedicated headphones. The best part is that all proceeds from the event will be donated to the Victorian Deaf Society. And even better, tickets are only a tenner. Take that Hoyts. There's only 60 seats per screening though, so be sure to book early — especially for the spesh Christmas screenings. On the whole, the lineup is pretty decent and eclectic, with everything from Donnie Darko to Home Alone to Whiplash. BARKLY SQUARE OPENAIR CINEMA PROGRAM 2016-17 16 December — Home Alone 23 December — Elf 6 January – Whiplash 7 January – Amy 13 January – The Big Lebowski 14 January – Amelie 20 January – Guardians of the Galaxy 21 January – Dogtown and Z-Boys 27 January – Hunt for the Wilderpeople 28 January – Donnie Darko
Australia’s oldest, largest and most celebrated queer film festival is back for another year, showcasing the very best of LGBTQ cinema from all around the world. With screenings at ACMI and Hoyts Melbourne Central, the Melbourne Queer Film Festival is the premier event for queer cinema in Australia, with dramas, comedies, documentaries, shorts and now, in its 24th year, a lesbian werewolf movie with a cameo by Kylie Minogue. There will also be speed dating, gay bingo and a 20th anniversary screening of that quintessential Australian queer film Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, complete with an audience costume competition. With such a variety of films to choose from, compiling a top five list is nearly impossible. Honourable mentions go to award-winning South Australian drama 52 Tuesdays which will be released in cinema in May, as well as the heartbreaking American documentary Valentine Road, about a transgender high-school student shot by his classmate, which placed second in the audience award poll for Best Documentary at last year’s MIFF. Shout-out also to the entire short film program, especially the Oz Shorts selection. BAD HAIR One of the festival’s Centrepiece Presentations, Venezuelan drama Bad Hair has drawn comparisons to 2012 festival favourite Tomboy for its honest portrayal of pre-teen sexual identity. Young actor Samuel Lange plays Junior, a nine-year-old boy whose desire to have his hair straightened for his yearbook photo seems to confirm his working-class single mother’s worst fears. A commentary not just on homophobia and youth sexuality, but also Venezuela’s grim socio-political situation, Bad Hair won the gong for Best Film at the San Sebastian Film Festival, and has been pointed to by MQFF director Lisa Daniel as one of the highlights of the program. BRIDEGROOM When Tom Bridegroom’s life was cut short in a tragic accident, it was only the beginning of the heartbreak for his long-term partner Shane Bitney-Crone. Without any protection from marriage laws, Bitney-Crone was ostracised by Bridegroom’s conservative family, prohibited from even attending his loved-one’s funeral. Linda Bloodworth-Thomason’s documentary recounts the relationship between the two men, while also shining further light on the importance of marriage equality. The film won the audience award at last year’s Tribeca Film Festival in New York, where it was introduced by former US President Bill Clinton. Bitney-Crone is expected to be in attendance at the MQFF screening. TEST A favourite at last year’s Outfest in Los Angeles where it was awarded the Grand Jury Prize for Outstanding US Dramatic Feature, Test takes place in 1985 San Francisco, when the AIDs crisis was at its peak. Scott Marlowe plays Frankie, the newest member of an up-and-coming dance troupe, who is agonising over the decision as to whether to take a blood test that will reveal if he’s infected with the disease. Set in the same era as Oscar-nominated AIDs drama Dallas Buyers Club, the film has been praised for its life-affirming approach to an obviously dark period of history. VICKY – THE GAY GENE COMES TO MELBOURNE Chosen by Barack Obama to deliver the invocation during the inaugural weekend of his presidential election, Gene Robinson is the world’s first openly gay Bishop. From director Sasha Hadden, this Australian-made documentary chronicles Robinson’s recent trip to Melbourne, where he butted heads with Reverend Fred Nile of the Christian Democrats Party. Released at a time when Australian politicians are coming under increased pressure from gay rights activists, the film explores the role religion has to play in reversing existing prejudices, for which religion is itself partly responsible. WHO’S AFRAID OF VAGINA WOLF? The last film on this list brings with it some much-needed frivolity, in the form of the award-winning comedy Who’s Afraid of Vagina Wolf? Described by one critic as a lesbian blend of Edward Albee’s title-inspiring play and the raucous adult humour of Judd Apatow productions like Bridesmaids and This is 40, the film tells the story of Anna, played by writer-director Anna Albelo, a single lesbian filmmaker in the midst of a mid-life crisis. The semi-autobiographical comedy is another favourite of festival director Lisa Daniel, who describes it in the program notes as a movie “not to be missed.” For the full festival program and to pre-book tickets, visit www.mqff.com.au.
Thomas M. Wright, director of Doku Rai (you, dead man, I don't believe you), prefaces our interview with a disclaimer. "The difficult thing to begin, with talking about Doku Rai, is to acknowledge that we can only ever scrape the surface," he asserts, caffeine-eyed after "seven hours' sleep over the past four days". "Talking to me about this production is like talking to one angle of a cut stone. You're only going to see it through my prism. Every time I talk with others involved, the number of refractions is just infinite. You'll hear every event from a different perspective. The stories are limitless." Doku Rai is a collaboration between Melbourne's Black Lung Theatre and Whaling Firm and "East Timorese rock gods" Liurai Fo'er and Galaxy. It opened last year at Darwin Festival, Melbourne Arts House and Adelaide Festival. Having appeared at Brisbane Festival last week, it will come to Carriageworks on 25-28 September. As well as being a co-founder of the Black Lung and renowned theatre actor, you might remember Wright for his role as Johnno Mitcham in Jane Campion's Top of the Lake, for which he received a Best Supporting Actor nomination at the 2013 US Critics' Choice Awards. AN ABANDONED HOTEL, A REMOTE ISLAND Doku Rai is the first ever international theatre production to emerge from Timor-Leste. Conceived in 1999 when Wright met East Timorese actor, rock star and ex-guerrilla fighter Osme Gonsalves on the set of Balibo, it came to fruition 18 months ago. For 60 days, 30 Australian and East Timorese creatives holed themselves up in an abandoned colonial motel on the volcanic island of Atauro. Their mission: to create an epic work of cross-cultural collaboration; their method: undecided. "The word confronting doesn't even begin to describe the process of making this work," Wright says. "The writing was very complex. It took a lot of different forms — slabs of text from anecdotes, personal conversations, improvisation, individuals' writing, writing that already existed — interwoven in a way that an audience can only sense, and not really know, because there are so many circumstances, histories, myths and real events. But that's what gives it its sense of depth." TWO BROTHERS, A CURSE AND A DEATHLESS MURDER At Doku Rai's core is the "mythical structure" of two brothers, a curse and a man who is killed but cannot die. "A doku is a curse — a weapon — that has been used through the past twelve generations or more of occupied Timorese," Wright explains. "It's a tool by which, in a ceremony, you take all the coherence from a person, you rob them of their faculties, and that makes them vulnerable for you to do what you will with them. "Literally, the act of doku is 'turning over'. So, you set a table for a meal, with a place set for the absent person. You all share in the food, and at the end, you perform a ceremony. You cut open the liver of a chicken to get an augury and then turn the absent guest's plate, bowl and glass upside down. That is the acting of the curse. 'Rai' means earth, soil, so Doku Rai means 'to curse the earth', or 'the turning of the earth'." SHATTERING PATERNAL ASSUMPTIONS With this imagery at its dark heart, Doku Rai is driven by the personal, rather than the political. Unconfined by a linear narrative or governing aesthetic, it combines rock music, multimedia, unexpected dashes of black humour and a surprise guest, in the form of a live rooster, in an indefinite setting. "It has moorings in the world of East Timor and echoes of the Portuguese colonial past, but it's a fictional reality," Wright explains. "It has, certainly not aesthetic echoes of the Australian engagement, but thematic ties ... In Australia, we do have a very condescending, very paternal relationship with a lot of our neighbours. And we wanted to shatter that — to make something on purely personal terms. We know that the political implications and political realities are all there; we don't need to foreground them. They take care of themselves, just by dealing with personal stories. Beyond [Doku Rai] is a three-dimensional, constantly evolving life, with a past that goes back a long way and a future that also extends outward. There is certainly a responsibility with the audience to invest - to place themselves into scenarios and to consider the real people and the circumstances behind the making of the work. No matter how interesting and taut and strong a work we make, it's only ever going to be as interesting as the process of making it, at best." REHEARSING THROUGH BLACK OUTS AND GUN BATTLES That process was about as "interesting" as it gets. Wright and his team battled black outs, water shortages and gun battles. "When we did the show in Dili," he recalls, "we had to do it in very reduced circumstances, because there was a total 'no movement' order issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Violence had broken out following an election, which was very, very frightening. Half of us were stranded on the island and half of us were in lockdown in a house which was isolated down a corridor of gangs in Dili. Our producer, Alex Ben-Mayor, had to drive through a gun fight. Two of the students of our production members were shot in the head and killed by police." That's but a microcosm of what daily life in East Timor can entail. "To be honest, and to be clear, their stories are screaming to be told," Wright asserts. "We've told our stories for years and years and years." Doku Rai (you, dead man, i don't believe you) will show at Carriageworks between Wednesday September 25 and Saturday September 28, 2013. Shows start at 8pm, plus there's an additional 2pm matinee on Saturday September 28. Tickets, $35, are available online.
You might not know that noted film banger of the 00s Bring It On has been made into a stage musical — and, having already done the rounds on Broadway in 2012, it's going to cartwheel into Melbourne in June this year. Responsible for the phrase "cheerocracy" and your unrealistic expectations of high school, it seems the original movie still has some decent cultural capital to give. If you've been wondering, in the last 18 years, what exactly the world of competitive cheerleading might have going on with it these days, this musical is for you. If you had a Kirsten Dunst poster on the back of your childhood bedroom door, this musical is for you. To be honest, if you've watched the film even just a few times, it's probably for you too. With music and lyrics by Tony Award-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda (of Hamilton fame) and the stage adaptation by Jeff Whitty (Avenue Q), the musical is only loosely based on the original film of 2000, which starred your girls Kirsten and Eliza Dushku. Unlike the five sequels that followed the movie — all of which went directly to VHS — the musical looks like it has a refreshing amount of sass, cutthroat rivalry and aerial stunts. Bust out your best spirit fingers and get them tapping on your keyboard if you want tickets — Bring It On: The Musical is making its way to Melbourne's Athenaeum Theatre in June, but it's only going to be step-pivot-split jumping around town for a strictly limited run of ten shows. And keep them fingers crossed the show decides to make its way around the country. Bring It On: The Musical will run from June 7–16, 2018 at the Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins Street, Melbourne. Tickets are on sale now via Ticketek.
This month at Richmond's Charles Nodrum Gallery, Melbourne-based artist David Harley will exhibit his large-scale abstract works, which he creates through a mix of new and old technology. These floor-to-ceiling digital paintings stretch the full length of the gallery's walls and present Harley's complex and radiant works in their fullest possible glory. Having been painting abstract works for decades, Harley has, since the 1990s, increasingly incorporated new technology into his work, including large-format printing, virtual three-dimensional constructions and projected animations. Harley works closely with each gallery he exhibits — going as far as creating visual models of the space to shape his paintings to the walls — to reflect the architecture of the gallery, creating an immersive experience for the audience. Alongside numerous solo exhibitions, Harley has recently completed two commissions for Deakin University's Burwood campus, and another for National Australia Bank. David Harley: free-form propositions #2 is on display now until Saturday, June 17. Image: Christo Crocker.
If you have dreams bubbling away of swanning about on the French Riviera and downing cocktails as a gentle wind caresses you, and then an irresistible French person arrives and sweeps you off your feet, we've got good news for you. Well, on the first bit — we can't control the weather or your love life, unfortunately. Grey Goose, purveyors of very fine vodka, have whipped up a very European-style summer pop-up for you: the Fountain of Goose. For five days this December, a white marble fountain will be set up in Melbourne's Federation Square, and it's going to be offering more than just a beautiful summer aesthetic. It'll be serving up complimentary vodka, lime and soda mini-cocktails — a classic, summery and simple concoction that requires the best quality ingredients, starting with the vodka. At the bar, you can also catch a glimpse at Grey Goose's collaboration with French fashion label Maison Labiche for its limited-edition 'Riviera' bottle. Plus, at the pop-up, you'll enjoy spontaneous entertainment and other experiences. You'll also be able to pick up a specialty cocktail coupon which you can redeem at Madame Brussels, Ludlow Bar & Dining Room or Spice Market to keep the good summer vibes going. The Fountain of Goose pop-up bar will be open from Saturday, December 7 through Wednesday, December 11. It'll be open from 4–8pm on Saturday and Sunday and from 3–7pm on Monday—Wednesday.
Melbourne's latest lockdown has hit the city's hospitality scene as hard as any before it, with venues forced to close their doors and rely entirely on takeaway and delivery trade for almost six weeks to date — and an unknown number more to come. That's seen a drop in income for a huge number of employees across the state, as the hours and shifts used to pay for essential bills are cut. And at this stage, no one has an end date. But, if Melbourne's hospitality scene is anything — it's resilient, even when its people wish they didn't have to be. In an entirely Melbourne show of solidarity, some of the city's most loved eateries are throwing their support behind the hospitality community — and many others — by giving back to those that have been hit by the lockdown the hardest. If you're a worker who's been impacted by lockdown, here's where to find a helping hand and a hot feed, no questions asked. Under metro Melbourne's current lockdown rules, you're required to stay within five kilometres of home. For more details on current restrictions, head to the DHHS website. [caption id="attachment_795681" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 1800 Lasagne, by Parker Blain[/caption] 1800 Lasagne, led by all-round champion of the people Joey Kellock, has been involved in a whole swag of community-focused initiatives during Melbourne's various lockdowns; from meal giveaways to giant posters declaring messages of support. Most recently, in one day the restaurant handed out 150 DIY pasta packs to those doing it tough, heroing donations from the likes of Mount Zero and Mediterranean Wholesalers. And we're told another community giveaway is in the works for this Sunday, September 19 — stay tuned on Instagram for the latest info. Over in Yarraville, family-run Greek restaurant Eleni's Kitchen and Bar received such an overwhelming response to an initial community cook-up it hosted, that the team decided to make it a weekly thing. "After we did the first giveaway I realised how many people were doing it tough, not only from a food perspective but also mentally," co-owner Eleftheria Amanatidis explained. "How often I got told that [it] made their day really stayed with me." The venue now runs a different food giveaway each Thursday, featuring ingredients generously donated by its suppliers and with showbags courtesy of the Western Bulldogs AFL team. Over 1000 meals have been handed out so far and they've got plans to continue as long as lockdown does. View this post on Instagram A post shared by GREEK RESTAURANT MELBOURNE (@eleniskitchenandbar) In Carlton North, the team at artisan food store Maria's Pasta have spearheaded a program of community dinners, serving up hot, handmade takeaway meals to those within their five kilometre travel bubble. Now running every Tuesday, the events have become an important neighbourhood fixture, with co-owner Kylie Italiano calling the initiative: "Essentially an extended family dinner table that expanded into the homes of those around our area!" The menu changes weekly, but almost always stars offerings from fellow northside mates like Sibling Cafe, The Empress Hotel and The Fishmonger's Son, along with Maria's own fresh pasta. The store is also home to a pay-it-forward wall, where people can prepay meals or vouchers for anyone who could use one. Last weekend, the folks behind iconic shipping container bar Section 8 (in collaboration with The Operatives and Crown Ruler) put together a virtual music festival to drum up donations for their own support program. The aim? To feed a stack of hospitality and music industry workers in need. Along with additional donations from Pernod Ricard, Dinnerly and Deliveroo, the money raised from the 12-hour live stream will now be used to assemble a whole bunch of care packages and ready-to-eat meals to be distributed to workers impacted by the ongoing lockdowns. If that's you, you'll find details on how and where to get involved released shortly on the Section Aid Instagram page. Otherwise, donations are still open — jump over here if you're able to throw some support behind the program. [caption id="attachment_825575" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Yeah Boy Windsor[/caption] No stranger to providing good vibes and community support during these crazy times, Windsor's Yeah Boy has been running some sweet initiatives to help make lives a little easier. A recent Pay It Forward promotion invited punters to nominate other deserving folk to win an all-inclusive dining experience, while the current Gym Keeper program is handing out free feeds to employees impacted by gym and fitness studio closures. If you could use a little helping hand from this last initiative, it's running 4–6pm each day the Windsor venue is open. Another community support project is in the pipeline, too — keep an eye on the Instagram page for details. Southside pub The Wolf Windsor has been hosting weekly hospo parma nights to help out anyone in that industry who's lost work due to the lockdown. These usually kick off from 5pm, with the venue shouting 50 free takeaway parmas per event, as well as offering one-litre beer growler refills for $12. Check out the socials for more details. Previous lockdowns have delivered plenty of other generous projects, too, including the 500 free hospitality meals handed out by the Lucas Group in June, Good Gnocchi's free spaghetti day, and the San Telmo Group's hospo-focused giveaway of 1000 free feeds back in Lockdown 5.0. Top image: Section 8, by Arianna Leggiero
Whether you like your bubble tea alcoholic, vegan or filled with creamy cheese, you'll want to make a bee line to Melbourne's newest festival. Taking over Melbourne Central, the inaugural Bubble Tea Festival will see six of the city's best bubble tea makers come together for four very-tasty days. Coinciding with Lunar New Year, the festival will run from Friday, January 24–Sunday, January 27. During that time, the CBD shopping centre's bubble tea retailers will be serving up weird and wonderful limited-edition flavours. You'll find honeydew frozen tea at Chatime, sakura lychee tea at Gotcha, taro smoothie at Gong Cha, strawberry cheese tea at Heekcha and an alcoholic lychee number at B. Lucky & Sons. [caption id="attachment_758003" align="alignnone" width="1920"] B Lucky & Sons[/caption] Joining the party is a pop-up Nuttea store — a Taiwanese vegan nut mylk tea store, which'll be serving up a ruby black tea made with plant-based cream — and a Bubble Tea Mart filled with adorable merch. To get your hands on the merch, you'll need to first buy a drinkable bubble tea from one of Melbourne Central's eight retailers and grab a Boba Token. You can then exchange this token for bubble tea-themed cups, keyrings, totes, straws, earring, Airpod cases and more. To round out the fun, there'll also be free tunes from the likes of Eurovision contender Jaguar Jonze, DJ Jade Zoe and DJ Small Fry. Images: Gotcha
By now, you've probably had an absolute gutful of your house, backyard, neighbourhood and city. You've probably spent much of the past 13 months daydreaming about getaways, too. Well, wannabe jetsetters with a vacation-shaped hole in your life, it turns out this is your lucky week, because a mammoth travel sale is hitting the internet tonight. The bargain-filled Click Frenzy Travel sale returns for a 53-hour online shopping riot, kicking off at 7pm (9pm NZT) on Tuesday, April 20. And it's chock full of airfare, accommodation, tour and holiday package deals, for all kinds of budgets. Obviously, international travel isn't back to normal yet — the trans-Tasman bubble between Australia and New Zealand only just opened this past weekend — but there are plenty of bargains to be found if you're keen to either stay local or plan well ahead. Virgin Australia is offering up to 25 percent off a range of domestic journeys, with prices starting from just $75. You can nab ten percent off flights with Air New Zealand, too. And, if you're thinking further afield in the hope that borders will reopen sooner rather than later, Qatar is doing up to ten percent off flights to places such as the United Kingdom, Greece, Italy and Spain. Obviously, you'll need to take into the consideration the fact Aussies can't currently leave the country for holidays anywhere other than NZ at the moment while you're booking. Staying close to home, Wotif is offering up to 25 percent off Aussie hotels, Park Regis and Leisure Inn hotels are doing up to 40 percent off, and Ascott Australia is taking up to 30 percent off their hotels and apartments in Melbourne, Sydney, Hobart and Perth. Oaks Hotels, Resorts and Suites is offering the same 30 percent discount, but at select locations in Australia and NZ if you stay for two nights or more. Fancy seeing the country by road? Greyhound Australia is taking 20 percent off all tickets and passes if a leisurely bus trip — complete with free wifi — sounds like your idea of a great holiday. If you're in need of a few travel essentials for your next getaway, Click Frenzy also does 99 percent off deals on some items, such as GoPros for $5, Beats headphones for $2, Weber barbecues for $3 and beach umbrellas for $2. Dust off that suitcase and start plotting your annual leave — it's holiday time, finally. The Click Frenzy Travel sale runs from 7pm (9pm NZT) on Tuesday, April 20, until midnight on Thursday, April 22. You can find it and all the tasty travel bargains on the Click Frenzy website.
New year, new plans to eat healthier. Yes, we all know how resolutions go. And if you're kicking things off by ditching meat — altogether, or just by trying to work more plant-based options into your meals — but you don't want to cook each and every dish that you tuck into, Deliveroo has announced a handy special to start 2022. Until Monday, January 31, the delivery service is offering Australians free delivery from more than 1500 local restaurants, but only if you're ordering plant-based fare. Looking for an excuse to munch on a fried cauliflower burger from Mary's, one of Zeus Street Greek's pitas with plant-based lamb, Katsu King's vegan katsu curries or a classic vegan burg from Betty's Burgers? We've just found it. Other eateries involved include Huxtaburger, MadMex, Fishbowl, Grease Monkey and Grill'd, plus Oriental Teahouse, Royal Stacks, Grassfed, I Love Pizza and Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers. Obviously, the list goes on. Odds are that if you can think of a dish that doesn't include meat, it's part of the deal somewhere around the country. Of course, whichever plant-based dish you choose, you'll still need to pay for whatever you'd like to eat; however, you won't have to fork out more on top to get it brought to your door. Deliveroo is calling the special 'veganuary' — and, as you usually do, you'll need to place your order via the Deliveroo app. Deliveroo's free delivery on plant-based dishes on offer until Monday, January 31 Australia-wide via the Deliveroo app.
Any Questions for Ben? and House of Lies' Josh Lawson writes, directs and stars in an effort destined to be labelled a sex-fuelled Love Actually. Sex Actually? Different types of fetish, kink and between-the-sheets behaviour are explored through the relationships of four couples. Maeve (Bojana Novakovic) wants Paul (Lawson) to fulfil her rape fantasies. Rowena (Kate Box) finds herself aroused whenever husband Richard (Patrick Brammall) cries. Phil (Alan Dukes) finds Maureen (Lisa McCune) at her most attractive when she is sleeping. Dan (Damon Herriman) and Evie (Kate Mulvany) make a foray into roleplaying that backfires. There's laughs both out loud and cringey to be had as the adventurous comedy unfurls. The Little Death is in cinemas on September 25, and thanks to Entertainment One, we have ten double in-season passes to give away. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email us with your name and address. Sydney: win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au Melbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au https://youtube.com/watch?v=BnnhesQ8Rxc
If you like your liquor amber in colour, strong in taste and made from fermented grain mash — and you live in Melbourne — then you're probably a fan of Whisky and Alement. The type of secluded establishment that you'd walk right by if you didn't know it was there, the Russell Street bar has long been a whisky-lovers favourite. From this weekend, however, the bar's boozing fun jumps up a level. We mean that literally. Not content with serving up more than 500 varieties of the good stuff — and plenty of beer too — from their ground floor digs, the W&A folks have branched out into the space above their cosy hangout. That's where you'll find the Melbourne Whisky Room, which opened its doors on February 9. It's a watering hole within a watering hole, or inception for whisky drinkers. The 50-seat space boasts six times that number in tipples, with curated collectable, vintage and independent bottlings the focus. Teaming up with the Australian branch of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, it'll also feature a number of their exclusive drams — 50 to start with, plus an archive of 100 more and growing. Along with the usual W&A approach, aka knowledgeable staff on hand to answer all your whisky questions and make recommendations, the Melbourne Whisky Room will also offer table service and a focus on affordability. Yes, that means you can while away your nights in a quaint space sipping on rare drinks that won't break your bank account. Take our word for it, this hidden bar won't stay that way for long. Find the Melbourne Whisky Room at 270 Russell Street, Melbourne. For more information, visit the Whisky and Alement Facebook page.
Facebook is swiftly becoming the radar of global activity, now obtaining the power to track not only people's social networking patterns but also their travel paths, their ages and even their political inclinations. With over 800 million active users the social networking site is rampant, with immense data processing required for the constant stream of check-ins, status updates and photo uploads. Data scientist at Facebook, Justin Moore, created these global maps as a captivating visual indicator of where and who the world's Facebook users are to make sense of some of the unique data. SEASONED TRAVELLERS WHO WANT TO MAKE IT KNOWN Forget the old maps of showing aeroplane's routes across the globe because we can now follow travel patterns through Facebook users' check-ins. This map uses check-ins at two far off locations as a way of tracing globe-trotting journeys. NYC HUSTLE AND BUSTLE Check-ins over several days in New York City alone reveal the heavier users are situated around more heavily trafficked commercial and tourist areas. Shouldn't you guys be working or studying or something? NEW VS. OLD The colour ranges of this dazzling map represent the ages of users, again through their check-ins on Facebook. The green zones constitute the older and more established Facebookers whilst the blue are the younger rookies. PRETTY POLITICAL Although what may look like some sort of beautiful and rare star constellation, this last image actually maps American users' political affiliation. Democrats are shown as blue and the Republicans are red. Better pick up your game Obama, the social world has spoken.
A woman enters a theatre, damp from wild weather and flustered from running late. The man she sees is polite but clearly put out from waiting, as his complaints make clear. She is actress Vanda (Emmanuelle Seigner); he is playwright Thomas (Mathieu Amalric); their shared purpose, an audition. From their meeting, Roman Polanski's Venus in Fur lays bare their dramatic tryout. But is a budding stage star simply showing her wares to the person who could make her dreams come true, or are their respective gender positions — sexual, societal and otherwise — on trial? That question and the film's complicated power dynamic stems from a complex, comprehensive history, most plainly its adaptation of David Ives' Tony Award-winning production. Ives took inspiration from author Leopold von Sacher-Masoch's semiautobiographical novella, Venus In Furs, the 1870 work credited for coining the term masochism and making it stick. His book is the starting point for Thomas's material within the movie too, the characters attempting to interpret the text on stage in a feature based on a play that does the very same. The sensual themes of the source may shine through as the duelling duo of leads quite literally circle around each other, treading the boards, flitting through the aisles and weaving in and around the backstage ephemera; however, it is the second phase of its evolution that proves most influential to Polanski's film. Blatant describes the setting, and the structure as a dialogue-heavy two-hander more so. In the filmmaker's second effort in a row based on a stage property following 2011's Carnage, and third overall after 1994's Death and the Maiden, only a flurry of camera angles and flashes of visual trickery distinguish the tale as cinematic. Seigner and Amalric generate commandingly clashing energy worlds away from their last pairing in The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, endeavouring to overcome the inherently staged nature of the content with their vivid verbal sparring. Fire burns between them in impassioned performances, but the spotlight truly belongs to the erratic wannabe turned formidable temptress, as the narrative demands. Whether the strength of her portrayal stems from a husband offering his wife an exceptional opportunity, or from her flowering under his loving gaze, the married team of Polanski and Seigner make a fine pair. By design, Amalric is cast into the shadows, a suitable everyman foil. In a work teeming with comedy, carnality and cleverness, what threatens to strip Venus in Fur of its potency is its repetitive persistence and overt theatricality. Though the point is entertainingly made, it is done so continually and without subtlety. Intrigue and inertia are the opposing results, contemplating the battle of the sexes in careening fashion yet cobbled by embrace of indulgence. https://youtube.com/watch?v=-gluI5-GLZLw
If you want to view dessert paradise, simply head to The Westin Melbourne until January 2020. In the venue's Lobby Lounge, fans of sweet treats won't just be taken to a world of pure imagination, but one of pure dessert indulgence. With Charlie and the Chocolate Factory hitting the city with its musical take on the Roald Dahl-penned great, the Collins Street hotel is celebrating with its own Wonka Bar. A collaboration between the onsite culinary folks and Burch & Purchese Sweet Studio, it's the place where sugar-fulled dreams come true — and get plenty of inspiration. Serving desserts and sweet, sweet cocktails, the Wonka Bar is your go-to decadent bites. When you're not enjoying the Black Forest & Chocolate River (which combines cherries and chocolate sponge on a biscuit base, then adds chocolate twigs, mushrooms and a warm chocolate river), you can have a Golden Ticket experience (aka a gold chocolate bar paired with dark chocolate mousse, smoked vanilla ice cream and salted caramel cream). Or, opt for a Fizzy Citrus Burp (a brulee lemon curd with fizzy white chocolate aero, orange jelly and dried lemon meringue). Cocktail-wise, start sipping your way through a Blueberry Gumball (vodka, blue curacao, raspberry balsamic, raspberry cordial and soda water, topped with an ice sphere, popping candy, fairy floss and a viola flower), or embrace the Pure Imagination (dark chocolate liquor, chocolate sauce and cream, all garnished with chocolate and gold edible glitter). They're just two of the four new concoctions on the menu. Also on display is an edible garden, spanning more than three metres — and including everything from chocolate lollipops, chocolate toadstools, chocolate mushrooms, chocolate bark and planks, and chocolate twigs and leaves, to a giant chocolate caterpillar, handcrafted chocolate flowers and chocolate butterflies. If you're keen to feel like a kid in a chocolate factory, the Wonka Bar is open daily from 12–9pm.
It’s time to bring your fresh up to a whole new level this All Hallows’ Eve, as the legends from Rupert and Burn In Time are throwing one hell of a hip hop Halloween party. Drink specials will be going all night, and if you feel like staying in theme we recommend Hennessy, Patron, or sipping on gin and juice. They’ll even be some free booze for those who arrive in time, so maybe don’t rock up too fashionably late to this one. As with any good Halloween party, there will be prizes for best dressed, so don’t hesitate to get yo swag on. We’re thinking chains, sneakers, and streetwear are a good start, and if you can wrangle your squad to come as the Wu, there’s even a bonus prize up for grabs. The Hip Hop Karaoke legends DJ Luscious Locks, DJ Stephen Mow Wow, Three 8ight Mafia will be spinning tracks for the evening, so brace yourself for some hip hop perfection. Entry is free, and the possibilities for good times are endless.
Is there anything Mx Justin Vivian Bond can't do? In a career spanning more than 20 years, the cabaret hero has played Huck Finn as a tranny prostitute; reinterpreted the likes of Radiohead, Kate Bush, and Tracy Chapman; and written an award-winning autobiography (Tango: My Childhood, Backwards and in High Heels). Along the way, Bond has picked up an Obie Award (2001), a Bessie Award (2004), an Ethyl Eichelberger Award (2007), and a Tony nomination (2007). On a return visit to Australia in late February, Bond will present a new show: Justin Vivian Bond is Mx America. Audiences can expect songs (both originals and classics), spoken word, poetry, audio-visuals, and, of course, Bond's curious mixture of outrageous humour and fragility. Needless to say, there's also bound to be a whole lot that we can't predict!
Melbourne's other gin festival is back. Back in 2016, Melbourne was faced with the happy problem of having not one, but two gin festivals on the cards. You might know the hugely successful Juniperlooza, a locally organised festival. Well, this different festival — confusingly called Junipalooza (yes, that's an 'a' instead of an 'er') — came to Melbourne by way of the UK, and was unsurprisingly dedicated entirely to gin. And it's back again for another year. The Melbourne version of the festival (the first to be held outside of the UK) is a twin event to Junipalooza London, which started back in 2013. The event will be held over two days this October at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. It'll be hosted by founders of the UK's Gin Foundry, Olivier and Emile Ward — so you know you're in good gin-pouring hands. The renowned brothers live, breathe and drink gin, compiling all their knowledge onto their comprehensive online gin directory. It makes sense then that the pair have teamed up with local gin expert, The Gin Queen (aka Caroline Childerley) to celebrate the noble spirit in Melbourne. Junipalooza will feature sampling stations, cocktails and gin masterclasses with some of the world's best distillers. More than 40 distillers from around the globe will be in attendance, giving punters the chance to take a bottle or two of their favourite gin home. This year, there'll be a four-course gin dinner — with matched gin cocktails, of course — being held on Thursday, October 24 at Cumulus Inc. You can snag a $155 ticket (which includes festival entry, too) here. The festival will take place over the weekend of October 26-27, and tickets are on sale now. We see a lot of gin drinking in your future.
Riparide is a new online venture which aims to provide surfers from around the globe with an easier means of coordinating holidays and trips. The brainchild of Australians Marion Law and Dane O’Shanassy, Riparide allows surfers to seek accomodation and equipment from locals at their destination. Conversely, surfers who would rather catch waves than go to work can offer their own services in return for cash. O’Shanassy stated that “we’ve gone to places where we know the people with boards and places to stay, but not everyone’s lucky enough to know people in, say, Hawaii.” This is a great service which will only tighten the global surfing community. Staying with other locals will also give you a greater insight into the area and a more authentic experience. Who knows, you might find yourself staying on the couch of the next Kelly Slater. [via PSFK]
Before donning a face covering became a regular part of life for everyone during the pandemic, one of the most famous mask-wearing figures in popular culture was doing it first. And, the fictional character will be doing so again in November at the Arts Centre Melbourne, with the venue set to play host to The Phantom of the Opera. Yes, the music of the night will soon be crooning its way into the venue's State Theatre, thanks to a new season of the acclaimed Tony-winner. It's being staged by Opera Australia, who is bringing Cameron Mackintosh's new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's hit to the city after it first plays in Sydney. If you're fond of big anniversaries, the show arrives around the time the popular musical will mark 35 years since it first opened in London's West End back in 1986. The current production of The Phantom of the Opera comes to Melbourne after breaking records in the UK and touring the US for seven years, with Australia becoming just the third country to witness its take on the tale. Obviously, all of the familiar songs are part of it, such as 'All I Ask of You', 'Masquerade' and the titular number. You'll also be lapping up Maria Björnson's original costumes, too. But, if you've seen the show before, expect the chandelier to look a little different. When the musical takes to the Arts Centre Melbourne's stage from Sunday, May 14, Australian musical theatre performer Josh Piterman will be playing the Phantom, after first wearing the character's mask in London pre-pandemic. He'll be joined by a cast and orchestra of 65 people, which'll make The Phantom of the Opera one of the largest musical productions in Australia. If you need a refresher on the musical's story, it follows soprano Christine Daaé and the masked musical genius who lives beneath the Paris Opera House — and the latter's obsession with the former. Although first turned into a stage musical in the 80s, it's based on Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel. And yes, you might've seen the 2004 movie, which starred Gerard Butler as the Phantom. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jpaw9dft2Y The Phantom of the Opera will hit the stage at Art Centre Melbourne's State Theatre from Sunday, November 14. Tickets will go on sale on Tuesday, July 6 — and to keep an eye out for further details, or to join the waitlist, head to the musical's website. Top image: Earl Carpenter as The Phantom and Katie Hall as Christine. Photo by Alastair Muir.
This latest work from Natalie Abbott is all about extremes. Big and small, toned and flabby — for something so diverse, it's nothing short of amazing that our bodies all operate in much the same way. In Maximum, Abbott is set to explore these differences and push them into the extreme. Joined on stage by a bulky male body-builder, this small lithe dancer will investigate the universal nature of the body and test its limits via the oh-so-gruelling medium of physical movement. Featuring dance, posing, lifts and even fake tan, Maximum seems more like a durational live art piece than a formal show. This is exacerbated by the fact it has nearly 10 performances in under two weeks. Yikes. Our muscles are hurting already (but we can't wait to see the results). This event originally appeared as one of our top picks for the 2014 Next Wave Festival. See the full list here.
The Apple iPod has been nipped and tucked since its original version to become the compact, nearly paper-thin music-playing masterpiece that it is today. We now have room for thousands of songs and videos on a piece of metal that's smaller than a playing card and lighter than a feather. Just when we thought there was no more improving the little guys, technology went ahead and proved us wrong. Scientists from Georgia University of Technology, lead by Dr. Zhong Lin Wang, are in the experimental stages of developing nanotechnology that will create self-generated energy that could power portable devices like iPods. In presenting their findings to the American Chemical Society, Dr. Wang explained that the devices would have a microchip made of zinc oxide nanowires (500 of them could fit on a human hair) that generate energy at any body movement, even just the beat of a heart. So far the human-powered technology has been used to power LCD screens and store radio signals. These advances may seem small, but Dr. Wang believes that the team's development of the microchip is a significant milestone in the creation of power that isn't battery-operated or plugged into an electrical outlet. "Their potential is only limited by one's imagination," he said. We're certainly looking forward to listening to beats powered by heartbeats. [via The Telegraph]
Even if you're not escaping Melbourne's chill with a Euro-summer holiday this year, a new opening is set to bring all the Italian vibes to St Kilda, slinging pizza, pasta and Eurocentric cocktails out of one of the area's iconic venues. The white brick facade of the Post Office Hotel, or the 'Posty', is now home to The Postina, a new eatery from the hospitality group behind House of Lulu White and The Hamptons Bakery. With executive chef James Turno (Grossi Florentino, The European) at the kitchen's helm, The Postina's family-style menu is a celebration of all things Italian. For those who live by the crust, there's a mammoth lineup of traditional pizza toppings, as well as the less-than-traditional 'McDowells big Mick sauce' for pizza dipping. Handmade pasta options include a pappardelle with slow-braised confit duck and porcini ragu, and a pumpkin Cappelletti with sage brown butter, toasted hazelnut and gorgonzola. For those of a veggie persuasion, there are enough fresh bites to keep everyone happy, including vegan pizza options and sides like shaved cabbage with preserved lemon, and heirloom tomatoes with burrata and black olive crumb. Eurocentric spritzes and cocktails will have aperitivo hour transporting you in holiday mode in no time, along with a wine list of imported Italian wines from regions like Chianti, Puglia and Campania and "Italian-inspired" drops from the Margaret River, Yarra Valley and Riverland. Also Italian-inspired is the hotel's refurbishment, which includes a new light-filled (and plant-filled) al fresco dining area and an intimate, wooden interior decor. A range of daily food and be specials will get you through to the weekend in good spirits, including a Tuesday 'Marg Duo' — $12 margarita pizzas and $12 margarita cocktails. For needing to escape a mid-week hump, Wednesday's 'Pasta Vino' special gets you a plate of handmade pasta and a glass of house wine for only $22, while $7 Malfy gin and tonics and $11 negronis, pornstar martinis and margaritas on Sundays will ease those Sunday scaries in style. The Postina can be found at 304-306 St Kilda Road, St Kilda, and is open Tuesday - Thursday, 2pm until late and Friday - Sunday, 12pm until late.
The bad news: Melbourne's NYE fireworks will not be going ahead. It's not an unexpected announcement — with the annual event usually attracting 400,000 people to the city (a number that certainly doesn't scream 'COVID-safe') — but it's a little sad nonetheless. The good news: instead of fireworks, the city is getting a new two-day food and wine celebration run by the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (MFWF) team together with the City of Melbourne. New Year Street Feasts, as the new dining experience has been dubbed, will see the city filled with 11 food precincts inspired by Europe's piazzas and squares. More than 50 venues will be involved, with precincts popping up across Little Bourke Street, Little Collins Street, Lonsdale Street, Springs Street, Russell Street, as well as AC/DC, Hardware, Flinders and Market lanes, and Docklands. As well as being exciting news for the food-loving citizens of Melbourne, it's also great news for the city's hospitality venues, with bars, cafes and restaurants restricted to takeaway-only for the better part of seven months. It's been a particularly difficult seven months for venues in the CBD, too, as many Melburnians continue to work from home. According to a July survey by the City of Melbourne, 15 percent of the city's hospitality businesses were unlikely to reopen after lockdown. Some big-name venues have already announced their permanent closure. One of the first was Chinatown's 30-year-old Shark Fin House, which saw an 80 percent drop in customers back in February; and Ezard, with the Flinders Lane restaurant departing after 20 years. Little Bourke Street stalwart Longrain also announced it was shutting up shop for good back in May, but then Chef Scott Pickett swooped in and revived the restaurant. The MFWF itself was impacted by this year's pandemic, first postponing, then cancelling its March festival. [caption id="attachment_744121" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The NYE fireworks will not go ahead this year.[/caption] When announcing the new event, Lord Mayor Sally Capp mentioned the difficult year it has been for the industry. "This has been an incredibly tough year and we want to mark its end by celebrating and supporting Melbourne's wonderful cafes, bars and restaurants," the Lord Mayor said in a statement. "We are tailoring a program to safely encourage more patrons into our incredible and deserving hospitality businesses that have struggled through lockdown restrictions." While the events are under wraps for now, you can expect some pretty exciting announcements, if MFWF's 2020 program is anything to go by. The OG lineup included a tongue-tingling Sichuan Snack Fair, a party dedicated to hot chips and an homage to 40 years of The Australian Women's Weekly Children's Birthday Cake Book. We'll let you know as soon as they're announced. New Year Street Feasts will run from Thursday, December 31–Friday, January 1 at more than 50 venues across Melbourne. Tickets will go on sale to the public from Monday, November 23. More info will be available at melbournefoodandwine.com.au. Top image: MFWF by Daniel Mahon
Some film festivals whisk you away to far-off countries without leaving your cinema seat, or your home. Others expand your knowledge about the state of the world and what might be to come. Screening both in-person in Melbourne and online nationally from Friday, February 18–Sunday, March 13, Australia's annual Transitions Film Festival does both. And, after more than a decade of pondering the future of the planet, changing technologies and our evolving world, this film fest is showing no signs of stopping — with more than 20 titles on its 2022 lineup. Mostly, you'll be diving into docos, but German drama Ecocide takes a different route, putting world leaders on trial in 2034 for their inaction to combat climate change in our present. Other highlights include A.rtificial I.mmortality, about a life that might extend beyond our bodies; 70/30, following a quest in Denmark to reduce greenhouse gases by 70 percent by 2030; First We Eat, where filmmaker Suzanne Crocker bans grocery shopping for a year; Mountains of Plastic, where plastic pollution still finds its way to some of the earth's most isolated regions. Or, because the list goes on, there's also a movie-length economics lesson via Hot Money; Dear Future Children, about the new generation of global protesters; Forest for the Trees, which focuses on community of 100 tree planters; and Dream On, Yearning For Change, where five people endeavour to make the world better in their own ways. Top image: Dream On, Yearning For Change.
After collaborating with The Flaming Lips' Wayne Coyne, nabbing a Coachella spot and spinning her way to international success over the past year, Sydney's Alison Wonderland is embarking on her second tour of industrial warehouse parties. Wonderland Warehouse Project 2.0 is set to hit the road nationwide from late May, the highly anticipated sequel to her wildly successful 2014 tour of the same name. Armed with a fresh set of tracks from debut album RUN, Wonderland will be popping up in secret locations across the country for what's pinned to be some seriously huge shows. Bringing electronica out of the clubs and into a string of mystery warehouses, this powerhouse Sydney DJ is going to run some rather unconventional, mega-scale dancefloors. Set to make her first appearance at Coachella in the States in April, off the back of casually working with Wayne Coyne for her latest record, Wonderland appears to have quite the 2015 in store. After last year's sell-out tour, get in quick to secure your spot at these epic warehouse shindigs. Tickets are only $40-45, so they sell quicker than you can fall down a rabbit hole. WONDERLAND WAREHOUSE PROJECT 2.0 DATES Brisbane — Friday May 22 Melbourne — Saturday May 30 Sydney — Saturday June 6 For tickets and more info, head to wonderlandwarehouseproject.com.
If someone emails you a link tagged NSFW — Not Safe For Work — you know to be cautious of it. So when Red Stitch’s final play of the year has this snappy 'nudity/grossness/weird shit ahead' warning as its title, it is only reasonable to expect something a little shocking. NSFW is a recent work from Lucy Kirkwood, best known for being one of the writers of TV show Skins but also a prolific young British playwright. It takes place in the oh so British world of trashy tabloids, from boob-happy lad mag Doghouse, to style-crazy women’s magazine Electra. Through a couple of set pieces — a scandal at the lad mag and a job interview with Electra’s editor — he exploitation on both sides of the gender fence is showcased. The edginess promised by the title and this enticing premise was not, however, realised on stage in Red Stitch’s production. Is it telling you anything new to say that lad mags are exploitative? Or that women’s magazines can be too? No, not really, and the play took an hour and a half to reiterate that familiar message with all the subtlety of a page three spread. While the script demonstrated a kind of sitcom competence, delivering gags and dramatic counterpoints in all the right places and including some truly good one-liners, it didn’t add anything new to the discussion of gender roles in the media. The characters were a roll call of familiar archetypes: the shifty sleazebag boss (Ben Prendergast), the eccentric ageing fashionista (Olga Makeeva), the arrogant trust fund kid (Mark Casamento) and not one but two young idealists (Matthew Whitty and Kasia Kaczmarek) driven by the economic climate to take work in an environment they secretly despise. We know these archetypes already and the play offered no fresh angles on them. The performances — mostly in British accents which were serviceable provided you didn’t question too hard which part of Britain they were meant to be from — were mostly one-note, with both gags and dramatic moments heavily over-played. Prendergast delivered a nervous blustery performance as the lad mag boss, with none of the comic nuance the script seemed to be crying out for, and while Okeeva had fun as Electra editor Miranda, her overboard battiness made the character a cartoonish parody. Actors noticeably dropped their lines or broke character by smirking at their own jokes with surprising frequency for the ensemble of an established company. NSFW promised edgy and incisive but instead delivered fluff. It was enjoyable enough to watch but ultimately not much less shallow than the magazines it was so savagely criticising. Sadly, the most shocking thing on opening night was nothing on stage but instead the behaviour of the audience who, having been generously plied with complimentary drinks, started to get a bit NSFW themselves. Several were raucous, one appeared to go to sleep (admittedly act two was kind of slow) and one randomly harassed your correspondent from Concrete Playground in the foyer afterwards. Obviously this experience wouldn't be common to all viewings of the show, but it did cast an unpleasant pall on my night. This on top of the pall already cast by an indifferent play depicting a bleak and sleazy view of the world. I came away feeling uncomfortable, disappointed in my fellow humans and thinking “I wish I hadn’t bothered with that.” Which admittedly is the same suite of emotions I’d normally get from clicking on a link tagged NSFW so I guess the show delivered what it promised after all. Image: Jodie Hutchinson.
There's nothing quite like a Saturday spent quaffing top-notch wine and gorging on cheese. Throw the spotlight on local produce and you've got something even better. Melbourne's beloved culinary event, The Wine and Cheese Fest, is returning early next year for its ninth iteration, this time at the Timber Yard in Port Melbourne. Taking over the area for one gooey, cheesy day, the event will celebrate some of the state's finest cheese, wine and artisan goodies. Chat to producers as you indulge in a parade of free tastings, sit in on a couple of cheese masterclasses or even hone your squishing skills in the day's grape stomping competition. And there'll be DJ sets and live jazz providing the soundtrack to your epicurean adventures. Up for some extra indulgence? Splash out on a VIP ticket to score your fill of free-flowing local wine and cheese platters, as well as an elegant tasting set of Riedel glasses. But don't worry, all attendees will receive a festival glass and tote bag to take home, and you're encouraged to fill with all the wine and cheese that catches your tastebuds. I mean, the vendors don't want to drive it all the way home, do they?
Some innovative internetters have thrown their support behind tougher laws on firearms in America by photoshopping classic movie moments so that our favourite gun-toting characters serve their enemies a friendly thumbs up instead of a barrage of bullets. The light-hearted approach by photoblog Thumbs & Ammo comes at a time when America is heatedly debating gun control, and its amusing advocacy of stringent gun control provides a refreshing and entertaining new angle as to why Americans do not need guns. "Real tough guys don't need guns, they just need a positive, can-do attitude," the crowdsourced blog's tagline declares. Let us hope that art can imitate life. In the meantime, take a look at some of our favourites below.
It's time to get that old jester suit out of Mum's costume box and read up on how to make mead because the next instalment of Underground Cinema will be of the medieval fantasy genre. Thy kingdom will open its Royal Court to its subjects (you) while providing delicious era-appropriate snacks (cheese and wine) for seven appointments (nights in July). If you haven't been to an Underground Cinema show before, know that it's much more than just a cinema — they use actors, sets and costumes to immerse the audience in the film (to be revealed on the night) and make them part of that world. We're sure this time round will no exception, and you'll be summoning your dragon instead of an Uber to take you home. The location is secret for now with more details upon ticket purchase, and the only instructions are a) to bring your will to conquer, and b) be valiant — so you can assume you're in for something that'll have you wishing you lived in Westeros and played the lute. Tickets sell fast and some nights have already sold out, so get in quick sticks, lords and ladies.
A verdant oasis awaits those who visit Coburg Lake reserve, just a short stroll from the suburb's centre. The sprawling park, an erstwhile bluestone quarry worked by prisoners from the adjacent Pentridge Prison is home to many walking paths, bike trails, two playgrounds and public gym equipment, all centred around the picturesque Coburg Lake. It's also a great spot for a barbecue with a number of public grill stations dotted around the park, while a public bocce court is an ideal spot for a post-lunch activity. The reserve is home to a large colony of ibis, while you can also expect to see ducks, water hens and mallards. The reserve's range flora includes mature native and exotic trees, which provide beautiful shade along the meandering walking trails and open green spaces.
