Rapid Prototype 2 plans to bring to new art space 107 Projects some of three-dimensional printing's make-sure-things-get-made-right attitude of print out, check out and recycle. The night is part of Legs on the Wall's Open Source program, with this tilt letting artists try out their new ideas in rough draft form on a looming public. The follow-up to August's inaugural Rapid Prototype night, held at Alaska Projects, has a special focus on experiments in sound and will feature spoken word artist and composer Tom Hogan, the commanding headphones of Roslyn Helper, evolving compositions from ClulowForester, musical poetry by Marcus Whale and Pip Smith, cityscape sound quests by Erica and Tom Brennan's, live audiovisuals from Circle Path, and the blindfolded concert experience Noise Exposure. Image: Toby K, Helmet Project, Rapid Prototype 1, Aug 2012. Photo by James Brown.
Five years after Sydney's lockout laws were introduced by Liberal Premier Barry O'Farrell, it could be a Liberal Government that finally winds them back. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has this morning announced a review of the city's night-time economy — which will include the lockout laws. The ten-member cross-party committee — made up of politicians from both the upper and lower house, the NSW Government and cross-benchers — will consult with police, health, entertainment and live music stakeholders to decide if, and what, changes need to be made. It will consider factors such as community safety and possible ways to enhance the night-time economy, with Ms Berejiklian saying in a statement that the government is hoping to "strike a balance between limiting alcohol-related violence and maintaining a vibrant night-time economy". While Ms Berejiklian says the lockout laws have done a lot of good since their introduction in 2014 — saying, "the number of non-domestic violent assaults have declined in the Sydney CBD Entertainment and Kings Cross precincts" — there is evidence that they've done a lot of damage, too. [caption id="attachment_652980" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kings Cross. Andy Vermeulen / Destination NSW.[/caption] A reported 176 venues have closed since the laws were introduced and, according to a report by Deloitte Access Economics, they have contributed to NSW missing out on $16 billion in potential profits, caused by an underdeveloped night-time economy. This won't be the first review of Sydney's nightlife, either. A year-long parliamentary inquiry into the state of the Sydney's music and nightlife economy also found that the industry was in "peril" due to the NSW Government's history of neglect, and lack of funding. The government, in response to this inquiry, did not repeal or relax the lockouts — so it's possible they won't again. The 2016 Callinan report into liquor licensing only suggested the lockout time be extended by half an hour. There are also some community groups that continue to stand by the lockout laws. The NSW/ACT Alcohol Policy Alliance, which is made up of 48 groups, including frontline emergency services, law enforcement and health services have said that the lockout laws have been "life-saving" and have led to a "sharp drop in alcohol-related violence". But, this time round, it is looking slightly more promising — with Ms Berejiklian recently giving the go-ahead to relaxing a heap of licences. More than 20 venues have been granted half-an-hour live entertainment extensions, and Oxford Street, and the surrounding area, has gone lockout-free for Mardi Gras the past two years. Earlier this year, Chippendale favourite Freda's and Petersham's Oxford Tavern both had licences extended, too — although neither of them are located within lockout zones. Either way, we'll have to wait a few months until we find out review's recommendations — and the NSW Government's response to them — with the committee set to report back by the end of September, 2019. After that, any changes to lockout legislation will be need to be passed through parliament. Although, if the Coalition is bringing the motion to relax the lockout laws, it's likely it will be — especially as the Shooters, Farmers and Fishers Party has already expressed its support for scrapping them. You can check out the major parties' views on live music and the lockouts in our pre-state election wrap-up. Image: Frankie's by Katje Ford.
Not only does this interactive forum have one of the more provocative names you are likely to encounter, but it also has one of the more ambitious mandates: open and honest discussion about racism in Australia. For an issue that is too often shrouded in political correctness and empty rhetoric, this joint initiative by Sydney Ideas and the NSW Reconciliation Council panel is hoping to cut through the usual BS in order to get to the heart of Australia's race issues. I'm Not Racist But... will feature the personal reflections of four diverse Australians who have a serious stake in this issue: MC, producer and hip hop artist Joelistics; writer and eco-fashionista Yatu Widders Hunt; writer and editor of Going Down Swinging Geoff Lemon; and solicitor, activist and radio host Tasnium Saeid. Each speaker will get an open mic for 10 minutes, followed by a panel discussion and audience Q&A session, all under the direction of the ever-watchable Alex Dyson (of Triple J's Tom and Alex). With a performance by the beguiling Indigenous artist Radical Son, I'm Not Racist but... looks set to be an entertaining and insightful tour into the issues that make up the very fabric of everyday Australian life.
Illuminating an unjustly overlooked period of Aboriginal activism, Hereby Make Protest at Carriageworks is an exhibition comprising of historical documentation and new work by Indigenous artists Jacob Nash, Karla Dickens and Nicole Foreshew. Prior to the Freedom Ride and the Gurindji Strike, the Aborigines Progressive Association formed in 1924 and is credited with instigating the rise of a civil rights movement in Australia. Paving the way for future revolutionaries, Jack Patten, Fred Maynard, William Cooper and William Ferguson joined forces to protest the lack of basic human rights available to Aboriginal Australians. Various newspaper clippings, letters and meeting minutes draw a long history of protest and struggle. These salvaged documents convey the steady building of a national voice. Bringing this archival material to life, Nash, Dickens and Foreshew have produced large-scale artworks that seem to absorb these documents, seeping under their protective glass to infuse them with a renewed relevance. Blending together Indigenous and colonial objects, Dickens' mixed-media sculptures evoke hierarchy and power struggle. Hanging from heavy hooks, Assimilated Warriors features suit jackets sprouting emu feathers and a number of rusted dog muzzles. With the brutish materials and menacing silhouettes, the work seems to mimic an execution. In this way, Aboriginal cultural identity has been held hostage and denied a voice. Another eye-catching work is Demanding a Voice Is Tiresome, a quilt made of vintage fabrics and stamped with the logos of protest groups. Printed with trees and flowers, these scenes of domestic ease and ignorance are refused by a repeated symbol of defiance. Dickens has disallowed complacency — responsibility is in the home of every Australian. The quiet rhythm of Nicole Foreshew’s single channel videos permeates the space. Has Come from Somewhere depicts a lone figure moving back and forth, accompanied by a hymn by Harold Blair. His balletic gestures are mesmerising as smoke rolls in like fog and slowly dissipates. Like a faded memory, he raises his arms as if conducting an imaginary choir before retreating into darkness. The man's elusiveness is enhanced by the rough texture of the recording. As he smooths his tie, straightens his suspenders and tips his hat, Foreshew compels us to pay attention to every minute movement. A sea of shoes takes up a large amount of floor space; Nash has painted almost 700 pairs with white ochre. It is a protest movement evacuated of human protesters; however, there is an atmosphere of solidarity and collective responsibility. The positioning of the shoes suggests naturalistic postures, evoking the dynamism and spontaneity of a real protest. What also humanises the work is the way it interacts with other works. For example, faced towards Foreshew’s video, it appears as if the absent wearers are standing in quiet reverence, watching and listening. There's a lot crammed into this space. Nevertheless, Hereby Make Protest is just as much a historical reflection as it is a contemporary call for action. By prying open the pages of history, these artists continue to question, reinterpret and, importantly, put forth what is yet to be done.
On Sunday, January 20, women all over the world will come together for the third annual #WomensWave, a global march that aims to draw attention to, and protest, violence against women. According to Destroy the Joint, an Australian group that researches and records the number of women killed by violence, 69 women died due to violence in Australia in 2018. The Women's March is calling on the Australian government to address gender-based violence and to continue working towards equality for women. In Sydney, participants will gather at 11:30am at Hyde Park, before walking to Belmore Park, near Central Station, where the solidarity will continue at the Women's March Fair. Other marches will take in France, Zimbabwe, New Zealand and across the USA (among others). MCing the action will be Yumi Stynes, host of SBS documentary Is Australia Sexist? and ABC Radio podcast Ladies, We Need to Talk. She'll be introducing a bunch of speakers, including Bri Lee, author of Eggshell Skull; Bhenji Ra, indigenous queer artist and activist; Jane Brock of Immigrant Women's Speakout and 1 Billion Rising; and Aunty Norma, a Wiradjuri woman and activist. At Belmore Park, you'll find an array, food trucks and stalls representing not-for-profits, including NSW Women's Alliance, Amnesty International, Mums4Refugees, Grandmothers Against Detention of Refugee Children, fEMPOWER, and Lou's Place. There will also be live performances by Australian-Tanzanian indie artist Malaika Green and all-female Sydney four-piece Body Type. The inaugural Women's Wave, held in 2017, saw an estimated 10,000 people march through the Sydney CBD and five million partake globally, making it the largest mass political protest in history to date. If you can't make it, Women's March is also calling for donations to help run future events. Images: Simone Cheung.
After a lengthy period of living in London, Shaun Gladwell has returned home to Australia. As one of our most eminent video artists, he has a long list of accolades. Some of his career highlights include representing Australia at the 53rd Venice Biennale and serving in Afghanistan as the official war artist in 2009. Spread across two venues, this exhibition is a mid-career survey of his work to date. Curated by Dr Barbara Polla and Prof. Paul Ardenne, the collection at UNSW Galleries is selected from various public and private collections. Over at Sherman Contemporary Art Foundation is The Lacrima Chair, a newly commissioned project built around the pioneering Australian aviator Nancy Bird Walton. There is no way of entering this exhibition without walking through a curtain of mist. In the centre of the gallery, an aircraft chair is doused in a constant stream of water. He conveys an anecdote about his grandfather struggling to watch an outdoor film in the rain and describes the attempt to emulate this blurred visibility. “I have a fascination with people being inside images,” says Gladwell. If you should choose to sit in the chair and be showered, the accompanying video work revolves around a fictional episode where Walton is slowly bobbing up and down in the ocean, presumably post-plane crash. If she is on the brink of drowning, she doesn't show it. Gladwell depicts her as remarkably composed — the same kind of serenity that characterises his other video work. There is also a connection to Francis Bacon’s Pope Head series. But in Gladwell’s work, the pope’s habit is replaced by a poncho and he interprets the vertical lines in the paintings as strokes of rain. “It’s a bit like screaming after a lot of long-haul air travel in economy,” he says. The use of water as a medium is also present at UNSW Galleries. And there are many different types of water — from shining puddles to foaming waves. There is a contemporary reworking of romanticism that drives his practice. He blends urban and natural environments, representing them through his affinities with flight and extreme sports. For instance, a more recent work contains echoes of Gladwell’s Storm Sequence (2000). A BMX rider loops around a concrete platform, backgrounded by an English beach and swooping seagulls. The slow motion accentuates the elegance and rhythm of his movements — it is oddly calming. Reflecting on the trajectory of Gladwell’s art, it seems he is drawn towards notions of time and flow. Some works feel a little sparse and difficult to grasp, as if the themes have been separated out. In any case, the collection is the most comprehensive solo show to be exhibited at UNSW Galleries. And with The Lacrima Chair encased in a hazy waterfall, it’s a pretty spectacular show.
There seems little that could be utopian about an alien invasion film where people are picked off by hulking, spider-limbed, lightning-fast, armour-clad creatures who punish every sound with almost-instant death, but prequel A Quiet Place: Day One makes the opening status quo of horror franchise-starter A Quiet Place look positively idyllic. If you're forced to try to survive an extra-terrestrial attack, where better to be than at your well-appointed farmland home with your family, as the John Krasinski (IF)-helmed and -starring 2018 feature depicted? Most folks, including the third movie in the saga's protagonist Samira (Lupita Nyong'o, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever), a terminal cancer patient with just a service cat called Frodo left as kin, can only dream of being that lucky — not that there's much time for fantasising about a better way to be conquered by otherworldly monsters when what looks like meteors start crashing down to earth. Samira is in hospice care as the A Quiet Place big-screen series, which also spans 2021 release A Quiet Place Part II, steps back to the moment that its apocalyptic scenario begins in New York. She hugs her black-and-white feline companion like letting go would untether her from life even before existence as the planet knows it changes forever — when she's sharing surly poems among other patients, being convinced to attend a group excursion to see a marionette show and, when the promise of pizza on the way home is nixed, telling kindly nurse Reuben (Alex Wolff, Oppenheimer) that he's not actually her friend. A Quiet Place: Day One explores the ground-zero experience for someone who feels so alone in this world and connected only to her devoted pet, and also answers a question: how do those on more than two feet react when the worst that humans can imagine occurs? It might've appeared a significant change of pace when Pig filmmaker Michael Sarnoski was announced as A Quiet Place: Day One's writer and director, a role he took on after The Bikeriders' Jeff Nichols — who, with Take Shelter, Mud and Midnight Special on his resume, had played with visions of the end of the world, science fiction and adventurous quests before — dropped out. But swap in Nyong'o for Nicolas Cage, a cat for a porcine pal and aliens for a kidnapping, and Sarnoski has moulded the terrain of his second feature to pair perfectly with his first. Wolff further links the helmer's two movies together; however, they'd prove a set without him. When the only other critter that defines your days and spends its own by your side is in peril — your one constant in a life already under the shadow of loss, too — the fierceness with which you'd react is the same whether vengeance or safety is your ultimate aim. Samira has another mission: securing that yearned-for slice in Harlem, which she's willing to navigate the chaotic streets with the utmost of hush to endeavour to taste. Sarnoski again deeply understands what our bonds with animals, places and things can say about us; why we cling to and fight for them unflinchingly and against the odds; and how devastating it can be when what little that a person has left is under threat. Accordingly, committing to hunt down a favourite piece of pizza while bedlam breaks out isn't just about enjoying an Italian meal. As with Pig, casting enormously aids the process of taking viewers on this emotional and psychological journey. Cage gave one of his finest performances in a career filled with versatile wonders as a truffle-foraging ex-Portland chef whose tentative sense of stability and self were shattered sans swine, and fellow Oscar-winner Nyong'o, ten years on from clutching Hollywood's most-coveted trophy for 12 Years a Slave, is equally as gripping. Sarnoski's current star is no stranger to horror, or to being excellent in it. See: Nyong'o's unforgettable effort in 2019, just past the midway point between 12 Years a Slave and A Quiet Place: Day One, in Jordan Peele's haunting and razor-sharp Us. Conveying the piercingly melancholy feeling of fighting what's long been a fraught fray for yourself, but holding up the battle for what you hold dearest, isn't an easy feat in her latest role — and nor is doing so when terror on multiple levels never subsides. It's also the heart and soul of the movie, which continues the franchise trademark of valuing characters over bumps and jumps, even as it still delivers the latter. Nyong'o wears Samira's determination despite several hazards to her mortality as assuredly as the fentanyl patches that get her character through the day, and the red beanie and yellow cardigan that are Samira's uniform. Knocked out amid the Big Apple erupting in mayhem, noise and white dust — any racket, of course, being the most-fatal thing for everyone desperate to avoid extinction — A Quiet Place: Day One's lead figure first wakes up in the puppet theatre, and she isn't solo. All things A Quiet Place have established in prior flicks how fleeting and fragile any calm and refuge can be, even in the best-case setup of the OG movie's Abbott clan, so it's no surprise when tragedy keeps thundering in. Via Djimon Hounsou's (Rebel Moon) Henri, though, the film gets a direct tie to A Quiet Place Part II and hope that some kind of future beckons. Courtesy of Joseph Quinn's (Stranger Things) English law student Eric, who also gives the picture another opportunity to demonstrate the comforting power of befriending a mouser, Samira's ordeal receives a new chance at human connection. And with its scene-stealing kitty, who is played by 100-percent real the real thing and is wonderful, cinema gains a complement to Alien's Jonsey. Collaborating again with cinematographer Pat Scola (We Grown Now) after Pig, Sarnoski has switched areas of America, yet there's no less of a lived-in texture to A Quiet Place: Day One's look and feel. That's another not-at-all-small achievement in a successful sci-fi/horror saga — one that has briefly jumped back to attack day in the past, in fact — that's set in a city that virtually everyone around the has globe has walked through via the silver screen almost as much as their own locations IRL. Meaningful wins when far less could've resulted sums up the film again and again, from a story co-conjured with Krasinski that does far more than merely extend a hit realm to the exactingly executed creature-feature sequences and the meticulous sound design that a tale predicated upon silence demands. Movies about attempting to endure can also be movies about finding your own idea of utopia in the absolute direst of circumstances, no matter how short-lived, and this one hears the call loudly.
Provided you're not lactose intolerant (or you are, but have your lactase at the ready), chances are that melted cheese is at the top of your winter favourite food list. If that's the case, the Crossroads Bar on level eight of the Swissôtel has something to fulfil your ooey gooey cheese dreams while the cold weather is here. The alpine-inspired hotel on Market Street is hosting Swiss fondue for two (or more) every day from 12–9pm until the end of winter. The team at Swissôtel has developed a fondue based on traditional recipes featuring emmental, gruyere and comte, then melted together with white wine and garlic, then delivered to your table in a warm pot for $36 per person. Upon request (and for an extra charge), chefs will add other flavours like double-cream brie and black truffle to enhance the dip. Now, cheese connoisseurs will know that the biggest factor to consider with fondue is what bite-sized sides you'll coat with the decadent cheese blend. You'll have your pick of the classics like baguette and vegetables, but Swissôtel is also serving up some next level dip-ins if you're willing to shell out some extra cash: meatballs, salami, kransky sausages, beer-battered chips, pan-fried mushrooms and more. In 2020, adjusting to the times, Swissôtel is also doing a takeaway version — and two options are available. Go for the $70 package, and you'll receive a 400-gram blend of grated emmental, gruyere and comte cheese, a baguette, cornichons, pickled onions and Legacy Semillon sauvignon blanc, as well as instructions telling you how to put it all together. For $120, you receive all of the above, as well as a premium fondue pot set and a bottle of Giesen Estate riesling to drink. Swissôtel's Swiss Fondue is available at the Crossroads Bar on the hotel's eighth level from 12–9pm daily. Top images: Jesse Jaco.
Everyone loves free stuff. Everyone loves pizza. Combine the two, and it's clearly a match made in culinary heaven. So, that's what's on offer on Monday, October 11 throughout New South Wales, all to celebrate the ending of Sydney's nearly four-month-long lockdown. Yes, takeaway pizza is the kind of meal you eat at home — but if you plan to spend all of your first day out lockdown anywhere other than your house, you mightn't want to cook afterwards. Really, no one needs an excuse to get excited about free pizza, because free pizza is obviously always great. Domino's is the chain treating NSW residents to freebies, giving away 2544 free pizza vouchers all throughout the day. That number might seem random; however, it's how many hours Greater Sydney will have been in lockdown. If you're keen, you'll need to head to the Domino's Australia Facebook page on Monday, October 11 to win. If you're one of the lucky 2544 people, you'll nab a voucher for two large traditional pizzas to pick up. Domino's is also giving everyone an excuse to eat its slices all day on Monday, even if you don't score a free voucher, by doing a two-for-one deal. To get the special, you'll need to order online, ring up an order of at least $22 and use code 605330 — and you can either pick up your pizzas or get them delivered. To win a free pizza voucher, head to the Domino's Australia Facebook page on Monday, October 11.
Surry Hills fried-chicken joint Butter is bringing the heat this winter with a rotating lineup of DJs throughout Vivid Sydney for 'Butter Presents', an event taking over the venue on Fridays and Saturdays until Saturday, June 17. There'll be R&B and soul, disco and hip hop, and there will definitely be fried chicken. As well as all the tasty usuals, the team will be slinging exclusive Vivid-inspired cocktails — and there's even talks of a light show. Not ones to shy away from all things baller, the Butter team is dedicating a window display to the NBA playoffs. There'll be giveaways too, and the chance to score an official limited-edition Hennessy x NBA basketball. It's sure to be a hot time to get your fill of wings and beats, so you'd better make a booking. Butter Presents brings music to the Surry Hills diner throughout Vivid Sydney. For more information and to plan your trip, head to the website. Top images: @MIKI.MIKKA.
The flavours of Southeast Asia are heading to the beach. Chef Milan Strbac of Sugarcane in Surry Hills confirmed this week that the upscale eatery would be launching a second site in Coogee. The 100 seat restaurant and cocktail bar is set to begin service in mid-July – and if you're anything like us, you're already counting down the days. "The area is in need of an upmarket Asian restaurant," Strbac told Hospitality Magazine. "There are a couple of decent restaurants offering different styles of food down there at the moment, but nothing similar to my style." In addition to Strbac himself, the team at Sugarcane Coogee will include ex-Longrain chef Tristan Balian and Strbac's Juicy Lucy co-owner Griff Pamment. Not a half bad roster, we think you'll agree. Open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday, the restaurant will occupy the Carr Street site previously held by Nissaki Greek Taverna. The menu is expected to be similar to the one at Sugarcane Surry Hills, albeit with more of a seafood focus befitting the beachfront location. Sugarcane Coogee will open mid-July at 56 Carr Street, Coogee. Via Hospitality Magazine. Image: Sugarcane Surry Hills.
We're sure you've downed your fair share of mini pizzas over the years — probably frozen or from the school tuck shop — but we're betting you haven't bitten down on one of the quality creations from Tonda Pizza, the crew who invented the first-ever pizzetta back in 1950s Italy. Well, today, you can not only try it, but you can do so for free, as the Italian chain launches its first Australian store, at Central Park Mall. Tonda's famed (unconventionally sized) 16cm pizzas are crafted on 48-hour organic dough, made to a recipe that's been passed down through the generations. And the new store's handing out a whole heap of them for free, from 12-2pm this afternoon. The pizzettas will keep sailing from the oven the whole time, though there is a suggested two-per-person limit. If you plan to head back, there are a whole heap of other Italian dishes on the menu you can pair with your pizzetta, including baked parmigiana, lasagne, salads and soups, as well as fresh focaccia served with extra virgin olive oil. A list of imported Italian beer, wine and prosecco is on the way, too.
'Art but not as you know it' is starting to become a pretty common tagline. The way things are going, we know a pretty broad definition of art. Yet we weren't expecting the MCA to transform their artists into Jane Fonda. Well, kind of. They've invited seven artists to their Workout: 7 days of experimental performance. And you're invited, too. This means excercise routines meet endurance tests, as the artists slip into their best lycra outfits and pump up the tunes. David Capra (Monday) will do some banner waving, Wizard-of-Oz-style dancing and will even get his dog Teena involved. The Motel Sisters (Tuesday) will get all YouTube on us and write complaint letters while adding Facebook likes like crazy. Sarah Goffman (Wednesday) will practice her Japanese breathing yoga techniques with the public, and Jodie Whalen (Thursday) will look at the world of obsessive training and make us all feel a bit exhausted. Improvisational performance is Agatha Gothe-Snape's (Friday) deal, Domenico de Clario (Saturday) will unpack and repack his archives before singing and playing a piano blindfolded. Finally, on Sunday Brian Fuata will set up an office to check out all of the other goings on so far. Phew. Just a regular week at the MCA then. Coming almost as soon as the epic 13 Rooms closes, it suggests Sydney audiences have a fresh appetite for performance art that is fun, a bit interactive and that pulls us out of our digital worlds. Image: David Capra, Intercession (Newcastle Pools)
As if the furore generated by the Vivid Sydney lineup announcement wasn't enough to stir your loins, Fuzzy Events have announced a banging lineup for their new electronic music event, Curve Ball, taking over Carriageworks on June 11. The partnership between Vivid Sydney, Carriageworks and Fuzzy has wrought a tight little lineup across two stages with a hefty side of visual arts. The lineup is fronted by enigmatic producer Zhu, who'll be joined by Sydney favourites Cosmo's Midnight, Basenji and Nicole Millar, as well as hyped-up newcomers JOY, Elk Road, Cleopold and Yuma X. It's a who's who of up-and-coming electronic artists and they've even hinted at adding a few more names to the already stellar bill, so best to start stretching now and break in your dancing shoes. Carriageworks is bringing the fire with an immersive audio and visual experience to accompany the tunes as well as large scale art installations. It's just one part of Carriageworks' program for Vivid Sydney which also includes the world premiere of Bjork's VR project BJORK DIGITAL (which you know is going to get weird and wonderful). Curve Ball is happening on June 11, 3-10pm. Tickets are on sale now for $79 here. Image: Carriageworks.
Mall Santa season is long gone but exquisitely cheesy photo ops should not be relegated to just one holiday. If you are in need of another seasonal profile pic captured by a talented professional, you are in luck. This Easter, both you and your four-legged friend can roll up to Rhodes Waterside or Stanhope Village Shopping Centre and get the deed done. You can also head to Broadway Sydney for pet-free Easter pics of the family. From Saturday, April 2 through to Easter Thursday on April 14, the Easter photo booth welcomes families, housemates, pals and pets, and there's no minimum age required to be the star of the shoot. Need a colourful new head shot? Here's your chance! Just don't forget to book. And remember to wear something eggcellent. To book your spot, head to the Broadway Sydney, Rhodes Waterside or Stanhope Village websites.
This Christmas season, The Rocks is transforming into the ultimate festive destination, celebrating Australian Christmas by embracing unique Christmas decorations created by local artists and incorporating native florals. As part of its Homegrown Australian Christmas events, these locally inspired decorations will be scattered throughout the neighbourhood, with charming scenes and set-ups for visitors to discover. The Rocks Christmas Tree in Jack Mundey Place features a distinctive Australian design, dripping with native blooms and custom decorations crafted by First Nations artist and owner of Marara Designs Shelby Rae, brought to life by Nadia Duran. Throughout The Rocks, wreaths and garlands featuring native florals will be draped along the laneways from George Street to Playfair Street, complemented by charming village scenes scattered throughout the street, designed by Nico Nicoson. Wander the historic laneways to discover each unique piece of art celebrating the best aspects of an Aussie Christmas — from lazy days at the beach to backyard cricket and prawns on the barbie.
If there's a force as frightful as facing certain death, humanity is yet to find it. Knowing that everyone who lives will die is the most terrifying thing that anyone will ever have to deal with, as well as the most obvious and commonplace — and it's also the fear-inducing bogeyman that continues to spook the horror genre. In the form of killer ghosts, malingering spirits and demonic forces from the great beyond, the inescapable end also haunts the Conjuring universe, to the surprise of absolutely no one. The growing franchise's other source of scares, however, is perhaps much less expected. In The Conjuring, the flick that started the series, a family grapples with the spectre of an accused witch. In its sequel, as well as in spin-off The Nun, evil takes the form of a bride of Christ. In the Annabelle films, a doll is possessed by a dead girl, turning murderous. And now in The Curse of the Weeping Woman, the saga finds its shocks in a mother who turns into a child-drowning apparition. This unsettling franchise might be based on the work of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, and on Mexican folklore in the current movie's case, but as each new instalment shows, it's not only scared by supernatural stories of death. Womanhood and its symbols are also something to fear here. Women and children are usually the casualties, too. As genuine spooks increasingly give way to haunting by the numbers, the series' need to vilify and victimise its way to box office success is blatant, lazy and more concerning than anything on-screen. The Curse of the Weeping Woman begins with its own origin story, introducing viewers to the tale of La Llorona. In Mexico in 1673, a beautiful young woman (Marisol Ramirez) lives a happy life with her husband and two sons, until she's driven to kill her boys in the river — and destined to keep trying the same trick with other children for all of eternity. Three centuries later, Los Angeles social worker Anna Tate-Garcia (Linda Cardellini) crosses paths with the deadly spirit as part of a case, when she finds that something is amiss with one of her clients (Patricia Velásquez). Soon, La Llorona has her sights set on Anna's kids (Roman Christou and Jaynee-Lynne Kinchen), and only a renegade former priest (Raymond Cruz) can help the fearful family. Directed by first-timer Michael Chaves, The Curse of the Weeping Woman polishes up its formulaic parts more effectively than it might initially seem, especially six films into a flagging franchise. There's nothing new in its bumps and jumps, but many of those creepy moments elicit the right visceral response — while no one will be leaping out of their chairs, viewers might find themselves inching forward automatically. Alas, horror movies aren't just about shocks, scares and keeping a series going in a dutifully unnerving manner. They're not just about swooping camerawork and stalking through a spooky house either, although those are two techniques that the picture also uses well. Conjuring up a momentary reaction lasts for just that, a moment. Retaining audience interest between bouts of ghostly mayhem is much more difficult, particularly given that screenwriters Mikki Daughtry and Tobias Iaconis are as eager to stick to cliches as they were in their last script: teen illness weepie Five Feet Apart, which is also currently in cinemas. Many a routine scarefest has found success by taking the same route, which is why such boilerplate films keep appearing. Many an average movie has squandered a great actor — here, the committed Cardellini — within generic horror material. But plonk all of the above in a fast-expanding series that keeps pulling the same stunt, and it wears thin. Specifically package it with another supposedly terrifying tale about an unhinged symbol of womanhood wreaking havoc, and it grates louder than the creakiest of doors and floorboards. What's scariest in The Curse of the Weeping Woman isn't the fact that it lays bare the Conjuring Universe's reliance upon frightening symbols of femininity, but that it makes it plain in such an unashamed way. It might make sense to turn the bringers of life into harbingers of death, preying upon existential worries in the process, but at this point in the franchise it's also wearyingly, disappointingly easy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCOp9jCG07I
You would be forgiven if you didn't know that October 4 is World Taco Day. It would be a serious fiasco, though, if you didn't make a fiesta out of the contrived (but, admittedly, delicious) occasion. Luckily, The Royal in Paddington is celebrating with all-you-can-eat tacos. For $30 each, you and your mates can expect a bottomless supply of Mexican fare from 5pm. Choose from three tacos: chicken with green tomatillo salsa, smoky barbecue pork with slaw and pickled onions, and grilled barramundi with red pepper salsa. When you're done, you can hand over an extra $9 for a marshmallowy s'more-inspired dessert taco to truly send you into a food-induced siesta. Now this might sound like mariachi to your ears already, but the team behind the bar will also be quenching your thirst with $10 margaritas all night long.
City of Shadows: Inner-city crime & mayhem 1912 -1948 is currently on show at the Justice and Police Museum. The exhibition displays historic forensic police photographs accompanied with meticulously researched stories that shed light on the shadowy underworld of Sydney between the wars. But is that all these photographs have to tell us? Penguin Plays Rough has thrown a slew of creative writers and wordsmiths on the case, to reinterpret and reimagine the mystery and suspense oozing from these historic pictures. Over the course of two events, creatives including comedian Nick Sun, crime writer PM Newton, magazine-maker Sam Cooney, fiction writer Laura Jean McKay, playwright Hilary Bell, performance-maker Nat Randall, non-fiction writer Elmo Keep, and fiction writers Felicity Castagna and Jack Vening have presented and embellished scenarios and suspects, to tell stories based on crime scene photographs and mug shots from the NSW Police Forensic Photography Archive. Now it's time for the series' third and final event, where artists from We Do Not Unhappen will bring together the scenarios and suspects to play out the crimes in various media throughout the museum. You'll be able to wander through the historic building's holding cells, police station and courtrooms, discovering performances and installations at every turn. Penguin Plays Rough at City of Shadows will be like CSI on opium. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. Five Scenes, 20 September 2013 - 6pm Five Suspects, 22 November 2013 - 6pm Five Crimes, 17 January 2014 - 6pm
With a life's work dedicated to upholding — and reinstating — human rights and democracy, Geoffrey Robertson has an indisputably impressive resume. The barrister, author and former human rights judge has garnered his worldly insights through defending the likes of Salman Rushdie and Julian Assange and founding the largest human rights practice in Europe. Fiercely defending lives on death row? Mentoring Amal Clooney? Assisting in the restoration of Fiji's democracy? All in a day's work for Robertson. This August, the legal heavyweight is bringing a special one-night-only revival of his 1980s current affairs show Hypothetical to the stage. Sticking to the small-screen formula, the live show will see Robertson welcome a panel of ten yet-to-be-announced guests to the ICC Sydney stage for a provocative night of interrogation punctuated with wit and humour. Robertson will take hypothetical questions to his high-profile panel — from celebrities and politicians, to industry experts and judges — exploring the intricacies of their logic with his interrogational expertise. Whether you're a long-held fan of Robertson and his work or you're simply an inquisitive mind that enjoys thought-provoking conversation, spending a night witnessing this Australian great command the stage is not to be missed. For tickets to 'Hypothetical' at ICC Sydney on Thursday, August 4, head to the website.
Everyone's favourite Italian grocer has popped up in the CBD - and if we like them enough, they might just stay. Following the success of the Alexandria branch of Salt Meats Cheese, owners Stefano De Blasi and Edoardo Perlo decided to see how Sydneysiders felt about an inner-city location. They've also enlisted the help of designer Caroline Choker (Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, The Grounds of Alexandria) to give the new Martin Place store a rustic-but-contemporary vibe with bright colours, white tiles and recycled wood. The store will be stocking their signature range of artisan cheeses, cured meats, pastas, sauces, oils and salts, as well as serving breakfast and lunch to hungry city-slickers, and running cooking classes on Thursday nights. You can place orders online to pick up after work, and they're also doing grab 'n' go dinner packs for office workers heading home after a busy day. The pop-up store will be at the MLC Centre until March 27 officially, but with the potential to become a permanent store depending on how the trial goes.
Given the hefty backlash copped by Lost Picnic's 2017 edition, you'd be forgiven for thinking the boutique Sydney festival might not live to see another day. But organisers have announced the event will return this October, promising to address last year's raft of issues and even throwing a debut Melbourne date into the mix. Taking over Melbourne's Flemington Nursery on October 7 and Sydney's Domain on October 13, Lost Picnic 2018 is out to dish up a family-friendly serve of live entertainment and top local eats. Taking the stage this year will be legendary young-gun Tash Sultana, off the back of releasing her debut album, joined by Meg Mac, New Zealand singer-songwriter Marlon Williams, Sydney's Odette and brass ten-piece Hot Potato Band. A finely-tuned food offering will show off some of the best of each city — think, Milky Lane and The Dolphin in Sydney, with Burn City Smokers and Pho Nom flying the flag down south. Lost Picnic's last outing suffered more than a few hiccups, with punters complaining of lengthy wait times, food and drink stalls running out of stock early, and a somewhat disastrous forced recycling system. But this time around, Simon Beckingham — co-founder of Finely Tuned, the group that organises both Lost Picnic and NYE bash Lost Paradise — says festival goers can expect a much smoother affair. "Since last year's event wrapped up, we have been working hard to vastly improve the customer experience for 2018," he told Concrete Playground. After taking "all feedback on board", Beckingham had confirmed that there will be double the food stalls and an increased number of toilets, bar staff and tills — and those keen to skip the food queues altogether will be able to bring in their own picnic snacks. It's unclear if the capacity of the festival has been reduced or not. And instead of last year's compulsory recycling system, which forced punters to put down a $1 deposit for cups and then line up again to get a refund, there'll be a more user-friendly $10 cash-back incentive for those recycling their empty wine bottles. Tickets are going for the same price — $89 a pop — so here's hoping all the changes make the ticket price worth it. Lost Picnic will be in Melbourne at Flemington Nursery on October 7 and in Sydney at The Domain on October 13. Grab early bird tickets here for $89.
The article is sponsored by our partners, the Aroma Festival. Baroque Bistro is bringing a little je ne sais quoi to the Aroma Festival with a special 'high coffee'. Yep, it’s that lush, lavish high tea experience that started back in the 19th century with the Seventh Duchess of Bedford’s need to cure her ‘hangriness’, and more recently has been popping up in all kinds of 21st-century incarnations. The difference this time, though, is that Baroque will be bringing a much bigger caffeine hit into the mix. And not just caffeine, but alcohol, too. Yay-sayers will have the option of indulging in either coffee or a signature single origin espresso martini (or both). The cocktail is designed to match a collection of coffee-infused petit fours specially conjured up by head pastry chef Jean Michel Raynaud. As if that weren’t multisensory excitement enough, Baroque Bistro also affords some rather amazing views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. The only trick is that you might need to make a reservation, as availability will be strictly limited. Serving hours will be 11.30am-9pm Wednesday through Saturdays from July 9-26.
Sydney Film Festival takes over the city's cinemas for 12 days each year, but sometimes that's just not long enough to see all the films on your wishlist. Enter the festival's Back by Popular Demand bonus screenings, with 12 titles from the almost 300-strong lineup getting additional sessions at Dendy Newtown and Dendy Opera Quays between June 19 and 21. This is the third year that SFF has gifted cinephiles with an extension of their program, helping movie buffs catch up on high-profile titles such as Sofia Coppola's Nicole Kidman, Kirsten Dunst, Elle Fanning and Colin Farrell-starring western The Beguiled, Michael Haneke's unnerving family drama Happy End and Brokeback Mountain-like British rural romance God's Own Country. In addition, two of 2017's just-added straight-from-Cannes flicks will receive extra showings, which is welcome news to anyone unable to fit Palme d'Or winner The Square or Robert Pattinson getting gritty in Good Time into their regular SFF schedule. The bonus lineup also includes popular documentaries I Am Not Your Negro, Citizen Jane: Battle for the City, The Go-Betweens: Right Here and The Last Goldfish, as well as international efforts The Ornithologist and The Teacher. As part of the festival's Akira Kurosawa retrospective, the Japanese master's Ran will also screen again. Basically, if you thought you wouldn't be spending the days immediately after the official end of the fest sitting in a darkened room, you were wrong. "If you missed them at the festival, these screenings are a wonderful way to see some of the most talked-about films of the year," says SFF artistic director Nashen Moodley. Sydney Film Festival's Back by Popular Demand bonus screenings hit Dendy Newtown and Dendy Opera Quays between June 19 and 21. The 2017 Sydney Film Festival runs from June 7 to 18 at various cinemas around the city. To view the complete program and book tickets, visit the festival website.
Kids do and say the funniest things, with no opportunity spared in reminding us of this fact. We were all children once, so we’ve been there and done that — and an endless parade of movies and TV shows, fictional and otherwise, just wants to keep bringing it up. What We Did On Our Holiday is the latest, the first feature written and directed by the folks behind British child-centric sitcom Outnumbered. Writer/director duo Andy Hamilton and Guy Jenkin have found what they think is a winning formula, and they’re sticking to it — but should they? Or should audiences? That’s the more pressing question, particularly for those without their own offspring in tow. Showing the amusing side of having a family while managing more than just nodding at those exasperated at their own kids is a far trickier feat than it seems. It’s the entertainment equivalent of a social media feed filled with someone’s proud photos of their children; there needs to be something more than just smiling baby faces for others to have fun. What We Did On Our Holiday brings a likeable, recognisable cast and broad sentiments about not sweating the small stuff along for its journey out of English suburbia and into the Scottish Highlands, in an attempt to package the pitter-patter of tiny feet into something more universally relatable. Recently estranged couple Doug (David Tennant) and Abi (Rosamund Pike) try to keep up the appearance of happiness at the 75th birthday bash of Doug’s cancer-stricken father Gordy (Billy Connolly). Their kids — the sensible older daughter, the cheeky son and the curious youngster — have other plans. Doctor Who and Gone Girl’s Amazing Amy Tennant and Pike are not, instead bickering over their emotional baggage and left looking uncomfortable with their jaws agape at the antics they can’t stop their brood getting up to. Connolly is as charming as ever, even toned-down and waxing lyrical with nostalgia, but the film’s sights are constantly aimed at the trio of tykes under ten spouting semi-improvised dialogue to wring the biggest laughs. To be fair, children can be cute and they can utter hilarious yet insightful pearls of wisdom, particularly in silly situations — which What We Did On Our Holiday has plenty of. Social-climbing relatives and eccentric neighbours provide some of the drama, all of the stereotypical, easily predictable type, of course. Needlessly trying to keep secrets — about a marriage, an illness and from the police after a particularly ridiculous, darker twist — takes care of the rest. The film’s tone of sweet, simple, observational humour is certainly well intentioned, as are the picturesque country and beachside settings. However, 95 minutes of kids stumbling into contrived adult chaos against a pretty backdrop also acts as a test of patience, and some will find their limits exceeded long before the Hollywood ending.
Australia will receive a healthy dose of 1920s razzle-dazzle, as record-breaking Broadway favourite Chicago shimmies onto stages across the country this year. An Aussie production of the smash-hit musical will debut at Sydney's Capitol Theatre in August, before heading to Brisbane's QPAC Lyric Theatre in November and wrapping up at Arts Centre Melbourne from December. The longest-running American musical in Broadway and West End history, the original Kander & Ebb musical has reached the eyeballs of over 31 million people worldwide. Inspiring 2002's Academy Award-winning film of the same name, it tells the tale of a Chicago housewife and nightclub dancer who twirls through a whirlwind of murdered lovers, jail-time, fierce rivalries and tabloid sensationalism set in the decadent 1920s. Taking the stage for Chicago's local run is a cast of well-known Aussie names — catch acclaimed all-rounder Natalie Bassingthwaighte in the lead role of Roxie Hart, musical theatre veteran Alinta Chidzey as her rival Velma Kelly, and ARIA-winning superstar Casey Donovan playing Matron 'Mama' Morton. Based on a 1926 play by Maurine Dallas Watkins, the production showcases music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb and choreography by Tony Award winner Ann Reinking. Hot on its black patent heels are two more award-winning musicals heading Down Under. Saturday Night Fever will head to Capital Theatre in Sydney this August, before Waitress hits Aussie shores in 2020. Images: Peter Brew Bevan, Jeremy Daniel.
I recently went to the National Palace Museum in Taipei. Which, contextually, is neither here nor there except that it houses the world's largest collection of ancient Chinese art, stretches for floor upon floor of exhibits and is utterly mind blowing. There were so many incredible artifacts to see that I stopped taking things in after the first floor (which didn't even make it to the last thousand years) and wandered around, wires crossed, in an overwhelmed, blanked-out daze; occasionally stopping in front of one exhibit for longer than another when something in it particularly grabbed me. There's a description of the bust of a horse in my notes — eyes wide, tongue sticking out, 200 BC — which is probably a good example of what I'm going to get at here. It was over two thousand years old, but like so much of the museum's collection it was still so alive; with such finely captured, nimble movement. That's kind of the appeal of comic artist Matt Huynh's work, which you can see some of at The Paper Mill. An exhibition of stand-alone illustrations, Alluvia showcases the self-taught artist's colourful, detailed and dynamic brushwork over twenty thematically varied but uniformly agile pieces. Like the ye olde ceramic horse head, these aren't necessarily wonders of anatomical correctness — some of the proportions tend towards the marginally wonky — but it's a hard task to name a local artist who's work is as distinctively spry. Huyhn largely works as a comic book artist and oft-times collaborative illustrator rather than primarily creating standalone pieces. You may have read his CAB anthology or heard of his upcoming Chinatown Comics project, both of which detail other people's stories of living in particular Sydney neighbourhoods. To be fair, this does show, and some of the illustrations in Alluvia struggle to carry an emotional weight of their own bereft of a story or someone else's voice. Though it's clear that you're supposed to get something out of these drawings, themes of mortality, contemplation and the like can come across as studious rather than visceral. But given that the sensibilities of indie comic artists often run a narrow and arguably lazy gamut from misanthropy to depression, this is potentially more a case of ambitions being slightly out of reach than something to genuinely beef, and it shouldn't stop anyone from wanting to check this show (and relatively new venue) out.
Hollywood's night of nights is fresh in your memory, your to-watch list has grown considerably, but your wallet doesn't want to play ball. Call Dendy Cinemas' latest special a case of great timing, then, with the chain offering up discount tickets that'll solve your problem. Until March 15, as long as you purchase online, you'll only pay $8 for your movie of choice at Newtown or Opera Quays. Or movies. With everything from Black Panther to Phantom Thread to Lady Bird currently screening, there's plenty to watch if you're keen to spend as much time in a darkened room as possible. The special isn't available for special events, Dendy Arts sessions, pre-book tickets or preview screenings, but you're certain to find something to watch regardless.
Not quite the picture of a fledgling festival, Creative Sydney is only turning two but already wise to the game. Part of Vivid festival's 'light, music and ideas' masterplan, Creative Sydney will enliven, educate and blow your socks off. All events are at the MCA and all are free, between June 5 and 13. The first round up of specialists includes creators of the biannual Finders Keepers markets, Brooke Johnston and Sarah Thornton, as well as Douglas Lance Gibson, the man at the helm of indie bible Mountain Fold. Also sharing their skills are TMOD, aka Georgie Swift, and Milenka Osen, aka conceptual jewellery-makers and interactive stationary designers extraordinaire. The 10 x 10 project returns this year, with 10 industry icons each letting you know their top 10 creatives to keep an eye on (or employ) in the coming year. The business end isn't left out of the deal either, with 'how to' panels for agents and managers, curators, promoters, creative advertisers and artists trying to survive on their work. Other features focus on the mapping of Sydney's creative territory and incorporating sustainability into everyday business practice. We're particularly getting behind I, Robot — a Creative Sydney session par exemplar, where high-tech players Dorkbot mix it with the more lo-fi likes of Even Books and the Australian Theatre for Young People for a night that plumbs the depths of meaning that sci-fi has always promised. The festival will finish with a giant Block Party at Circular Quay. Image: Totem poles from George Gittoes' performance, Night Vision, Creative Sydney 2009.
There's something utterly mesmerising about watching a person soar through water — it's no wonder swimming is one of the most-watched sports at the Olympics. Seeing a human being take on one of the earth's most powerful elements is transfixing. It also feels pretty great, too, when you're the one cutting through The Big Blue, cool water on your skin, that feeling of buoyancy and lightness. But, not all of us are natural born swimmers. Some of us need a little help to find our feet (or fins) in the big blue wet thing. So we've partnered with the folks at Gage Roads Brewing Co, in celebration of the refreshing and aptly named Single Fin summer ale, and found five ways you can upskill in the water this summer. Yep, you'll be the next Dawn Fraiser or Ian Thorpe in no time. Hey, we like to aim high. BUST A MOVE AT SYNCHRONISED SWIMMING You know those schools of glittering silver fish that dart around the water, left then right, completely in unison? Well, you can channel their precision and become a part of your own school at a synchronised swimming class. Sure, it might sound a little retro or remind you of Mike Myers hairy chest in the opening scene of Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me — but water ballet, as it was formerly known, will teach you all about coordination and grace in the water. You can register with the Sydney Emeralds Synchro Club to attend a free trial at Burwood, North Sydney or Cook and Phillip Pool. Each session runs for 1.5–2.5 hours and starts with a 30-minute on-land warm up. Groovy, baby. LEARN TO SURF IN MANLY We're pretty sure everyone who saw Point Break wanted to learn to surf (or steal Patrick Swayze's hairdo). And, really, if you live in Sydney, you have no excuse. We've got beaches, surf schools and mostly perfect sunny weather — that's all you need. Make this summer the year that you learn to hang-ten like a pro. Better yet, do it with a group of mates. Manly Surf School runs adult group sessions for $70 per surf lesson and you can do as many or as few as you like. Just make sure after you successfully ride a wave in that you properly celebrate with a coupla Single Fins. MASTER EVERY SWIMMING STROKE Perhaps you've spent your swimming life getting by on some sort of doggy paddle-breaststroke hybrid that isn't particularly graceful or effective. We get it, not everyone is a natural-born fish. But this summer, it might be time to master the four basic strokes: butterfly, breaststroke, backstroke and freestyle. Different Strokes Swimming offers adult swim classes — in groups of five or less, so everyone gets attention — all across Sydney, from Prince Alfred Park to Drummoyne Swimming Centre. The first lesson is free; you'll just need to bring along goggles, a swimming cap, sunscreen and water (for drinking, they'll provide the swimming H2O). When you finally nail the tricky butterfly, treat yourself to a cold one. BECOME A CERTIFIED SCUBADIVER Since the summer of '69, Pro Dive has been teaching Sydneysiders how to scuba dive. Head along to one of the weekend courses ($299 for 2.5 days: one evening plus Saturday and Sunday) and get certified to dive anywhere in the world, while you check out Sydney's budding marine life. All equipment is provided — you just need your togs and a towel — you'll take four ocean training dives and receive access to e-learning, pool training, a log book and international certification. Pick between two aquatic wonderlands, Coogee or Manly, to see the Sydney which resides beneath the waves. Once you've finished the course, grab a couple of Single Fins to celebrate. LEARN TO PLAY UNDERWATER RUGBY Okay, this is definitely one for those who can handle themselves underwater and are seeking a challenge. Underwater rugby is a fast-paced, exhilarating sport which is as difficult as it sounds, but extremely rewarding. Designed to keep you fit and fierce, each game tests your swimming skills and coordination, your grit and determination. The rules are relatively straightforward — one ball, two goals, two teams try and score — but the whole being underwater thing definitely makes things more difficult. UNSW runs mixed training sessions every Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. The first session is free, all you need to bring is your swimmers and a towel. Grab a brew after the match, trust us, you'll need it. Make your next summertime fling a Single Fin. The light-bodied ale is packed with plenty of hoppy flavour to keep you smiling all season.
Nursing homes can be haunted places, filled with cobwebbed memories and inhabitants perched between worlds here and gone. They are also places of joy, of old tales retold and new friends made in the closing autumn years. Multidisciplined company, Theatre Kantanka, have spent the past year interviewing nursing home residents in order to reveal the secrets of the aged care world. Comprising a palette of backgrounds and artforms, the creative team behind Missing the Bus to David Jones brings new light to this part of our community, resulting in a production that visits a small part of the immense variety to be found in the elderly human condition.To win one of two double passes to Missing The Bus To David Jones, email hello@concreteplayground.com.au with the name of the play in the subject line.Photo by Joanne Saad
While kids may get excited about Santa coming down chimneys, Rudolph's red nose and magical gift-making elves, that doesn't mean Christmas has to be devoid of charm for us kidults. Head down to Moore Park this holiday season (kids in tow or not) and you'll find a Christmas-themed family-friendly extravaganza. Taking over the Entertainment Quarter for the first two weekends of December, the Sydney Christmas Fair will provide all the festive fun you could ask for. If you're keen to get a dose of adrenaline, tear your way around the dodgem cars, hop on a carousel and soar through the sky on the Wave Swinger. Or, check out the vast amount of Carnival-style games, then cool off by racing down a giant water slide. There'll also be a gingerbread house party, dress up competitions, creative workshops, photo ops with Santa and an outdoor cinema screening Christmas classics, naturally. There is a global pandemic to be mindful of, so expect extra hygiene facilities and social distancing measures to be in place during your visit. Pre-booking tickets is encouraged and you can do so over here. Sydney Christmas Fair is running from December 4–6 and December 11–13. It is open 5–7pm on Friday, 10am–9pm Saturday and 10am–4pm on Sunday.
UPDATE, October 7, 2021: Due to lockdowns in Sydney and Melbourne in 2021, Pinot Palooza has postponed its 2021 event until 2022. This article has been updated to reflect that change. Master sommelier Madeline Triffon describes pinot noir as 'sex in a glass'. Winemaker Randy Ullom calls it 'the ultimate nirvana'. Broadway wannabe Titus Andromedon loved it so much he compares it to 'caviar, Myanmar, mid-size car' (see below). No wonder the good folk at Revel — who've also brought Malbec Day and Mould our way — are coming back to town with Pinot Palooza, an epic travelling wine festival celebrating all things peeeno noir. For just two days, Sydney wine connoisseurs will have the chance to sample more than 100 drops, direct from Australia and New Zealand's best producers. Whether you're a newbie who wants to start with something light and inviting, or a pinot pro ready for the biggest, most complex mouthful on the menu, there'll be an abundance of selections at either end — and plenty along the spectrum, too. If, at any point, you need to take a pause in your tasting adventures, you'll be catered for. Pinot Palooza will hit Carriageworks on Friday, June 17 (from 4.30–8.30pm) and Saturday, June 18 (from 11am–3pm and 4–8pm). Tickets are $65, and include all tastings and a take-home wine glass. https://youtu.be/A6yttOfIvOw
Birds chirp, rainbows form and the sun shines a little brighter when the Sydney Dog Lovers Show comes around. And in 2021, it's returning for another year of pats, licks and parades on the weekend of Saturday, August 7–Sunday, August 8. Once again, it'll take place at the Sydney Showgrounds — and yes, the dedicated puppy cuddle zone is returning. The Sydney Dog Lovers Show will see thousands of dedicated pooch fans celebrating the noble four-legged monarch of human companionship. There'll be dozens of furry friends available for adoption from dozens rescue groups across NSW in the adoption zone, where you can learn up on what's actually involved with the process. Plus, DockDogs will be back, featuring a competitive long jump and high jump for talented dogs who want to flop into a pool of water. Dogs, amiright? But hold up — you came here to cuddle pooches. We're getting there. Punters can make their way to the Pat-a-Pooch zone to cuddle up to a wide range of Australia's most loveable and popular breeds from puppy to adult dogs — we're talking uppity dachshunds to fluffball samoyeds. This has undeniably been the main attraction of previous year's events, and gives kitten cafes a run for their money. There's plenty more happening over the two days of furry friended fun. Not sure which type of pooch is perfect for you? Sign up for a Pawfect Match session where you'll be paired with your ultimate dog breed. Already found your tail-waggin' soulmate? Get some expert tips on training, behaviour, first-aid and nutrition in seminars by some of Australia's big name vets.
Music fans, assemble. If you're the one your mates turn to for music recommendations and gig suggestions, consider heading to The Rocks this weekend to catch live tunes from musicians on the rise at Songwriters @ The Rocks as part of Sydney Solstice. It's a sure-fire way to preserve your status as the go-to friend for music recommendations. And the best part, it's all free. On Friday, June 18 and Saturday, June 19, 20 singer-songwriters will take to the stage at various venues in The Rocks in an attempt to make it to the all-important Songwriters @ The Rocks finale. Four finalists will be selected by a panel of industry heavyweights to battle it out in the grand final on Sunday, June 20. Here, they'll play alongside Aussie musicians who have already made their mark in the industry including Grinspoon frontman Phil Jamieson, Boo Seeka and Tia Gostelow. To catch the final, head to First Fleet Park from 1–4pm on Sunday, June 20 and find out who will be crowned the next big thing in Aussie music. As this is a licensed event, all underage attendees must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Songwriters @ The Rocks will take place from Friday, June 18–Sunday, June 20. For more information, visit the website.
Helping you go back to simpler times and get into the holiday spirit this December is Hoyts Cinemas, with its new retro series the Best of the Classics. Or, as some would say, the perfect escape from the real world. Every week from December 3 till December 23, Hoyts Cinemas across Sydney will be screening 1980s blockbusters — jam-packed with big hair, shoulder pads and oddball comedy — as well as toe tap-worthy musicals and, as Christmas creeps up, cheery holiday movies. From the 80s, you can expect Apocalypse Now, Rocky, Enter the Dragon and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Musical-wise, there's everything from Mamma Mia to Chicago, Bohemian Rhapsody and The Greatest Showman. And, to help spread some much-needed cheer, it'll be screening Christmas classics such as the OG Home Alone, alongside Elf, The Muppet Christmas Carol and The Santa Clause. Sessions dates and times vary for each participating Hoyts cinema, so it's best to check the Hoyts Best of the Classics program here before booking in your next movie date. Find your closest Hoyts Cinema here — then check out the Best of the Classics program and book your seats. Top images: 'Mamma Mia' and 'Chicago'
Alexandria's all-vegan brewery Yulli's Brews is dishing up an unlikely, but very welcome, combo when it hosts its second boozy greyhound adoption drive on Sunday, September 15. The usual lineup of brews and vegan pub food will have to step out of the spotlight for the afternoon as the the team at Greyhound Rescue will be there with a pop-up adoption station. If you're ready to add a new four-legged addition to your family, you'll be able to meet some orphaned doggos and start the process to meet your perfect fluffy match. Adoption fees will be reduced on the day. Even if you can't take on the responsibility of adopting a dog, you can still head along and donate some cash to the charity while drinking from the bar's karma keg. Or bring your own pup for a good old-fashioned doggy meetup. Pooches are allowed all throughout the venue. Adoption and Ales will run from midday–5pm.
These days you can’t tell if it’s going to rain or shine. You could be heading to the beach and get caught in the rain, so rather than hedge your bets and end up wet, head to the AGNSW and see a perfect landscape in The Royal Paintings of Jodhpur. Garden & Cosmos shows the artist’s command over the land. Flora and fauna are simultaneously reduced and elaborated, laid out in an ordered yet sumptuous manner, as the artists (commissioned by the Maharajas over the 17–19th centuries) depict the physical and the metaphysical. Some paintings show courtly life full of splendorous robes and stately pleasures, while others ponder the universe and our existence. All share an elaborate style, exquisite detail and humour. This momentous exhibition, which has travelled from London’s British Museum, marks the first display of these rare paintings outside India. It forms part of the Gallery’s Indian Summer at the Gallery, celebrated with events from performances to lectures, garden walks to workshops.Garden & Cosmos may not represent Indian life as others knew it at the time, but it sure makes for sweet daydreaming.Bulaki, The Practice of Yoga, 1824, opaque watercolour and gold on paper
After spending the last two years celebrating cheese in the Hunter Valley, the Kurrajong Kitchen Cheese Lovers Festival has an extra gift for Sydney dairy fiends in 2018: it's bringing the love to the city. For its third year, the fest will take over Centennial Park for a day of gooey, creamy goodness — and sharp and bitey too, if that's your preference. This cheesy, cheesy festival will showcase over 50 cheese, wine and craft beer stalls with tasting opportunities, all included in the $25 entry fee. Yes, tasting opportunities. There's an amateur 'fancy cheesecake' competition, cheesemaking classes and workshops with White Rabbit Brewery to help you pair beer and cheese like a pro. And, like last year, there will also be the opportunity to attend a special lunch with a three-course cheesy menu — with Justine Schofield doing the 2018 honours. Basically, if you can't find a reason to add it to your calendar, you're not looking hard enough. And that's just the official side of things. There'll also be a cheese sundae on offer — that is, molten knafeh cheese in a waffle basket with syrup, crushed pistachios and rose petals on top. And if you're vegan and think this isn't for you, this year the fest will host its first vegan cheese stall, so there really is something for everyone.
Film lovers in Marrickville have a new place to indulge their love of the big screen, with Addison Road Community Centre adding a community cinema to the mix. Transforming Gumbramorra Hall into an independent screening space, it'll be open to sessions for local groups and indie film festivals. The Addison Road Picture House will launch on June 24 as part of the Pachamama Festival, one of the regular events put together by the Sydney Latin American Film Festival team. Aiming to bring together Latin American and Indigenous artists and storytellers in a program of art, film, dance, talks, workshops and music, the fest's movie lineup includes Mara'akame's Dream, which will become the first flick to screen in the new cinema space. A Mexican effort exploring the role ancient tradition in modern life, it'll be followed by Aussie documentary Zach's Ceremony, as well as Bolivian feature The Land Without Evil. While it mightn't be operating as a regular picture palace, more places to see films is always a good thing. For fans of cinema history, the Addison Road Picture House is being pitched as "the spiritual successor of the Inner West's old Art Deco cinemas that closed down in the '50s & '60s," according to the Addison Road Community Centre. For more information, or to keep an eye on what's coming up in the venue, head to their website or Facebook page.
In this fun, creative one-woman play happening as part of Sydney Fringe, the audience gets to decide what happens. You can think of Paul Gilchrist's All The Difference as the theatrical version of Choose Your Own Adventure. It's also a exploration of the contemporary problem of having way too many choices. Kathryn Schuback plays Flik, who has a story to share. It's very funny and rather sad, and its outcome is beyond her control. That's because what happens at every twist and turn is determined by your vote. You have a say in where she goes, who she loves, what she buys and how she lives. While keeping things fast-moving and entertaining, Gilchrist's script simultaneously explores profound philosophical questions concerning free choice, denial and morality. All The Difference is presented by independent theatre company subtlenuance, where the focus is on writing and producing original, creative, thought-provoking Australian plays.
Planning a trip to the Blue Mountains? Head to the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre where you'll find a Christmas artisan market, a designers' panel discussion and a couple of exhibitions, which are all happening on the one day. Taking over the Katoomba-based venue on Saturday December 14, these design-focused events give you an excuse to skip the city for the day and, in the process, explore the Mountains' art and design scene. Want to get a kick-start on your Christmas shopping? You'll find something unique at the Xmas Wollemi Artisan Market. Look out for handcrafted textile art by Blushing Rose, stunning prints by Block and Baren and resin jewellery by Mikano World, among other delights. In between browsing, kick back to local music and snack on gourmet eats. Meanwhile, in the gallery, there'll be two stunning exhibitions. The first, Obsessed: Compelled to Make, features 14 Australian designers and makers and is a touring show from the Australian Design Centre. You can also catch a panel discussion starring artist Honor Freeman, designer Stephen Goddard and curator Lisa Cahill at 11am. The talk will delve into the fundamental human need to create, plus discuss artists' inspiration and practice. The second exhibition is John Mawurndjul: I am the old and the new, a collection of the Kuninjku artist's bark paintings that spans 40 years. Entry to both exhibitions and the talk are ticketed, costing $5 per person. Then, head to a local cafe for a late lunch or go for a bushwalk to make the most of your trip to the Mountains. [caption id="attachment_751910" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Angus Lee Forbes[/caption] Top images: Angus Lee Forbes and Ona Janzen.
Tommy Hilfiger is headed to Paddington this month to showcase its youth and denim brand, Tommy Jeans. The American apparel brand will pop up on Oxford Street on November 17–18 for a weekend of fashion, music and giveaways. Across November 17 and 18, shoppers can nab the latest Tommy Jeans threads, from both the line's main range and the new Tommy Jeans 6.0 capsule collection. To balance out the inevitable spending, get there early on Saturday — the first 100 people through the door will receive a goodie bag worth $100. Plus, on Sunday, radio network Nova 96.9's Casanova street crew will be on-site from 3.30pm with plenty more giveaways and games to take part in. Live DJ sets by the likes of Stacie Fields, DJ Tigerlily, Juay Kennedy and DJ Mowgli May will keep up the party atmosphere on both days. And a meet-and-greet with brand model Josh Heuston will go down from noon–2pm on Saturday, too. The Tommy Jeans pop-up store will open from 9am–6pm on Saturday and Sunday. For the full schedule of events, head to the Tommy Hilfiger website.
Sydney may be a delightful city in which one spends their time, but, let's face it, isn't it nice to get away too? Especially when you don't have to travel too far to get to something as rewarding as this year's High & Dry Festival.Only two hours north of Sydney on Aboriginal land this weekend is Australia's first festival run on 100% renewable energy (combination of solar, wind and bicycle power). Born from a makeshift, spontaneous event over New Year's Eve in 2007 when poor weather cancelled the Peats Ridge Festival, High & Dry returns to its own set of loyal fans and no doubt a whole bunch of new ones. And who wouldn't be a fan of a festival that boasts a focus on creative and performative arts and not just music. There'll be puppets, installations, markets and much, much more. That said, there's music too, with the likes of Entropic, The Barons of Tang and Combat Wombat treading the boards. They are but three of the one hundred acts programmed at this three-day event.There's bound to be an emphasis on sustainable community and intimate summertime magic this year at High & Dry.
It's official: the warm weather has finally returned to Sydney shores. And when you're not lounging on the beach, you should be hitting up our city's best outdoor venues — both old favourites and new additions. Luckily, the Museum of Contemporary Art knows there's nothing better than sitting in the sun and sipping cocktails by the water. So, the museum has teamed up with top-notch tequila brand Patrón to launch a summer pop-up bar. The bar opened on Thursday, October 31 and is running from 4–10pm every Wednesday through Sunday until February 16. It'll be running alongside the gallery's retrospective exhibition of British artist Cornelia Parker, also sponsored by Patrón, as part of the MCA's 2019/2020 Sydney International Art Series. It's an all-out celebration of art, culture and fine tequila — and everyone is invited. The ground floor terrace has been transformed into an airy, hacienda-inspired bar that looks straight out over the harbour. Expect an openair space with a polished concrete bar, colourful wall murals and heaps of leafy plants. The bar opens out onto a 'lawn' with wicker sling-back chairs surrounding tequila barrel tables. The space offers unrestricted views across to the Sydney Opera House and will surely give a few other harbourside bars a run for their money this season. Instead of using your usual gin or whisky cocktails, the bartenders will, of course, be shaking and stirring drinks with Patrón — namely Silver, Reposado and Añejo. The 100-percent agave tequila is hand-harvested and produced in small batches in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, which gives it its premium edge, so expect after-work drinks to get a lot fancier. You (and your mates) will be able to spend a balmy evening sipping negronis, highballs and old-fashioneds, all with a seasonal tequila twist. You can also opt for a Patrón, lime and soda, or the signature cocktail inspired by British artist Cornelia Parker — the Cold Dark Matter, made with Patrón Reposado, blackberry liqueur, lime and ginger ale. For the purists, there are classic margaritas and palomas on the docket, too. Apart from the cocktails, there are plenty of Mexican eats from Simon Fox (Graze Restaurant) to keep you going. Think bar snacks like margarita-spiced popcorn ($5) and chilli lime peanuts ($5), or, the star of the show, the Nixtamal tortilla tostadas. These tortillas have been made using a special ancient Aztec method of cooking and grinding corn, and you can nab three for $20. Varieties include slow-cooked pulled pork with pickled cabbage, salt and fennel crusted salmon with sesame yoghurt and an Asian-inspired version with crispy pulled duck, shallots and crushed peanuts. Two vegetarian options are also up for grabs — the mole verde with pickled cactus and chipotle aioli and the pickled eggplant with avocado, marinated olives and feta. And, since its the MCA, you can expect plenty of art, culture and entertainment happenings, too. There'll be interactive performances, DJ sets, art installations and VR experiences to check out throughout the pop-up. Plus, every Sunday, you can try out your own artistic hand — by painting and decorating a 200ml bottle of Patron, that is. If all that isn't enough, you can turn your visit here into the start of a very festive bar crawl around Sydney Harbour. In addition to the MCA pop-up bar, Patrón has also teamed up with a number of other bars around Circular Quay — Bar Patrón, Quay Bar and The Argyle — to create The Art of Patrón precinct. Just keep your Patrón cocktail coaster and scan it at each venue (all in one night or across the entire summer period) to score a complimentary ceramic mug. The Patrón Pop-up will run from Thursday, October 31 through February 16 (excluding public holidays and New Year's Eve). It is open every Wednesday through Sunday from 4–10pm. Visit Patron's website for more details.
Fancy a Tassie wine-tasting extravaganza, but can't find the time or cash to make the trip? How about a quick hop over to Eveleigh instead? If you can get there with 35 bucks to spare this Saturday, 5 September, you'll be living the Apple Isle dream, thanks to a brand new event by the name of Vin Diemen. Your ticket will buy you access to the creations of 25 Tasmanian winemakers, who are coming to Sydney to show us what their island is made of, as well as a take-home glass of your own. Expect to sample some of the best pinot noir in the nation, alongside top-shelf chardonnay, riesling and sparkling wine: cold climate varieties get a better go in Tassie than nearly anywhere else in Oz. And giving the wines the respect they deserve will be a bunch of tasty morsels whipped up by David Martin, who heads one of the state's best restaurants, Franklin, in collaboration with Sydney's Porteno. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
Imagine a performance where dancers don't always dance to the music playing and where the music itself isn't necessarily made for dance. This is One Thing Follows Another…, a collaborative performance showcased this month through Performance Space. Sydney sound artist Gail Priest has teamed up with Jane McKernan, one-third of dance trio The Fondue Set to co-create the playful performance that draws heavily on the 1960s avant-garde. Joined by dancers Angela Goh and Lizzie Thomson, the show tests the collaborative relationship between music and dance in live performance. Don't be surprised if the performers stop for a casual game of cards or to bake a cake mid-show — this experimental work invites audiences to experience the creation of movement and sound as a process, segmented by differing actions yet connected by the inevitable passing of time. One Things Follows Another... plays as part of Performance Space's Score season of works driven by dance, movement, music and noise. Highlights include the bodybuilding/dance mash-up that is Natalie Abbott's acclaimed MAXIMUM, Force Majeure's boundary-pushing dance lab Culminate and Psychic Synth, a digital work by Pia Van Gelder that will read your mind.
Released in 1945 and directed by David Lean, the film Brief Encounter was adapted from Noel Coward's one-act play, Still Life. It tells the story of Laura and Alec, who fall in love after a chance meeting at a train station but, both trapped in bland yet affectionate marriages, are never able to fulfil their mutual passion. The Guardian's 2010 critics' poll selected Brief Encounter as the best romance movie of all time. In 2008, dynamic UK theatre company Kneehigh (whose Red Shoes was a memorable part of the 2011 Sydney Festival) decided to return the tale to the stage with an epic production combining drama, film, live music and vaudeville. After a successful nine-month run at London's Haymarket Cinema, it toured the UK before jumping the Atlantic to play several seasons in the US. Now, it's on its way to Australia, playing Melbourne, Perth, Wollongong and Sydney. https://youtube.com/watch?v=fgyn5O6iCuM
Mike Meyer has long been a legendary name in the sign business. But it was after his appearance on internationally acclaimed film Sign Painters that he started to receive stacks of calls asking for lessons, tips and advice. Given that there's only a few schools in the whole world teaching the traditional art of hand-painted lettering, he decided to set up a travelling workshop. After a round of successful workshops last year, Meyer is once again set to leave his home in Mazeppa, Minnesota to visit us here down under. He'll be hosting workshops in Melbourne and Sydney, an intensive day of paint, brushes and lettering with the legendary sign-painter. Engage in a night of discussion, see a Mike Meyer demonstration IRL and have a drink with him afterwards. Tickets are $30.
Of Monsters And Men are an Icelandic six-piece who play pretty music inspired by wacky stories. Tales of frontiersmen, whale riders, loneliness and insanity incite their ethereal brand of folky pop, but even the not-so-uplifting adventures are still fun to sing along to. The band’s latest escapade will bring them to Australia for their first ever tour on our shores. It comes ahead of their Into the Woods EP launch at the end of this year, and subsequent to the rapid rise that transpired in just one year — after winning Iceland’s battle of the bands, Músiktilraunir, in 2010, they earned a slot on Iceland Airwaves festival, and followed that up with the No. 1 hit 'Little Talks' in 2011. Of Monsters And Men are also good at hosting fun gatherings. Their Músiktilraunir win was celebrated with beer-swilling friends spilling out of their little flat, and in September a quieter gathering to mark their full-length debut My Head Is An Animal required attendees to transform into makeshift monster-humans. Ergo, you don’t want to be missing this show. Sponsored post
