Ever wondered what it would be like to have a festival on a freeway? Well, Sydneysiders, prepare yourselves because people are going to be replacing cars at this blockbuster street party that's set to take over a highway in the CBD this summer. From New Year's Day until Thursday, January 6, the Cahill Expressway, perched above Circular Quay Station, will be blocked off for the very first time and transformed into a world-class live music and arts destination for a six-day celebration of music and entertainment at the inaugural Elevate Sydney. And the best part? Its entire hefty program, packed with over 180 performers, is free to attend. The festival will dish up a jam-packed offering of live music and performance across two stages and three dedicated entertainment zones, headlined by some of Australia's biggest names. With a diverse program packing events into each morning, afternoon and night, and happenings for festival-goers of all ages, this one's set to be Sydney's ultimate summer shindig. [caption id="attachment_834561" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination New South Wales[/caption] It all kicks off on January 1 with a dazzling First Nations celebration, featuring a special Call to Country, followed by live sounds from iconic Indigenous acts Electric Fields and Baker Boy. Deeper into the festival, Courtney Act will host the glamorous 70s-inspired Elevate discotheque with the inimitable Marcia Hines and Leo Sayer on the bill; while Todd McKenney, David Campbell and John Paul Young join forces for a sparkling celebration of musical theatre. There'll be a series of family-friendly variety shows and performances as part of the Elevate Kids program including the nation's favourite fruit salad fiends The Wiggles; nightly live DJ sets by Nicole Tania; a rising stars showcase; and a never-before-seen drone spectacular descending over Sydney Harbour each evening for the Elevate SkyShow. Plus, the Elevate Arena program is filled with opportunities for you to meet your favourite sports stars like Andrew Wong, Mariafe Artacho Del Solar and Tom Papley. And, wrapping up the festival's final evening on January 5, you'll catch a supercharged headline show featuring Tones And I, Tim Minchin and Courtney Act. Want to kick off the New Year with an incredible celebration of music and art? Tickets are available from Thursday, December 2. For more information and to book, visit the Elevate Sydney website.
The #OccupyWallStreet movement has really ignited the spirit of the disenfranchised in America. Anecdotes from ordinary people describing their economic plights has seen anger directed towards the 1% that continue to control the economic agenda in the USA. Through extensive use of Twitter and other social media tools, the increasingly large and angry mob are attempting to convey their message across the internet to gain support for their cause. But as thousands rally against social and economic inequality, corporate greed and the increasingly close relationships between politicians and financial institutions, this message is getting lost in seas of online rhetoric. According to the movement's own mission statement, 'Occupy Wall Street is leaderless resistance movement with people of many colors, genders and political persuasions. The one thing we all have in common is that We Are The 99% that will no longer tolerate the greed and corruption of the 1%.' Without a clear purpose and no set goals, though, the message is becoming murkier. Most Australians have little idea about the extent of problems facing youths in America. With rising unemployment, little to no health care and increasing student debt, young graduates are increasingly anxious about their futures. And rightly so. According to a NY Times report, the jobless rate for college graduates in the U.S.A under the age of 25 has averaged 9.6% over the past year. For high school graduates, the average is 21.6%. Whilst the actual demands by the group remain a little unclear, a poll conducted by David Maris for Forbes has outlined a tentative set of demands or issues that are really aggravating the protestors. With many stating that the American Dream has now turned into a nightmare, the protests are continuing to spread like wildfire throughout the U.S. And whilst a rumoured Radiohead appearance at Liberty Square was later confirmed by the band to be a hoax, the movement has been getting increased backing from influential supporters. With Slavoj Zizek speaking at the rallies, Anti-Flag playing a set in Liberty Square, and Kanye West dropping in to say hello (without removing his gold chains) this protest doesn't seem to be quietening down any time soon. With an evolving approach to their demands, the 'We are the 99%' catchcry has now started to take a hold across the world, not just in New York. The movement has now spread to cities such as Chicago and Seattle, and there are also calls for global demonstrations, with planned protests as far afield as Italy, Spain and the London Stock Exchange. https://youtube.com/watch?v=r3ptmm8lAMM
When the weather gets warmer, the days longer and the skies sunnier, Paris starts to emerge from its hibernation. There really is nothing like spring and summer in the City of Lights. Parisians flock to the closest park to lay their picnic blankets, unwrap some fromage and open up that first bottle of rosé for the season. So this summer it's high time to take a page from the French way of living — rosé in hand. With a little help from Jacob's Creek, this summer you can live la vie en rose, or rather, rosé at the Le Petit Picnic on Sunday, February 3 in the Royal Botanic Garden's scenic rose garden. At the four-hour French-fuelled picnic, you'll sip bottomless pours of the winemaker's new Le Petit Rosé Brut Cuvée, a French-style rosé now with bubbles, plus the number one rosé in Australia, Le Petit Rosé, as you take in sweeping views of the Harbour. There'll be no need to worry about packing your own basket, as your ticket includes a hamper with gourmet lunch for your group, a picnic rug and all tableware necessary. Sunscreen and insect repellent will also be available, so you really only need to bring yourself and your appreciation for the finer things. Alongside food and drink, there'll be live DJ sets, a 'pimp your rosé' station and a flower crown making workshop. Plus, you can learn to play pétanque (French-style lawn bowls) and make it your game for the summer since each group will also get a boules set to take home. Le Petit Picnic costs $255 for your party of three or $340 for four ($85 per person), with everything included in the ticket price. Tickets are limited, so head to the event page to score a spot for you and two amis.
Film-loving Sydneysiders, prepare to start wishing you're in Italy. Yes, it's Italian Film Festival time again, and it's heading to Palace Central, Palace Norton St, Palace Verona and Chauvel Cinema with quite the lineup. On the bill from Tuesday, September 13–Wednesday, October 12: everything from Italian box office hits and Sophia Loren-starring classics through to a documentary about a shoemaker to the stars helmed by Call Me By Your Name and Suspiria's Luca Guadagnino. This year's IFF will open with Belli Ciao, which did huge box office business in Italy. It both stars and is co-written by comic duo Pio D'Antini and Amedeo Grieco, who play once-inseparable friends who went their own ways after high school — Pio leaves for Milan, Amedeo stays in their hometown — and now reunite, complete with a north-versus-south culture clash. From there, highlights include The Hummingbird, an ensemble drama with Nanni Moretti (Three Floors) and Berenice Bejo (Final Cut), which hits IFF fresh from premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival; drama Lord of the Ants, about the controversial 1960s trial of intellectual Aldo Braibanti, which screens direct from its Venice Film Festival competition debut; and The King of Laughter, which features Toni Servillo (The Hand of God) as actor and playwright Eduardo Scarpetta. Among the documentary selection, two big titles stand out. The aforementioned Salvatore: Shoemaker of Dreams focuses on Salvatore Ferragamo, while Ennio — The Maestro sees director Giuseppe Tornatore (Cinema Paradiso) pay tribute to legendary Italian composer Ennio Morricone (The Hateful Eight). Elsewhere on the bill, there's rom-com Breaking Up in Rome, homecoming drama Nostalgia, play-to-screen adaptation The Great Silence, the fairground-set Swing Ride and prison The Inner Cage — the latter of which also features Servillo. In fact, he pops up again in Casanova's Return, as an acclaimed Italian director making his last movie about Casanova. More than 25 films grace the full lineup — including blasts from the past, such as closing night's Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni-starring Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. To celebrate the centenary of filmmaker Pier Paolo Pasolini's birth, three of his iconic movies — all adaptations of literary works — will screen as well, with The Canterbury Tales, Arabian Nights and The Decameron all getting big-screen showings.
Since Australia started easing out of COVID-19 lockdown, the country's internal border restrictions have earned plenty of attention. With tactics to stop the spread of the coronavirus implemented at a state-by-state level — and case numbers in each state varying — different parts of the country have navigated the situation in different ways when it comes to letting non-residents visit. In Western Australia, that has meant a hard border and strict quarantine requirements. For folks who don't normally reside in WA, you could only visit the state if you're classified as an exempt traveller, applied for a G2G Pass and, if approved, then went into self-isolation for 14 days. If you didn't have somewhere appropriate to do the latter, you had to go into a mandatory state quarantine facility for 14 days, too. As initially announced at the end of October — and confirmed by WA Premier Mark McGowan yesterday, Friday, November 13, just before changes came into effect at 12.01am on Saturday, November 14 — the state has started to relax its border restrictions. Moving to a system it has dubbed a 'controlled interstate border', it's now allowing travellers from very low-risk states and territories to enter under eased conditions — people from places that haven't had any community transmission of COVID-19 for 28 days, who can now head to WA without isolating. https://twitter.com/MarkMcGowanMP/status/1327112476857548800 At present, Queensland, Tasmania, South Australia, the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory fall into that category. So, residents from those states and territories can now venture west. You do still have to complete a G2G Pass declaration, and you'll undergo a temperature test and health screening upon arrival — and you're advised to be prepared to take a COVID-19 test if necessary as well. If you live in New South Wales or Victoria, you're in a state that WA deems low risk. Stats-wise, that means there have been less than five community cases per day on a 14-day rolling average. For travellers, it means still self-quarantining for 14 days, and taking a COVID-19 test on the 11th day. And, this is likely to remain the case until those states have had 28 days without community cases, which is what WA requires to be considered very low-risk. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Western Australia, and the state's corresponding restrictions, visit its online COVID-19 hub. Top image: Tourism WA
In Mexico, muralists are rewarded with prominence in government buildings and sinking institutes of the arts. Here, we give them furtive street corners, the trendier offices and pride of place in our cafes. Illustrator and artist, Brad Robson, has had a turn a lot of these locations and is looking expand his range, while answering the question "What do Erskineville's Hive Bar, SBS' World Movies office and your own home have in common?" If you're lucky, it could be one of his murals. In an exclusive collaboration with Concrete Playground, Robson is looking to come over and spend a day or two bringing art to a wall of your choosing (and that you can legally paint, naturally) up to 4 x 2 metres large with one of his own signature designs. Robson's recent show at Platform 72 showed off his gleanings from a New York residency, and his Sydney skyline finishes up its run in the window this week (although his show inside keeps on 'til the month is out). What strange vistas will emerge at your locale? For your chance to get Brad to come and paint a wall of your choosing, just make sure you are subscribed to Concrete Playground, then email hello@concreteplayground.com.au by 5pm on Monday, May 28, 2012. The winner will be notified by email soon after. Pictured, Robson's multi-wall spanning work from his New York residency.
You know what's better than a haunted house? A haunted hotel. You know what's better than a haunted hotel? A massive bloody party inside a haunted hotel. We can only assume that this was the reasoning behind the second coming of Harpoon Harry's Horror Hotel. This year, they've teamed up with photography collective Hobogestapo to transform the entirety of the Surry Hills venue into a wicked party, packed with spooky trimmings. Featuring music from Frames and Hobogestapo's very own Hobophonics — and with costuming being described as essential — this should be one ghoulish get-down. Doors will be open from 8pm.
It's called the Museum of Old and New Art. As that name makes plain, it fills its walls and halls with examples of pieces that've been around for some time (and then some more) alongside fresh creations. And yet, Tasmania's must-visit Mona hasn't ever hosted an exhibition that only looks backwards — until September 2023 rolls around, that is. Fresh from unleashing another Dark Mofo upon Hobart, complete with an astonishing array of weird and wild wonders, the arts institution has unveiled its big summer plans to see out 2023 and welcome in 2024. Spanning the bulk of spring this year and autumn next year, too — running from Saturday, September 30, 2023–Monday, April 1, 2024 — are three exhibitions: Jean-Luc Moulène and Teams, Heavenly Beings: Icons of the Christian Orthodox World and Hrafntinna (Obsidian). Heading to Australia after showing in a different iteration at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, Heavenly Beings: Icons of the Christian Orthodox World is responsible for the venue's debut display of only old art. It'll also be the biggest-ever showcase of jewel-like icons and related treasures that Australia has ever seen. Devotional objects depicting saints, virgins and other Christian holy subjects will be in the spotlight — more than 140 of them — as Mona dives into spiritual and aesthetic traditions covering centuries, what drives human behaviour and our motivations as earthbound beings. "Visitors certainly need not be religious believers to enjoy the sheer beauty and emotional power of these artworks. While painting an icon may begin from an act of piety, the resulting object also lives as a work of art far beyond its original purpose," explains Mona curator Jane Clark. "We can look at the icon as a 'window into heaven', as believers believe, but also as a looking glass, through which we may glimpse the deeper purposes — deeper than awe and transcendence, than culture or a higher power — that are served by human creativity." [caption id="attachment_908036" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Proskynetarion or Pilgrim's Memento of the Holy Sepulchre within the City of Jerusalem. Palestine, c. 1795. Collection Museum of Old and New Art (Mona), Hobart.[/caption] With Jean-Luc Moulène and Teams, Mona will also become a temporary home to French artist Jean-Luc Moulène's debut Australian exhibition. Four newly commissioned sculptural objects will feature, alongside some of Moulène's earlier works. So, get ready for new pieces using wax, metal, Triassic sandstone and timber from Tasmanian underwater forests, plus piles of coloured cans and large-scale video projections. "Jean-Luc Moulène has been described as mercurial, experimental, erudite and poetic. His ideas evolve through a deep and considered engagement with material, form, and process. The resulting objects are at once mysteriously beautiful, and forthright about the means of their making," notes Mona curator Sarah Wallace. [caption id="attachment_908034" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo Credit: Mona/Jesse Hunniford. Image Courtesy MONA Museum of Old and New Art, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.[/caption] Completing this trilogy — Mona's second in a row, after opening three showcases simultaneously in 2022, too — is Hrafntinna (Obsidian). Thanks to Sigur Rós vocalist Jónsi, attendees will get a volcano experience inspired by Fagradalsfjall in Iceland, which erupted in 2021 after almost eight centuries of being dormant. This immersive and sensory installation is designed to make visitors feel like they're entering a lava-spewing rupture's depths, using music, sound, smell and almost total darkness. Nearly 200 speakers will vibrate, while a hymn-style composition that takes its cues from Icelandic choral music will play. "Jónsi was compelled by the thought of experiencing this incredibly rare event. He wanted to recreate the phenomenon and capture the essence of what it might feel like to be deep inside the volcano, despite the obstacles of distance and logistics," says Wallace. [caption id="attachment_908031" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hrafntinna (Obsidian), 2021, Jónsi. Installation view, Obsidian, Tanya Bonakdar Gallery, New York, 2021. Photo by Pierre Le Hors. Courtesy the artist and Tanya Bonakdar Gallery, New York / Los Angeles.[/caption] Jean-Luc Moulène and Teams, Heavenly Beings: Icons of the Christian Orthodox World and Hrafntinna (Obsidian) will all display at Mona, 655 Main Road, Berriedale, Hobart, Tasmania, from Saturday, September 30, 2023–Monday, April 1, 2024. Top image: Hrafntinna (Obsidian), 2021, Jónsi. Installation view, Obsidian, Tanya Bonakdar Gallery, New York, 2021. Photo by Pierre Le Hors. Courtesy the artist and Tanya Bonakdar Gallery, New York / Los Angeles. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
Just three weeks ago we mourned the loss of Freda's, with the beloved Chippendale nightclub closing its doors after a nine-year reign. But Owner David Abram hasn't been sitting on his proverbial hands these last 21 days. In fact, he's been busy preparing to open a brand-new venue in Taylor Square. As is clear from the name, Cafe Freda's isn't a nightclub. It's not just a cafe, either. It's a restaurant, neighbourhood bar and creative space — and it's launching this NYE with a party that runs until 2am. Okay, so maybe it's a little bit of a nightclub after all. As well as being one of the city's best spots for a spin on the dance floor, Chippendale's Freda's was a haven of expression, art and music, and Abram says this spirit will continue at the new venue. "Freda's more than anything was about creating a bar for like minded, creative and free spirited people, and Cafe Freda's allows us to continue to do this, albeit in a slightly different format," Abram said in a statement. "We may not operate a late night dance bar and venue for the time being however culture, music, and congregation is still central to our purpose and we are excited to be pairing these ideas with some delicious food and wine on one of the world's great night-life streets" [caption id="attachment_795167" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Xinyi Lim, Carla Uriarte and David Abram[/caption] In its location on Oxford Street, Cafe Freda's will be serving up food by Head Chef Xinyi Lim, who has worked at New York restaurants Marlow & Sons and Achilles Heel, and runs Megafauna, which combines food, art and social justice. The food will be reflective of Xinyi's Chinese Malaysian heritage and driven by seasonal and locally sourced produce. The wine list, by Restaurant Leo's Darcy Creenaune Ellis, will focus on minimal-intervention drops from smaller producers across Australia and the globe, and a cocktail list will star spritzes and margaritas. You'll be eating and drinking surrounded by playful hues, upcycled elements from the OG nightclub and handcrafted pieces by artist and Abram's partner Carla Uriarte. In her role as creative and marketing director, Uriarte will also help oversee the cafe's cultural program, which is set to feature DJs, live performances, readings and exhibitions. The new venue and its cultural program are launching in true Freda's fashion, with a late-night party on NYE. Tickets are on sale for $75, with the night set to star food from Xinyi, wine by Creenaune Ellis and tunes by the likes of DJ Crabby and DJ Salami. Once a bustling after-dark hub, Oxford Street was hit hard by the lockout laws and is currently a shell of its former self. But, it seems, that's all starting to change. Cafe Freda's will be joined in Taylor Square by a mega-venue that's set to takeover both the Kinsela and Courthouse Hotels, the City of Sydney has announced plans to reignite nightlife on the street and the NSW Government has scrapped several archaic laws surrounding liquor licences and live music. Oxford Street might just be getting its mojo back. Find Cafe Freda's at 191–195 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst from January 1. It's open 4pm–12am Wednesday–Thursday and 11–12am Friday–Sunday.
Forget Valentine's Day, its commercialised take on romance, and all those roses and hearts that pop up everywhere — if there's a mid-February occasion we can all get behind no matter whether you're single or attached, it's National Tim Tam Day. Yes, there really is a day for everything, including pretty much every type of food you can possibly think about, but no one is ever going to complain about having an excuse to eat more chocolate biscuits. In 2022, to celebrate this delicious date, Arnott's doesn't simply want you to eat Tim Tams, although it clearly does still want you to do exactly that. The biscuit brand has also just launched its own short-term Tim Tam gift store, so you can add Tim Tam merchandise to your life. The one item that'll get your tastebuds in a tizzy? Tim Tam perfume. If Victoria Bitter can make a fragrance inspired by beer, and The Louvre can drop perfumes that take their cues from its famous artworks, then dousing yourself in the scent of choccy bikkies really isn't that outlandish. Tim Tam eau de parfum comes in 30-millilitre bottles, and features real cocoa — as well as notes of caramel, bergamot, sandalwood and tonka bean. It's the perfume that'll make you hungry all day, and likely inspire cravings for Tim Tams in everyone you pass — and it's only on sale for a week, as that's how long the Tim Tam gift store will be up and running. So, you've got from Wednesday, February 16–Wednesday, February 23 to order, with Tim Tam eau de parfum costing $90 and slated to be dispatched in March. While you're bathing in the aroma of Tim Tams, you can also pop your feet into Tim Tam natural sheepskin slippers ($60) and sip your beverage of choice — we vote hot chocolate — from a Tim Tam mug ($25). Or, for the choccy bikkie lover who has everything, and might've even stayed in the Tim Tam hotel suite that popped up for 2021's National Tim Tam Day, all three items also come in a $140 gift pack. The Tim Tam gift store is up and running from Wednesday, February 16–Wednesday, February 23.
The artists represented in New Friends, Art and Adventure love clay and know how to use it. They understand that ‘ceramic’ doesn’t only mean vases and bowls, while paying homage and their respects to these classic forms. The exhibition showcases diversity: from organic pod sculptures to a rendered brick wall, from a traditional floral vase to a skeletal bell-like shape. It also represents a variety of approaches and techniques with twelve artists from Australia, Japan, Indonesia, India, Cambodia and Laos coming together. To coincide with the twelfth Australian Ceramics Triennale, New Friends, Art and Adventure will open Thursday 16 July.
Big screen, big highlight of Sydney's summer for cinephiles, big movie: when Westpac Openair Cinema kicks off its 2025 season, returning to Mrs Macquaries Point with its three-storey-high screen as it does every January and February, it'll do so with Timothée Chalamet (Dune: Part Two) as Bob Dylan. Biopic A Complete Unknown has been announced as the outdoor picture palace's opening-night pick, which will start 41 nights of movies under the stars in stunning surroundings. A Complete Unknown steps through the early days of the music icon's career, focusing on how Dylan became a sensation. Directed by Walk the Line helmer James Mangold (Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny) — swapping Johnny Cash for another legend, clearly — the film covers folk singer's early gigs, filling concert halls, going electric at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival and more. That's what Westpac Openair Cinema attendees will be watching on Thursday, January 9. Across the rest of the season until Tuesday, February 18, highlights revealed so far include the previously unveiled Paul Mescal (All of Us Strangers)-starring Gladiator II; the first Wicked movie with Ariana Grande (Don't Look Up) as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo (Pinocchio) as Elphaba; and 2024 Cannes Palme d'Or-winner Anora from Tangerine, The Florida Project and Red Rocket filmmaker Sean Baker. Newly added to the lineup ahead of the full program drop at the end of November 2024: We Live in Time, Nightbitch, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, Conclave and Better Man. We Live in Time stars Florence Pugh (Dune: Part Two) and Andrew Garfield (Under the Banner of Heaven), leading a romance from Brooklyn filmmaker John Crowley, which follows a couple's relationship across a decade — and Nightbitch hails from The Diary of a Teenage Girl, Can You Ever Forgive Me? and A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood filmmaker Marielle Heller, with Amy Adams (Dear Evan Hansen) playing a stay-at-home mum who turns canine. Rom-com Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy is the fourth film in the franchise, again with Renée Zellweger (The Thing About Pam) in the eponymous role; Ralph Fiennes (The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar) is at the centre of witty papal election thriller Conclave, alongside Citadel's Stanley Tucci, Killers of the Flower Moon's John Lithgow and Spaceman's Isabella Rossellini; and Better Man adds to Westpac Openair Cinema music biopics, putting Robbie Williams in the spotlight. [caption id="attachment_980239" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Buffet Digital, @patstevenson[/caption] Also announced: the fact that this year's season will feature a Festival of Food, with Luke Nguyen (Botanic House's Culinary Director), Danielle Alvarez (Chef and Sydney Opera House's Culinary Director of its event venues) and Scott McComas-Williams (Love Tilly Group's Group Executive Chef) curating. Three dining experiences will greet moviegoers. At the casual Luke Nguyen at The Point, Vietnamese fusion menu will be on offer. Summer House Dining by Danielle Alvarez is all about Mediterranean-inspired meals and full-service dining. And at Fabbrica at Chandon Garden, there'll be a pasta bar-style menu. As happens every year, tickets to Westpac Openair Cinema likely to go quickly when they go on sale on Monday, December 9. Across the summer of 2018–19, more than 40,000 tickets sold within the first two days of pre-sale, for instance — so put it in your diary ASAP. [caption id="attachment_978120" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fiora Sacco[/caption] [caption id="attachment_978121" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chris Grundy[/caption] Westpac Openair 2025 runs from Thursday, January 9—Tuesday, February 18. The program will be announced on Thursday, November 28, 2024 with tickets on sale on Monday, December 9 — check back here then for further details, and head to the event's website in the interim. Top image: Buffet Digital, @patstevenson.
Beyond Cinema — the good folks who brought the Mad Hatter's tea party to the Botanic Gardens and recreated Titanic on Sydney Harbour — has turned its fantastical minds to an immersive sing-along edition of Les Misérables. The group's plan is to bring Tom Hooper's 2012 film — which is based on the 1980 stage musical by writer Alain Boublil and composer Claude-Michel Schönberg — to The Independent Theatre in North Sydney. This unique space will be transformed into a slice of 19th century France. You'll be invited to dress up accordingly and, once the film starts rolling, belt out all your favourite tunes – from 'I Dreamed a Dream' to 'Do You Hear the People Sing?' to 'Castle on a Cloud'. Fighting a war (and singing for hours) is thirsty work, and luckily there'll be a bar on-site serving both food and drinks. The event will take place over two sessions on Saturday, December 15, the first from 2–5pm and the second from 7–10pm.
When podcasting grasped onto IRL mysteries and the world listened, it started a 21st-century circle of true crime obsessions. First, the audio format dived into the genre. Next, screens big and small gave it renewed attention, not that either ever shirked reality's bleakest details. Now, movies and TV shows are known to spin stories around folks investigating such cases to make podcasts, turning detective as they press record. And, as Only Murders in the Building did, sometimes there's also a podcast venturing behind the scenes of a fictional affair about podcasters sleuthing a case. While Bodkin, which arrived via Netflix on Thursday, May 9, mightn't come with an accompanying digital audio series stepping into its minutiae, it does take murder-mystery comedy Only Murders in the Building's lead otherwise. Swaps are made — West Cork is in, New York is out; deaths pile up in an Irish village, not an apartment building; three chalk-and-cheese neighbours give way to a trio of mismatched journalists — but the shared format is as plain to see as blood splatter. Call that part of the 21st-century circle of true crime obsessions, too, as one hit inspires more. Bodkin is easy to get hooked on as Only Murders in the Building as well, even if it's not as guaranteed to return for additional seasons. Siobhán Cullen (The Dry), Will Forte (Strays) and Robyn Cara (Mixtape) give this seven-part series its investigating threesome: Irishwoman-in-London Dove Maloney, a hard-nosed reporter who just lost a source on a big story; American Gilbert Power, who capitalised upon his wife's cancer for his first podcast hit; and enthusiastic researcher Emmy Sizergh, who wants to be Dove and, much to her idol's dismay, is fine with following Gilbert's lead to get there. They're thrown together in the show's titular town not by Dove's choice, but because she's bundled off by her editor when the whistleblower behind an article about England's National Health Service is found dead. Gilbert and Emmy are well-aware that she's not there willingly — Dove isn't the type to hide her disdain for anything, especially her latest assignment, Gilbert's medium of choice and his approach, and Emmy's eagerness. Bodkin beckons courtesy of a cold case from a quarter-century back when the village gathered for its then-annual Samhain festival (an influence upon Halloween). The last time that the event was held in the scenic coastal spot, three people disappeared, which Gilbert is certain is a killer hook for the next big hit he desperately needs for the sake of both his reputation and his finances. He also has Irish heritage, another angle that he's sure will add audience-courting flavour to the podcast. But the trio have barely arrived, with local twentysomething Seán (Chris Walley, The Young Offenders) as their driver and the eccentric Mrs O'Shea (Pom Boyd, also The Dry) their B&B host, when Dove is adamant that there's much more going on in Bodkin than the narrative that Gilbert has already decided to tell. Through the acerbic and cynical Dove — someone who responds to being considered a role model by telling Emmy to fuck off repeatedly — Bodkin gets its licks in about podcasting's tropes, formula and current oversaturation. Through Gilbert, too, including via his stock-standard and cliche-riddled opening voiceovers that could've been lifted from real-life audio, it also satirises the format that the show puts at its centre. Making his first series after penning four shorts between 2011–2018, creator Jez Scharf largely keeps the show in darkly humorous mode, though, and lets the whodunnit angle play out like a comic-leaning thriller (season two of The Tourist also comes to mind). Although that might seem a tricky tonal balance, it works not just in his hands, but with Nash Edgerton (brother of Joel, and director of Mr Inbetween, Gringo and The Square), Bronwen Hughes (Shantaram), Johnny Allan (The Devil's Hour) and Paddy Breathnach (another The Dry alum) helming. At one point, whether Gilbert, Dove and Emmy's project will be "a podcast that pretends to be about one thing but is really about something else" is raised — a fair comment in general, as regular listeners know. That's also an observation that applies to Bodkin itself, but knowingly. This is indeed a series about podcasters investigating a case, a parody of exactly that and an unpacking of the voyeurism behind the form in its true-crime guise. In addition, it's an exploration of the truth that little neatly boils down to the formula podcasts are chasing. It's a portrait of being caught between tradition and the future as well, which applies in a range of ways — and, especially of Dove, it's a character study. Bodkin is populated by everyone from singing blacksmiths (Ger Kelly, King Frankie) to entrepreneurs trying to set up a server farm (Charlie Kelly, Dublin Murders), and also an island of nuns and a camp of hippies. As becomes apparent early, at the core of much that's occurring usually sits fisherman Seamus Gallagher (David Wilmot, The Wonder). Scharf and his fellow writers have fleshed out their setting Parks and Recreation- and The Simpsons-style with an array of colourful characters that comprise any community, and have let comedy guide some of their choices. When it examines what drives Dove, Gilbert and Emmy as they get immersed deeper and deeper into a mystery that sees them witnessing yoga in a convent one day and hearing about the Good Friday agreement another, however, it is at its strongest. As Dove, Cullen turns in a multifaceted performance to build a series around. Given her raw, thoughtful and caustically amusing work, it's no surprise that that's where Bodkin heads. Forte starts off the show like he's wandered in from The Last Man of Earth, complete with goofy charm and bumbling certainty that Gilbert is on the right path, but is given room to lay bare the character's layers. Cara, too, gets the space to make Emmy much more than a sidekick. Among the supporting players, both Walley and Wilmot leave a considerable imprint. So does the show overall, despite taking its time to settle into a groove — and as a jump into scripted TV by Higher Ground, the production company founded by Barack and Michelle Obama (which also had a hand in 2023 movies Rustin and Leave the World Behind), it's an effective and quick-to-binge first leap. Check out the trailer for Bodkin below: Bodkin streams via Netflix. Images: Enda Bowe/Netflix © 2024.
Looking for a place to grab a bite in Woolloomooloo that's not super fancy? Up until now, your only option has been Harry's Cafe de Wheels, but it looks like that's finally about to change. Opening this Monday, March 14 on Cowper Wharf Roadway, right across the street from Harry's famous pie cart, Smashed Burger is your casual alternative to the area's high-end dining scene, and the latest in a string of new Sydney burger joints we can't wait to try. The meaty menu at Smashed includes a beef brisket burger made with beetroot, lettuce, tomato, bacon, swiss cheese and aioli mustard; a chicken burger with lettuce, tomato, bacon, swiss cheese, mayo and avocado aioli; a lamb burger with lettuce, tomato, bacon and yoghurt; and an Asian-style pork burger with slaw, pineapple, aioli and apple relish. The meats are put through a tenderiser (much like any meat patty), slow-roasted for 12 hours an then 'smashed' a flat-top griddle for optimum noms. The carb-conscious can get their burger in a bowl, sans bun — although, realistically, we're not sure how much healthier that makes it. Especially if you're washing it down with one of their insane sounding thick shakes, with names like Mean Bean, Smashed Fudge Brownie and Toffee Choc Smash. A take-out only establishment, Smashed Burger will be open from 7am to late seven days a week. Find them at Shop 2, 57 Cowper Wharf Roadway, Woolloomooloo. For more information, check them out on Facebook.
The war on waste has taken to the skies, with airlines pledging to reduce their reliance upon single-use plastics. Qantas has committed to phase out 100 million disposable items from 2020 onwards, Portuguese charter carrier Hi Fly wants to become the world's first no-plastics carrier within the next 12 months, and now a flight free of the pesky products will make its way to Australia — landing on Earth Day. Departing from Abu Dhabi on Sunday, April 21 and arriving in Brisbane at around 5.30pm on Monday, April 22, the Etihad flight will become the world's first long-haul commercial flight to dispense with single-use plastic items, replacing more than 95 objects — and over 50 kilograms that'd usually be headed to landfill — with environmentally friendly alternatives. It's not the first ever flight to do so, with Hi Fly jetting between Portugal and Brazil sans plastic waste late last year; however it is the first to achieve the feat over such a hefty distance. Eco-conscious cups, cutlery, dishes, headset bags, cart seals and toothbrushes will replace regular plastic versions, and sustainable amenity kits, eco-plush toys and eco-thread blankets will also be loaded onboard — with coffee cups made from natural grain products and nothing coming wrapped in disposable plastic. Where Etihad was unable to find a single-use plastic free alternative to a standard item, it removed the item from the service completely. The move comes as part of Etihad's plan to drastically reduce its use of throwaway items, setting itself a number of milestones. By June 1, the airline has pledged to remove up to 20 percent of single-use plastics from its flights — totalling 100 tonnes by the end of the year. And by the end of 2022, it has committed to reducing its disposable plastics use by 80 percent across the entire company.
Heads up Australia, Aldous Harding is one of those Kiwi musical talents we'll casually be calling our own in a few years. You may not have heard much from her yet, but this Christchurch folk queen is just about to drop her debut album and head out on her first tour of Australia. Be sure to check her out — by all accounts, she's killin' it across the Tasman. Starting her career from the ground up, Harding has dominated the pub scene of Lyttelton — a port town just south of the Christchurch CBD. Full of rural charm and enchanting melodies, her acoustic folk is definitely telling of her roots. Like New Zealand's answer to Julia Stone, her music is rich in character and story. Her self-titled debut so far has just the one single, 'Hunter', with the rest to be released on July 25. And she's making her way to our shores just one week later, so you better get acquainted with it quickly. Harding will play two Sydney shows, supporting Tiny Ruins on Wednesday, July 2 at Newtown Social Club and a free gig on Thursday, July 3 at the Midnight Special. Harding's shows are sure to be a very chilled affair — perfect for red wine, big jumpers and melodious swaying.
Spring in Sydney is one of the most inspiring times of the year, and in our opinion nothing is more inspiring than disappearing from work early to drink something strong and alcoholic. That's why we've compiled a list of seven of the best spring cocktails. Some are classic and some are fresh but they're all superb accompaniments to a warm afternoon, celebrating the close of winter and the re-emergence of the sun for another year. So let's raise our glasses, put that mini umbrella behind our ears and toast to the arrival of spring. 1. Paloma, The Hazy Rose A unity of Espolon Reposado and fresh ruby red grapefruit, according to the Hazy Rose, the Paloma is apparently the most popular tequila cocktail in the whole of Mexico. And who can deny it? It's titillatingly simple and packs the punch this Stanley Street hidden gem has managed to effortlessly perfect. Tue 5-11pm, Wed-Thu 5pm-12am, Fri-Sat 3pm-12am, Sun 3-10pm; 83 Stanley Street, Darlinghurst; 02 9357 5036 www.thehazyrose.com.au 2. Dirty Carpet Disco, Opera Bar Don't be thrown by the name, this bright red concoction of Chambord, Absolut vanilla vodka, wild strawberry liqueur, apple juice, soda and berries is a veritable orchard in your mouth. Combined with the jaw-dropping vistas of Sydney's Harbour in its spring finest, after a couple of sips it'll be sweet nothings and honeyed words all day long. Mon-Sun 11.30am-late; Lower Concourse, Sydney Opera House, Sydney; 02 9247 1666 www.operabar.com.au 3. Mojito, The Bucket List Although the water might not be warm enough just yet, there's nowhere quite like the Bucket List to relax after a hard day's work spread on the sand. Their Mojito with Havana white rum, fresh lime and mint, muddled with ice, soda water and sugar, creates the ideal drinking partner for a truly delicious and classic Bondi bevvie. Mon-Sun 12pm-12am; The Bondi Pavillion, Bondi Beach; 02 9365 4122; thebucketlistbondi.com.au 4. Hendricks Tea Party, Eau de Vie Winner of the World's Best New Cocktail Bar award (2011), not to mention a host of other impressive accolades, Eau de Vie is a fine venue regardless of season. However, it's hard not to chillax in the ever-so-cool surrounds when liquid nitrogen is expertly used to frost your dainty tea cup serving of Hendricks Gin and St Germain elderflower liqueur with blueberry and lemongrass syrup. Get a gang of four together and enjoy from the pot. Mon-Sat 6pm-1am, Sun 6pm-12am; 229 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst; 0422 263 226; www.eaudevie.com.au 5. Aperolling with the Bulls, The Carrington Pink, frothy, sweet and served with a skewered glace cherry, Aperolling with the Bulls is one of this Surry Hills' bar-cum-tapas restaurant's newbies. It's made from Aperol, pomegranate and cranberry syrup, shaken with lemon and delivered in a wine glass. Totally camp, enjoy it outside so you can watch the girls and boys in short shorts walk by. Mon-Sat 12pm-12am, Sun 12-10pm; 563 Bourke Street, Surry Hills; 02 9360 4714; the-carrington.com.au 6. Yes Please, The Gazebo Wine Garden This fruity number from the Keystone folk is a choice option for basking in the funky outdoor garden at Gazebo on the Potts Point/Elizabeth Bay border. Ketel One vodka, vanilla Licor 43, passionfruit and lime served straight up is lip smackingly tangy and it won't be long until you're repeating its name at the bar. Mon-Thu 3pm-12am, Fri-Sat 12pm-12am; 2 Elizabeth Bay Road, Potts Point; 02 9357 5333; www.thegazebos.com.au 7. Rhubarb, The Morrison A classic favourite on this CBD hangout's cocktail menu, the Rhubarb is a pretty in pink combination of; you guessed it, rhubarb. Complemented with agave spirit and homemade pomegranate grenadine, this gleaning medley is not too sweet and best enjoyed in the outside conservatory after a busy day in the office. Mon-Wed 11.30-12am, Thu 11.30-1am, Fri-Sat 11.30-2am; 225 George Street, Sydney; 02 9247 6744; themorrison.com.au
Romance Was Born has grown into a force that mere textiles can no longer contain. Weeks after closing the doors on their first art exhibition, designers Anna Plunkett and Luke Sales have gone and tried their hand at interiors, decking out Darlinghurst's Lo-Fi bar in their signature technicolour splendiferousness. Lo-Fi owners the Riversdale Group (already doing clever things with venues such as The Standard Bowl, Tokyo Sing Song and The Vic on the Park) apparently gave the duo full creative control of the space, and together with 'Tribal POP' artist Camille Walala, they've created one damn memorable space. Consider it an antidote to the minimalism we're drowning in everywhere else. Custom-made wallpaper, upholstery and even drink cups fight to delight your eyes, with coloured fluorescent rods demonstrative of the designers' continuing interest in light and refraction. Lo-Fi by Romance Was Born is open to the public from 6pm on Wednesday, June 18. The design is permanent (or as permanent as a bar can be in Sydney). Romance Was Born are also on board to launch a series of monthly events beginning in July, of which we only know that "entertainment will be unpredictable and meticulously visually curated". But enough talk; here are the pretty pictures. Images by Ari Pashalis.
For all the benefits of inner city living, there comes a sense that strong community vibes fall by the wayside. Potts Point is proving this cliché wrong. The neighbourhood is known for its eclectic boutiques and cafes by day, and its buzzing nightlife come nightfall. Spend a few hours in this 'burb and you'll likely pick up on a common thread: small businesses supporting one another. To that end, we've teamed up with American Express to highlight nine local businesses in and around Potts Point. These shops, bars and restaurants are on-hand to help you out, no matter the situation.
Having a bad day? Had a forgettable week, month or start to 2022 so far? Here's something that cures all woes: Nicolas Cage. It's impossible to be annoyed or frustrated when you're watching one of the greatest actors alive make on-screen magic as only he can, whether he's in an excellent or awful movie. And when he's going all in on being himself, as he is in the new trailer for The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, it's balm for even the crankiest and weariest of souls. As announced back in 2021, and dropping its first sneak peek last year, too, Cage's new movie stars Cage as Cage — and he's visibly having a ball doing so. Whether the film itself turns out to be any good is clearly yet to be seen, but the Cage glimpsed in the two trailers so far knows everything that's ever been said or written about him, leans in and goes for broke. Serious Cage, comedic Cage, out-there Cage, OTT Cage, short-haired Cage, floppy-haired Cage, slick Cage, gun-toting Cage, every-facial-expression-imaginable Cage: they're all accounted for. There is a story behind the film's excellent idea, obviously. The fictionalised Cage is in a career lull, and is even thinking about giving up acting, when he accepts an offer to attend a super fan-slash-billionaire's birthday. Getting paid $1 million is just too much to pass up, and he needs the money. But when it turns out that he's now working for and palling around with one of the most ruthless men on the planet (played by Pedro Pascal, Wonder Woman 1984), as a couple of intelligence agents (The Afterparty co-stars Tiffany Haddish and Ike Barinholtz) eventually tell him, things get mighty chaotic. Also joining Cage playing Cage — not to be confused with his work in Adaptation, where he played two characters — are Sharon Horgan (This Way Up) and Neil Patrick Harris (The Matrix Resurrections). And, Are We Officially Dating? filmmaker Tom Gormican sits in the director's chair, because if there's anything else that this movie also needs, it's the director of a Zac Efron and Michael B Jordan-starring rom-com pivoting to total Cage worship. Again, whether this'll be one of Cage's undeniable delights or pure cinematic mayhem won't be discovered until the film hits cinemas — but seeing him play and parody himself really does demand everyone's eyeballs. And, although we're never too far away from a new Cage project, nothing yet has indulged the world's collective case of Cage fever like this appears to. That's the thing about Cage: when an actor adds new movies to their resume quickly — popping up in new flicks every couple of months or so, and never proving far from their next film — there's a chance they might run out of worthy on-screen opportunities, but that never applies to him. He's prolific, he stars in far too many terrible flicks, when he's at his best he's downright brilliant, and he always has something interesting around the corner. In 2021 alone, he shouted expletives from Netflix, battled demonic animatronics and teamed up with one of Japan's most out-there filmmakers. He also played a truffle hunter on a quest for revenge after his pet pig is stolen, in the aptly named Pig, which was one of the year's definite movie highlights. The latter saw him turn in one of the best performances of his career, in fact, but Cage has obviously been preparing for The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent his entire life. Yes, we've seen Cage break out of Alcatraz, sing Elvis songs, run around the streets convinced that he's a vampire, let his long hair flap in the wind and swap faces. He's voiced a version of Spider-Man, driven fast cars, fought space ninjas and stolen babies as well. Staying in his own shoes definitely stands out, though, with The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent hitting cinemas in April. Check out the trailer for The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent below: The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent will release in Australian and New Zealand cinemas on April 21, 2022.
In the long line of the immersive experiences, perhaps the most original is the classic murder mystery. If you were a big fan of Cluedo as a kid, you know how this one goes — a group of shady characters find themselves grouped together under suspicious circumstances, and that's when the ultimate crime is committed. The Australian National Maritime Museum invites guests to solve the crime at its one-night Murder at the Museum event, held on Friday, April 27. The experience will take you through the many rooms of the museum, giving guests a rare behind-the-scenes look at surveillance, interrogation, evidence and forensic rooms. Your group will be tasked with finding the murderer before it's too late. Since it's not a competition without prizes, there will be plenty of those in store, too — and they sound to be pretty legit winnings from the likes of Sydney By Sail and Alliance Française. Tickets are $65 for adults or $60 for students and groups of ten or more — a great excuse to get a big group of your friends together. The tickets include a drink on arrival, too, and you can nab 'em here.
Maybe you first saw Britain's Penguin chocolate biscuits in the supermarket during a UK holiday. Perhaps you have a British partner or pal who raves about how delicious they are. Or, like almost all Australians, you could just really love Tim Tams — and, as a result, you're eager to give any biscuit that even remotely resembles them a try. Whichever category you fall into, you can now get your hands on Penguins in all their famed glory, as they've just landed on Aussie shelves for the first time. You'll need to head to Coles to pick up a six-pack, which'll set you back $2.80. If you're currently thinking "hmmmm, but we already have Tim Tams", these chocolate-covered, chocolate cream-filled bikkies actually pre-date them. Penguins have even been dubbed "the original Tim Tam", which might sound almost sacrilegious Down Under — but, although they're longer and crunchier than the Aussie biscuit we all know and love, they first debuted in Britain in 1932, more than three decades before Australians started munching on Tim Tams in 1964. Discovering whether another bikkie really is as great as a Tim Tam is probably all the motivation you need to "p-p-pick up a Penguin!", as its slogan encourages, and give them a try. If you need more, though, Penguins also come with penguin-themed jokes printed on the wrapper (maybe keep them away from your dad). And, back in the 70s, the British treats inspired quite the advertisement — which you can watch here. Six-packs of Penguin biscuits are now available at Coles for $2.80.
In the scene that gives Never Rarely Sometimes Always its name, 17-year-old Autumn (Sidney Flanigan) sits with a counsellor at Planned Parenthood in Brooklyn. The teen hails from Pennsylvania, but has taken the bus east with her cousin Skylar (Talia Ryder) upon discovering that she's pregnant and realising she only really has one option — knowing that her family is unlikely to help, and after her local women's clinic has advised that she should just have the baby. Before she can obtain the New York facility's assistance, however, she is asked questions about her history. The queries broach tough and intimate subjects, but Autumn only needs to answer with one of the words from the movie's moniker. While they're simple and common, those four terms explain much about why a small-town high-schooler is engaging in a practice that's been dubbed 'abortion tourism'. So too does the silence that punctuates her responses and the heartbreaking expression on her face that goes with them. From its opening frames, which sketch out Autumn's everyday life — the taunting peers, the awkward dynamic at home, the attentions of her boss at her after-school supermarket job, and the efforts to be seen by performing at her class concert — Never Rarely Sometimes Always is an intricately observed and stunningly detailed film. Accordingly, when the aforementioned scene arrives, it's the latest potent, compassionate and revealing moment in a movie filled with them. But filmmaker Eliza Hittman refuses to give viewers even the tiniest reprieve here. Autumn can't escape these difficult questions or the entire experience she's dealing with, and the audience is forced into the same situation. Maintaining the feature's unobtrusive, naturalistic, almost documentary-esque style, cinematographer Hélène Louvart (Happy as Lazzaro) doesn't look away, while first-time actor Flanigan pours out an entire lifetime's worth of feeling under the film's unrelenting gaze. When Never Rarely Sometimes Always premiered at this year's Sundance Film Festival back in January, it deservedly won a special jury prize. The next month, it took home Berlinale's Silver Bear, the festival's second most prestigious award. It now reaches screens Down Under as the year approaches its end, and releases less than a week after another movie delivered another immensely uncomfortable moment in a women's clinic. By almost all other metrics and measures, Never Rarely Sometimes Always and Borat Subsequent Moviefilm share little in common. And yet, both understand how reproductive rights, or the lack thereof in many cases and places, say much about America today. Both make viewers stare unflinchingly at that reality, the way that it disadvantages half of the population, and the life-changing effect it can have on teenage girls and their futures. Never Rarely Sometimes Always is a movie about the politicisation of a deeply personal subject, how that has far-reaching repercussions, and what that means on a daily and practical basis. Making clear exactly what Autumn has to go through to even get to that distressing clinic chat, it's a gut-punch of a film on the topic, in fact. Anchored by Flanigan's instinctual, unaffected performance — one of the year's best, in one of its best films — Hittman's feature surveys the vacant storefronts and empty-hearted locals in Autumn's home town, and the way her mother (Sharon Van Etten) is also trapped in her own way. It watches as Skylar steals the cash needed to finance their trip from the register at work, and shows how the more outgoing teen is unwavering in supporting her reserved cousin. It takes the bus to NYC with its characters, stares out the window at a haze of brown landscape, then rides the subway all night when the pair can't afford a place to sleep in the city. The film meets the men, both overt and in the background, who try to grab the girls' attention, and follows the many choices that need to be made to just get to Autumn's appointment. 'Immersive' is an overused descriptor, but in a movie this meticulous, it fits. As should be evident from all of the above, Never Rarely Sometimes Always is something else as well: a tale of struggling youth. And as anyone who has seen 2013's It Felt Like Love and 2017's Beach Rats will know, there are few filmmakers better at spinning such stories than Hittman. When it comes to the teen experience, the American writer/director possesses a near-uncanny ability to navigate tense rivers of emotion through highly specific yet also highly relatable scenarios. Rather than focusing on sexual awakenings like its predecessors, Never Rarely Sometimes Always explores the aftermath of a tryst that's never seen or mentioned, but it still firmly belongs in their company. Why Autumn is pregnant is far less important than how she feels, what she's forced to endure and how the world constantly tries to make her choices for her — including by placing her in a parade of fraught situations that will only ever apply to women. It takes a vast amount of skill to tell this tale in not only a resonant manner, but also a sensitive one. It requires the same talent to ensure that every ebb and flow in Never Rarely Sometimes Always' seemingly straightforward narrative echoes across the screen, illustrating how thematically and emotionally complicated Autumn's plight is — and, by extension, those of the many other teens just like her as well. Doing just that in a movie that lets actions and images speak far louder than its sparse dialogue obviously falls into the same category. Hittman boasts all that skill and talent, and no second or detail is wasted under her guidance. As intimated by its protagonist's name, as taken from the season when the leaves fall, warmth fades and the weather's frostiest period approaches, this is a film about decay, loss and change in multiple ways — and it's as grim and gripping as it is outraged, empathetic and affecting. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsWV2qTX21k
Perched on the corner of Nicholson and Dowling streets in Woolloomoolo, the Juanita Nielsen Community Centre boasts plenty of excitement within its walls. One big attraction: its affordable gym and fitness classes, where you can lift free weights, take a yoga or boxing session, or hit the rowers and climbers. The centre also hosts an array creative workshops (so if you're eager to pick up a few new skills, take note), and its spaces are available for hire. It also has co-working facilities, should you need somewhere to get things done away from the office or your home.
The boffins at Australia's leading scientific institution are branching out into the art world, in an attempt to raise awareness about the need to invest in renewable energy sources. The CSIRO Infinity Swing is a giant light-up swing set powered by the momentum of its users, turning playtime into clean, sustainable power. According to its creators, the light and sound installation came about in response to one of the most challenging questions facing the world today: "how do we make sure energy stays affordable and available while protecting our planet?" The eight-person swing serves as a timely visual reminder of the importance of clean, renewable energy, as well as the things that can be achieved when people work together. It's also given us a great idea about connecting the nation's playgrounds directly to the power grid – although we suspect that child protection services mightn't be quite so keen. The pop-up swing will open to the public at Sydney's Custom House between Wednesday November 4 and Sunday November 8, before travelling down to Federation Square in Melbourne from Monday November 16 until Saturday November 21. Representatives from CSIRO will be on hand to discuss their ongoing research into clean energy – and if you're extra nice, they might even give you a little push.
Norwegian folk-pop darlings, Highasakite, are finally making their debut on Australian shores. Despite only being active for only the last three years, in that short period of time critics have drawn comparisons to Björk — not to mention Justin Vernon liked them so much after seeing them at a music festival he tweeted about it and invited them to tour alongside his band Bon Iver afterwards. Not too shabby. Highasakite's sophomore album, Silent Treatment, was released earlier this year and is the first to be internationally recognised. Ingrid Helene Håvik's soaring vocals are the driving force of each track, and finished with the sweeping orchestral-like percussives, the album really is elevated to grandiose affair. Perhaps the star of the album is single 'Since Last Wednesday', which seems to be the perfect song for summer road trips. If Highasakite managed to blow Bon Iver away, you're certainly going to be in for a pretty special show this Thursday at OAF. https://youtube.com/watch?v=1GZHB0v7y6w
No, not a bird. Not a plane, but quite close to it. Aero-Train is a new prototype that would eliminate the problem of friction between a train and its tracks by flying extremely close to the ground. A paper given at the IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation discussed the high-speed, high-efficiency possibilities of the use of levitation in train transport, and sparked the development of the Aero Train concept. This video demonstrates the first version of Aero Train in action. The vehicle would be complex to control, requiring a highly skilled driver or even computer. But so efficient is the design that wind turbines or solar panels could power it. https://youtube.com/watch?v=EaN7Kxk1_e8 [Via Fast Company]
Usually when moseying around Aotearoa in a campervan, tourists and locals alike are more transfixed by the spectacle out the window than the mode of transport itself. But art curator Aimee Ralfini has questioned why you can't have both and curated a whimsical art gallery-inspired campervan to help road-trippers have the ultimate immersive sightseeing experience through New Zealand's Coastal Arts Trail. If you haven't ventured along the Coastal Arts Trail, this art-lover's journey through the Manawatū, Whanganui and Taranaki regions is a must-do this summer. After five years of development, the trail was finished thanks to a funding boost from the government to help communities affected by the loss of tourism during COVID. The easy self-drive route allows drivers to hit over 50 stops along the lower west coast of the North Island, from well-known art institutions to hidden small-town gems off the beaten track. If that sounds like a bit of you, this van-art-gallery hybrid — or "Vallery" as she's affectionately named – is a great way to tackle it. The van itself is a moving gallery of over 50 eclectic works from 26 different artists, collected from the region's galleries and featuring commissions from local artists. Those that stay in the van will get to sleep under a glowing night sky thanks to a ceiling commission from Taranaki artist Gabrielle Belz. The drop-down curtains are embellished with a stunning landscape from Manawatū artist Vonnie Sterritt, meaning even at night or on misty travels you'll be surrounded by greenery. Go on a little exploration around the van and you'll find lots of smaller artworks and sculptures s from galleries along the trail, hidden in drawers and mounted in lightboxes. Even the van's groovy exterior is a work of art. Whanganui ceramic artist Ivan Vostina was commissioned to create a ceramic base made with local beach sand, which was then dipped in an ocean-inspired glaze and photographed to be the outer. It gives the van the look of being a handmade ceramic and is sure to elicit grins from other drivers – maybe when they're passing you, if we're honest. And yes, there are all the creature comforts you'd want in a campervan: comfy bench seats that convert into a bed, a small kitchen, a self-contained water system and solar panels on the roof. Ralfini is the artistic curator of 'Vallery', and says that when she was first approached about the project, she questioned if the two worlds of "fine art meets road trip" could coexist. "In the end, my curiosity got the better of me, and I absolutely love a challenge, so I couldn't resist the opportunity to make it work — I love it when art connects with people outside a traditional white box space," she said. "Vallery is a completely immersive art experience: travellers can sleep under art, dine with art and recline on art, and it's all integrated in a comfortable and practical way. We have carefully sealed and protected works, and we have translated art onto hard-wearing surfaces and fabrics so people can just relax and have fun." Vallery is an automatic, diesel van available to hire now from Quirky Campers NZ.
In April, Australia scored a promise of international hotel luxury, when global chain Waldorf Astoria announced plans to open its first Aussie outpost in Sydney in 2025. Then, we learned famed Marriott-owned hotel brand the Ritz-Carlton is set to open a sprawling property on the Gold Coast by 2026. But before that all comes to pass, it's Melbourne's turn for a slice of the action, with the Ritz-Carlton also gearing up to launch in the Victorian capital in March 2023. Perhaps best known for its iconic Manhattan hotel that overlooks Central Park and has starred numerous times on the big screen, the Ritz-Carlton will now be making its home on Lonsdale Street. And it's on track to be Australia's tallest hotel, soaring high at an ear-popping 80 storeys, with 257 guest rooms and suites. [caption id="attachment_881631" align="alignnone" width="1920"] By Gabriel Saunders[/caption] The hotel itself will have all the high-end trimmings you could imagine, including marble bathrooms, custom-made leather and velvet furniture, and a heated indoor infinity pool with views across the city. The glam lobby is perched all the way up on that 80th floor, too. It's also set to deliver some primo food and drink offerings, if the newly-appointed culinary team is anything to go by. Taking the reins as Executive Chef is the renowned Michael Greenlaw, who counts stints at London's Bibendum, Gilt in New York and Vue de Monde on his star-studded resume. Backing him in the role of Culinary Advisor is Aussie food legend, and the celebrated chef behind classics like Peninsula Bistro and Marque, Mark Best. The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne's upscale dining offering will include a restaurant perched high up on the 80th floor, open to both hotel guests and visitors. [caption id="attachment_881634" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Best and Greenlaw[/caption] Find the Ritz-Carlton Melbourne at 650 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, from March 2023. We'll share more details as they drop.
The old Clare Hotel is about to be reborn. Former sous chef at Momofuku Seiobo Clayton Wells is opening a brand new restaurant in the former pub space, dubbed Automata. Wells is refurbishing the heritage-listed Chippendale building as a 60-seater, industrially-inspired eatery, due to open this May as part of Central Park's brand new $2 billion Kensington Street laneway precinct. Teaming up with Wells for Automata is Singapore-based hotel-restaurant entrepreneur Loh Lik Peng of Unlisted Collection and Sydney architect and motorcycle expert Matt Machine. Machine builds motorbikes from scratch (best seen in Mat Harrington's 2012 short film Machine), so the fitout should be pretty industrial and metal-heavy. But Wells insists the restaurant won't look like a garage. "It won't look like a workshop but Matt and I are using machinery as an inspiration," Wells told Good Food. Menu-wise, not a whole lot has been revealed by Wells; only that there'll be a rotating five-course set menu and a small bar menu. Automata is part of the brand new billon dollar Kensington Street laneway precinct in Central Park. The restaurant makes up one of three ventures to open within Loh's brand new Unlisted Collection boutique hotel, planned for the Kensington Street site. Loh intends to replicate company's successful London/Shanghai/Singapore boutique hotel model in Sydney, opening three high profile restaurants (including Automata) as part of the hotel on the Old Clare/Carlton United Brewery site. Small details have been revealed in The Australian; UK chef Jason Atherton will also open Kensington Street Social and Briton Sam Miller (former sous chef at Copenhagen's Noma) will open a third yet-to-be-revealed restaurant. Automata is due to open in May within Central Park's Kensington Street laneway precinct, Chippendale. Via Good Food.
Sydney has a plethora of galleries and art spaces, from the major institutions to brand new pop-ups. It's an ever-evolving scene with new ways to interact with artists and their work. If you look beyond the traditional formats for how art is displayed and experienced, you'll find there is a wealth of events that are looking to challenge our preconceptions of art and art spaces. To help you hunt them down, we've teamed up with MidCity Shopping Centre to select seven immersive art experiences that are soon to hit Sydney. Get ready — this is art but not as you've known it. AN IRL NFT IN THE CBD NFTs (or Non-Fungible Tokens) are the hot thing right now, attracting attention and headlines from those looking to speculate and accumulate. While they're usually consigned to the digital realm, MidCity Shopping Centre – located in the heart of Pitt Street Mall – is bringing them to life in a unique exhibition where you can enjoy art while you shop. Artist Mulga, known for his wild character-driven murals, has compiled 8,888 one-of-a-kind pieces under the MULGA KONGZ banner, and a selection of these make up an exhibition titled KONGZ ISLAND. Want to immerse yourself in the digital and real world at once? Make tracks to MidCity Shopping Centre to see Mulga's tropical gorillas like never before. EDGE OF CHAOS AT BARANGAROO There's arguably no better location for a provocative experience examining the state of our world than among the financial centres and consultancy firms of Barangaroo. Mixing stencil art, NFTs and guest speakers, Edge of Chaos blurs the boundaries between online and offline, between the real and the virtual. The brainchild of award-winning artist E.L.K., Edge of Chaos is a traditional art gallery on one floor and a mind-expanding virtual reality experience on another. It dares to ask questions about politics, climate change and public disorder, before beginning a journey towards hope and freedom. STRYBX 2032 What are you looking forward to ten years from now? NASA is planning a manned mission to Mars and the Olympic Games are heading to Brisbane. It's also a crucial decade for addressing the climate emergency. That's the subject of this groundbreaking exhibition from Michael Killalea and Sarah Barns, which allows you to converse with Sydneysiders from the year 2032 to discover what we did to combat the climate crisis. If future-you could speak to present-you, would you be relaying a message of hope or would it be a warning of what's to come? Find out when STRYBX 2032 kicks off at Circular Quay and The Rocks as part of VIVID Sydney. AN IMMERSIVE GREAT GATSBY PRODUCTION It has been exactly a century since F. Scott Fitzgerald dropped his masterpiece about class, the American dream, failure and love — all amid the backdrop of the glitzy roaring 20s. In this show at Potts Point's Wonderland Bar you get dropped into the age of Gatsby and transported back in time. At The Great Gatsby: An Immersive Theatrical Production, whole audiences get to play the part of narrator Nick Carraway and immerse themselves in a choose-your-own-adventure production. The show features great performances and the chance to explore hidden areas of the set, too. Grab a mint julep, your dinner jacket and start rehearsing the Charleston. FLOATING WORLD After a chaotic couple of years, the return of Vivid Sydney is the tonic that many of us need. With each iteration, the team behind the festival continue to up the ante and for 2022 this artwork at Darling Harbour is one to put on your list. Floating World is made of three separate sequences — 'Sub-Aqua', 'Soup' and 'Agora' — on a loop. Across a 15 minute run time, you'll see DJs, digital visual artists, musicians and videographers share their visions of an imaginary world through of an ever-changing sonic painting inspired by sound. Curious? This one has to be experienced in the flesh to be properly understood. [caption id="attachment_826961" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brooke Zotti[/caption] BIENNALE ART AFTER DARK The theme of the 23rd Biennale of Sydney is 'rīvus' (Latin for stream) and the three-month-long event will cover artworks, experiments and installations inspired by wetlands and ecosystems around Sydney. Every Wednesday evening throughout its run, The Cutaway at Barangaroo will play host to Art After Dark. Local restaurants and bars will be on hand for food and refreshments as you take the opportunity to explore the exhibited art at your own pace, stopping to take in a performance or a piece of film. [caption id="attachment_849233" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sophie-Jaye-Hayman[/caption] SUPPER SESSIONS The Supper Sessions model is simple yet effective. On the last Sunday of every month, a renowned chef cooks and serves a three-course vegetarian meal on the rooftop terrace of creative arts precinct, 107 Projects, in Redfern. You get a quality meal and a great night out — and a portion of the cost of your ticket goes towards an independent grant for an experimental art project. You get to support Sydney's arts community and spend time with like-minded people while tucking in to a great feed. It's a win-win, really. Keen to see Mulgas' NFT in real life? Head to Mid-City Shopping Centre to check it out or visit the website for more information.
Projected across two double-sided screens with a lonely rug in between, Acid/Gothic, a MOP Projects exhibition at Galerie Pompom, is an original group show to say the least. Filmed in Elizabeth Bay House, this MOP Project features work by Pia van Gelder, Tracey Moffatt and Sarah Mosca, among others. It is a wandering critique of the cultural strategies ‘Acid’ (or psychedelia) and ‘Gothic’ that have “reappeared throughout Western history in response to authoritarian or highly structured theoretical regimes.” In other words, they are both means of disrupting and distorting. By evoking dreams, death and drug-induced psychosis, this exhibition engages with the hallucinatory fractures in reality, prying open alternative spheres of existence. What is unique about Acid/Gothic is that your vision is given over to a camera lens, carving in and out of this retained relic of colonialism. As the anonymous wanderer observes art alongside architecture, the point of view shot feels like being co-opted into someone else’s viewing habits. It’s a little difficult and disorientating having your personal perception stripped away. And as the works are scattered throughout the empty interior of this 19th-century house, it’s a bit of a treasure hunt figuring out which is which. Peering down hallways and up staircases, there’s a peculiar sense of doubling as we come across these works. For example, Gary Carsley’s pair of IKEA tables are decorated to look like decadent antiques. They are printed with matching portraits of 'Cate as Kate', presumably Cate Blanchett as Katharine Hepburn — two actresses bracketing a vast history of cinema. However, one table has a broken leg and its print looks like a photographic negative. This arresting inversion might be calling upon the bipolar temperament of the Gothic, summoning up the shadowy other. With isolated moments from mainstream cinema stuck on repeat, there’s also an emphasis on the cinematic. For example, the rippling cup of water from Jurassic Park is looped, becoming a constant tremor. This scene has come to be recognised as a textbook definition of tension for filmmakers. In this context, it is a displaced quote, a suspense signal that vibrates outward into new surroundings. While there are some interesting works here, you’re always kept at a slight distance. Acid/Gothic requires a willingness to explore and a resignation to the pace set by the roaming camera lens. Consequently, the individual impact of each work feels slightly diluted. But the eerie and ethereal qualities that seep into the spaces between the works are perhaps part of the point. Highly recommended is the accompanying issue of Das Superpaper, which teases out some of the key thematic ideas.
If you, like a large number of people, appreciate a well-made cocktail, you might want to clear your schedule for Monday, January 30. Nico de Soto, executive bartender and co-owner of NYC's lauded Mace cocktail bar, is coming to Sydney for one night only to set up shop at PS40 (nominated for Best New Bar in our Best of 2016 Sydney awards). Mace, just for your information, is ranked the 28th best bar in the world by Drinks International — so don't expect any espresso martinis on tap from these chaps. Mace is a spice-driven cocktail bar so the menu is not for the faint-hearted. The menu even includes a mace-laced cocktail (for reals), so this is not editorial exaggeration when we say: be prepared. Perhaps bring a quart of milk to ease your chilli fevers. The event is being held from 5pm till midnight at PS40, the basement bar off King Street that specialises in natural, preservative-free sodas. It's a match made in heaven.
You've seen Rocketman on the big screen (and again at an openair cinema) and danced to Sir Elton John's biggest hits at his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour. Now, you can celebrate the Rocket Man at The Grounds of Alexandria's new immersive ode to the famous UK singer. Sticking around for only a limited time, until March 22, the Grounds' latest OTT installation is decked out in a rainbow of tinsel and neon, a huge rocket, a giant crocodile, wings, a red piano and, of course, a yellow brick road. As you walk through the colourful wonderland, we're sure you'll be singing (out loud or at least in your head) the likes of 'Tiny Dancer', 'Candle in the Wind', 'Don't Go Breaking My Heart' and 'Crocodile Rock'. If you're still standing when you get to The Cafe, you'll find a couple of themed treats to match this latest installation — and you'll be pleased to know they're as colourful as the laneway itself. Piano Man, Super Star and Rocket Man cookies are on offer, as well as a Tiny Dancer cake (with vanilla sponge, yellow plum confit and vanilla cream). A frozen slushie — dubbed Still Standing — with pineapple, coconut cream and edible gold stars is available in the Garden, too. A heap of official Elton John Farewell Yellow Brick Road merch is also available to buy at a pop-up shop — and you can win a stack of it by entering The Grounds X Elton John photo comp. More info over here if you're keen. Farewell Yellow Brick Road is open from 7am–9pm daily.
Maru stuck in too-small cardboard boxes. Grumpy Cat being genuinely unable to help the shape of his own face. Lil Bub hangin' with Whoopi Goldberg. Sure, you could load all three of these superstars on your screen right now, but what if some know-your-freakin-audience genius decided they'd take things next level make an entire film festival of internet cat videos? Celebrating their love of cats and videos of cats doing stupid, stupid things, RSCPA NSW are hosting the first ever International Internet Cat Film Furstival in Australia. Presented in conjunction with Minneapolis's Walker Art Centre, this why-hasn't-this-already-happened-here event stems from the globally-toured Internet Cat Video Festival. "Cats are the second most searched topic on the internet and millions of cat internet videos are shared around the world every day — think Colonel Meow, Grumpy Cat and many, many more. We have gathered the best of the best together and we want to share them with you under the stars," say the straight-up legendary RSCPA team. Genius, I mean who doesn't want to watch a giant screen version of Maru screwing up again? And again. And again. Or this little responsible-for-heart-explosion jerk: Or whatever the hell this is: From short films to six-second Vine videos, the screening will visit all your favourite feline celebrities and raise funds for the RSPCA. But the night won't just be sitting and pointing every time Grumpy Cat hates on life or Colonel Meow looks like the demon from the end of Fantasia. You can visit the 'Cattoo Parlour', nom on some tasty food truck treats or throw back some milk in the Cat's Meow Club (for a little extra kibble). The RSPCA's International Cat Film Furstival is happening at Bicentennial Park, Glebe Foreshore on Sunday, October 5 from 6pm - 10pm (gates at 6, screening at 8). These tickets are going to be snapped up fast, so get amongst it here — if not just to please Inception Cat. Still. Terrifying. https://youtube.com/watch?v=CLDSE7RHvno
Woolloomooloo's Alibi Bar and Kitchen is already 100 percent vegan. But, for November, the bar is taking things up a notch. It has launched a Dirty Greens menu with plant-based versions of American diner favourites — and it's serving them up for cheap all month. You'll find mac 'n' cheese balls, 'chicken' poppers, hot dogs made with Beyond Meat sausages; a twist on peking duck pancakes with hoisin jackfruit; bao buns; and a trio of tacos with jackfruit, chipotle lime 'chicken' and peking duck-style jackfruit, as well as slaw and guacamole. And, of course, the menu wouldn't be complete without an epic vegan burger. Here, The Beyond Burger is made with a Beyond patty, American-style vegan cheese, pickles, tomato and lettuce and comes with steak-cut fries. If you're new to the Beyond brand, it's an LA-founded plant-based meat alternative made from pea protein and rice, with specks of coconut oil and butter for 'fat', that tastes and looks a hell of a lot like real meat. If you haven't tried it yet, you can for a bargain price at Alibi this month. From Sunday 4–10, the Beyond Burgers are going at just $10 a pop, then from November 11–17, you'll find the hot dogs for just $5. After that, $1 mac 'n' cheese balls are available from November 18–24 and there are $5 vegan nachos from November 25–30. While the full-price menu is available from 11am daily, the discounts are on offer from 4pm till late — alongside $6 beers and $10 spritzes, too. DIRTY GREENS NOVEMBER SPECIALS November 4–10: $10 burgers November 11–17: $5 hot dogs November 18–24: $1 mac 'n' cheese balls November 25–30: $5 nachos
The warmer months are home to all sorts of outdoor cinemas, but one of the more unique entries into this genre of cinematic experiences is Stargazer Cinema, debuting with a free eight-week program on every Thursday from now until November 20. What makes Stargazer Cinema stand apart from others? First is the setting, Walumil Lawns in Barangaroo Reserve, a pristine slice of bushland with Sydney Harbour providing the backdrop. Second is the program, Stargazer Cinema, which features First Nations films and filmmakers from across Australia and the world — all for free. [caption id="attachment_1030399" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] 'Sweet As', directed by Jub Clerc[/caption] Program-wise, the films you can catch throughout October include the animated film The Lost Tiger on October 9, the Pilbara-set feel-good story Sweet As on October 16, the heartwarming coming-of-age Windcatcher on October 23 and a supernatural finale with The Moogai on October 30. Adding to the experience, all directors will be in attendance to introduce their films, including Andrew Ponton, Darrell Dennis and Kath Akyhata-Brown. In November, the focus will turn to First Nations films from around the world, including Fiji, British Columbia and New Zealand. No matter the film, there's no need to splash out on a ticket. Registration isn't necessary at all, in fact. Food and drinks are available for purchase on site, but the organisers permit outside food and non-alcoholic drinks, so feel free to bring some food from home or a nearby restaurant to make it a picnic and movie under the stars. [caption id="attachment_1030400" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] 'Sweet Summer Pow Wow', directed by Darell Dennis[/caption] Stargazer Cinema will run every Thursday from October 2 to November 20. Doors open at 6pm and films commence at 7pm. Entry is free, no registration needed, find out more on the website.
There's nothing unusual about ordering cocktail at London's One Aldwych hotel. Knocking back one of their beverages, however, is completely different. Before you sip on a blend of Dalmore 12-year-old whisky, Merlet cherry liqueur, grapefruit juice, chocolate bitters and Lallier Champagne, you'll get whisked away to the Scottish Highlands — without leaving your seat. The boozy concoction is called The Origin, and it might just provide a glimpse of drinking in the future. Strapping on a VR headset, taking a jaunt through barley fields and the Dalmore distillery, and then following the ingredients on their trek to theCovent Garden bar is all part of the fun. Yes, the tasting, sipping and just generally enjoying the drink part is real — it's the preamble that toys with virtual reality. "We take our guests behind the scenes to show them how the drink is made," One Aldwych head bartender Pedro Paulo explained to MUNCHIES. "Two minutes before the drink is ready, we say, 'We'd like to take you to the origin of the drink.' Then, we give them VR goggles and headphones to take them on the journey." If you find yourself in London anytime soon, The Origin will set you back £18; however, that's a cheap price to pay for a top tipple and a detour to Scotland. And it you're worried that the combination of virtual reality and alcohol mightn't go down smoothly, don't worry. "It's really quite more of a swooping, gentle experience," says Paulo. Via MUNCHIES. Image: One Aldwych.
The Hunter Valley is that perfect spot to chill out with some friends, have a romantic weekend away with your special someone (alternatively, your mum) or go and have a staring competition with a cow. Most Sydneysiders have lost count of the number of times they’ve headed north, like some kind of stocking-up-the-cellar and stuffing-their-faces-full-of-cheese migration, but for Melburnians it remains a largely undiscovered playground for big kids. Here's our take on the perfect Spring weekend away in the Hunter. Hit the Wineries Take a leisurely drive up north and don’t waste any time hitting up the wineries. Getting a few photos with the wildlife and vines along the way is a must. Make sure you stop by the tourism centre to pick up an all-important map of the wineries. You'll be surprised by how many (and spread out they all are). More so without the map (and you'll keep on seeing the same fence again and again). If you're a chardonnay lover, there's no escaping Scarborough. Seriously. They know what they're doing. You'll find it hard to leave without a case. Just remember that boot space is at a premium, and you may have to con a friend into scooching their stuff over just a little bit. The cellar-door-only White Label Chardonnay (the Yellow is also good stuff) would be easy to write an essay on, but also worth your quaffing is the dessert wine and pinot noir. Tyrells, just past the Hunter Valley Gardens, is worth stopping by, not only because of the cute little rustic shack (which the good man used to live in — not quite as comfortable as where you're hopefully spending the night), but also because of the vino. And for those who get splitting headaches the day after a long drinking session, you need to check out Tamburlaine. Yup, it's the organic stuff. This means: no headaches (or not as bad) because there's none of the naughty stuff in it. The Christmas pudding sticky is a must for any sweet-tooths out there (and makes fab Christmas pressies, too). For the sparkling lover, Peterson House will be your next destination. They have the oh-so-easy-to-drink Blush bubbles (perfect for when the girls get together), or ones with a bit more oomph like the Museum. From bubbles to balloons If you can still stand after these tastings and the bubbles haven't gotten to your head, it's time for a hot air balloon! This isn’t just for the kiddies, it's the most gentle and relaxing thrill you can get that's legal. Sunset is the perfect time for it (and remember to take some of the wine you just bought and some smelly cheeses and lavosh from the Smelly Cheese shop — they do good cheese boards here too.) One place that does ballooning is Balloon Aloft, but there's plenty of options. Apart from the noise when the gas gets released, it's like you’re floating on a marshmallow. Can't get much more romantic than that (unless the marshmallow is being toasted on a fire). If you've taken it easy on the wine tastings, another afternoon plan could be a horse ride with the kangaroos. You'll score a large dose of fresh air and most are pretty gentle rides (unless you get a particularly spirited horse who doesn't like following trails much. There's always one). Lie Down in the Valley By this point, your eyes will most likely be ready to shut (either from the wine, or the activities), so it's worth hitting the bed, pronto. You could try out a suite at the Chateau Elan at The Vintage, if spas and golf are your thing. Or for views over the Brokenback mountain range, you could try Talga Estate — a good option for a big bunch of friends. The barbecue on the verandah is perfect for your own cook-up. If you're not quite sure what you're after, Hunter Valley Resort is worth checking out. It's got a wine school, horse and carriage tours, a wine theatre, vineyard tours and a whole lot more. We figure that if you're surrounded by wine, like you are at the Hunter, you might as well know a thing or two about it. You’ll find out the correct way to swirl the wine in your glass, really give it a good looking at, create air while sipping it and feeling it in your mouth. Or you could just drink it. The Quest Singleton is near the local shopping area, and if you're already feeling a bit wine and cheesed out — you can hit the gym. Yep, there are a lot of options. Sunny Side Up Hopefully hangover free, the next morning you’ll be needing a big breakfast. There are options in all of the hotels, or you could try out Cafe Enzo for a meal next to a fountain, and then look at the antiques next door. They usually have awesome vintage cheese knives — as well as a whole lot of random goodness, and very expensive antique engagement rings. Hint hint. Botanica and Esca are fancier options for a brunch or lunch or any time really. At Esca you can arrive by helicopter if that's the way you roll. Just remember to pack oversized sunnies and a designer bag to make this really work. Make sure you try the white or red wine tasting plate, which comes with a trio of smaller meals. Or you could make a picnic and find a scenic spot to park your bottom for the day. Last-minute leisure Before you head home, remember to stock up on wine (if you've finished it all off by now), cheese, chocolates and some more fresh air. And if you’ve got time, go for a spa treatment. The Hunter is all about spoiling yourself, inside and out. Even if you spend Monday rubbing your cheese belly or feeling slightly pickled. Just make sure you pack a friend who is a good ol' responsible driver, and you'll be just fine. Regional NSW is on sale now at Lastminute.com.au. You can check out The Hunter options on sale here.
Back in 2018, the big friendly giant of the streaming world announced that it had found itself a golden ticket, with Netflix planning to bring the work of beloved author Roald Dahl to its platform. But if that news made you more excited than Charlie Bucket walking into Willy Wonka's chocolate factory, you've probably noticed that nothing else has happened over the past year — until now. While Netflix's new Dahl-based shows aren't hitting the streamer just yet, the company has revealed just what it's focusing on to begin with — and who they're working with. To the surprise of no one given that it has already been adapted into a movie twice, as well as into a stage musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is the first book getting the Netflix treatment. To the delight of fans of Boy, What We Do in the Shadows, Hunt for the Wilderpeople and Thor: Ragnarok, Taika Waititi will be writing, directing and executive producing two series based on the beloved tale about a poverty-stricken boy visiting a sweet and wondrous place. The first, called Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, will be based on the world and characters of the book — so you can probably expect everlasting gobstoppers and chocolate rivers aplenty, plus appearances not only by the Bucket family, but by Veruca Salt, Augustus Gloop and Willy Wonka, too. If you noticed that we didn't mention Oompa-Loompas above, that's because they're getting their own show. It's named The Oompa-Loompas, naturally, and it'll offer a new take on the factory's small human workers. [caption id="attachment_573711" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Hunt for the Wilderpeople[/caption] Fresh from winning an Oscar for Jojo Rabbit, Waititi is presumably slotting the two animated programs onto his schedule after upcoming Marvel sequel Thor: Love and Thunder. Whenever the Netflix shows do join the New Zealand filmmaker's increasingly busy resume, they'll "retain the quintessential spirit and tone of the original story while building out the world and characters far beyond the pages of the Dahl book for the very first time," according to the streaming platform's announcement. In total, a whopping 16 of Dahl's classic books are in Netflix's sights. Teaming up with The Roald Dahl Story Company, the outfit is turning everything from Matilda to The Twits into new animated television shows — and The BFG, Esio Trot, George's Marvellous Medicine, The Enormous Crocodile, The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me, Henry Sugar, Billy and the Minpins, The Magic Finger, Dirty Beasts and Rhyme Stew as well. Dahl's autobiographical efforts Boy – Tales of Childhood and Going Solo will also hit the service, with one detailing Dahl's youth and the other delving into his journeys to Africa as well as his service in World War II. For many, including the tales about the author himself, it'll be the first time that they've been adapted for the screen. Netflix plans to turn Dahl's stories into event series and specials — so limited-run shows across a number of episodes, plus one-offs. There's still no word on when work will start, however, or when Waititi's or any of the other series will start dropping on the platform — although you can watch the 90s live-action versions of Matilda and The Witches on the streamer right now. If you're keen for a taste of the first-ever screen adaptation of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, revisit the trailer for 1971's Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2cBja3AbahY Top image: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
Ten months in, 2020 has served up all manner of challenges and surprises. But in one area at least, it's rolling on as planned. Because few years can sneak by without serving up multiple new film and/or television adaptations of Stephen King's work, viewers are about to score 2020's latest — a new mini-series version of the author's 1978 novel The Stand. Due to hit American streaming services in December — with release plans Down Under yet to be revealed — The Stand joins HBO's The Outsider as the two new TV shows bringing King's work to our eyeballs this year. Of course, as avid fans will know, this isn't the first time this particular book has made the leap to the screen. Back in 1994, it aired as a big-budget, star-studded, four-part mini-series featuring the likes of Gary Sinise, Miguel Ferrer, Rob Lowe, Ruby Dee, Laura San Giacomo, Molly Ringwald and Ed Harris. Plenty of well-known names are onboard this time around, too, because there's quite the sprawling story to tell. And, quite the timely one, although that's obviously pure coincidence. The Stand is set in a world devastated by a plague, with a battle between good and evil playing out among the survivors. Featuring prominently is the character of Randall Flagg, a common figure in King's work (see: The Eyes of the Dragon and The Dark Tower series). Alexander Skarsgård plays Flagg, while the rest of the cast includes James Marsden, Whoopi Goldberg, Amber Heard and Heather Graham, as well as Watchmen's Jovan Adepo, Paper Towns' Nat Wolff, IT: Chapter Two's Owen Teague, Arrow's Katherine McNamara, and Australian Shirley and The Daughter actor Odessa Young. Behind the lens, The Stand is the latest project from filmmaker Josh Boone — whose latest movie, The New Mutants, hit cinemas in the past few months after years of delays. Check out the trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l--4gu4CQBM The Stand screens in the US from December 17 via CBS All Access — we'll update you with an air date Down Under when one is announced. Top image: CBS All Access.
Because you're reading this, we know you're not someone who received a pet for Christmas, only to decide it wasn't for you. We know you're one of the good folks. You're probably wishing that you did receive a loveable animal as a gift, even if you already have one — or several — that you adore. We understand your yearning, and so does RSPCA New South Wales. And, to find permanent homes for the many felines surrendered into its care from all over the state, it's lowering the adoption fee for both kittens and adult cats. If you'd like to welcome a tiny mouser into your abode, you'll pay $150. For a cat that's aged six months or older, you'll pay $100. The initiative runs until Sunday, April 25. Although you can't put a price on the happiness that a new purring, slightly standoffish pet will bring, it's hoped that the low adoption fee will encourage people who have been thinking about adding a cat to their fam (and have considered it thoroughly) to make the commitment this month. And, you could adopt Snoopy, Cricket, Rosa or Ramjet — or any of this long list of cats that need a home. View this post on Instagram A post shared by RSPCA NSW (@rspcansw) The reduced adoption fees are available at all shelters across NSW, other than Petbarn locations and RSPCA volunteer branches. The adoption fees — which usually cost $230 for kittens and $180 for adult cats — help cover some of the costs of vaccines, training and microchipping for the animals. There's more to pet adoption than overdosing on cuteness, of course, becase making the commitment to care for an animal is serious business. For further information, read RSPCA's adoption page and head to a shelter this month. RSPCA NSW's cat adoption drive runs until Sunday, April 25 at all RSPCA NSW shelters.
After a royally stacked first month in action, The Landsdowne is back with a massive live music push. Following an opening night supergroup appearance by The Jezabels lead singer Hayley Mary, the whole band is taking over the stage for a week-long party. They'll be playing seven shows over seven consecutive nights, from Monday, August 21 to Sunday, August 27. Hit every show and you'll probably hear most of the ARIA Award winners' back catalogue, plus a bunch of new tunes. The Jezabels launched their third album, Synthia, last year to positive reviews, including a five-star write-up from The Guardian. Each night, there'll be a different support act, including Didirri (solo), Sunscreen and Soma. "We had a few reasons for doing seven nights at the Lansdowne," said Mary. "We wanted to play a bunch of small, intimate shows to our Sydney fans where we could change up the set and play some songs we wouldn't normally have time for and the reopened Lansdowne represents such an awesome new era for Sydney that it seemed right it should be there. But mainly, we felt a sadistic kind of pleasure in making the staff listen to us over and over to the point of sheer disdain." Images: Chris Frape, Cybele Malinowski.
There's nothing quite like getting spirited away by a Hayao Miyazaki movie. Studio Ghibli isn't short on enchanting on-screen wonders hailing from a range of filmmakers, but the Japanese animation house's best-known co-founder truly does make films like no one else. Since 2013, however, fans have had a Miyazaki-shaped gap in their lives, ever since the director's last feature The Wind Rises reached screens. In fact, the movie maestro even announced his retirement, but thankfully changed his mind quickly. Since news that director wasn't farewelling filmmaking came to light, no new Miyazaki-directed features have hit screens as yet — but that's finally changing in 2023. After gifting the world a short trailer for the now-open Studio Ghibli theme park, the filmmaker will release his latest full-length effort midyear in Japan. Fingers crossed that it arrives Down Under around the same time. That film? How Do You Live, which has been in the works ever since it was announced that Miyazaki was returning from his short-lived retirement. Few details have been unveiled since, but Ghibli has just locked in that July 14 Japanese release date, and dropped a poster. The new feature film from director Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli has been announced! HOW DO YOU LIVE (tentative title) opens in theaters in Japan on July 14, 2023. https://t.co/fHnLM6epTS — Studio Ghibli (@GhibliUSA) December 13, 2022 As reported by Variety, How Do You Live is believed to be based on a YA book from 1937 by Genzaburo Yoshino, and to focus on a 15-year-old boy. Ghibli films are always about journeys of some sort, and this one is expected to hone in on its central teen's efforts to understand the meaning of life, and cope with poverty, via advice from his uncle in a journal. How Do You Live will mark Ghibli's fifth film since Miyazaki's last feature, following Isao Takahata's The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, page-to-screen treat When Marnie Was There, gorgeous French co-production The Red Turtle and the CGI-animated Earwig and the Witch. おはようございます。 pic.twitter.com/ayRkppbmT1 — スタジオジブリ STUDIO GHIBLI (@JP_GHIBLI) December 12, 2022 The movie gods are clearly shining upon 2023, and every film lover's must-watch list now has a couple of spectacular entries for the new year — with My Neighbour Totoro, Spirited Away and Howl's Moving Castle icon Miyazaki's new flick set to drop around the same time as Wes Anderson's latest Asteroid City. Like that film, it's easy to predict that How Do You Live might premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May ahead of its Japanese release — and ideally hit the midyear film festival circuit Down Under (aka the Sydney Film Festival, Melbourne International Film Festival and New Zealand International Film Festival). There's no trailer for How Do You Live yet, but you can get excited by revisiting the trailer for Miyazaki's The Wind Rises: How Do You Live will release in Japan on July 14, 2023. The film doesn't yet have a release date Down Under — we'll update you when one is announced. Top image: How Do You Live poster, Studio Ghibli.
Sydney artist management, touring company and all round nice guys, Astral People, have rounded up their buds with Stones Throw whiz kid Jonti to pay tribute to Melbourne electronic legends The Avalanches — in particular their seminal album Since I Left You. Celebrated as the biggest Australian album of its decade, the 2000 album was apparently assembled from approximately 3,500 vinyl samples, selling over a million copies and winning multiple ARIAs. In a project originally developed for 2013's OutsideIn Festival (gaining thumbs way up from The Avalanches themselves), Jonti will re-visualise those thousands of vinyl samples onstage on May 24 with the help of a ten piece band; including celebrated Sydney alt-pop singer-producer Rainbow Chan. If you're wanting more Astral love, check out their Studio party; with Chicago acid house pioneer Phuture's Australian debut; the collaborative project of L-Vis 1990 and Bok Bok, Night Slugs; Andras Fox playing everything live; and Sydney favourites Ben Fester, Preacha and Rainbow Chan kicking on 'til 3am. The Astral People crew have created a playlist for Concrete Playground to get you geared up for the event over here, so get amongst it. https://youtube.com/watch?v=VfAuFAgHpzc
After a huge month with Neil Perry at the helm, Two Good Cafe has now appointed Paul Farag, AALIA's Executive Chef, as head honcho for April. For you, dear readers, that means 30 days of Middle Eastern-inspired deliciousness. The hero of Farag's menu is undoubtedly the toastie, where succulent slow-cooked lamb is layered with melty cow's milk halloumi and fresh, herby chermoula. The fattoush salad – sprinkled with pomegranates, radishes and red onions – is also a knock out. And you'll want to end with Farag's take on the Anzac biscuit, infused with tahini. Whatever you choose, you can rest safe in the knowledge that every cent you spend is going towards at-risk women. Two Good was founded to help those affected by domestic violence, homelessness and trauma to find employment. Farag's menu will be available at Two Good Cafe in Yirranma Place, Darlinghurst, or, if you're hosting an event, opt for catering. Either way, he'll pick up sticks at the end of April to make space for May's chef-of-the-month.
If you managed to nab a ticket to Paul Kelly's Making Gravy tour in Melbourne last year, then you were one of the lucky ones. If you weren't and have been lamenting ever since, you can stop. The songwriting legend has just announced that he'll be performing the show all over again this December, in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. As in 2017, you can expect to hear a stack of songs from Kelly's four-decade long career. Listen out for all the hits, from "Dumb Things", from the album Live, May 1992, to "Love Never Runs On Time" from Wanted Man (1994). The Christmas classic "How To Make Gravy", first released in 1996 on an eponymous EP, is on the menu, too. Chances are, you'll also hear some tunes from Kelly's new album, Nature. Due out on 12 October, it features poems by Dylan Thomas, Walt Whitman, Sylvia Plath, Gerard Manley Hopkins and Phillip Larkin, alongside original poems and songs. Last year, his 23rd studio album, Life is Fine, topped the ARIA Albums Chart, becoming the first of his albums to do so. Kelly won't be hitting the road alone: he's inviting a bunch of special guests. He'll be joined by Angus & Julia Stone, playing tunes from 2017 album Snow, Alex Lahey at all shows, with Angie McMahon and D.D Dumbo joining the lineup in Sydney, and Mojo Juju jumping on board in Melbourne and Brisbane. All three shows are outdoors and all-ages. Paul Kelly Making Gravy presale tickets will be available from 2pm on Monday, August 20. General sales will kick off at 10am on Thursday, August 23. Paul Kelly Making Gravy will hit Sydney's Domain on Saturday, December 15; Melbourne's Sidney Myer Music Bowl on Friday, December 14; and Brisbane's Riverstage on Friday, December 21. Image: Cybele Malinowski
Tents at the ready: when 2023 ends and 2024 begins, there are few better ways to spend it than dancing and camping at southeast Queensland's Woodford Folk Festival. This isn't just a fest. It's a pop-up Moreton Bay village filled with live music, arts and culture. And it's returning for another year with a heap of well-known Australian — and Brisbane — names. Throwing back to the late 90s and early 00s, Regurgitator, Custard and Resin Dogs will all take to the Woodford stage between Wednesday, December 27, 2023–Monday, January 1, 2024 at Woodfordia on the Sunshine Coast. Also hailing from Brissie, along with plenty of the festival's attendees each year: Kate Miller-Heidke. Woodford 2023–24's roster of talent includes Ben Lee, Gretta Ray, Isaiah Firebrace and Kasey Chambers as well, on a list that spans more than 400 acts and 1834 shows. So, across the fest's 27 performance spaces, there'll be no shortage of things for the expected 120,000 people attending to see at Woodfordia's 500-acre parklands space (which now boasts a lake) — whether they're among the 25,000 folks who can stay onsite or just hitting up the event for the day. Accordingly, whoever piques your interest, or even if you're just keen on a Woodford experience — for the first time, tenth or 36th, because that's how many fests the event has notched up now — prepare to catch a heap of bands, wander between arts performances and get a little muddy, all around 90 minutes north of Brisbane. As always, the fest's lineup also features circus, cabaret, yoga, dance, comedy, spoken word, poetry, comedy, films, workshops, bars, cafes and restaurants. Keen to have a chat while your clothes was at The Blak Laundry? Learn to weave baskets with Kris Martin? Get giggling to talents curated by Sandeep Totlani? Hit up the Queer Ball's third year? They're some of the other standouts. Tickets are already on sale, with more highlights from the 2023–24 lineup below — and you can check out the full list of acts and activities on the Woodford website. WOODFORD 2023–24 LINEUP HIGHLIGHTS: Regurgitator Custard Resin Dogs Ben Lee Kate Miller-Heidke Isaiah Firebrace Kasey Chambers Mo'Ju Gretta Ra Odette Yirrmal A.Girl AFRO DIZZI ACT Felicity Urquhart & Josh Cunningham The East Pointers Haiku Hands Leah Flanagan Borroloola Cultural Songwomen featuring Dr Shellie Morris AO Bumpy FourPlay String Quartet Yirinda Charlie Needs Braces Mitch King DancingWater ALPHAMAMA Jack Davies & the Bush Chooks Charm of Finches Dougie Maclean Assynt Ryan Young Hannah Rarity Dallahan Lisa O'Neill Andy Irvine Making Movies Rizo Božo Vrečo The 2023–24 Woodford Folk Festival runs from Wednesday, December 27, 2023–Monday, January 1, 2024 at Woodfordia on the Sunshine Coast. For more information, head to woodfordfolkfestival.com Images: Woodford Folk Festival via Flickr.
