When Kevin Bacon stood up in Footloose and said, “This is our time to dance. It is our way of celebrating life,” what he didn’t say was “but only for skinny people”. And yet, that seems to be what we mean these days. 'Fat' dancers and performers aren’t often seen, and so many people seem to have so many opinions on fatness and how fat people move through our society. We look at fat people and assume things — that the person is lazy, slovenly, unhappy and definitely, definitely ungraceful and unconnected to their bodily wellbeing. Now fat activist and artist Kelli Jean Drinkwater and resigning Force Majeure artistic director Kate Champion are working together to broaden our outlook on the body and the act of dancing. Playing as part of Sydney Festival, Nothing to Lose is highly topical, audacious and — coming from dance-theatre masters Force Majeure (Never Did Me Any Harm, Food) — sure to be a powerful watch. Challenging as it is to our prejudices, it might even be the most important work you see at the festival. We spoke to Drinkwater and Champion about the thinking behind the provocative project. Read what they had to say over here. It's also one of our top ten picks of the festival.
Ever have this problem? You're kayaking through crystal clear waters on adventure of a lifetime in paradise, and the goddamn bottom of your canoe is infuriatingly opaque. All that sea life, going unseen. All those underwater sea creature orchestras, going unappreciated. It's infuriating and devastating. Well, all of that is about to change thanks to the Crystal Kayak Company. They've invented (maybe a better term is re-imagined) the kayak, and this time round it's completely see-through. It's the boldest see-through invention since the see-through toaster. Using the same material as windshields are made from, the see-through kayaks are perfect for moments when you want to see what your kayaking over (i.e. undersea orchestras). Check out the promo vid — and we dare you to not feel like you want to quit your job, burn all of your possessions and spend the rest of your life in a transparent kayak. They retail from a whopping $1,499, but if that blows your kayak budget out of the water, you can trial it at resorts around the world. And don't think that price tag just buys the opacity of your kayak. Oh no. As well as offering quite the underwater view, they've been ergonomically designed to be wayyy more comfy than your average kayak. Check em out here.
The latest slate of films from the chilly Nordic north is headed to a Palace Cinema near you. Returning for just its second year, the Scandinavian Film Festival will showcase 22 movies from Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Finland and Norway. Expect kitchen-sink dramas, edge-of-your-seat crime stories and a road movie about a struggling furniture salesman who hatches a plan to kidnap the founder of Ikea. That last one is actually Norwegian, not Swedish, but should make for a fun watch on opening night. Other comedies in the lineup include oddball Icelandic film Rams, which won the Un Certain Regard Prize at Cannes earlier this year; as well as the middle-aged rom-com Hello Hello, which proved an audience favourite at festivals in its native Sweden. Those after something a little bit more serious can check out Danish police procedural The Absent One or drug-fuelled Finnish thriller They Have Escaped, among numerous others. The festival comes to a close with a documentary about Ingrid Bergman, the Swedish actress who went on to become one of Hollywood’s brightest stars. Image: Young Sophie Bell.
The lower north shore is getting a major foodie addition from developer Dr. Stanley Quek, who has dropped $25 million to purchase the Castlecrag Quadrangle Shopping Village. Quek is responsible for the major redevelopment of Kensington Street, Chippendale and has already opened two of the street's popular restaurants up north. Holy Duck! and Bistro Mekong — the casual sister venue to Mekong — are opened earlier this month, with new bar Apera set to open soon. "The Quandrangle is an ageing neighbourhood mall and I saw I could bring something interesting there," says Quek. "It's set in a historic landscape and streetscape area, with young families moving in, and I saw the potential in creating something new like what I did in Chippendale." Quek, who also has a medical degree, spent years as CEO of Frasers Property before retiring and turning his focus to the wildly popular Chippendale foodie precinct. "I call myself the accidental restaurateur," says Quek. "Controlling the tenant mix in Kensington Street was important for me, so it is quite a unique mix with no duplication of cuisines. Similarly in Castlecrag, I want to find out what new cuisines we can bring to the area to make it a vibrant neighbourhood centre that everyone can proud of. I want to get people out on the streets and create new forms of ambiance." As the shopping centre sits just outside the urban conservation area, there is some uncertainty as to what development is possible, and Quek's team is still undergoing initial community research as well. "In the meantime, I decided to bring in some of the Kensington restaurants to give people a taste of what can happen if the mall is rejuvenated," says Quek. "I didn't want to bring anything I didn't have experience with." To that end, Castlecrag is getting a taste of modern Chinese — specifically, roast duck — through Holy Duck!. Quek has also reworked the Mekong concept to fit the space and suburb — the southeast Asian sister restaurant, dubbed Bistro Mekong, is more casual and affordable, while boasting romantic alfresco dining in a done-up courtyard with hedging, greenery and mood lighting. Joining these existing brands is Apera, which will open just after Easter. The new bar concept will serve up rotisserie chicken and cater specifically to locals. On the retail side, luxury shoe brand Extraordinary Ordinary Day has already opened in the Quandrangle, having previously popped-up in Kensington Street as well. At this stage, the Spice Alley concept will not be duplicated, though Quek does intend to eventually open what he calls 'Spice Alley Express' in other locations. "I see Australians do travel a lot around Asia, so I'm bringing that cuisine to them in their own neighbourhood and trying to challenge their taste buds with new cuisines," says Quek. "I want them to try something different from smashed avocado and am trying to bring the next generation of food into the area." Holy Duck! and Bistro Mekong are now open at the Castlecrag Quadrangle Shopping Village at 100 Edinburgh Road, Castlecrag. Keep an eye on this space for future updates and developments. Image: Google Street View. Updated: March 24, 2018.
Cafe Freda's Head Chef Xinyi Lim is bringing back her charitable side project Family Meal to raise money for COVID-19 relief in India. This Sunday, May, 16, Xinyi and the Cafe Freda's team will be serving up a Indian-inspired vegetarian feast featuring flatbread, curry, rice, chutney and dessert. The servings have been designed to be shared between you and your guests, family meal-style. The set menu is $45 per person, with 100 percent of all profits going to the Hemkunt Foundation who helps supply oxygen cylinders, as well as Goonj, who provide food and medical support to marginalised communities in India including members of the Transgender community, migrants and sex workers. The Taylor Square spot is accepting bookings from midday through until 9pm on Sunday so you can head there for a hearty lunch, a dinner-time degustation or a golden hour feast while helping raise money for a good cause. [caption id="attachment_798926" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Xinyi Lim (middle) with Carla Uriarte and David Abram of Cafe Freda's by Cassandra Hannagan[/caption]
There's always something to see at a documentary festival. Whether true crime gets your pulse racing or you're excited about the idea of diving into the weird and wonderful side of this world we live in, part of the fun of a festival focused on factual efforts is the sense of real-life discovery — you'll most likely learn something new. Since it started in 2011, that's what the Antenna Documentary Film Festival has offered movie buffs keen on a dose of reality with their viewing, with the fest's annual program nothing if not varied and vibrant. Taking their true tales to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane audiences, the latter for the first time this year, Antenna beams everything from docos about eating crawling critters to cine-essays about the impact of horror cinema into hearts and minds. From this year's 39-feature lineup, here's our top five picks. BUGS Maybe you're the kind of person who's willing to eat almost anything once. Or, perhaps you're much more cautious about your culinary choices. Either way, this doco is something everyone should watch — when it comes to what we eat, the future of the planet is at stake. Researchers from gastronomic entrepreneur Rene Redzepi's (Noma) Nordic Food Lab investigate the practise of eating insects as a solution to issues of food security and scarcity, and documentarian Andreas Johnsen follows their efforts. Yep, Bugs is probably going to make your stomach squirm — but, if you really are adventurous, you can try an ant-covered ice cream at the films's screening. FEAR ITSELF In Beyond Clueless, critic and filmmaker Charlie Lyne explored the films audiences not only literally grew up with, but also chronicled that process on screen. Now, like we all do, he's moved on from teen flicks to horror — and he's giving the fright-inducing genre the same treatment. Assembling tension-filled clips from over 100 spooky efforts, he examines just how everything from the usual suspects to hidden gems manage to give audiences goosebumps and leave them on the edge of their seats. Clearly, this is a film for horror buffs — maybe don't head along if you're easily scared. CAMERAPERSON You mightn't know Kirsten Johnson's name, but if you watch documentaries, then you know her visuals. As a cinematographer and camera operator, she has shot or contributed to the shooting of everything from Fahrenheit 9/11 to Citizenfour, however, that's not all she has filmed. After more than two decades in the business, Johnson has assembled quite the array of unused footage from every effort that she has worked on, which all forms part of Cameraperson. Using these otherwise-discarded scenes, she crafts a portrait of the relationship between the people on either sides of the camera, as well as an absolutely riveting cine-memoir. BOBBY SANDS: 66 DAYS It was the film that launched the careers of both Michael Fassbender and his Shame and 12 Years A Slave director Steve McQueen: Hunger, a recreation of Irish Republican prisoner Bobby Sands' refusal to eat food for 66 days. As Bobby Sands: 66 Days' title suggest, Brendan Byrne's documentary also tells that story. Of course, it looks at the situation from a factual rather than dramatised perspective, with the end result both powerful and informative. There's a reason that the eponymous figure's actions back in 1981 continue to draw attention, which this compilation of interviews, archival materials and recreations attempts to get to the bottom of. CITY 40 The Russian city of Ozersk is the city time may as well have forgotten, closing itself off to the world around it, and even using armed guards to stop anyone entering. Indeed, the mountainous locale is referred to as City 40, and though it looks picturesque, it's really anything but. It's here that the Soviet nuclear weapons program was born after World War II — and where many are now stockpiled. This documentary examines not only the place, but the people who remain, even as their beloved home town literally poisons them through radiation. The Antenna Documentary Film Festival screens in Sydney from October 11 to 16, in Brisbane from October 26 to 30, and in Melbourne from November 2 to 6. For the full program, see the festival website.
It’s hard to believe that triple j was born in the same year that Gough Whitlam copped the old heave-ho as PM. The beloved radio station began its life as 2JJ back in 1975, with a broadcast that served the Sydney metropolitan area only. Four decades on, it's become the nation's chief music tastemaker, and (thankfully) hasn't wavered from its commitment to homegrown tunes. At Sydney Festival, triple j will celebrate its 40th birthday with a gargantuan, seven-hour long shindig, featuring performances from friends new and old, including Vance Joy, The Presets, Ball Park Music, The Preatures, Hilltop Hoods, Tkay Maidza, You Am I, The Cat Empire, Courtney Barnett, Remi, Nina Las Vegas, KLP, Adalita and more. If you're a never-fail triple j listener, you won't want to hear about this one on Saturday morning radio — get there. Beat the Drum is one of our top ten picks of the Sydney Festival. Check out our other favourite events over here.
You thought the time for giant slides was through. You thought you'd missed the boat. You thought you'd be doomed to slide down your own shitty bits of plastic soaked with detergent and your backyard hose forever. You're in luck, slider. There's a freakin' huge slide coming to Australia and you can skid right down the middle of it. Slide the City is a multi-city series hitting Sydney, Melbourne and Perth with more national dates to be announced. It's a gargantuan 300 metre vinyl slip 'n' slide that dares to rival the likes of Slide Melbourne, Slidestreet and every detergent-laden giant slide you've ever created in your own backyard. Apparently this is equal to nearly three football fields worth of sliding. Family-friendly and encouraging of dress-ups, Slide the City is so much more than a slide. There'll be live music, food stalls and a bar popping up on the day — all you have to do is bring your water buckets, floaties and super soakers — yep, you're actually encouraged to bring these. Unless otherwise specified, sliding starts at 9am and goes until 7pm. We know what you're thinking (after all the fun sliding bit's done), what about water wastage? In fact, the team are taking great pains to keep the event's environmental impact low, even swinging the whole thing to raise awareness of water conservation. Good stuff, team. SLIDE THE CITY 2016 DATES: MELBOURNE — Sunday, January 10 SYDNEY — Friday, January 15, Saturday, January 16 and Sunday, January 17 WOLLONGONG — TBC SUNSHINE COAST — TBC TOWNSVILLE — TBC GOLD COAST — TBC NEWCASTLE — TBC Register for tickets at the Slide the City website.
Bayala means 'speak' in the tongue of Sydney's first people, and that's exactly what this series of talks, workshops and performances at Sydney Festival begs of you – to speak the language that lived here, long before we did. In 1790–91, Patyegarang, a young Aboriginal woman, taught 'First Fleet' English astronomer William Dawes the local language during frequent visits to his hut. That site is now known as Dawes' Point, under the southern pylon of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This is where you can hear Lille Madden, a young Gadigal woman, reading the wordlists and sentences in language as spoken by Patyegarang. The installation will be open daily from 6am-11pm throughout the festival. Become immersed as Gadigal representatives read from notebooks written in 1790, or take classes with Darug and Gadigal teachers. Check out the rare collection of artefacts that preserve the language, or take your place in the massive performance of traditional songs about country, ancestors and healing. Head to the State Library to take the plunge to learn just a little more about the history that we all share. This program is one of ten Sydney Festival events happening in unexpected places. Check out the whole list.
One of Sydney's hidden rooftop gems has reopened atop the recently revamped East Village Hotel. After much anticipation, the folks at Goodtime Hospitality Group revealed two of three newly revamped sections of the much-adored, 100-year-old drinking spot in late October — we've seen the Public Bar and Athletic Club, a slick, minimalist wine bar and a vintage-inspired sports bar, respectively. And now, the third and final space, Terrace, is open. We've been waiting to see what design team Alexander & Co.(Busby, The Village Inn, Surly's, Daniel San) do with this 100-square-metre rooftop space — it's got one heck of a CBD skyline view. Climb four flights of stairs and you'll find high bar tables, lower lounge-like seating, handcut terrazzo slabs, plenty of plants and a retractable roof. It's the perfect spot for lazy weekend cocktails, with general manager Lee Potter Cavanagh and bar manager Reece Griffiths putting together a Terrace-only menu. There's 'seasonal mimosa' on the bill, with interchanging fruit juices, a 'teetotallers' menu for non-drinkers, and 'holiday' cocktails each month with recipes from their overseas buddies. Plus, for the strong-stomached, there's a 'Squidmark Sour', with Bulleit rye whiskey, Tempus Fugit gran classico bitters, crème de cacao, cherry, grapefruit, shichimi togarashi and squid ink— yep, squid ink. Food-wise, the Terrace is offering up something a little more casual than its lower counterparts, where head chef Graham Johns (Quay) and executive chef Tom Kime (Ceru, Fish & Co.) are reimagining classic counter meals. Upstairs though, executive chef Tom Kime has crafted a summery, casual menu of grilled meats, salads and snack — think gazpacho soup with marinated blue swimmer crab and basil ($21), escabeche of seared fish with saffron and pickled vegetables ($24), and rare grilled veal with anchovy and herb mayonnaise, caper berries and fried anchovies ($24). Head downstairs to find out more about the East Village's other unique levels. Find the East Village at 234 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst. Terrace is open this week on Wednesday and Thursday from 6–10pm, Friday – Sunday: 11am – 10pm. Then, from Monday 21 November, open 11am–10pm, seven days a week.
LCD Soundsystem is finally headed back to Australia in their first visit since playing a national tour and Big Day Out in 2011. The beloved New Yorkers reunited last year, going on to headline some of the world's biggest festivals, including Coachella, Lollapalooza, Glastonbury, Bonnaroo and Primavera. Now, the day after James Murphy, Nancy Whang and co. headline Splendour in the Grass, they're headed to Sydney to bring down the house at Hordern Pavilion on Monday, July 24. Formed back in 2002 by Murphy, LCD Soundsystem's cathartic dance-punk defined the noughties for many. Presented by Frontier Touring and triple j, this highly anticipated show is sure to be one hell of a reunion party. Fingers crossed that the band's new album will be out by then — Murphy has promised a newbie. Tickets go on sale Thursday, April 20 at 11am, with presale happening for Frontier Touring members at 2pm on Tuesday, April 18 through 2pm on Wednesday, April 19. They're sure to sell out insanely quickly, so dawdlers will be sorry. LCD Soundsystem will then go on to play in Melbourne's Margaret Court Arena on Wednesday, July 26, capping off one of the most hectic weeks of live music Australia will see this year. Image: Matt Biddulph via Wikimedia Commons.
It's finally happened. London's latest and greatest pop-up bar lets you literally inhale alcohol, a project that could only be the work of wildly ambitious, gastronomic artists Bompas and Parr. Built on the site of an ancient monastery in Borough and opened on July 30, the wonderfully-named Alcohol Architecture bar lets you walk into an actual cloud of cocktail. Sam Bompas and Harry Parr have used big ol' humidifiers to saturate the air with a cocktail of spirits and mixer, so you can simply breathe in the drink and let that sweet, sweet alcohol make its way to your bloodstream via lungs and eyes. Of course, visitors to the pop-up are advised to "breathe responsibly" — and the hour session of inhalation isn't quite enough to get you drunk, apparently. You're given a robe to protect your clothes from reeking of cocktail afterwards, and you'll be surrounded by atmospheric sounds to intensify the inhaling experience. #breatheresponsibly at @alcoholicarchitecture regram from @soniashahx A photo posted by Bompas & Parr (@bompasandparr) on Aug 6, 2015 at 8:59am PDT "Inside, the sound is modulated, so that it is like you are right inside the glass," Parr told Bloomberg. "It's a dense atmosphere that builds into a thunderstorm with lightning. It's a new way of experiencing drink, and it's social because it's an immersive shared environment. You all have the same flavor sensation. "It's like going to the seaside and finding that fish and chips taste better. Part of that is that in a human environment, your ability to perceive taste is heightened. It's the opposite of being in an aeroplane. Alcohol tastes better, with more nuances: You can detect more subtle flavors when it is humidified." We're on! Launch night of the bar tonight! A photo posted by Alcoholic Architecture (@alcoholicarchitecture) on Jul 29, 2015 at 12:37pm PDT This isn't the first jaw-dropping foodie installation Bompas and Parr have dazzled us with in recent memory. After opening a pop-up which tailored cocktails to your DNA, hosting anatomical whisky tastings allowing you to taste different aged whiskies from their same-aged human body, and creating lava-powered barbecues, the pair brought one hell of a banquet to this year's Dark Mofo festival in Tasmania — which involved much nudity and the eating of an actually beating pig's heart. If you're headed for London anytime soon, Alcoholic Architecture will be open until early 2016 at One Cathedral Street, Borough Market, London. Tickets and more info over here. We chatted to Sam Bompas recently, head over here to delve into pagan feasts, Vegemite chocolate and Australian food trends. Via Bloomberg.
Two consecutive 12-hour days of parties, lectures, performances, installations, and music from some of Australia’s and the world’s leading queer artists. If that doesn’t sound like an amazing way to spend a weekend then frankly we are no longer for this world. Presented by perennial creative risk-takers Performance Space and Carriageworks this monumental offering of queer creativity will take place over Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 February. Running from midday to midnight the symposium will feature a highlight performance from legendary producers, DJs, and musicians Stereogamous aka Jonny Seymour and groundbreaking openly-gay electropop pioneer Paul Mac.
The Art Gallery of New South Wales will be staying open after dark until the end of January, maximising access to its summer blockbuster, Pop to Popism. Swing by before 10pm on Wednesdays and 9pm on Thursday to Saturday for the opportunity to not only take in the exhibition — a survey of pop art to which we gave a big thumb's up — but also the Pop shop and Pop twister. Dinner at Chiswick at the Gallery kicks your night up a fancy notch, and there’s even a special event combining the culinary inventiveness of Matt Moran with a talk from exhibition curator, Wayne Tunnicliffe. After all, these balmy summer nights are for cramming in as much culture as you can. The gallery's regular Wednesday late-night event, Art After Hours, is going retro for the occasion, with a series of colourful parties organised around different decades' subcultural rivalries and soundtracked by suitably nostalgic live music. Wednesday, January 21, is all about the era of water beds and lava lamps: the '70s. Alongside the rise of Punk and Disco, look back on the progressive changes ushered in by Gough Whitlam. And on January 28, the spotlight will be turned towards the '80s with its stage-stealing New Romantics and Yuppies. The heyday of pop music and outrageous fashion, nothing screamed look-at-me like the '80s. Reminiscing on this loud and proud decade, Romance Was Born designer Luke Sales will be speaking about the influences that have filtered into his creative process. It was also the era that launched slick art stars like Jeff Koons, who is still going strong, and conceptual photographer Cindy Sherman. Rock up with shoulder pads and big hair to be in the running for best dressed.
There's a few delicious things you could buy for $817. You could buy a bucketload of Messina for your entire workplace. Or you could invest in one scoop of this not-so-great-sounding ice cream, the most expensive scoop in the world. Dubai's Scoopi Cafe is claiming their 'Black Diamond' as the priciest scoop in the globe, setting you back $817 a go. According to Al Arabiya, owner Zubin Doshi spent five whole weeks picking out the ingredients. Yep. Five of 'em. What did he come up with? Madagascar vanilla bean ice cream, Iranian saffron threads, and Italian black truffle, topped with a 23-karat gold leaf. Call us ungrateful, but four ingredients we've seen before hasn't left us jumping on Webjet. The exxy part of the scoop actually doesn't come from the saffron or gold leaf. It comes from the takeaway container. Your Black Diamond comes served in a bowl from Versace — one you can take home. So basically, you're paying for singular Versace crockery and the rights to tell your 'friends' you shelled out 800 beans for an average-sounding scoop. We'll stick with Messina any day. Via Al Arabiya.
When it comes to versatile foods that the large majority loves and is highly unlikely to get sick of, pizza really is worth its weight in gold. At Sydney's Pizza Design Co, they're taking that idea literally. That's right, the Parramatta dough-slingers are topping their latest creation in actual, edible, 23-carat gold. In an Australian first, that slice of 'za you're always hankering for just got a whole lot more valuable. Going on sale via Menulog from October 13, the limited-time-only pizza in question is called the Golden Margherita, of course. And, given that it's a classic margherita pizza topped with gold leaf, it really is just what it sounds like. Whoever knew that your favourite meal could be so shiny and laughably decadent? Or, if you get in early, shiny, laughably decadent and free? Not only does the Golden Margherita apparently reflect the evolving tastes of the area, but it's all yours for zilch if you're one of the first 100 preorders made from midday on the day that they're launched. Normally, they'll be $50 a pop (hey, gold doesn't come cheap), and will come with a certificate of authenticity — yeah, that's piece of paper saying that you ate gold. Straight to the pool room. Pizza Design Co's Golden Margherita is available from October 13, and can be ordered via Menulog.
If Morissey was Mexican, his tunes would sound pretty much like you’re going to hear them at this show. Yep, as you can guess by the name, this is a Mexican act performing the Morissey songbook. But it's not just any old band, it's seven of the best musos in Mexico performing arrangements by Calexico’s Sergio Mendoza, all in Spanish. Expect every Latin rhythm you can think of — from ranchera, mariachi and danzón to mambo, norteño and cha cha cha. Mexrissey plays the Enmore Theatre on January 23 at 8.30pm. $69/$62 + bf. This is just one of our ten picks for Sydney Festival's best gigs. Check out the whole list.
It's a well-known fact that The Rocks is home to some of Australia's oldest and most classic pubs; and the city's growing interest in small bars, craft beers and boutique wines has been hitting its historic heart, too. Here are five bars worth a visit — whether you're after dazzling harbour views, adventurous drinks lists or quality live music. THE PUSH The Push is named after a legendary Rocks music venue, which, back in the bohemian ‘70s, hosted the city’s best jazz and blues players. The modern-day Push occupies the ground floor of the 19th-century Russell Hotel and is one of the area’s most intimate-feeling bars. Head there for beautifully mixed classic cocktails, as well as a proudly Australian selection of excellent wines and craft beers. Pop in on Friday and Saturday nights to hear the baby grand piano in action. 143 George Street GRAIN You’d be hard-pressed to find a more geographically diverse whisky selection anywhere in Sydney. Spanning the windswept isles of Scotland, the mountains of Japan and the steamy cities of India, Grain’s shelves allow you travel around the planet in one flight. If you’re not sure where you’re headed, the expert staff will sort you out. Attached to the Four Seasons Hotel, Grain delivers 5-star service and is fitted out with a sleek interior, blending golden lighting with dark wood. A central fireplace keeps things cosy when the weather’s cold. 199 George Street THE ARGYLE Housing five bars across two levels, The Argyle is The Rocks bar with it all. Hide in a comfy booth for a quiet drink, meet a bunch of mates around one of the communal tables or soak up some sunshine, or evening ambiance, in the sandstone courtyard. The 1820s, heritage-listed building, with its high archways and timber beams, is big on atmosphere. Head down on Friday nights for DJs, Sunday afternoons for live acoustic sessions, and Wednesday evenings for salsa. 18 Argyle Street BLU BAR ON 36 If you’re in the market for killer views, Blu Bar on 36 has you covered. Situated on the 36th floor of the Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney, it affords stunning panoramas of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House and Darling Harbour. The cocktail menu is impressive, featuring a long list of signature works, and, if you’re flush, you can splash out on a Martini on the Rock, which comes with a diamond and a room. Blu Bar is definitely your go-to for a post-lottery win sunset beverage. Level 36, Shangri-La Hotel, 176 Cumberland Street THE BAR, PARK HYATT SYDNEY The soft, warm lighting and stylish interiors of The Bar at Park Hyatt Sydney make it the perfect place for a nightcap or a classy night with your most sophisticated friends. A healthy range of beers, wines and ciders is only the warmup act for a killer list of cocktails. Even if you're only there for a short while you simply must sample the bar menu – or if you plan on staying longer, why not step into The Dining Room for a meal? Park Hyatt Sydney, 7 Hickson Road Top image: Grain.
You'll have to stock up on Marina Abramovic wonderment this year at Pier 2/3 and MONA, the Museum of Contemporary Art has cancelled the performance artist's 2016 retrospective exhibition. Reported by the Sydney Morning Herald, Abramovic has attributed the opening of two other exhibitions (a retrospective solo exhibition at MONA called Private Archaeology, running June 13 to October 5, and Kaldor Projects’ Marina Abramovic: In Residence at Pier 2/3 from June 24 to July 5), along with financial reasons, for the closure of the show. "I'm so sorry," she said. "They say that it is complicated. One reason was there were two exhibitions in Australia. It was too much to make a third one. The trustees they didn't want any more." MCA spokeswoman Myriam Conrie confirmed the closure to SMH, saying, "The MCA had initial discussions with the artist and her studio, but with her other commitments in Sydney and Hobart the show was not viable. No public money was spent." Abramovic's MCA retrospective was to combine photography, video, sculpture, installation and live performance, and feature material from the artist's personal archives that has never been publicly exhibited. Abramovic's celebrated performance Nightsea Crossing was supposed to feature, with some serious face-offs in store. Enthusiasts will simply have to get along to Kaldor Public Art Project's Marina Abramovic: In Residence at Pier 2/3 or make their way to Hobart for MONA's Private Archaeology. Private Archaeology opens at MONA on June 13 and runs through October 5. Kaldor Public Art Projects’ Marina Abramovic: In Residence at Pier 2/3 Walsh Bay opens June 24 and runs through July 5. Via Sydney Morning Herald. Image: Lisson Gallery. Words: Shannon Connellan and Tom Clift.
Anyone who has ever held a nine-to-five office job will have at some point wanted nothing more than to crawl under their desk and take a nap. We find it tends to happen at around three in the afternoon — once the rush from our lunchtime coffee has subsided, but quittin' time is still a ways away. Lucky for all of us, there's a new workspace on the market designed to accommodate our every dozy desire. Created by Greek design firm NL Studios, the '1.6 S.M. of Life' (doesn't that just roll off the tongue?) is a desk with its own in built-in sleep pod that seems perfect for a quick on-the-job power nap. Made from solid wood, metal and white leather, the prototype includes a slide-out top and removable side panels, allowing you to easily transform it from desk to bed and back again. According to an interview with A' Design Awards and Competition, designer Athanasia Leivaditou came up with the idea after seeing her graduate school classmates sleeping on chairs during late night study sessions. "The main concept was to comment [on] the fact that our lives are shrinking in order to fit into the confined space of our office," she said. Of course, just because such a product exists doesn't mean your boss will be too keen on you taking an afternoon siesta. On the other hand, studies are increasingly showing that a lack of sleep and energy can lead to major drops in productivity in the workplace — and many companies including Google and Facebook already have sleeping pods where exhausted employees can recharge. Now, if you'll excuse us... Via Refinery29.
Turn inland at Milton and you'll enter a world of rolling paddocks and winding streams — just one section of the little-explored South Coast hinterland. After a few minutes, look out for an old high-ceilinged building surrounded by veggie gardens and peppered with free-range chickens. Welcome to Milk Haus. This idyllic escape is the result of the combined work of founder Danielle McKeon, and current owners Nat and Kitty, who purchased the cafe in 2020. The vision is simple but compelling, championing the Milton area through local produce, authentic flavours and lifestyle through the dining experience and accommodation in the Farm Haus. The menus rotate seasonally but are consistently delish. Arrive anytime between 8:30–11.30am for brekkie. If you're up for a hearty feast, the decadent ribboned crepes with chai-poached pear, whipped mascarpone, orange maple syrup and toasted almonds are hard to beat. From midday, lunch kicks in. The tightly curated menu includes miso ramen with sesame-crusted tofu logs, pac choi, charred corn, shoyu egg, nori, shallots and sesame seed, as well as gozleme with portobello mushroom & manchego, roasted cauliflower, walnut, tabbouleh, toum and dressed garden leaves. After 10am their booze menu kicks in, with cocktails including the Big Bang Bloody Mary, and a good selection of wines including a 2020 Ravensworth Bianco from the Margaret River. Don't want to leave? Stay overnight in their beautiful private four-bedroom cottage. Enjoy country life with a quintessential farm experience, surrounded by dairy pastures and gardens. Look out for events, too, with a regular baking club and occasional fundraisers.
Curated this year by Megan Robson, Primavera 2018 — the MCA's showcase of young Australian artists — is exhibiting work from eight selected artists exploring the theme of identity and why it's important today. Artists Hoda Afshar, Caroline Garcia, Hayley Millar-Baker, Spence Messih, Phuong Ngo, Jason Phu, Ryan Presley and Andrew Tenison work across a range of disciplines including video, installation, painting, photography and sculpture. Many of the works have been created especially for the exhibition, and each artist will be specifically questioning the construction and interpretation of identity within our culture and political climate. For the uninitiated, Primavera is the MCA's yearly exhibition of Australian artists under 35 years old. Now in its 27th edition, the show has a rep for catching artists early in their careers who then go on to achieve international acclaim. Basically it's a chance to see the ones-to-watch while they're still the ones-to-watch. Image: Daniel Boud.
As you must know by now, you'll be sending at least one part of your summer with Grayson Perry's work at the Museum of Contemporary Art. And if you want to learn more about the cross-dressing icon, former YBA and Turner Prize winner, turn up to the Sydney Opera House on Sunday, December 13, where he'll be spilling the beans in a talk titled 'How to be an artist just like me'. Part of the Opera House's Ideas at the House program, the chat will focus on what it takes to make it in the art world. You can expect to hear about Perry's quest to draw attention to contemporary art and his struggles with self-belief, identity, power and recognition. Along the way, broader cultural and social issues, like sex, class and religion, will be canvassed. And you can bet your bottom dollar there'll be witty asides aplenty.
Since you can no longer have Margaret and David’s face on your TV screen for an hour a week, why not have them in your house, on cushions, 24 hours a day? What? Why and how are we sitting on Margaret and David? Sydney Film Festival's old marketing banners have been been repurposed into some of the most adorable home decorations we've seen in a while. You've seen the banners, hanging throughout Sydney to herald the coming of the city's biggest annual cinematic event. Each banner features a legendary film character, critic or audience member, stylistically depicted as though they were sitting in a cinema seat. You might have seen them while walking along George Street, oftening catch Princess Leia, Holly Golightly, Dorothy, Toto, Margaret Pomeranz and David Stratton dotted amongst the crowds hanging over the crowds. But now they're done with their time in the CBD. A creative trio from Sydney known as The Scallywag Society has turned the old banners into a series of oversized cushions, deck chairs, tote bags and tablecloths, which you can now buy. It's a total win all round: the banners have been upcycled rather than chucked out, and you get to give your house a permanent film fest vibe. What's more, a percentage of every purchase will go to SFF 2016. Every single creation in the collection is a one-off — and straight up adorable. You're going to want to pounce on these guys in particular; at $45/50 each they're going to sell out quicksmart. All items are currently on sale online and anything that’s left over by the time the festival opens on June 3 will be available at the Festival Hub. The only exceptions are two banners on which A Clockwork Orange's Alex DeLarge’s psychopathic visage appears. They’ll be given away via competitions, to be launched in June and announced at the festival’s end. The winners will get to decide exactly how they’d like Alex transformed. Doona? Wall hanging? Poncho? You'll decide. Shop The Scallywag Society's Sydney Film Festival collection over here. Want to know which films to see this year? Check out our top ten picks to book tickets to here.
Tilda Swinton's signature perfume, international denim and coffee cupping workshops will combine at this epic attic party, happening above Brewtown Newtown at O'Connell Street Merchants on Saturday, July 9. Starting at 11am, the all-day extravaganza is a celebration of O'Connell's introduction of Scandi-inspired, London-based denim brand Waven. At the same time, the store will be showcasing cult French perfumery Etat Libre d'Orange's entire range — the first event of its kind to happen outside France. Back in 2010, the brand collaborated with Tilda Swinton to create Like This. Not sure which perfume's right for you? A consultant will be on-hand, giving out free, personalised advice. And, if you're keen to evolve your coffee palate, join Brewtown's master roaster Chris Bonney for a free cupping workshop, which'll have you tasting your way around the world with a curated selection of single origin brews. Meanwhile, the Pastry Pop-Up will be peddling cakes, Brewnuts and sweet treats, while DJ Josh Leenaars of newly launched Network Connection Records will be spinning live tunes. The action's set to kick on until 4pm.
Sydney Fringe Festival is back with its first in-person program since 2019 and it's served up its biggest program to date. Get ready for six hefty weeks of performances, exhibitions, music, theatre, comedy, visual arts, film, dance, circus, literature and poetry, with the independent arts festival beginning two weeks earlier than normal to accommodate everything on this year's lineup. All up there are 500-plus events over 50 venues, including nine hubs, turning Sydney into an epicentre of entertainment between Tuesday, August 16–Friday, September 30. Among the highlights, free opening party Fringe Ignite is right up there. It'll take over The Rocks on Friday, September 2 — which is a few weeks after Fringe actually kicks off, but no one is complaining. Twenty acts will perform in pop-up locations, giving you plenty to see and roam between from 6pm till late. There's also Runaway Gardens, a six-week collection of cabaret, drag, comedy and live music taking over First Fleet Park in The Rocks headlined by the previously announced Bernie Dieter's Club Kabarett. Also a standout is Indie Yarns, which gathers members of the fest's First Nations Advisory Panel for a Q&A session. There's also Dane Simpson's stand-up comedy show Didgeridoozy, as well as singer-songwriter Paul Ah Chee playing his debut solo EP Nowhere to Hide. The Limitless micro-festival will focus on artists with disability or who are deaf for two weeks, with must-sees spanning inclusive comedy night Crips and Creeps Comedy, plus Sam Kissajukian's 300 Paintings in Lockdown. Elsewhere, a comedic recreation of Titanic is coming to the Australian National Maritime Museum, comedy cabaret Cherry will celebrate one woman's love of Katy Perry, interactive theatre experience Gameshow will bring TV game shows to life, and YCK Laneways will host the Front and Centre Festival, which is all about female-identifying artists — including Jaguar Jonze, JOY, Kilimi and Pirra. Or, there's a four-show series of acoustic concerts at George Place foyer, featuring Elizabeth Fader, Declan Kelly with Daniel Pliner, Emily Granger with Andrew Blanch, and Emily Stephenson. Love hitting up festival hubs? Sydney Fringe loves hosting them, and will also include a bigger touring hub at The Seymour Centre that'll showcase award-winners from Adelaide Fringe, Perth Fringe, Melbourne Fringe, New Zealand Fringe and other fests. And, you'll be able to check out the emerging artists sharehouse at Erskineville Town Hall, too, plus the massive 100-plus comedy lineup at the Factory Theatre — while the musical theatre hub will sit at City Tattersalls and the cabaret hub at The Castlereagh. "There has never been a better time to get out and explore Sydney Fringe — this is our city's festival and a celebration of all we stand for," CEO and Festival Director Kerri Glasscock said.
Looking for a handcrafted, local designer-created Christmas pressie? Pick up something truly unique at this Christmas market run by the Australian Design Centre. Grab a cheeky Champagne and meet some of Australia's best young designers, browse their wares and feel good about your yuletide shopping spree. Featured designers include Wild Fibres, Bic Tieu Studio, Brenda Livermore, Bridget Kennedy Contemporary Jewellery and Object Artist, Doodad & Fandango, Eggpicnic, Erin Keys Jeweller, The Fortynine Studio, Helen Earl Ceramics, Jennifer Fahey, Jenny Newman, Linda Blair, 2 by lyn & tony, Melanie Ihnen Contemporary Jewellery, Melinda Young Contemporary Jewellery, modernmurri, VAN EWYK Studio, Ode Ceramics, PUBLICHOLIDAY, Nicole Robins Basketry, Shaun Hayes, Annie Hamilton, Sassy Park, Emil & Nomel, Studio Elke and more. It's a free event, but you'll need to RSVP. Image: Doodad & Fandango.
Australians looking to travel to New Zealand must consider the current COVID-19 advice. For information on quarantine-free travel between Australia and New Zealand, head over to the NZ Government's COVID-19 hub. When the colder months roll around, it's natural to reach for anything that screams warm and comfort — even when you're on holidays. The trans-Tasman bubble is finally open, so you might be planning a midyear jaunt to New Zealand; however, don't think you have to spend your time away staying cosy inside. There's a time and place for that, of course. But NZ's winter festivals will give you a stack of reasons to get out and enjoy the crisp air. From slopeside music festivals to month-long food celebrations and kaleidoscopic light shows, here are ten festival across New Zealand that you should drop into your winter getaway itinerary. [caption id="attachment_720775" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Audiology.[/caption] MARDI GRAS, OHAKUNE/QUEENSTOWN Mardi Gras is arguably New Zealand's biggest winter party — and this year its spreading the fun over two weekends in two different locations. On Saturday, June 19, Ohakune is the spot to catch a lineup of dance floor favourites. Promoters Audiology have teased six international acts ahead of this year's first lineup announcement, including UK-based electronic producer Dimension, drum and bass DJ Culture Shock, Australian singer-songwriter Nyxen and trap producer Quix. They'll be joined by a monster lineup of local talent. The event in Queenstown on Saturday, June 26 comes with snow-capped peaks and an intimate capacity of only 3000. [caption id="attachment_624534" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Serena Stevenson.[/caption] MATARIKI FESTIVAL, AUCKLAND While we have to wait until next year for the first-ever Matariki public holiday, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate the beginning of the Māori new year in 2021. Every year Auckland Council's Matariki Festival consistently delivers a series of delightful events. The exact details are yet to be announced for 2021, but you can expect everything from street food and live performances, right through to light festivals, stargazing, Māori art workshops and film screenings. Matariki is seen as a time to reflect on Māori identity, as well as an opportunity to look to the future. The 2021 festival runs from June 19 to July 11 right across Tāmaki Makaurau. [caption id="attachment_797316" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matt Wiseman.[/caption] SNOW MACHINE, QUEENSTOWN After making its debut in Japan last year, alpine music festival Snow Machine is hitting the slopes for four snow-filled days of music and adventure. Attendees at the New Zealand edition from September 8–11, 2021 will be treated to action-packed days on the slopes, aprés ski events on both Coronet Peak and The Remarkables and a lineup of international acts against the idyllic backdrop of Queenstown. A who's who of Australian electronic acts will warm up the frosty evenings, including headliners The Avalanches, Flight Facilities, Hayden James and The Presets. Tickets to Snow Machine 2021 are all-in-one, offering a variety of accomodation options and lift passes. VISA WELLINGTON ON A PLATE, WELLINGTON After being forced out of its usual slot in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Visa Wellington On a Plate is set to return for its 13th year from August 1–31, 2021. The huge event typically sees more than 100 flavour-packed events, special dining menus, burgers and craft cocktails take over the capital city. This year's edition will keep the three-tiered format — Dine Wellington, Burger Wellington and Cocktail Wellington — celebrating the immense depth of culinary talent within the region. Sibling events Road to Beervana and (August 6–15) and Beervana (August 13–14) are there, too, giving you plenty of reasons to drop by or hang around the capital. WINTER PRIDE, QUEENSTOWN Combining winter sports with community and inclusion, Winter Pride is all about locals and visitors embracing the cool weather and their diversity. The event is typically packed with dance parties, speed dating, skiing, boarding and all-round good times. There's a number of different packages to choose from between August 27 to September 5, including passes to all events and revolving door access. Stay tuned for the full lineup announcement. SNOWBOXX, QUEENSTOWN Typically held in the heart of the French Alps, Snowboxx is a multi-discipline winter festival that shines a spotlight on electronic music and snowsports. Previously expected to arrive in 2019 — and then 2020 — the event will finally slide Down Under this September for one week of international acts, slope-side parties and off-mountain experiences in the adventure capital. Landing between Treble Cone and Cardrona from September 7–14, Snowboxx will see Shapeshifter, Lee Mvtthews and Concord Dawn hit the stage. Attendees are also invited to enjoy on and off-mountain activities like bottomless disco brunches, igloo parties, sled races, comedy nights, snowball fights and aprés ski experiences throughout the week. [caption id="attachment_636636" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Simeon W.[/caption] LOEMIS FESTIVAL, WELLINGTON Lōemis Festival returns for its sixth year with a lineup of events celebrating the winter solstice from June 11–21, 2021. The winter solstice is marked by the shortest day and longest night of the year and has often been associated with regeneration, rebirth and self-reflection. Each year the festival aims to deliver an innovative program with a strong focus on the ritualistic, mystical and fantastical elements of the solstice. Previous ritualistic events have included spiritual dance theatre works, multi-course fish degustations and spooky storytelling cocktail evenings. It comes to an end with the burning of a massive art installation right on the harbour. LUMA SOUTHERN LIGHT PROJECT, QUEENSTOWN After pulling the plug in 2020, Queenstown's kaleidoscopic light festival will return for its fifth outing this Queen's Birthday weekend. Luma Southern Light Project brings together illuminated art, light sculpture, performance and community over four days from June 4–7, 2021. As the sun goes down over the long weekend, the Queenstown Gardens will be transformed into a creative outdoor stage of visual arts, performing arts, music, film and digital media. 500 local artists and contributors have contributed to this year's festival. As well as light installations dotted around Queenstown Gardens and shore of Lake Wakatipu, previous events have featured moving images projected right onto the lake, works created from recycled materials and roaming performers — from hypercolour fairies to acrobatic tree dancers. TAUPO WINTER FESTIVAL, TAUPO The sixth annual Taupō Winter Festival offers an action-packed program over two weeks in 2021. Running from July 9–25, you'll have the choice of hitting a lakeside ice rink, jumping in a giant inflatable snow globe with cold white stuff directly from neighbouring Mount Ruapehu, attending a mountain-themed film festival, catching live circus acts and downing free hot chocolates. What's more, most of the events are free to attend. [caption id="attachment_790171" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Vanessa Rushton.[/caption] WELLINGTON JAZZ FESTIVAL, WELLINGTON The capital's annual celebration of jazz music is set to return this June 9–13 with more than 100 free and ticketed gigs taking place over just five days. This year's lineup is bursting with fresh new music from around the country, including the likes of Opera House headliners Whirimako Black, The Nathan Haines Octet and Michael Houstoun with the Rodger Fox Big Band. Elsewhere, there'll be big bands, tribute gigs, world premieres and album launches. There really is something for everyone — as long as you can shake your jazz hands at it. Top image: Snow Machine, Zachary Zaza.
While days of daiquiris, afternoons of sunbathing and evenings of sizzling summery barbecues aren’t completely gone, there’s a slightly cooler breeze in the air. But there's plenty of autumnal goodness to look forward to with the changing of the seasons: several new bars have opened their doors just in time for falling leaves to clog up their front stoops and daylight savings to finish up and make things a little cosier around here. Autumn’s that unexpectedly indulgent season when neither crisp, frosty bevs or warm, hearty nosh are completely ruled out. From 17th-century Dutch-inspired pub fare in Darlinghurst to cigarette-inspired cocktails and homemade salmon jerky in Enmore, we've rounded up your go-tos this season. So break out your preppiest cardigan, don fingerless gloves without social judgement and get among autumn’s best new bars.
This beautiful piece by Aboriginal playwright Nathan Maynard — his first full-length play— will move you to both tears and laughter. Performed by an all-Indigenous cast, the play takes us into the lives of the Duncan family on Dog Island in the Bass Strait. Set during the six-week muttonbird harvest season, the play deftly explores the enduring themes of family and belonging. The Season will be performed seven times at the Sydney Opera House, taking place from January 10 to 15. This is a world premiere show at Sydney Festival 2017. Check out more world firsts coming to the festival over here.
Deck the halls and unpack the plastic tree — the festive season is well and truly upon us. And while that whole Christmas tradition stuff is nice, we're not going to deny what we're most excited about: a whole stocking-load of new films. Along with the cricket and stampeding through shopping centres, going to the movies is one of our favourite Boxing Day traditions. After all, what better place to recover from your post-Christmas food coma than in a nice, dark, air-conditioned cinema? Of course, not all of the end-of-year titles measure up. That's why we're reporting in with our annual Boxing Day Battle Royale, to ensure that you get maximum bang for your Kris Kringle gift voucher buck. Or you could just go see the new Star Wars movie for the third time. That's also a totally valid option. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rgO_TyyOoU CALL ME BY YOUR NAME We give it: 5 stars It's easy to fall in love with Call Me By Your Name on sight. Full of the kind of sumptuous visuals that director Luca Guadagnino (A Bigger Splash) is known for, the '80s-set effort proves a gorgeous piece of filmmaking from its opening frames. That said, it's the movie's sun-dappled dalliance that will really make you swoon, as Guadagnino follows the blossoming romance between 17-year-old Elio (Timothee Chalamet) and grad student Oliver (Armie Hammer) over the course of a sweltering Italian summer. A seductive and sensual queer romance, and a pitch-perfect account of yearning and desire — one that features an emotionally intricate turn from Chalamet in particular — Call Me By Your Name is the film that stories about first love will be judged against for many years to come. – Sarah Ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNCz4mQzfEI COCO We give it: 4 stars It's with vibrant detail that Coco bursts onto cinema screens. A tale of following your heart while honouring your family, Pixar's latest effort is both a colourful sight to behold and an exuberant journey; a film exploding with dazzling visual and emotional fireworks. Within frames heaving with intricacy, there's never a dull moment as the movie sashays from modern-day Mexico to the Land of the Dead during the country's Dîa de los Muertos celebrations. Often it's the little things that stand out, from the grain of the many flowers never far from view, to the weathered skeleton bones that literally dance through the streets, to the melancholy look on an old woman's face. – Sarah Ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QKg5SZ_35I JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE We give it: 3.5 stars Updating itself, quite literally, for more modern times, the new Jumanji sees the board game from the original film transform itself into a mid-90s video game cartridge. 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, who soon find themselves sucked in to the perilous jungle. But there's a twist: they're now in the bodies of the game character they chose. Each of the main cast members plays impressively against type: Dwyane Johnson as the allergy-afflicted nerd, Kevin Hart as the jock cut down to size, Karen Gillan as the introverted loner and – most amusingly – Jack Black as the vacuous popular girl. The laughs are frequent, coming mostly from the body-swap setup, but also from the tongue-in-cheek references to point and click video games. – Tom Glasson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fN46DCFr2Y0 JUST TO BE SURE We give it: 3 stars As a comedy, Just to Be Sure doesn't always hit the mark. As an insightful look at life, love and family, however, the French film proves both thoughtful and charming. In her third feature, writer-director Carine Tardieu explores the story of widower Erwan (François Damiens) and his pregnant 23-year-old daughter Juliette (Alice de Lencquesaing) — plus the man he has always called dad (Guy Marchand), the man who might be his biological father (André Wilms) and the attractive doctor (Cécile De France) that links them both. With great performances all round, the movie is at its best when it's getting to the heart of the various characters' emotional reactions, rather than trying to find laughs. – Sarah Ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_YnYrLfjxA BREATHE We give it: 2.5 stars Based on the exploits of polio sufferer Robin Cavendish, Breathe comes to the screen with the best of intentions. Indeed, Cavendish's son produced the film, showing just how personal this true tale is. Sadly, celebrating his father's fortitude and crafting a rousing movie aren't one and the same, despite the fact that many of the right tools are there. As Cavendish, Andrew Garfield (sporting his natural accent) flits between frustration and determination, while Claire Foy gives a moving performance as the dependable wife by his side. The production also boasts thoroughly handsome cinematography that captures its '50s, '60s and '70s setting. And yet the directorial debut of motion-capture actor Andy Serkis (The Lord of the Rings, War for the Planet of the Apes) ultimately proves heavy on sentiment but light on emotional impact. – Sarah Ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCrBICYM0yM DOWNSIZING We give it: 2.5 stars It's a great concept: to help save the planet, humanity gets shrunk down to size. But the unmistakably odd Downsizing isn't just an eco-friendly, statement-making update of Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, even if it comes with a few ace sight gags. While director Alexander Payne has long been fascinated with ordinary guys struggling with their lot in life — think Sideways, The Descendants and Nebraska — the theme doesn't quite work in this ambitious but messy sci-fi-esque comedy. The film isn't helped by Matt Damon rolling out his usual everyman routine, though other cast members fare better. Christoph Waltz is considerably more jovial than usual, and Hong Chau turns a thinly written, stereotypical character into something more memorable. – Sarah Ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXCTMGYUg9A THE GREATEST SHOWMAN We give it: 2 stars If Hugh Jackman's mega-watt smile and Zac Efron getting musical out of high school can't save The Greatest Showman, then nothing can. Turning the life of 19th-century American circus whiz P.T. Barnum into a family-friendly musical, the film prefers easy sentiment over anything more than the most obvious of themes and the simplest, flimsiest of narratives. The flat, uninvolving pop songs scattered throughout don't help or demonstrate any depth, and neither does their music video-like staging by first-time Australian director Michael Gracey. There might be warm intentions behind this broad, unsubtle underdog story about dreamers and outsiders, but they're lost in a movie that resorts to painting a critic as the villain — as if to pre-emptively scold anyone who isn't enamoured with its empty spectacle. – Sarah Ward
Normally the words 'YouTube sensation' trigger an instant shudder of revulsion as the abominable lovechild of Bieber and Nyan Cat twerks into your imagination, but that's where it also began for British trip-hop trio London Grammar who will be gracing our shores in March — after last July's cancellation. Ever since the release of 'Hey Now', which clocked up over a million views in just under a month, the indie darlings have gone from strength to strength. With a platinum debut album If You Wait, three songs in this 2014's triple j Hottest 100 (including a top ten spot for 'Strong') and rave-reviewed appearances at festivals worldwide under their collective belts, the trio are set to continue their love affair with the Australian public when they hit up the Festival Hall on March 14. Fronted by the preternaturally talented Hannah Reid, whose vocal range has seen her compared to the likes of Florence Welch and Adele, London Grammar had to cancel their tour last year after Reid was struck down with pneumonia. This national tour has been long-awaited by Australian fans, many of whom were lucky enough to catch their memorable set at Splendour in the Grass just a few short years ago. London Grammar will play two rescheduled Sydney shows — Monday, March 9 at Enmore Theatre and Thursday, March 12 at Hordern Pavilion. Both shows are sold out. Supported by Until the Ribbon Breaks + Wet. https://youtube.com/watch?v=nMEHJPuggHQ
Ever wanted to try your hand at those insane Gelato Messina laboratory cakes but haven't really know where the hell to start? Want to make your own Messina cake right at home, to create your own personal cake filled with the creamy goo of the gods? Well, gird thy loins Messina fans, your favourite iced confection wizards have just released a gelato cake cookbook. Founder Nick Palumbo and head chef Donato Toce have knocked up a sexy little creation named Gelato Messina: The Creative Department which features recipes for a collection of their gelato cakes. Messina have built a reputation for their cakes, not only because they’re crammed full of that quality gelato we know and love, but also because they look incredible and a little unreal. The Dr Evil’s Magic Mushroom cake, Hazelnut Zucotto or the Black Forest are our picks for the ‘Cakes most like to make us cry with delight and not share with anyone’ category. And yes, we know ours will probably end up looking like an inside-out duck when it’s done but heck, we’ve simply got to try it. If you’re looking for the recipe for the standard gelato, you can also check out the 2014 cookbook Gelato Messina: The Recipes which details instructions on how to make those beloved foundation flavours, such as dulce de leche, pear and rhubarb, poached figs in marsala and salted caramel and white chocolate. For your own personal information, we’ll add some advice on how to best consume the resultant gelato: tape a serving spoon to each hand and don’t stop them whirring until you’ve hoovered up all the gelato in range. Grab your copy of Gelato Messina: The Creative Department from today, at all bookstores who know what's what or from the Book Depository.
Chinese New Year is coming up on February 8 and in 2016 we’ll be ringing in the year of the monkey (goodbye year of the sheep, go sleep it off). And what’s the best way to partake of the celebration? We’ve got it right here and it’s more fun than a barrelful of monkeys. Well, actually it is a barrelful of monkeys. Dumpling masters Din Tai Fung are offering new limited edition ‘Monkey Buns’ for the month of February and they are literally the cutest food we’ve ever seen. Just look at them. Din Tai Fung are famous for their dumplings and are known to release beautiful and novelty dumplings for special occasions (check out these adorable little lamb buns from last year). The monkey bao buns are steamed-to-order and stuffed with a sweet filling of chocolate and banana. They’re part of a series of new dishes being added to the menu from February 1 including crispy golden seafood roll, braised Szechuan sliced beef noodle and vegetarian egg fried rice with mushroom and truffle oil. Unfortunately the monkey buns are only available in the Din Tai Fung restaurants in Sydney and Melbourne (not the food court outlets) so you’ll have to make an proper sit-down event of it. The only problem we can foresee is that eating those sweet little monkey faces may be hard… but we’ll probably manage it. Monkey Buns are available for $4.80 per piece from Din Tai Fung restaurants from February 1 – February 29.
It's beginning to look a lot like summer — or, as we may as well call it in Sydney, outdoor movie-watching season. One of Sydney's favourite (and most dramatically panoramic) outdoor movie events, St George Openair Cinema, has just revealed its full 21st season. If you like watching homegrown films under the stars, get excited. Already announced, the 2017 program will kick off with a preview of Lion, starring Dev Patel, Nicole Kidman, Rooney Mara, David Wenham and eight-year-old newcomer Sunny Pawar. Based on a true story you might've seen splashed across the local media over the past few years, it tells the tale of Saroo Brierley. He became separated from his older brother at the age of five, first ended up nearly 1,500 kilometres away from home, and then forged a new life in Australia — before taking to Google Earth more than two decades later in an attempt to find his long-lost family. This year's a 39-night season, running between January 7 and February 17, and featuring 20 premieres and preview screenings and a selection of 2017 Oscar contenders including Jackie, Manchester by the Sea, Loving, Gold, Hidden Figures and the long-awaited sequel T2 Trainspotting. This summer's anticipated new releases are on the bill too, including La La Land, Why Him?, A United Kingdom and Passengers, as well as 2016 highlights like Nocturnal Animals, Arrival, The Founder, Allied, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Plus, on Australia Day, you can catch a preview of David Stratton's Stories of Australian Cinema. More than 1500 patrons per evening are expected to flock to Mrs Macquaries Point adjacent to Royal Botanic Gardens, so get your tickets locked down. St George Openair Cinema 2017 runs January 7 to February 17. Tickets are on sale at 9am on Monday, December 12, 2016. Visit the website for updates, or follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
The four-time number one on the World's Best Restaurants list is headed to Sydney Harbour. Rene Redzepi, owner and head chef at Copenhagen's two Michelin starred eatery Noma, will fly his entire team (including 35 chefs and 30 waitstaff) more than 16,000km around the world for an Australian pop-up from January 26 to April 2 — and now we know how to grab one of the highly prized seats in the room. Bookings for all tables will open simultaneously, on Friday, October 30, at 10am AEDT online at the Noma website. You can book for tables of two, four, six or eight, for either lunch or dinner five days a week (Tuesday – Saturday). Start saving your pennies now — the cost per person is $485, plus 1.65% CC fee, with drinks to be paid for separately on the day. Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage pairings will be offered, as well as a short wine list. The menu itself is yet to be finalised, although earlier in the year Redzepi said he'll be leaving his regular ingredients back in Copenhagen, and told Good Food to expect locally inspired dishes made with shellfish, sea succulents and native herbs and spices. The team have already made several research trips to Australia to stoke their creative fires. "They’ve visited as many regions as possible, getting a good perspective on the great and diverse produce that is available in Australia," reads a statement from Noma. "Later on, in December, the entire creative team will move to Sydney to focus their energy on creating a menu that will showcase the best of what we’ve found on these trips." The Noma Australia project was inspired by their five week pop-up in Tokyo earlier this year, which Redzepi called "the greatest learning experience of my life." "Australia has always drawn me in; its great cities, its generous people, and of course its ever-present sun," wrote Redzepi in his online statement. "But what really boggles my mind is the differences you find in its landscapes and ingredients, because honestly I have never seen anything like it." Supported by Tourism Australia and property firm Lendlease, Noma Australia will be located on the ground floor of the Anadara building on Wulugul Walk in Barangaroo. The restaurant will serve just 50 people per sitting. Don't expect the cost to deter people. Bookings at the similarly expensive Tokyo pop-up sold out in just hours, with the restaurant eventually racking up a waiting list of over 60,000 people. Demand might shoot up even more vertiginously given that Redzepi has announced Noma in its current incarnation will close altogether at the end of 2016. By Tom Clift with Rima Sabina Aouf.
The Hills' Wolfe & Co. took the sleepy semi-rural suburb of Dural by storm when it opened on Old Northern Road last year. Locals quickly got all over the daytime cafe — probably because they'd normally have to drive 30 minutes to find something similar — but they soon they started requesting a place to spend their nights. So earlier this year owners Che Vogel and Caroline Neill Ryan doubled down and bought another space across the road. And with the same swish attitude to food and design, they've opened the doors to their newest outfit: Cod's Gift. The restaurant specialises in seafood, with a focus on sustainable produce from the Hawkesbury River region, after the pair found that there were no seafood restaurants in The Hills. With contrasted, Nordic-style furniture in turquoise, granite, brass and steel blue — all designed by Neill Ryan — it's a huge difference from the drab strip mall in which the restaurant is located. The duo were aiming to create a beautiful-yet-casual space for all. Luxe, but approachable. David Koorey is executive chef for both Dural kitchens. His background is mainly UK restaurants and this influence can be seen in some of the menu's Japanese-fusion dishes. All are visually appealing, with sprinklings of microherbs and edible flowers (all greens are from a small, local grower within walking distance of the restaurant). There are three kinds of oysters (the Hawkesbury River's famous export) and fish dishes push the boundaries of normal ingredient combinations. The John Dory comes with carrots, cumin, smoked peas and liquorice, and then there's the snapper with sage crumb, preserved lemon butter, lilliput capers and shaved fennel. For vegetarians, the eggplant dish with chard, burrata, torn pasta, sugo and olive dust proves vegetarians are not an afterthought. Pair this with a cocktail or a wine from France, Italy or, much closer to home, the Hunter Valley. Cod's Gift is now open at shop 4–6, 3 Ward Place, Dural. For more info, visit codsgift.com.au.
A trip to IKEA doesn't just involve wandering the aisles, looking at cheap furniture and homewares, and deciding that everything in your house could use a facelift. Because all that browsing and buying helps work up an appetite, it also includes a date with the chain's famed meatballs. And, since 2015, that's meant vegetarian meatballs as well — but now the Swedish retailer is introducing another plant-based version of its beloved dish. The new veggie balls will be rolled out (heh) in Australian IKEA store restaurants, excluding Victorian stores, from October 6. Obviously, the original meaty meaty meatballs are going anywhere; however these meatless meatballs, or HUVUDROLL plant balls as they're being called, will be made from a plant-based meat substitute comprised of yellow pea protein, oats, potatoes, onion and apple — and they'll both look and taste like meat. Accordingly, if you don't consume animal products but you've always wanted to know why carnivores are so obsessed with IKEA's meatballs — in-store, whipping up frozen versions at home and following the chain's recipe — you'll now be able to tuck into a vegan variety that's as close as possible to the meat-filled version. They'll cost the same price as their counterparts, and they'll also come in frozen packs, too, ready for you to take home. For vegans, it's worth noting that the plant balls don't contain animal-based ingredients — but they are served with mashed potato and lingonberry jam, so if you're tucking in in-store, the entire dish will include dairy products. Still, this is stellar news for IKEA-lovin' veggos — and everyone eager for more sustainable eating options. As for when Victorians will be able to pop a few plant balls on their fork, IKEA will provide more information in the future. IKEA's plant balls will hit Australia on October 6, at all stores except IKEA Richmond and Springvale.
Not your regular one-location art fair, Sydney Contemporary is adding a little more juice to this year's program. Running from September 7-10, the festival-like fair takes over Carriageworks with some of the best contemporary art on the market, plus, there's a series of thoughtful and introspective events across the city for art lovers of all ages. Highlights include Objects of Desire (an talk between Andrew Frost and fashion designer Akira Isogawa), Post Porn-Art, Feminism and Sex in the Age of the Internet (a debate between Leah Emery and Charles Waterstreet), and a screen of the Brett Whiteley doco Whiteley, followed by an 'in conversation' with Wendy Whiteley and Alec George. However, we're particularly excited by the Old Clare Hotel takeover. Artists from Birmingham Street Studios will be filling the place up with ceramics, paintings, installation and video works — think Abdul Abdullah, Clara Adolphs, Tarik Ahlip, Liam Ambrose, Seth Birchall, Georgia Boe, Bonita Bub, Sarah Contos, Lucas Davidson, Charles Dennington, Eric Davidson Gluyas, Adrian Hobbs, Alan Jones, Lara Merrett, John Nicholson, Jonny Niesche, Adam Norton, Jason Phu, Gemma Smith, Jack Stahel, Alexandra Standen and Grant Stevens. The Old Clare will also host Night Cap, a free series of late night events with prominent artists. On September 6, provocative ceramicist and installation artist Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran is throwing a big karaoke bash, featuring birthday cake. The VVVVVVVVVIP Party for Everyone on September 8 also sounds like crazy fun. The description is a little vague but features Hahan on the decks, gold glitter aplenty, cocktails and a secret password to get in (register for some VIP treatment here). Sydney Contemporary 2017 runs from September 7–10 at Carriageworks. Image: Rosie Deacon, Sydney Contemporary 2015.
Sitting down for our interview with director Eva Orner, it's hard not to think about the grimly fortuitous timing. Less than 24 hours earlier, a young Somali refugee set herself ablaze on Nauru. It's the second case of self-immolation at the centre in less than a week, following the suicide of Omid Masoumali just a few days before. "I think we all need to stand up and say enough is enough," says Orner. "I just read this thing where Malcolm Turnbull said, 'Let's not get misty-eyed about offshore detention.' People are lighting themselves on fire. Children are being sexually abused. People have died." Orner is no stranger to these kinds of human rights abuses. A first generation Australian whose parents fled the Holocaust, she won an Oscar in 2008 for producing Taxi to the Dark Side, Alex Gibney's harrowing documentary about CIA torture. To say that her latest directorial effort, about Australia's hardline immigration policy, is even more confronting, speaks to just how indefensible that policy has become. Combining whistleblower interviews with shocking secret camera footage captured inside Manus Island and Nauru, Chasing Asylum reveals in no uncertain terms the consequences of offshore detention. We spoke with Orner about what motivated her to pick up the camera, and whether she believes films like this can truly make a difference. A CAMPAIGN OF PANIC AND FEAR Perhaps the hardest thing to stomach, when it comes to mandatory detention, is the fact that so many Australians seem willing to accept it — something that Orner attributes to "a campaign of panic and fear and misinformation that's been going for 15 years." "I don't think that people really know what's happening, because of this policy of secrecy that's been in operation since 2001," she says. "That's why I made the film, because I wanted to show people. Vision is so much more powerful than print. There's been some excellent journalism on this, but until you really see women and children in those conditions, it's not quite the same." "I find it particularly extraordinary today when people are self-immolating, and the government doesn't really respond with any sympathy," Orner continues. "The key to me is that we have to keep coming back to the Refugee Convention. Because it came out of the Holocaust, and it was the world's apology to the Jewish people to what happened to them... We really have to look at this policy in terms of what it says about us as a democratic country." WHAT THE GOVERNMENT DOESN'T WANT YOU TO SEE The most remarkable thing about Chasing Asylum is Orner's hidden camera footage, which lays bare just how bad the conditions on Nauru and Manus Island really are. Naturally, she's unable to reveal exactly how she acquired the footage, other than to say it was "not easy to get." "If I'd known then what I know now I probably wouldn't have done it," she admits. "I think I was a bit wide-eyed going in. I always said that I was waiting for someone else to make this film, and no one did so I thought I'd better do it. But no wonder no one was making it. It's about places you can't go, people you can't speak to, and if whistleblowers do speak to you then you have to hide their identity. Then the whistleblowing legislation came out in July last year, which says that if you speak out it's a criminal act and you can go to jail." "What's important is that no cameras are allowed in, and why," says Orner. "I think the film answers that question, because it's really grim... I don't think it's a particularly emotional film, in terms of my voice. It's really just the facts and the vision of what's been happening. But what I'm seeing now as we're starting to screen it is that people cry when they see this film. It's very upsetting... I find it very hard to watch the film." CAN A MOVIE ACTUALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE? "You have to believe that good will triumph," says Orner when asked if she thinks things will ever change. "You have to believe that good will triumph, you have to believe you can change things. You have to do something, because the alternative to that is doing nothing. You just have to stand up and scream and scream and scream." "One of the things we're doing is working with an organisation to get [the film] into the school curriculum, because that's where the power is. Getting the next generation to see the film. If we get this into schools, if we get tonnes of people to see it, if it gets seen on televisions around the world, then that can make a difference." "It's really about trying to educate people. That's what I'm saying. Come see the film, see what we're doing, and then make a decision. And I'm saying the same thing to politicians, because only a handful of politicians have been to Manus or Nauru. They're spending all of our taxpayer dollars on this, they should know what it looks like. Then maybe at night when they're sitting with their families, they can reassess how they really feel." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocgNZRIEyyY Chasing Asylum is in cinemas nationally from May 26. Eva Orner's book, Chasing Asylum: A Filmmaker's Story, is available in bookstores and online. For more information visit www.chasingasylum.com.au.
Back in March, Neil Perry posted an image on Instagram announcing that his Italian fine diner Rosetta was coming to Sydney. The much-loved Melbourne original has been teasing Sydneysiders for years, offering up Italian cooking from both the country's northern and southern regions. And now, we finally have our own version of this high-class Italian affair with the opening of the restaurant's second location at Grosvenor Place in the CBD. The restaurant boasts three levels on which to eat yourself into an Italian food coma, the most sought-after of which is the ground floor outdoor terrace. While that area is open for all-day dining and snacking with harbour views, the inside dining room — which has been fitted out in an Amalfi Coast colour palette of green and blue — is serving up the full affair for lunch (12–3pm) and dinner (from 6pm) seven days a week. Up one level sits a bar, and up again is a mezzanine dining space with room for 50 people. The menu is much more seafood-led than its Melbourne counterpart, with dishes like the spaghetti alla chitarra with prawns and pistachio, yellowfin tuna with salsa verde and fish soup. The mozzarella bar looks after all your cheese needs, and pizza is of course on the cards too. The bar stocks over 30 gins, makes five types of Negronis, heralds bellinis and specialises in Italian wine. Word of the restaurant's migration to Sydney was first heard back in November when Urban Purveyor Group acquired the Rockpool Group to form the Rockpool Dining Group. Their combined portfolio of eateries became 47 venues overnight, and they expect their portfolio to grow to more than 80 venues in 2017 alone. They've recently launched two take away spinoffs, Fratelli Famous and Saké Jr, and plan to open 100 of each (yes, of each) over the next five years. Rosetta will be in good company, with Perry's recently relaunched Jade Temple just down the block. Find Rosetta at Grosvenor Place, 225 George Street, Sydney. For more information, visit rosettarestaurant.com.au. By Marissa Ciampi and Lauren Vadnjal. Images: Katje Ford and Jason Loucas.
This not-so-secret garden is, without a doubt, one of Sydney's most beautiful green spaces. Created by Wendy Whiteley, the widow of acclaimed Australian artist Brett Whiteley, the garden is a gorgeous testament to heartbreak and renewal. Channeling her grief into an artistic project, Wendy slowly transformed the abandoned railway dump in front of her home into what is now a public garden. With winding paths, benches, sculptures, and sweeping views over the harbour, this little slice of paradise offers a welcome respite from the chaos of the city. The garden's many quiet corners also make it the perfect place for a quiet picnic, or a little alone time. Image: Martin7d2 via Flickr.
Proving that causing the internet to lose its mind by delivering adorable puppies to offices around Australia is simply not enough for them, Uber has moved yet another step closer to total world domination. The ridesharing service will launch UberEATS in Melbourne today, Tuesday, April 19 at 11am. Because who needs multiple apps when you can use one for just about everything? Melbourne is the first city in Australia to be bestowed the food delivery platform, and only the third in the world. It basically allows restaurants to get their food delivered to customers between 11am and 10pm by a wide access of ever-available drivers — much like (and in direct competition to) other food delivery apps like Foodora/Suppertime, Deliveroo and Menulog. The list of Melbourne restaurants exceeds 80, including the likes of Supernormal, Gazi, Pidapipo and Jimmy Grants. Oh, and delivery will be free for the launch. So you only have to pay the cost of your Jimmy Grants feta-covered oregano chips, and not a cent more. UberEATS launched in select US cities last year, allowing users to order lunch or dinner from an ever-shifting menu that includes options from a number of different restaurants. UberX is still technically illegal in Victoria, although that hasn't stopped the service's meteoric success. Assuming UberEATS proves a hit in Melbourne, it's safe to assume it may expand to further cities in the future. You can download the UberEATS app here from 11am. For all the details, visit ubereats.com/melbourne. Updated: April 19, 2016.
October means Sydney Good Food Month, probably the world's largest food festival. Seriously. The event program is a whopping 40 pages. Every year we look forward to a month chock-full of food parties, festivals, markets and awesome dining experiences. In the battle of the best food cities in the world, Good Food Month is a loud reminder that Sydney can definitely bring it. Save up your money, dig out your most stretchy pair of feasting pants and get stuck into at least these ten superlative events.
The MCA's newest exhibition, Telling Tales, explores what happens when a host of international and Australian artists lock themselves in a room with narrative structure and a hammer. Spoiler: the result is not Game of Thrones. Described by curator Rachel Kent as "an unpicking of conventional storytelling approaches", the works range from paint and sculpture to shadow puppetry and projection and invite visitors to engage with 'unspoken narratives' that have given beginning, middle and ending the flick. Lee Mingwei's Sonic Blossom shrinks public operatic performance to an individual serenade, Jittish Kallat's Covering Letter forcefully implicates the viewer in the distortion of history, while Kerry Tribe's There Will Be _______ re-examines the death of oil heir Ned Doheny through various Hollywood retellings. If these aren't enough, works by Safdar Ahmed, Jumaadi and Phyllis Thomas add further weight to the argument that you should go straight home and throw both volumes of Les Miserables off a roof. Well, maybe not. But you get it. Admission is free. Free guided tours run every day from 11am.
Bingo. Rave. Two ends of the spectrum of fine holiday fun and finally — finally — together as one. Bongo's Bingo is a games night like you've never seen before. Part club, part rave, and, of course, part bingo night, this unlikely fusion event has been wildly popular in the UK since 2015. Now, they're taking the show on the road and launching in Australia this June. In partnership with Wats On Events, Bongo's Bingo Down Under is throwing a massive bingo rave in Sydney's Paddington Town Hall on June 23, then launching a national tour the following week on June 29 in Melbourne's Collingwood Town Hall. Patrons can expect all of the debauchery of the original British version of Bongo's Bingo, including rave intervals, dancing on tables and a loose kind of bingo that you definitely never played with your nan (well, maybe you have). The victorious players can win everything from big cash prizes to a Hills Hoist, with a range of some absolutely ridiculous surprises on offer. If you're not sure what you're in for, check out this video for a better sense of this crazy night out: The Sydney launch event will be presided over by founder and comic ringleader Jonny Bongo who, as one would expect, is a character in the truest sense of the word and even holds the world record for the biggest ever pub quiz. Australia is the second international location for Bongo's Bingo, which recently launched in Dubai as well and, based on popularity, we imagine the event will continue to expand around the globe. This blowout party will certainly be a different kind of night out and is especially welcomed in Sydney where the lockout law ridden nightlife has taken such a hit in recent years. Venues, guest lineup and DJ hosts will be announced in coming weeks, and tickets will go on sale at 6pm on Wednesday, May 17. Keep an eye on this space for further updates and brush up on those bingo-break down skills in the meantime. Bongo's Bingo will hit Melbourne and Sydney in June. For more information and to buy tickets, visit bongosbingodownunder.com.au. Updated: Monday, May 15, 2017.
For most Australians, buying a kebab is like brushing your teeth. Everyone does it, most people have their own techniques or preferences but no one ever seems to talk about it — it’s just something that you do. But as commonplace as the mighty kebab is in this country, it’s odd that such a visible and popular part of our food culture has largely gone untold. Ufuk Bozoglu and his family have been making kebabs for more than 20 years. He started when he was seven in his mum and dad’s kebab shop in Westmead. Now he runs Oz Turk Jr, the offspring and namesake of the now defunct CBD kebabery which recently hosted SBS’s Kebab Kings documentary. As far as the kebab industry goes Bozoglu’s seen everything. “You have a lot of memories. I'm lucky a lot of my customers are regulars. Even the students after they finish, they come and visit me.” Bozoglu says most of his regular customers have his phone number. “Yesterday I had to go do something for SBS and I got all these calls, 'Why aren't you at work? Where are you? We came down, where are you? Are you coming tomorrow? We'll come this time, be there.'” It hasn’t all been happy memories though. He tells us about the death of one of the homeless men his family looked after, and another time where he chased a group of people down the street with kebab knives after they had king-hit an elderly man on the street. “I went and got the kebab knife, they were just there laughing. I said fucking wait for me I'm going to kill yous all. Mate, they started running,” he says with a chuckle. “The cops came and got me instead. ‘What are you doing with the kebab knife?’ ‘Oh I was cutting kebabs I forgot it in my hand’.” Then there’s New Year’s Eve, Mardi Gras and St Patrick’s Day. “There were times me and mum worked 24 hours. It’s quiet then it hits one and you're smashed till nine. You can't breathe, you can't think, you’re sweating. We used to go through 60kg of just chicken in a couple of hours.” He has no regrets though. “People go, ‘Oh it's drunk food for when it's 3am’. I don't find it that way. Every kebab and every store is a little bit different,” he says. “I love the kebab industry. Hopefully I can stay as long as I can.” BOZOGLU’S PERFECT KEBAB: Bozoglu says the most important thing is freshness. The meat has to come in every morning, the hommus, garlic and chili sauces need to be homemade each day and nothing can be reheated, frozen or reused. The meat itself can’t be overcooked he says, to keep it tender and juicy “You have to be always be on it, cutting it, always cooking. It will take you three to four hours to cook a whole beef kebab.” Style-wise he likes to mix it up a bit but his all-time favourite is lamb. “I like lamb kebabs with lettuce, tomato, onion, chili and garlic sauce. I think you can't beat that.” Hommus he says is for falafel, lamb should be eaten the classic way. Bozoglu makes and toasts his own bread to order but he says toasting isn’t essential. Visit Oz Turks Jr at 245 Abercrombie Street, Redfern. Kebab Kings airs over three weeks, beginning Wednesday 25 November, 8.30pm on SBS.
