Australians have hotly anticipated the opening of the very first Il Mercato Centrale in Melbourne ever since it was first announced in 2022. At that time, it was expected to launch late the same year. But it's now 2024, and we still have no hard date for its opening. The highly ambitious venture came across a heap of setbacks, as the team behind it is determined to create a hospitality venue unlike anything that Melbourne has ever seen. All the red tape has now been sorted, however, and construction is charging ahead at 546 Collins Street at lightning speed. [caption id="attachment_856983" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Il Mercato Centrale in Turin[/caption] First off, the 3500-square-metre space, spread across three stories, truly is enormous. The first floor will have a market feel to it but with more flash, fun and tech. Each of the vendors will be slinging their own specialty goods, with none competing with the other. There'll be a bakery, patisserie, pasta shop, pizza joint, cheese maker, butcher and seafood stall, to name a few. Here, you can get fresh produce to take away or order it to be cooked up right in front of you. That means that you can buy a steak to eat at home or ask them to pop it on the grill while you start on some wine that you ordered from the bar right in the centre of the ground floor. Want to make it a surf and turf? Order some grilled calamari from the seafood stall next door and create your own feast. Conveniently, you'll be able to order from any and all vendors all in one transaction by using a QR code — or even pre-order from your office to pick up when it's ready. It going to be one of the easiest Melbourne food halls to order from. Then, on the second floor of Melbourne's Il Mercato Centrale, you'll find a fine-dining restaurant, cocktail bar, pasta restaurant (all made by hand), pizzeria, gelateria, wine bar, a gin and vodka distillery, and live music stage. We told you, it's huge. Up here, you'll even be able to order some of the food from downstairs to be delivered to you. Say you're sipping on a negroni at the bar upstairs and get a bit hungry. All you've got to do is order a cheeseboard and perhaps some slices of pizza on your phone, and the team will bring it up to you. If it all works out how the crew wants it to, it will be a huge feat of tech and service ingenuity. The top floor of Il Mercato Centrale will then be dedicated to private events and masterclasses, where each of the vendors will run workshops on their particular trades each month. [caption id="attachment_856981" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Il Mercato Centrale Rome[/caption] There will even be a big outdoor seating area right on Collins Street, something that was not easy for the Il Mercato Centrale team to secure. Taking Concrete Playground on a tour of the site, General Manager Gary Patikkis couldn't share the details about the outside area, but he noted that it is set to be unlike any other street-level drinking and dining space in the CBD. The venue will have a 3am liquor license (another rarity for new venues in Melbourne) and be open until from 7am–12am every day of the week. Patikkis was reluctant to share any opening dates, but rest assured that Il Mercato Centrale is coming. And Melburnians and visitors alike hopefully won't have to wait much longer before being able to dine on a massive range of Italian eats in the Victorian capital's CBD. [caption id="attachment_856978" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Il Mercato Centrale Firenze[/caption] Mercato Centrale Melbourne is set to open at 546 Collins Street, Melbourne. We'll share more information as it is announced, and you can head to the venue's website in the interim. Top image: Il Mercato Centrale Milan.
"They're hard and they're brutal and they're specific, but I know how to do it." So says Carmy (Jeremy Allen White, The Iron Claw) to his brother Michael (Jon Bernthal, Origin) in the flashback that opens the full trailer for The Bear season three. How true that claim will prove is the focus of this new batch of episodes — and, based on this latest sneak peek, it's going to be anything but an easy journey. What happens when a sandwich diner levels up in a big way, becoming a fine-diner that's angling for a spot among Chicago's very best restaurants, chasing perfection and a Michelin star? Fans of The Bear will soon find out. As not only the just-dropped new glimpse shows, but also two earlier teaser trailers, culinary chaos remains on the menu alongside the rotating array of dishes that Carmy keeps conjuring up in the name of kitchen creativity. Whether Sydney (Ayo Edebiri, Bottoms) is advising that "this is a dysfunctional kitchen" or Carmy and Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach, No Hard Feelings) are asking her to "show me a functional one" in response, the three trailers are teeming with the hustle and bustle of the trio, and their colleagues, friends and family, working through the reality of having made their hospitality dreams come true. In season three, The Bear's namesake restaurant is now open, after Carmy, Sydney, Richie and the team transformed their beef-slinging eatery (where season one's action took place) into an upscale restaurant (with that process fuelling season two). But staying operational is still a struggle, especially with such higher stakes after the revamp and rebrand. [caption id="attachment_954671" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chuck Hodes/FX[/caption] How that pans out will be revealed on Thursday, June 27 both in the US and Down Under. In the past, there's always been a wait for Aussie and NZ viewers — season one hit in June in America, then in August in Australia; with season two, US viewers still had a June date, while Aussies and New Zealanders had to wait till July — but thankfully that isn't the case this time. Comfort food and winter do go hand in hand, after all — and since 2022, so has this dramedy and the frostiest time of the year Down Under. It was two years back that The Bear debuted to become one of the best new shows on television. In 2023, it then became one of the best returning shows on TV that year. The Bear was renewed for season three in November 2023 to the surprise of no one, but to the joyous shouts of "yes chef!" from everyone. Also, even though that third season hasn't yet dropped, it looks as if the show has been renewed for its fourth season already as well. If you've missed The Bear so far, its first season jumped into the mayhem when Carmy took over the diner after his brother's death. Before returning home, the chef's resume featured Noma and The French Laundry, as well as awards and acclaim. Then, in season two, Carmy worked towards turning the space into an upscale addition to his hometown's dining scene, with help from the restaurant's trusty team — including a roster of talent also spans Abby Elliott (Indebted) as Carmy's sister Natalie, aka Sugar, plus Lionel Boyce (Hap and Leonard), Liza Colón-Zayas (In Treatment), Edwin Lee Gibson (Fargo) and IRL chef Matty Matheson among the other staff. Check out the full trailer for The Bear season three below: The Bear streams via Disney+ in Australia and New Zealand, with season three arriving on Thursday, June 27. Read our review of season one and review of season two.
As part of the flurry of new streaming services competing for our eyeballs, FanForce TV joined the online viewing fold during the COVID-19 pandemic — with the pay-per-view platform not only screening movies, but pairing them with virtual Q&A sessions as well. Now, between Thursday, May 27–Monday, May 31 it's also hosting an online film fest: its third Virtual Indigenous Film Festival. The returning event coincides with National Reconciliation Week, and will showcase five films: High Ground, After the Apology, The Skin of Others, The Xrossing and Firestarter — The Story of Bangarra. That means you can watch your way through an array of Aussie movies focused on Indigenous stories, spanning both dramas and documentaries — and exploring race relations in the process. Sessions will also feature guest speakers, with just who'll be chatting yet to be revealed. And, viewers can tune in on a film-by-film basis, or buy an all-access pass to tune into everything. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3REMs9I9Tg Top image: High Ground.
The Vanguard, Newtown's much-loved live music venue, is back. It has reopened in its old home, at 42 King Street, replacing Leadbelly, which had occupied the space since 2016. Before that, The Vanguard was in situ for 13 years. The return to roots is the initiative of Arash Nabavi, a Sydney orthopaedic surgeon and first-time venue owner, who bought Leadbelly back in May 2018. Since then, he's been gradually restoring its original identity. "I think, all along, we wanted to reconnect with the heritage of the place — get it back to that classic, grungy, rock dog Sydney feel has faded over the past few years," says Jodi Lewis, content marketing and programs manager at Nathan Farrell Entertainment, which books The Vanguard's live music. Central to the change is a shakeup of the gig program. "It's more contemporary and more streamlined," says Lewis. "There are Triple J acts, but, at the same, we're not straying too far from blues, jazz, country and rock." Coming up in the next month are Melbourne singer Jess Ribiero, Newtown trio Scabz and UK blues singer and guitarist Bex Marshall. A bunch of regular happenings are also on the live music lineup, including blues jams and tributes to classic bands and musicians, such as The Doors and Neil Finn. Over the Christmas break, a revamp brought in whizzbang sound equipment, an enormous green room, a renovated kitchen and new furniture. But the first things you'll thing notice are the dazzling red neon signs at the door and the massive mural by inner qest design studio April77 Creative in the laneway. "The feel is halfway between Leadbelly and the old Vanguard," says Lewis. "It's opulent, with velvet curtains and neon, but fresh and contemporary. I'd describe it as a grungy elegance." [caption id="attachment_598080" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Leadbelly by Steven Woodburn.[/caption] The food and drink offerings have gone up a notch, too. New beer taps pour a variety of local craft drops, with Young Henrys tinnies also available, and the cocktail list features a lineup of modern and inventive drops, including the Power and the Passion (dark rum, peach, blood orange and passionfruit) and the Go with the Sloe (sloe gin, cognac, fresh apple, lemon butter and nutmeg). A new food menu is expected to drop later this month, too. The Vanguard will officially launch on Thursday, January 31. A tiny number of tickets to the opening party will be available to the public via giveaway — keep an eye peeled for details on the venue's Facebook page. Otherwise, you can buy tickets to one of the many gigs, already booked at the venue, which kick off this week. The Vanguard is now open at 42 King Street, Newtown.
After an epic May bake sale, Melbourne's Flour Market is returning to Sydney, declaring Saturday, July 30 as a celebration for all things doughy with a market dedicated to doughnuts. Day of the Donut, which will honour Sydney's best baked, holey treats, will surely draw crowds from Sydney's furthest reaches to their temporary Surry Hills doughnut shrine. Vendors will include Brewtown Newtown, Sydney newcomers Short Stop, Aussie mega-chain Doughnut Time and — our personal favourite — Sydney locals Grumpy Donuts, whose wacky doughnut flavours include pink lemonade, sour patch jam and buttered toast. The brown butter frosting and sweet crumbed brioche really does taste like the most decadent slice of toast. Entry is two bucks on the door, with kids under twelve will be admitted for free. For the very serious doughnut lovers out there, a limited number of Early Riser tickets are on sale for ten bucks, allowing ticket holders entry 30 minutes before general admission.
Ah, Romeo and Juliet, the archetypal young lovers. We've all grown up with some version of their story. If you're lucky early Gen Y, it's the Baz Luhrmann film, though the late Gen Ys might not fare so well with the beige-looking soon-to-be-released update starring Hailee Steinfeld and Douglas Booth. In the meantime/Instead of, see what the Sydney Theatre Company and director Kip Williams have done with the classic, packing a few surprises into their grand, visually striking production that looks closely at the Capulets. It begins with a great music-video-like first scene that introduces the monumental, revolving set, which contains a ballroom with a vertiginous black exterior that's somehow equally striking. Inside, young men drink, dance, swing from chandeliers and tussle, but when that room twists away, we're left with just Romeo (Dylan Young), removed from the fray and all up in his head as he paces the streets. Romeo, of course, is in love with love, and although at the moment the object is one Rosaline, she will soon be overtaken by Juliet, whom Romeo meets at a party. That party, and that girl, belongs to his family's "great enemy", the Capulets, and the couple's innocent infatuation leads to famously grave ends. This Romeo and Juliet has some hits and some misses, but the misses are on the whole forgivable in such an ambitious and rich production. Importantly, this is a Romeo and Juliet that goes beyond archetypes to create a story that feels if not new, then fresh. In particular, director Kip Williams and actor Eryn Jean Norvill have created a wonderful Juliet, who is not some blank slate but an anxious, awkward and slightly geeky specific teenage girl. Her love of wordplay shines strongly, and it makes sense that she would fall for Romeo, a guy who, at last, engages with her on her level. That said, Dylan Young as Romeo does little extra to draw her attraction, lacking charisma and compelling delivery. In the supporting roles, Colin Moody and Anna Lise Phillips are the standouts as Juliet's parents, the monstrous Capulets. The energy spikes whenever they walk on the stage. Romeo's crass buddies on Team Montague, Mercutio (Eamon Farren) and Benvolio (Akos Armont), are a nice contrast, although Farren needs to be dialed down a little. We know Shakespeare's pretty words contain some ribald imagery; we don't need near-constant crotch-grabbing to remind us of it. That set, by David Fleischer, is a real show-stopper (it, yes, literally stopped the show for five nights while they fixed the revolving mechanism). It's at its most stunning when creating something like the theatrical version of a tracking shot, although it's also a little overused — a five-degree turn creates a lot of interruption without much payoff. There are also some gorgeous tableaux happening, including a creepy-glam party scene that's real Gossip Girl meets Eyes Wide Shut. Costumes are covetable, and the stripped-back post-intermission stage, based on the evolving image of Juliet's marital bed, is minimalism at its most purposeful and striking. This is one good-looking play. Unfortunately, the second half does drag a little, weighed down by soliloquies that ultimately lead to an underwhelming, unedited version of the ending. But on the sum of its parts, this is a potent and enjoyable version of a classic that can always stand a re-watch.
Possibly Sydney's most loved winter cocktail, the negroni is set for its centennial this June. To celebrate, CBD institution The Morrison Bar & Oyster Room has teamed up with Campari to throw a month-long party dedicated to the bitter and boozy classic. Known for its $1.50 oyster hour between 6-7pm every Wednesday, The Morrison is often bustling with Sydney's well-heeled business crowd. Over Negroni Month, the bar will have a five-strong negroni list. Apart from the classic ($20), there'll be a blood orange version ($20), a sour negroni ($17) with lemon and pineapple, a peach fizz variety ($18) and even one served with a raw oyster on top ($30). You'll be sipping for a good cause too — $1 of every negroni sold will be donated to Australian food rescue charity, OzHarvest. If you want to get even more into the spirit (pun intended), grab tickets for a two-hour Negroni masterclass at The Morrison on Tuesday, July 23 at 6.30pm. Led by Campari expert Tristram Fini, the class will cover the art of the negroni, where you will learn how to master three different recipes (including the Americano). Of course, you'll get to enjoy the fruits of your labour, with each negroni cocktail paired with some Italian antipasti. The evening will cost you $44 all up. Running from Monday, June 24–Wednesday, July 24, The Morrison's Negroni Month will keep you warm with some good ol' firewater this winter. For more information and to nab tickets, head here.
Among the many challenges that Australians have faced over the past year, our love of travel has been hit hard. Domestic border restrictions keep changing with frequency in response to new cases and clusters in different states, meaning that planning a holiday beyond your own city has been more than a little tricky. This was particularly true over Christmas and NYE, when an outbreak on Sydney's northern beaches saw many states quickly shut their borders to NSW — including Victoria. On January 1, 2021, Victoria closed its borders to all of NSW. A week ago, it reopened to regional NSW. From 6pm tonight, Monday, January 18, it's reopening to parts of Greater Sydney, too. From that time, 25 of Greater Sydney's 35 LGAs, as well as the Blue Mountains and Wollongong, will be changing from a 'red zone' to an 'orange zone', as part of Victoria's new traffic light-style system, which means travellers from those areas can enter Victoria — but they'll need to isolate on arrival and get tested within 72 hours, then when they receive a negative result they're free to leave isolation. They'll also have to apply for a permit before entry, too — like all Australians. Last week, Victoria introduced compulsory permits for anyone who wants to enter the state. If you try and enter Victoria without a valid permit, you risk being fined $4957. You can apply for one over here. Travellers who have been in the remaining ten Greater Sydney LGAs in the past 14 days, which are still 'red zones', cannot enter Victoria. Those LGAs are: Blacktown City, Burwood, Canada Bay City, Canterbury-Bankstown, Cumberland, Fairfield City, Inner West, Liverpool City, Parramatta City and Strathfield Municipality. Folks who've been in a red zone can apply to receive an exemption or a specified worker permit. The former covers instances such as emergency relocations, funerals, essential medical care, and people needing to return home for health, wellbeing, care or compassionate reasons. https://twitter.com/VicGovDHHS/status/1350957562263384069 From 6pm tonight, NSW towns along the Victorian border will also move to 'green zones'. Travellers entering Victoria from a 'green zone' still need to apply for a permit, but do not need to get tested or isolate on arrival, unless they develop symptoms. These new 'green zones' include: Albury City, Balranald Shire, Bega Valley Shire, Berrigan Shire, City of Broken Hill, Edward River Council, Federation Council, Greater Hume Shire, Hay Shire, Lockhart Shire, Murray River Council, Murrumbidgee Council, Snowy Monaro Regional Council, Snowy Valleys Council, City of Wagga Wagga and Wentworth Shire. The loosened border restrictions come as Victoria records its 12th consecutive day of zero new cases of community transmission. Overnight, the state did record four new cases in hotel quarantine, all of which are linked to the Australian Open. https://twitter.com/VicGovDHHS/status/1350938786365120517 Of course, the current designated zones and regulations are subject to change, with Premier Daniel Andrews advising that designated red zones would be reviewed daily. Victoria also reclassified the LGAs of Greater Brisbane as 'orange zones' from 6pm on Saturday, January 16. For more information on Victoria's new permit system — or to apply for one — head to the Department of Health and Human Services website.
Sculpture by the Sea didn't grace the Bondi-Tamarama coastal walk last year, and isn't set to until October this year. But if you're eager to go for a wander, check out large-scale pieces of art and enjoy the great outdoors, you can head to The Rocks this May and June for a new free exhibition called Sculpture Rocks. Set to display from Thursday, May 20–Wednesday, June 3, Sculpture Rocks will feature 18 works from 14 sculptors, with Japanese artists in the spotlight. You'll be peering at pieces by Keizo Ushio, Takeshi Tanabe, Mitsuo Takeuchi, Ayako Saito and Akira Kamada, among others — and from artists who currently hail from both Japan and Australia. Presented by the Sculpture by the Sea team alongside Place Management NSW and the Port Authority of NSW, the exhibition will ape one of the most stunning — and most popular — things about its sibling event, too: the waterside view. You'll be moseying along the Sydney Harbour foreshore area, including between the Overseas Passenger Terminal, along Campbells Cove and up to Hickson Reserve next to the Park Hyatt Hotel. Basically, think of it as a smaller version, in a similarly striking spot, and with a specific focus. An indoor exhibition, called Sculpture Inside Rocks, will also take place at the same time at Campbell's Stores. Images: Gareth Carr.
Both Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement will be present when Flight of the Conchords make a long-awaited, eagerly anticipated return to television — as part of a one-off live special filmed during the duo's recent sold-out tour. Announced earlier in 2018, Flight of the Conchords: Live at the London Apollo has now been given a US airdate, with the special screening on HBO in America on Saturday, October 6. As the name really does makes plain, it was recorded in the UK, where Flight of Conchords took their show on the road in March and then returned in late June and early July, following a forced break after McKenzie broke his hand. Yes, it'll be business time, Bowie will be in space and no one will have hurt feelings. Fans can expect to hear the classic tracks that everyone has had stuck in their heads since the folk parody pair's TV series aired between 2007 and 2009, of course, as well as a few new songs. It's also a case of Conchords almost coming full circle, with nabbing a spot on HBO's One Night Stand in the mid-00s one of their big breaks. Just when and where the new special will appear on TVs outside of the US has yet to be revealed, but in the interim, check out the date announcement video featuring McKenzie and Clement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLZQfnFyelTBOQ15kmHSgEbdjzLMWzZpL7&v=xz_-9PlcouE
New Year's Day can be a tough one. Resolutions to vaguely commit to, missed midnight pashes to mourn, dusty bear heads to nurse. There's only one real cure for the escapades of New Year's Eve: salt water, free-flowing Veuve Cliquot and one of Sydney's most ostentatious parties. The top spot for 'who dat, who dat' people-watching and jealousy-inducing Instagramming, Bondi Icebergs has announced the 2015 lineup for their infamously exclusive Icebergs New Year's Day Party. Set atop one of Bondi's most postcardy venues, Icebergs' NYD pool party is the Field Day for punters who want things a little more high-heeled and beachside. For a cheeky four hundy (yep, that's a casual $400 per ticket), you can compare New Year's resolutions with Bondi's chia-lovin' party people and throw back as much Veuve, Ciroc Vodka and head chef Monty Kulodrovic-crafted canapes as your NYE regrets require. Hosted by Icebergs' Maurice Terzini and musically curated by Angus McDonald (one half of Sneaky Sound System), the lineup is a beats-heavy fusion of Sydney-born, California-based shindig starters Bag Raiders, LA disco kings Poolside, Spice Cellar's Murat Kilic, (of course) Sneaky Sound System, ARIA-nominated Nicky Night Time, resident Icebergs go-to Miss Annie and newcomers Slowblow, Marc Jarvin and Pink Lloyd, Valerie Yum and Sam Francisco. Recent instalments have welcomed the first glorious day of the new year with the likes of Flight Facilities, Frankie Knuckles, Aeroplane and The Cuban Brothers, and so continues yearly furious discussions surrounding the moment the bass is likely to drop. “The 2015 event promises to be our best yet, with our recently refreshed interior design, a belter of a line-up and a pumping sound system, the place is going to be rocking," says Terzini. "It’s my favourite day of the year — we strip out all of the tables and chairs and turn what is on a normal day, one of Sydney’s top restaurants, into one of the world’s most energetic beach clubs." Exclusive beach parties with four-hundy price tags obviously aren't the easiest things in the world to chuck your name on the door for. Ticket registration is rather mysterious, through this link here. VIP packages are also be available if you've got cash to drop, hit up the team at VIP2015@idrb.com.
If lockdown's seen you devouring books faster than ever, you might be looking for some fresh literary inspiration right about now. And one place you're guaranteed to find it is among Melbourne Writers Festival's 2021 program, which is now set to be reimagined as an all-virtual lineup. The festival's IRL events have been scrapped due to Melbourne's latest lockdown, but in good news — the extended digital program will run from Friday, September 3–Wednesday, September 15. It'll shine a spotlight on some of today's most engaging international literary voices, through a series of conversations, readings, author chats and panel discussions, all streamed online. Among them, Rumaan Alam unpacks his eerily-pertinent dystopian tale Leave the World Behind; Pulitzer Prize-winner Jhumpa Lahiri speaks about the literary construction of Whereabouts; Natasha Brown explores the issues of race and class stirred up in her lauded new novel Assembly; renowned philosopher AC Grayling ponders the great paradox of human inquiry while chatting about his release Frontiers of Knowledge; and the tales of a cast of young creatives come alive as Brandon Taylor shares insight into his short story collection Filthy Animals. Plus, on September 3, a specially commissioned short documentary series Writers on Film invites audiences on a guided tour into the lives and worlds of local authors Jennifer Down, Sophie Cunningham and Tony Birch. [caption id="attachment_823151" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Natasha Brown, author of 'Assembly'[/caption] Top images: Jhumpa Lahiri, author of 'Whereabouts' and Rumaan Alam, author of 'Leave the World Behind.
If you like your cinema experiences shaken, not stirred, then the 2022 British Film Festival has just the thing for you. Taking its array of Brit flicks around the country between Tuesday, October 18–Wednesday, November 16, this year's fest is turning itself into a big 60th birthday party — not for the Australia-wide cinema showcase itself, which only dates back around a decade, but for all things Bond, James Bond. 2022 marks six decades since Dr No, the first movie in the 007 franchise, first graced cinemas — and yes, it'll be the British Film Festival's screens to commemorate the occasion. Also hitting picture palaces in Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane, Perth and Byron Bay: You Only Live Twice, because two Sean Connery-starring Bond films are better than one; On Your Majesty's Secret Service with Australia's Bond George Lazenby; and Daniel Craig doing his brooding Bond in Skyfall. They're just some of the titles among the fest's first lineup announcement, with the full British Film Festival program set to drop on Thursday, September 29. Can't wait till then? A handful of other flicks have already been announced — and, as always at this cinema showcase, they're filled with familiar faces. Arriving Down Under after wowing the global festival circuit, The Banshees of Inisherin marks the reunion of In Bruges writer/director Martin McDonagh (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri) and his stars Colin Farrell (After Yang) and Brendan Gleeson (The Tragedy of Macbeth). This time around, the latter pair star in a story about two lifelong friends who go for a pint everyday until a dispute gets in the way, with their feud also impacting the entire village. Also on the bill: an Emily Brontë biopic, aptly named Emily, directed by Australia actor-turned-filmmaker Frances O'Connor (The End); more sea shanties in song-filled sequel Fisherman's Friends 2: One and All; the Bill Nighy (The Man Who Fell to Earth)-starring Living, about a terminally ill man in the 1950s; and The Lost King, which takes inspiration from the IRL discovery of King Richard III's remains beneath a Leicester car park. And, opening the fest is Mrs Harris Goes to Paris, set in the world of French fashion, with Oscar-nominated Phantom Thread actor Lesley Manville in the titular role. BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL 2022 DATES: Tuesday, October 18–Wednesday, November 16 — Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas and Palace Nova Prospect Cinemas, Adelaide Wednesday, October 19–Wednesday, November 16 — Palace Norton, Palace Verona, Palace Central and Chauvel Cinema, Sydney Wednesday, October 19–Wednesday, November 16 — Palace Electric, Canberra Wednesday, October 19–Wednesday, November 16 — Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, The Kino, Pentridge Cinema and The Astor, Melbourne Wednesday, October 19–Wednesday, November 16 — Palace James Street and Palace Centro, Brisbane Wednesday, October 19–Wednesday, November 16— Palace Raine Square, Luna Leederville, Luna on SX and Windsor Cinema, Perth Wednesday, October 19–Wednesday, November 16 — Palace Byron Bay, Byron Bay The 2022 British Film Festival tours Australia between Tuesday, October 18–Wednesday, November 16. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website. We'll update you with the full program on Thursday, September 29.
If you're a firm believer that the best cabaret shows also happen to be the most immersive, then prepare to check in to L'Hôtel. A French-themed production that's filled with burlesque, circus and aerial performances, it's taking over the Sydney Opera House this spring — and turning the venue's studio into a French hotel. Obviously, you won't be able to slumber at the iconic spot for the night. That said, you will find yourself surrounded by a dinner theatre experience that takes its theming extremely seriously. So, you'll watch, eat, drink and feel like you've been spirited away to a hotel called L'Hôtel, complete with a lobby setup and a cast of characters that call the spot home. Accordingly, as L'Hôtel works its magic, you'll dine away, with the performance taking place around you. That'll include peering behind closed doors, into the lives of the production's characters, all while sipping GH Mumm champagne and tucking into fine French food that'll be delivered by the show's wait staff ensemble. [caption id="attachment_857580" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] L'Hôtel first premiered at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival in 2021, selling out its season, and now heads to Sydney from October 12–November 13. And, it comes with quite the pedigree, with Craig Ilott directing — after doing the same on Smoke & Mirrors, which nabbed three Helpmann Awards. Among the cast, you'll recognise singer, songwriter and actor Brendan Maclean (The Great Gatsby); Parisian-based jazz singer Caroline Nin; aerialist Masha Terentieva, who has performed with Cirque du Soleil; and Belgium's Florian Brooks, a specialist in juggling and manipulation. And, there's Australians Beau Sargent, Bri Emrich and CJ Shuttleworth, too, plus American dancer, choreographer and pole artist Bentley Rebel. [caption id="attachment_857579" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Claudio Raschella[/caption] L'Hôtel will play Sydney Opera House's Studio from October 12–November 13, 2022. For more information, or to buy tickets — with pre-sales from 8am on Wednesday, June 15 and general sales from 9am on Friday, June 17 — head to the Sydney Opera House website. Top images: Claudio Raschella.
Workhorse Theatre Company’s The Motherfucker with the Hat shows human love at its dirtiest, and human savagery at its purest. Set in a lower class New York neighbourhood, where addiction is the only respite from the rough reality of the everyday, Jackie (Troy Harrison) completes his prison sentence and tries desperately to return to the straight-and-narrow. He’s hindered by the coke-using, expletive-slinging love of his life, Veronica (Zoe Trilsbach). Just when he finds employment and life is looking up, Jackie finds another man’s hat in Veronica’s apartment. The play follows the life-churning combo of love, jealousy and betrayal after the discovery of the offending headwear. Writer Stephen Adly Guirgis provides a phenomenally fun script, which the five actors in the Darlinghurst Theatre Company production clearly relish. Trilsbach handles the text best, with a raw, resonant voice that fires words like gunshots. A few Aussie accents peeked through the slack-jawed, working-class Bronx accents, which made me wonder if the foreign accents were entirely necessary. Surely director Adam Cook decided the text was so Yonkers it needed the accents, but with the amount of imported drama on our stages, an exaggerated or faulty accent can create caricature. It’s initially harder to relate this play’s themes to our Australian context. Yet, the themes are there for the applying — starting with the focus on addiction and recovery. I found myself contemplating the Aussie drinking culture, where functional alcoholism is allowed to breed freely. Adly Guirgis turns the AA catchcry “one day at a time” on its head, causing us to ask if adulthood means simply using each other for self-interested gains. Was the time for love and friendship during childhood, and long gone? The biggest flaw in this production is the scenic transitions. There is a blackout and full set change between every scene, which gets tedious and requires five actors and two stagehands to manoeuvre multiple pieces of furniture. The play would be much shorter, more engaging and more efficient with a pared-back set. One begins to wonder if they are simply showing off their resources or assume their audience is a bit silly. Do go to The Motherfucker for an intelligent and morally challenging script. Just have patience (and dinner beforehand) to stay mentally alert during the scene changes.
Set on a serene peninsula surrounded by Lake Wakatipu, the Queenstown Gardens boasts stunning lake and alpine views as well as a beautiful collection of blooms. Frequented by locals and visitors alike, the gardens' tranquil setting is the perfect refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. As the gardens are conveniently located a short walk from downtown Queenstown, many community activities are held within the grounds. We suggest taking a rug, a picnic and some friends, kicking back and enjoy the views of the lake through the Douglas Firs. Once you're sufficiently relaxed, stretch your legs and take a stroll around the beautiful lawns. Be sure to check out the water feature and rose garden for an added bit of pretty.
A whole month of gastronomic delights awaits Sydneysiders this October with the return of the Crave Sydney International Food Festival. The jam-packed festival programme will be showcasing the best of local and international cuisine, with a dizzying array of culinary events and experiences. With a South American theme this year, some of the continent’s most renowned chef’s will be visiting the city to share their food knowledge and skills with us. You can see them at work at the World Chef Showcases October 1st and 2nd, at the Hilton Sydney, where renowned international chefs will be pairing with some of Sydney’s finest to swap ideas and knowledge. Not only will see these masters working first hand, you'll get to learn and sample the dishes. There’s something for everyone, from showcases, discussions and masterclasses with some of the world’s best chefs, to food tours, markets, kids events, and community festivals. For the braver amongst you, dine alongside the lions at Taronga Zoo! And of course the much-loved Night Noodle Markets will be returning to Hyde Park, with traditional Asian hawker style fare. There’s a green edge this year too, with the inaugural 100 mile challenge where five regional teams will be competing to win, with food and wine sourced from within 100 miles of Sydney, which will culminate in banquet lunch for 500 at Eveleigh markets.
If you're a fan of author, comedian and NPR humorist David Sedaris, then you'll know that he's a frequent visitor Down Under. Missed him on his last trip in 2023? 2025 is your latest chance to experience his snappy wit, as well as his discerning and astute ability to observe life's moments — both trivial and extraordinary — in both an observational and unique way. This is Sedaris' seventh trip Down Under, spanning stops in both Australia and New Zealand — including at Sydney Opera House on Monday, February 10–Tuesday, February 11. If you haven't seen Sedaris live before, his shows are part of the reason that he's built up such a following. Onstage, he regularly weaves in new and unpublished material, too — and the satirist will throw it over to the crowd for a Q&A as well, and also sign copies of his books. [caption id="attachment_862849" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anne Fishbein[/caption] Sedaris has more than a few tomes to his name, so you have options for him to scribble on, including Happy-Go-Lucky, Calypso, Theft by Finding, Let's Explore Diabetes with Owls, Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk, When You Are Engulfed in Flames, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, Me Talk Pretty One Day, Holidays on Ice, Naked and Barrel Fever. Sedaris is equally celebrated for his constant This American Life appearances and must-read pieces in The New Yorker, and boasts everything from the Terry Southern Prize for Humor and Jonathan Swift International Literature Prize for Satire and Humor to the Time Humorist of the Year Award among his accolades. If you've been searching for a supportive environment to use the phrase "how very droll", this is it. [caption id="attachment_862850" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anne Fishbein[/caption] Top images: Jenny Lewis, Prudence Upton.
Perhaps it’s the simplicity of this practical, environmentally-friendly and rather smart looking pallet garden that’s so inspiring. It looks like something every urban dweller should be doing - it’s neat, space-saving, and an ideal solution for maintaining a herb, flower or veg garden in the city. Better looking than the average window box too. The new trend is popping up on balconies, aside garages and on roof tops. It’s such an achievable way to recycle unwanted crates or pallets that can be found at local supermarkets and factories, yet it looks so good - we only wish we’d thought of it ourselves. [Via Lost At E Minor]
Two years ago, Pappa Rich gave tastebuds across Australia the culinary hybrid they didn't know they were craving: a nasi lemak burger. They were originally sneakily trialled in Sydney stores in 2018, then rolled out for a limited time in 2019. Now, they're back. The burger takes the typical accompaniments in this Malaysian rice dish and sandwiches them all between two toasted burger buns. There are layers of crispy Malay fried chicken, spicy sambal, peanuts and anchovies, all topped with cucumber, lettuce and a fried egg. As a side? Expect Pappa Rich's deep-fried chicken skin, of course. You can also opt for chips if you prefer. The Malaysian hawker chain is returning the nasi lemak burger to its menu — at all of its 31 stores countrywide, but only for two months. If you're instantly hungry, you'll want to pop into one of Pappa Rich's outlets between Monday, March 29–Sunday, May 30. Or, if you just can't wait to sink your teeth into a burg, you can score one between Friday, March 26–Sunday, March 28, but only via Door Dash. The delivery service is selling 1000 nasi lemak burgers for just $1 across the three days, so you'll want to get in quickly. You'll also need to enter the code 'MALAYSIANBURGER' while you're ordering. Otherwise, if you're happy to grab a burger from next week onwards, you'll still have a couple of months to enjoy as many as your stomach demands. If you're in Sydney, you can nab one in Bankstown, North Ryde, Chatswood or on your lunch break at the express outlet in Ultimo; in Melbourne, pop by Chadstone, Southern Cross or QV; and Pappa Rich in Wintergarden, Garden City, Indooroopilly and Coorparoo Square will be selling them in Brisbane. Perth residents can head to Cockburn and Joondalup, while folks in Adelaide will want to make a trip to Gouger Street in the CBD. There are a heap more locations though, so check the website if you're looking for one closer to you. The nasi lemak burger will be available Monday, March 29–Sunday, May 30 at Pappa Rich locations across the country. There are also 1000 up for grabs for $1 via Door Dash between Friday, March 26–Sunday, March 28 by entering the code 'MALAYSIANBURGER' while you're ordering.
Any mention of Joanna Murray-Smith tends to elicit the same kind of wince as would David Williamson. Like Williamson, she's an expert at portraying the Australian bourgeoisie engaged in the national pastime of cringing. But this is a trap she steers well clear of in her latest offering, Switzerland; a fictional account of American author Patricia Highsmith's late in life retreat to the Swiss Alps. Sarah Peirse playing the straight-shooting curmudgeon makes old age look like a hoot. Peirse appeared last year in Murray-Smith's Fury playing a mild mannered, upper middle class intellectual mother. Here she shows off her acting chops by transforming into the nasty, charismatic Highsmith. We're introduced to Highsmith hiding away from her fame and literary adversaries in the US in a cosy, naturalistic interior designed by Michael Scott-Mitchell with a spiral staircase, fireplace and writing desk. Apart from an offensively kitsch Highsmith portrait hanging to the right of the fireplace, the space works well. The action begins when a timid junior assistant from her publishing house visits, ostensibly to persuade her to sign a contract for a final installment of The Talented Mr Ripley. The opening exchange between Eamon Farren playing Edward and Peirse shows off Murray-Smith's comic competence and received plenty of laughter on opening night. The witty repartee only loses its shine when we reach the tenth false exit in as many minutes. As entertaining as the play is, it's hard to see its relevance. Whereas Fury spoke to a specific tension between radicalism and racial vilification, Switzerland only gets as far as generalised chats about the universality of human evil and cliched psychoanalysis suggesting that Highsmith is protecting herself behind her racism. It's all fine, and Peirse and Farren's performances are even mighty fine, but I couldn't help feeling that if director Sarah Goodes had focused more on Highsmith's obsession with snails or her collection of guns, we might have been in for a more interesting night of theatre. For a character study of a woman obsessed with murder, Switzerland displays a conspicuous lack of danger.
Usually, when winter rolls around, Bondi becomes a hub of Ferris wheel rides, art shows, live music, history walks and fringe events for the annual Winter Magic and Bondi Feast events. In 2020, because of COVID-19, those events were combined to create a mega-festival of art, food and soaring through the sky dubbed Bondi Festival. This year, Bondi Festival is back with a full suite of exciting pop-ups and activations throughout the beachside suburb. Setting up once more will be Bondi Vista, a Ferris wheel that'll send you soaring 22 metres above the sand. From Friday, July 1 through until Sunday July 17, you can go for a spin and feast your eyes on 360-degree views. On one side, you'll be gazing at wild waves, endless horizon and open sky. On the other, look out for glimpses of the city skyline. If you prefer to spin in circles on the ground, you can do just that at an ice-skating rink. And, walking tours and events for families will also be on the bill. Between rides on both circular attractions, you can check out an extravaganza of comedy and theatre, with shows popping up throughout the suburb. There will be a comedy and theatre mash-up from Randa Sayed and a comedic theatre seance from magician Harry Milas in a hidden Bondi location. Artist Joel Bray will also be transforming the Bondi Bowlo for a pub trivia night blended with contemporary dance, and award-winning performer Bron Batten will be presenting a theatre piece based on modern romance called Onstage Dating. "Playful, immersive and tailor-made, this year's program takes over Bondi for three weeks of art and playful audience experiences," Bondi Festival Director Rachel Chant said. "Go ice-skating by the beach or commune with the dead in a mysterious location, date an artist live on stage or take in a panoramic view of the coastline on the Bondi Vista Ferris Wheel." Bondi Festival will run from Friday, July 1–Sunday July 17. Head to the festival's website to view all the details and the full program.
When a huge global pride festival is heading Down Under for the first time — making its debut in the southern hemisphere, in fact — how do you celebrate? For Sydney WorldPride, there's a dazzling list of options. The LGBTQIA+ fest will hit town from February 17–March 5 with 300-plus events, and it's dropping its full lineup on Wednesday, November 9. It's also setting up a giant rainbow sand sculpture to help kick off the fun. On that very day, to add something else stunning to the program launch — other than the program itself, that is — a giant Sydney WorldPride rainbow sand sculpture will grace the Bondi Pavilion forecourt. The festival team are making a big deal of the occasion because it deserves it, and because it'll also be 100 days until the event itself kicks off, with this sandy rainbow taking up residence just from sunrise to sunset on the Wednesday. Head on down and you won't miss it. Expect it to feature in your social feeds heavily, too. The sculpture will measure 2.4 metres in height and 4.5 metres in width, and is apparently the largest rainbow sculpture of its kind. Spectacular sights and Bondi Beach naturally go hand in hand, of course. The famed Sydney stretch of sand is also known to host extra eye-catching attractions — a statue of Borat and a Stranger Things rift have all graced the spot in the past. Also, Sydneysiders have had plenty of rainbows to enjoy recently, all celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community. Darlinghurst is famously home to a rainbow crossing — and in Surry Hills, the City of Sydney implemented a lengthy path in Prince Alfred Park decked out in the same multicoloured stripes. Also, Coogee also has its own cheerfully hued monument, turning part of the suburb's beachfront into a rainbow walkway. Sydney WorldPride's one-day-only rainbow sand sculpture is the first in a whole heap of rainbow art and installations coming to the Harbour City, and Greater Sydney as well, courtesy of around 45 free public artworks spanning everywhere from the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney to the Scenic Skyway in Katoomba. Before the full lineup is announced, the fest has already unveiled big-name events like the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade to Oxford Street, Kylie Minogue headlining the opening concert, plus MUNA and G Flip doing the same at the closing gig. Find the Sydney WorldPride at the Bondi Pavilion forecourt from sunrise to sunset on Wednesday, November 9. Sydney WorldPride will run from February 17–March 5, 2023. For more information, head to the event's website. Images: Destination NSW. Thinking about Sydney WorldPride's big opening gig, Live and Proud: Sydney WorldPride Opening Concert, too? General admission tickets have sold out, with only Sydney WorldPride's affordability option left — but you can still head along thanks to Concrete Playground Trips. The Sydney WorldPride package includes tickets to the Domain Dance Party and Live and Proud: Opening Concert, plus three nights at the PARKROYAL Darling Harbour Sydney.
No matter where you are in Australia, you've probably spent the majority of the year in your own state (if not the majority of the year in your own bedroom), with many states and territories keeping their borders firmly closed. But, the last of the interstate restrictions are starting to ease. With the exception of WA (which is currently open to only the ACT, Queensland and the NT and Tasmania, but is set to open to NSW and Victoria from December 8) and SA residents (who are still unable to visit Queensland), Australians can pretty much visit anywhere in the country without quarantining. To celebrate, Virgin Australia is selling over 60,000 fares to destinations around the country, starting from just $75 a pop. Hang on, Virgin? Yes. The same airline that, just months ago, entered voluntary administration. It has since been sold to US private investment firm Bain Capital, launched a comeback sale in early July and its voluntary administration officially ended on Tuesday, November 17. The 12-hour Happy Hour flight sale kicks off at 11am AEDT today, Thursday, December 3, and runs until 11pm tonight — or until sold out. In the sale, you'll find cheap flights on 25 routes to destinations across the country, with travel dates between December 5 and January 19, 2021. If you've been waiting to book Christmas flights home — or a summer getaway — now might be the time. Discounted flights are economy and include seat selection and checked baggage. Some of the routes on offer include Melbourne to Newcastle from $75, Sydney to Brisbane from $95, Adelaide to Sydney from $109 and Hobart to the Gold Coast from $169. [caption id="attachment_743607" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Whitsunday Beach by Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] The discounted flights are part of Virgin's relaunched weekly Happy Hour sale series, which will take place every Thursday for the foreseeable future. As we are still in the middle of a pandemic, flying is little different to normal. Virgin has introduced a range of safety measures, including hand sanitisation stations, contactless check-in and face masks provided to all passengers (but wearing them is not mandatory). Virgin is also waiving change fees and allowed unlimited booking changes between now and January 31, 2020. You can read more about its new flexible options over here. Virgin's Happy Hour sale runs from 11am–11pm AEDT on Thursday, December 3. Find out more about current interstate border restrictions over here.
Dixon Street is the beating heart of Chinatown. Take an obligatory photo at the peifang gates (located at either end of the street), grab a bag of famous Emperor's Puffs, and prise yourself from the attentions of enthusiastic restaurant hawkers. You can head there after dark to spot Heaven a vivid large-scale light installation and the Dixon Street Light Screens that hang above the street and gradually change from orange to red. At the stroke of midnight all the lights glow bright red. Image: North Sullivan, Destination NSW.
UPDATE: MARCH 17, 2020 — Splendour in the Grass has been postponed until Friday, October 23–Sunday, October 25, 2020. This one-off spring edition is 'an effort to ensure a safe Splendour in the Grass experience' in such 'unpredictable times' as well as in response to the Australian Government's ban on public gatherings in excess of 500 people. Many artists have confirmed they'll be playing over these new dates, including Flume, The Strokes and Tyler, The Creator. The below article has been updated to reflect this. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. Throw those GoPros, bubble bottles and novelty gumboots in your rucksack, Splendour in the Grass is returning to North Byron Parklands for another year of festival merriment. Its 20th year, in fact. As usual, speculation has run wild in anticipation of the lineup announce — will Frank Ocean finally come to Australia? Will the recently reunited Rage Against the Machine be on the lineup? Will Flume be playing? — but the details for Splendour 2020 are finally here. And we're happy to report that some of the rumours were true. Flume — AKA Harley Edward Streten — himself will be Splendouring. He'll be heading back Down Under for his only Aussie show. Speaking of Splendour exclusives, Tyler, The Creator will also only be playing at the festival, performing hits off IGOR including the always-banging 'EARFQUAKE'. The Strokes will be heading to the festival to perform their first new album in seven years, The New Abnormal, and, while the Rage Against the Machine rumour isn't true, another recently reunited big-name band will be playing: Midnight Oil. The Aussie rockers have recently started recording music together for the first time in two decades. They're collaborating with First Nations artists for a new mini-album called The Makarrata Project, which they'll be performing at Splendour. There's also a big female contingent — that is kick-ass but still nowhere near as big as the pool of male performers — which includes Stella Donnelly, Thelma Plum, Jack River, Alice Ivy, Sampa The Great and George Alice (and more). The lineup seems to go on forever, including the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Denzel Curry, Violent Soho, the list goes on. Anyway, we know what you're here for. We'll cut to the chase. [caption id="attachment_735766" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tyler, The Creator by Sam Rock[/caption] SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS 2020 LINEUP Flume (only Aus show) The Strokes Tyler, The Creator (only Aus show) Yeah Yeah Yeahs Midnight Oil (The Makarrata Project) Glass Animals Denzel Curry Duke Dumont Live Violent Soho Mura Masa 100 Adrian Eagle Alex The Astronaut Alice Ivy Andy Golledge The Babe Rainbow perform The Velvet Underground's Loaded Bad//Dreems Baker Boy Banoffee Benee The Big Moon Brame & Hamo Bruno Major Charlie Collins Cry Club Cub Sport Dillon Francis DMA'S Dom Dolla Dro Carey & DJ Scorpion Fazerdaze G Flip George Alice Georgia Gerry Cinnamon Greentea Peng Grinspoon Grouplove Gryffin Hooligan Hefs Idles Illy Inhaler Jack Garratt Jack River Jarreau Vandal Joy Crookes JPEGMAFIA Julia Jacklin Julia Stone The Jungle Giants King Krule King Princess Kllo The Lazy Eyes Lex Deluxe Lillie Mae Lime Cordiale Mako Road Mall Grab Memphis LK Methyl Ethel Mickey Kojak Miiesha Mildlife Miss June Mo'Ju (fka Mojo Juju) Muna Northeast Party House Oliver Tree Petit Biscuit Pink Matter PUP Rolling Blackouts CF Ruel Sampa The Great Shaed Shannon & The Clams Sly Withers Sofi Tukker The Soul Movers Starcrawler Stella Donnelly Stevan Still Woozy Surfaces Thelma Plum Tierra Whack Tim Minchin Triple One Wallows Splendour will return to North Byron Parklands on Friday, October 23, Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25, 2020. Tickets go on sale Thursday, February 27 at 9am AEDT sharp. For more info, head to the official Splendour In The Grass site. Image: Bianca Holderness and Charlie Hardy
Broadbeach has never really had to work too hard to convince people to visit. The laidback vibes, excellent dining scene and ample swimming spots that give the suburb its name do most of the heavy lifting. But if you are a little harder to impress, the good people at Tourism and Events Queensland are rising to the challenge and cordially inviting you to plan a long weekend away to the Gold Coast for the annual Blues on Broadbeach festival that runs from Thursday, May 18 to Sunday, May 21. With 22 years of experience under its belt, the 2023 incarnation of Blues on Broadbeach will be the pay-off of a well oiled machine. And, while the organisers have had some time to fine-tune their ability to put on a stellar music festival that showcases authentic rhythm and blues music, this year's program could very well be their best yet. As well as a lineup of national and international artists performing across the precinct's multiple stages, streets and parks, the four-day-long fest will fold in a massive selection of restaurants, cafes and bars, and a host of accommodation options. Meaning you can stay right in the heart of the festival and enjoy live music at your actual doorstep. Kind of worried about blowing the budget? Fear not, because Blues on Broadbeach is one of Australia's largest free music festivals and it's generally non-ticketed, so you can just rock up and play it by ear (pardon both bad music-related puns). So, if you're heading in from interstate, set your Google alert to track flight prices and round up some mates. Otherwise, if Broadbeach is closer to home for you, take your time and pop in and out as you please. Either way, whether its your first pilgrimage to Blues on Broadbeach, or your 22nd, we're going to call it now and say it probably won't be your last. Blues on Broadbeach is on from Thursday, May 18 to Sunday, May 21, 2023. For further details, head to the website.
Acclaimed London and Miami bar Sexy Fish is sparing no expense in launching its new cocktail menu. The renowned international venue is taking to six continents (sorry Antarctica) to unveil its latest creations, enlisting the help of four host bars across the globe to join in. Luckily for us, one of those bars is right here in Sydney, with South Eveleigh's Re- the representative from Australia. The menu launch will take place on Monday, March 6, with Sexy Fish's two venues premiering the boundary-pushing displays of mixology alongside Cape Town's Cause Effect, EL BARON in Cartagena, Zest in Seoul, and Re-. Arriving from Matt Whiley and Maurice Terzini in 2021 with a focus on sustainability and an exciting drinks list, Re- will showcase 20 cocktail creations, including 16 alcoholic combos and four non-alcoholic variations. "Re- is thrilled to have been chosen as the Australian counterpart for the launch of Sexy Fish's new cocktail menu, Trinity," says Whiley. "We've loved working with Sexy Fish to create their Trinity menu Down Under, ensuring our sharp focus on local ingredients and sustainability continue to lead the way with drinks, preferencing innovation and taste while minimising waste." Highlights from the menu include a coconut and lemongrass cocktail featuring Absolut Elyx vodka and sake; a playful creation made with marshmallow-infused gin and fortified wines; and the Coffee and Toast, which combines brown butter-infused mezcal, coffee, caramel, Campari and manzanilla. "This is such an exciting project and the first time we have launched a brand-new menu across six continents on the same day with our full Sexy Fish menu and original glassware," Director of Bars at Caprice Holdings Xavier Landais said. "Incredibly, guests visiting our host bars will be able to enjoy the full Sexy Fish experience for one night only, whether they are in Australia, Colombia, South Africa or South Korea." Re- will open especially for this world-spanning cocktail showcase on the Monday, with no bookings available — walk-ins only. If you want to taste what Sexy Fish has been whipping up, just venture down to South Eveleigh early and nab a spot at the bar. You can try the new cocktail menu from Maimi and London's Sexy Fish at Re- for one night only on Monday, March 6.
Visit Alice Springs at any time of year and you'll find plenty to see and do in Australia's Red Centre, including making the trip to Uluru, marvelling at Bruce Munro's Field of Light, and checking out the Tjoritja gorges and Kings Canyon. Here's a spectacular reason to head by every April, including from now until Sunday, April 16 in 2023: Parrtjima — A Festival In Light. The region's luminous Indigenous arts festival is back for another year and, set against the 300-million-year-old MacDonnell Ranges, it looks stunning as always. This event celebrates First Nations arts, culture and storytelling, and just might be Australia's most luminous event — with installations in breathtaking surroundings leading the show alongside music, talks, films, workshops and more. [caption id="attachment_896332" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sisters at Watarru by Noreen Dixon, Grounded.[/caption] 2023's focus: 'Listening with Heart'. That's what this year's light-heavy installations, which were announced late in 2022, are focusing on. Parrtjima's theme is inspired by the artwork surrounding the Statement from the Heart, with that piece depicting Uluru-Ku Tjukurrpa, the Uluru story of connection, as created by a group of artists from Multijulu as led by Maruku artist Rene Kulitja. So, Kulitja has worked with other of artists for Parrtjima to turn the Statement from the Heart artwork into a large-scale immersive light and sound installation. Accordingly, Parrtjima attendees are currently getting plunged in the world of the Aṉangu people of the Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands surrounding Uluru. This year's festival installations feature ancient songlines, plus Indigenous viewpoints on Country, as well as connecting to First Peoples' strong links with the land, water and sky. Two things that are also on the bill: two of the festival's regular annual attractions, aka a huge artwork that transforms a 2.5-kilometre stretch of the majestic ranges, showering it with light each night of the festival; and Grounded, the installation projected over the red dirt at tourism and conservation facility Alice Springs Desert Park. As for the music program, it is overflowing with First Nations talent, including Docker River Band, Eastern Reggae Band, Emily Wurramara, JK-47, KAIIT, Karnage and Paul Ah Chee. They're joined by Radical Son, Richard J Frankland, Discovering Leerpeen Mara, Rowdy Birds, The Andrew Gurruwiwi Band and The Merindas across the ten days — and with a range of dazzling backdrops. The talks lineup features actor Steven Oliver, marathon hero Charlie Maher, media identity Naomi Moran, scientist Corey Tutt, Olympian Nova Peris and more, such as musicians Richard Frankland, KAIIT and Paul Ah Chee — doing double duty on stage and having a chat. Movie-wise, attendees can look forward to Westwind: Djalu's Legacy, Looky Looky Here Comes Cooky, Araatika: Rise Up and The Australian Wars. And, the workshops schedule includes dance, art and pottery. Parrtjima – A Festival in Light runs until Sunday, April 16, 2023 around Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. For more information, visit the festival website. Images: Parrtjima – A Festival in Light. 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.
In a Carriageworks exhibition that cuts right to the core of how the art world relates to the lives of most everyday people, Branch Nebula’s ARTWORK addresses issues of unemployment, observation and exclusion. Branch Nebula is an award-winning art collective known for interactive pieces that challenge what it is that constitutes a performance. ARTWORK follows this theme, by employing people who are looking for work — found through the classifieds and untrained in performance — in an effort to question who audiences accept as a performer. The workers will be paid to engage in physical tasks, interviews and other typical workplace routines with no preparation, in front of an audience. Branch Nebula admits the piece is intended to be risky, with performers free to raise issues of racism, sexism and class, and also expects their audience to experience a level of discomfort as they reflect on what it is to employ someone to be observed. At $35 a ticket, there's also the question of which people are able to engage with the art world and how. A must-see for those questioning the relevance and elitism of the art world — if you can afford it.
Celebrate the Year of the Snake with a prosperity-inducing feast at Song Bird – Neil Perry's recently launched three-level Chinese restaurant. Guided by head chef Mark Lee, a sprawling Chinese New Year banquet is being served up for lunch and dinner until February 10. Priced at $149pp, the menu features a curated 8-course feast spanning traditional ingredients said to bring good luck heading into the New Year. Of course, each dish will also showcase Song Bird's appreciation for high-end ingredients and tantalising flavours. For instance, raw bigeye tuna served with iceberg lettuce and Sichuan dressing reflects the colour red for good fortune. Then, crisp lobster and scallop money bag dumplings signify prosperity, while poached Sun Farms heritage chicken and tea eggs symbolise renewal or fertility. "Food plays a central role in Chinese New Year celebrations, and we've crafted a menu that honours tradition while offering a distinct Song Bird twist," says Perry. "It's the perfect way to ring in the new year with a feast of flavours and good fortune." Image credits: Petrina Tinslay
Mark your calendar: if you like free ice cream, as everyone should, then you have a date with a Ben & Jerry's store in April. Each year, the dessert brand chooses one day per year to give everyone a treat without paying a cent. In 2024, that day is Tuesday, April 16. If there's one thing this chain loves above all else, it's the obvious: ice cream in a huge array of ridiculously named flavours. It's the brand behind Chunky Monkey, Cherry Garcia, Phish Food and The Tonight Dough — and has been responsible for Liz Lemon Greek Frozen Yoghurt, Stephen Colbert's AmeriCone Dream and Schweddy Balls, too. But, to the delight of your sweet treat-loving tastebuds, on Free Cone Day it loves giving away free scoops just as much. The occasion is exactly what it sounds like: a day where your ice cream is on the house. It ran annually since 1979 until the pandemic, then took a break for obvious reasons — returning in 2023 for the first time since 2019, and now backing it up in 2024. Here's how it works: if you adore ice cream as much as Ben & Jerry's adores ice cream, then you just need to hit up your local participating store (which is most stores) between 12–8pm. You can choose whichever flavour you like, and you can also line up for a free cone as many times as you like within that eight-hour period. Free Cone Day is happening Australia-wide — worldwide, too, in more than 35 countries — at both Ben & Jerry's Scoop Stores and its Hoyts outlets. In New South Wales, that means hitting up Manly, Bondi Beach and Parramatta, plus some Hoyts cinemas.
There's no wrong way to visit a winery, whether you choose to participate in a boozy fun run within the grounds, cycle between a couple of wine-slinging spots, or simply stop by for a few hours, taste some tipples and make a few purchase. Or, you can stay for the night, which isn't a new concept — but one South Australian vineyard is letting folks sleep right next to the vines in a luxury pod. Wineries from Queensland to Victoria boast glamping facilities; however The Vineyard Retreat McLaren Vale now has an Escapod. As the name suggests, it's all about escaping from the hustle and bustle, which is definitely on the agenda in what's essentially a luxury detached cabin right in the heart of the vineyard. Measuring 72 square metres, the pre-fab structure includes an open-plan dining and lounge room, a king-sized bed, an open fire and two small external decks, plus a fully functioning kitchen, a separate bathroom and a storage room. On the mod cons front, it also has the requisite appliances, under-floor heating, reverse-cycle heating and cooling, and automated blinds — although you'll want to keep them open to enjoy the vineyard views. Furthermore, the pod can be connected to the main power or can go off the grid via a solar power battery, rainwater tanks and a wastewater treatment system. Built off-site then brought to the winery, the Escapod can also be moved again in the future if needed. It'll be available for bookings from September — and it's one of two pods destined for the McLaren Vale spot, although just when the second will arrive is yet to be determined. If the pod has you planning a boozy getaway, there's some other good news — more are planned. In total, Escapod is hoping to roll out 20 pods across South Australian sites across the next year. Find the first Escapod at The Vineyard Retreat McLaren Vale, 165 Whitings Road, Blewitt Springs. Visit the retreat website for further details. Via The Lead. Images: The Vineyard Retreat / Escapod.
In 2023, Queensland made history when it became the first Australian state to commit to pill-testing services not just ad hoc or at festivals, but on an ongoing and permanent basis. The Sunshine State's strategy is now being put into place, starting over 2024's Easter long weekend. Accordingly, festivalgoers at 2024's Rabbits Eat Lettuce will be able to use Queensland's first event-based pill testing service onsite. The aim, at fests and in general, is to ensure that Queenslanders heading for a night out and to big music events can check their illicit substances for dangerous ingredients — and do so for free, voluntarily and confidentially. The state-funded sites are being established as a harm-reduction strategy, to minimise overdoses and other adverse effects resulting from party drugs. Exactly where in southeast Queensland the permanent locations will pop up hasn't been revealed as yet, but there'll be two venues. As well as winning the tender for the initial pair of fixed-site spots, Queensland Injectors Health Network, The Loop Australia, and the Queensland Injectors Voice for Advocacy and Action will also provide at least one festival-based service this year. Harm Reduction Australia, which operates as Pill Testing Australia, will take care of several other pill-testing services at festivals in 2024 and 2025, capitalising upon its experience in Canberra at fests and at a fixed-site spot. Indeed, Queensland's move comes after trials in Canberra, which has included Groovin' the Moo in 2018 and 2019. The Australian Capital Territory also launched the country's first fixed testing site as part of a six-month trial. Drug checking has been used overseas since the 90s, but remains a controversial topic in Australia. Indeed, when Groovin the Moo conducted its first trial in 2018, calls to offer pill testing had been circulating for the prior two years, after a 15-year-old collapsed from an overdose at the fest's Maitland event in 2016. Rabbits Eat Lettuce, which takes place just outside of Warwick in Elbow Valley, experienced two deaths at its 2019 festival. "In 2021, there were 2231 drug-induced deaths in Australia — the equivalent of five deaths a day. That's 2231 deaths too many, and we know this number will continue to grow if we don't act now," said Queensland Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Service Shannon Fentiman. "I want to be clear that these services are all about harm minimisation; we don't want people ending up in our emergency departments — or worse, losing their life. They aim to make people aware of the dangers of taking illicit substances, influence behaviour and, ideally, reduce their use of substances," Fentiman continued. [caption id="attachment_809941" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dave Byrne[/caption] For more information about pill testing in Queensland, head to the Queensland Government website.
Spilling out from World Science Festival, Curiocity Brisbane (22 March–2 April, 2023) takes over the wider city of Brisbane. Art meets STEM in a landscape of experiences and installations designed to challenge and enlighten urban explorers. Use augmented reality to bring memory fragments to life, encounter kinetic art through an intense colour spectrum in a changing parabolic curve, interact with playful cybernetics and help teach AI in real time. Take a free curator tour to take a deeper dive into the meaning behind the artworks, which includes the interactive "sound sculptures" T.H.E.M (that's The Handmade Electric Machines, if you're curious — a collection of six sound and lighting mechanisms brought to life by musicians, artists and designers). The free Curious Conversations program offers discussions on topics such as the future of AI, our role in the natural world and First Nations artists' relationship with history, culture and traditional knowledge. [caption id="attachment_804118" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Curiocity 2021, Markus Ravik[/caption] But, Curiocity Brisbane isn't just for the daylight hours. Art installations will be scattered along the streets and South Bank, disrupting the reverie of the river city with thought-provoking displays and unexpected intrusions, both visual and auditory. Curiocity Brisbane pops up around Brisbane from Wednesday, March 22–Sunday, April 2, 2023.
He went from being the cute kid in Batman Begins to the most hated character in Western pop culture. Jack Gleeson, the actor who played King Joffrey Baratheon in Game of Thrones is coming to Australia next month as part of the national nerd-out that is the Supanova expo. Prepare your poisons — but seriously, please don't poison him — Joffrey lives again. Unfortunately (or very fortunately, depending on where you live) Gleeson will only be hitting up the Brisbane and Adelaide legs of the show. He will be filling the spot made available by Natalie Dormer (Margaery Tyrell) as she had to withdraw from the expo to fulfil commitments for her role in The Hunger Games. Gleeson will also be joined by Peter Cullen, the voice actor who plays Transformers' Optimus Prime. This appearance will be made all the more interesting as, after 'leaving' Game of Thrones, Gleeson has actually quit acting completely. Though he's now focusing on his university studies instead, there's undoubtedly a lot to be said about the devastating consequences Joffrey's character has had on his career. Really — how can we see him as anything else but the evil boy king? His Q&A should prove for some really interesting insight into the mechanics of intense fandom. Those in Melbourne and Sydney will have to wait until April and June respectively. And, at that point, the expo will be making the rounds without Gleeson. Hardcore fans and haters will have to take this clip as some kind of small consolation: Supanova will be at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from November 28-30 and at the Adelaide Showgrounds November 22-23. For more information about the lineup or Sydney and Melbourne offerings, see the website.
Most of us have at least one baby-faced friend: that eternally youthful chum forever being asked for ID and almost certainly secreting an ageing portrait of themselves in a dusty attic somewhere. While they're always good for a laugh, it doesn't matter how much these child-adults (or 'chadults', as no-one will ever call them) appear younger than they are; we'd scarcely consider them capable of doubling for a high-school kid. Hollywood, on the other hand, seems to do it all the time. Stockard Channing was 34 when she played the 17-year-old Rizzo in Grease, Shirley Henderson was 35 whilst playing the 15-year-old Moaning Myrtle in Harry Potter, and Luke Perry was 117 when he began playing Dylan on 90210. Even more implausible is the idea that actual teenagers might be duped by the pretence, yet that's precisely the thinking behind Jonah Hill's new movie, 21 Jump Street, based on the '80s TV series that famously launched Johnny Depp's career. Hill teams up with Channing Tatum to play police officers Schmidt and Jenko, two junior patrolmen sent undercover into a high school to dismantle a burgeoning drug ring. To the film's credit, it at least acknowledges the improbability of the premise, particularly in the case of the muscle-bound Tatum, to whom the sports coach says at one point, "Jesus when did you go through puberty? Like, at seven or something?" Tatum is definitely the big surprise in this movie, with his first foray into comedy potentially revealing the ideal market for which his talents are best suited. Whilst it mightn't seem like a huge stretch for the guy to be playing an attractive but vacuous himbo, his timing is pleasantly spot-on and his 'jock-out-of-water' subplot is so endearing it quickly becomes the more engaging and amusing of the two. Hill, unsurprisingly, continues to play Hill: a socially awkward, slightly overweight and well-intentioned nerd who, courtesy of a hidden talent and a touch of serendipity, is suddenly propelled into the cool crowd. It's all very familiar, Superbad territory; however, the pairing with Tatum works unexpectedly well in this case and a fast-tracked sequel feels almost inevitable. Directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, whose last film was the magnificent Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, 21 Jump Street combines improv-heavy surrealism with high-octane action and some seriously offensive language to create a film quite unlike anything else you're likely to see this year. The Judd Apatow-esque dialogue is understandably hit and miss; however, there are easily enough laugh-aloud moments (as well as one particularly clever cameo) to make this film more than worth your while. https://youtube.com/watch?v=RLoKtb4c4W0
Maybe you love nothing more than telling simulated people what to do. Perhaps a fantasy universe is your favourite place to escape to when you're mashing buttons. More than a quarter-century back, virtual critters might've been your go-to pastime. The Sims, World of Warcraft and Neopets have all made an impact on the gaming world, and on audiences. All three are also scoring plenty of love at Game Worlds at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image in Melbourne. For five months between Thursday, September 18, 2025–Sunday, February 8, 2026, this video-game exhibition is shining a spotlight on 30 iconic titles — and making attendees feel like they're stepping inside some of them, too. Expect everything from original concept art and never-before-seen designs to rare objects at the Federation Square site's Gallery 4. Expect to get playing, rather than just peering, as well. [caption id="attachment_997872" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Electronic Arts[/caption] Although the full lineup of games featured hasn't been revealed as yet, they'll span from the 70s until now, and 20 of them will be playable. Demos, games from years gone by, trying to break speed records: they're all part of the setup, which will include international hits, new Australian releases and everything in-between. ACMI has staged major video-game showcases before. This is its third, in fact, following 2008's Game On and 2012's Game Masters. Since the latter, the venue has also hosted smaller gaming exhibitions, such as 2017's Code Breakers — where women in the industry were the focus — and 2024's Honk! Untitled Goose Exhibition. Earlier in 2025, it celebrated 25 years of The Sims across one nostalgic weekend. As it regularly does with its showcases, the gallery will pair Game Worlds with talks, film screenings and other events, family-friendly activities among them. [caption id="attachment_997868" align="alignnone" width="1920"] World of Neopia[/caption] Top images: Blizzard Entertainment.
There are moments, certain descriptions and attitudes in Emerald City that make it seem like a work of speculative fiction, paying dividends as it comes to pass decades later. Of course, it is not. The work, by David Williamson, does not reside in the future, and its business is not prediction. Rather, it is a brutal satire which sits undeniably in the time period it was conceived. Consequently, enjoyment is tempered by disappointment during this savaging of Sydney and its occupants, mainly because of how little it seems we’ve changed in the intervening years. Despite, or perhaps because of, how well the text has aged, Lewis has decided against changing the setting; a poppy and synth-laden sound design by Kelly Ryall, a patchy backdrop of Sydney Harbour painted by Ken Done and more than one deafening shirt combine to celebrate the play’s status as a child of the '80s. The characters, too, evoke the period, displaying bastardry and avarice of a calibre that places them firmly at the dawn of the ‘greed is good’ era. Possibly the best part about Emerald City is that there is absolutely no one to root for: not Colin (Mitchell Butel), a power-hungry screenwriter whose star is not so much fading as sputtering; not Kate (Lucy Bell), his wife, whose stringent morality stretches only as far as the front door; not Elaine (Jennifer Hagan), Colin’s producer, descending a bottomless ladder in order to work her way out of a dry patch; and not Mike (Ben Winspear), an up-and-comer who’s figured out that art is a numbers game and is intent on selling his soul in lieu of creativity and talent. By the time the play begins, redemption is out of the question for any of them, and all that’s left is to watch the hubris pendulum on the backswing. Curiously, it is Helen (Kelly Paterniti), Mike’s girlfriend, and Malcolm (Gareth Yuen), a merchant banker, who come off as the most honest of the bunch. The openness with which they pursue their particular objectives allows them to seem marginally less despicable than their duplicitous counterparts. The ensemble is tight and the pace is relentless in this latest production of Emerald City. Despite the new millennium, Williamson’s skewering of Sydneysiders continues to ring true. Judging by conversation overheard just outside the theatre, though — snippets of ‘new diet’, ‘quinoa’ and ‘kale’, outrageous schmoozings and career-based pissing contests disguised as polite conversation — one wonders, after all this time, whether many of Williamson’s targets even know they’ve been hit.
What's better than seeing an almost 150-year-old heritage-listed building given a new lease on life, and giving Sydneysiders new spots to eat and drink in the process? Seeing all of the above happen right beside the city's newest boutique hotel. Meet Porter House, the luxurious new precinct that's now open on Castlereagh Street. Featuring a hotel and five levels of dining, events and function options, the precinct is based around the Porter House building, which dates back to 1876. Originally commissioned by tobacco manufacturer Hugh Dixon, it was used as the Dixson & Sons tobacco factory and warehouse, then became a shopfront for WW Campbell & Co and leather merchant George Johnson & Sons. Now on offer in that space: a Euro-style delicatessen and wine bar, plus a modern brasserie. An additional bar is in the works, and the food-and-beverage part of the precinct also includes two levels of private dining spaces and function rooms. Then, next door, there's the expansive new luxury hotel. [caption id="attachment_870750" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] At Henry's Bread and Wine, which operates seven days a week on the ground floor, an all-day lineup is on the menu. That includes tucking into wagyu pastrami reubens with sour onions and prawn milk buns — and also being able to pick between eating in and taking away for breakfast and lunch. Drinks-wise, expect to get sipping at a central bar surrounded by a four-metre wall of wine, mainly from Australia. Then, Dixson & Sons — which takes its name from the Dixson family, who originally built the site all those years back — sprawls across nearly 200 square metres on the first floor. Seating 90, it skews relaxed but elegant, with banquettes, tables for two and a bar spanning six metres perched in the middle. On Executive Chef Emrys Jones' (ex-Fish Butchery, No 5, Qualia) menu: a big focus on New South Wales produce, and on using every part of each ingredient, à la Josh Niland and Fish Butchery. As well as seafood, you can look forward to tasting your way through native flavours such as bush tomato, native thyme, lemon myrtle, dessert lime and macadamia dukkha. A sampling of dishes includes beef tartare with a house-made blend of soy, bonito and nori; vegan butternut pumpkin tart; a massive beef wellington for two; and, for dessert, the jelly 'n' ice cream sandwich with croissant, blackberries and cinnamon. [caption id="attachment_870747" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] Finally, there's the 225-square-metre Spice Trader bar, which will take over the top level before summer, complete with glass panels across more than half the roof to make the most of the natural light. Drinks will come served from a 16-metre sage marble bar — and expect to knock back cocktails aplenty. Over at the $94-million Porter House Hotel — which is now open — you'll find 122 rooms and suites, a heated pool and a fitness centre. It sits across the first ten floors of a new 36-storey tower next door, with 131 residential apartments filling the other 26 levels. Linking the two buildings: a pair of new walkways featuring glass balustrades and rails, with showcasing the contrast between Porter House's heritage features and MGallery's modern design a key aim. Actually, that's the overall aesthetic in general, as seen in the hotel's interior decor. Think: leather and pressed tin touches, gold and brass fixtures, wooden flooring, soft pink and grey tones, warm lighting, curves and arches used heavily, and mismatching modern and vintage furniture. Yes, you might've just found your next staycation spot. That said, with Sydney also just gaining Australia's first Ace Hotel, and the Waldorf Astoria also opening its first-ever Australian hotel in Sydney in 2025, your list of places for a night away from home just keeps growing. The Porter House Precinct and Porter House Hotel are located at 203 Castlereagh Street, Sydney.
Immerse yourself in one of the biggest events on Sydney's cultural calendar with the return of Lakemba Nights. Held throughout the month of Ramadan, when people of the Muslim faith fast from dawn to dusk, this evening feast is your chance to gather around family, friends and the local community for delicious cuisine. Last year alone, 1.6 million people from across Australia made their way to Sydney for the festival. Taking over Haldon Street in Lakemba between Thursday, February 27 and Sunday, March 30 from 6pm to 2am, over 60 food stalls and food trucks serve up a tantalising array of cuisine from countries like Lebanon, India, Pakistan, Syria and Burma. This is your chance to explore fascinating new flavours, from sweet pastry desserts like knafeh to a succulent camel burger if you're feeling a little more adventurous. Just remember, this festival is a bustling affair, so planning your journey is a wise move. Limited parking is available, so make the most of the free shuttle buses starting at 6.30pm from Campsie and Roselands. There's also the option of catching public transport to the festival, meaning you won't have to worry about missing the fun. Whether breaking your fast or just soaking up the local community, Lakemba Nights is a jam-packed culinary experience not to be missed.
For four decades, The Shining has been responsible for many a nightmare — not only due to Stephen King's 1977 bestseller, which helped cement him as a horror maestro, but courtesy of Stanley Kubrick's unnerving and acclaimed 1980 film. If you've ever been spooked by twins, garish hexagonal hotel carpet designs, sprawling hedge mazes, elevators filled with blood, someone shouting "here's Johnny!" or just Jack Nicholson in general, you have this macabre masterpiece to thank. From parodies to homages to overt recreations, The Shining is also the unsettling gift that keeps giving. Everything from The Simpsons to Buffy the Vampire Slayer to Ready Player One has nodded the movie's way — as has documentary Room 237, which attempted to delve into its many secrets, meanings, theories and interpretations, too. But they've got nothing on the actual sequel to the eerie story. It picks up decades later, following the now-adult Danny Torrance as he tries to cope with the fallout from his supernatural gift. (Oh, and the memory of being terrorised by his axe-wielding dad as well.) In the just-released first trailer for Doctor Sleep — which is based on Stephen King's 2013 novel of the same name — all work and no play make Danny (Ewan McGregor) something something. He's perturbed, mainly, as he grapples with the trauma he experienced in The Shining. Then he meets a mysterious teenager (Kyliegh Curran) who also has the gift, and things get creepier than a ghastly woman peering out of a bath or the word 'redrum' written on a mirror. In a teaser filled with references to its predecessor, both of these appear. Rebecca Ferguson, Bruce Greenwood and Room's Jacob Tremblay also star, with The Haunting of Hill House's Mike Flanagan in the director's chair. While King was famously unhappy with Kubrick's take on The Shining — even writing the script for a three-part TV mini-series version in the 90s — here's hoping that he approves of Flanagan's vision. This is actually the filmmaker's second King adaptation, after Netflix flick Gerald's Game. Check out the Doctor Sleep trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFEVyTlTqYo Doctor Sleep releases in Australian cinemas on November 7, 2019.
The Powerhouse Museum's flagship design program, Sydney Design Week, will return this spring as a live event for the first time in three years, with a curated lineup of exhibitions, talks, film screenings and workshops on offer across its seven days. From Thursday, September 15 till Thursday, September 22, you and your crew can catch the finest in local and international design across the festival's incredible week-long program happening throughout Sydney. Events are set to take place at multiple venues across the city including the newly opened Ace Hotel, Powerhouse Ultimo, Western Sydney University and more. [caption id="attachment_865161" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Zan Wimberley[/caption] This year's festival theme, 'Making Now', aims to celebrate the designers, makers and thinkers who are defining culture and design in Sydney and across the globe at this very moment in time, asking the question: who is setting the scene for the future? The program is focused on exploring exciting collaborations and showcasing cross-pollination between rising creatives and renowned artists in a variety of design disciplines including industrial, interior, graphic, sound, scent and scenography from the world of theatre. Need help deciding which events to prioritise to the top of your hit list? Look no further than a keynote address courtesy of designer and co-founder of Doshi Levien, Nipa Doshi, and artist, author, educator and designer Bruce Mau. You can also get inspired at the Making Western Sydney Talks (which includes a guided architectural tour of Parramatta in its lineup) or a series of conversations taking place at the Ace Hotel. Want to get your hands dirty? Join a clay-making workshop led by Karen Black and a team of established and emerging Australian ceramicists at the Ace Hotel's cafe Good Chemistry. Then, marvel at the New Australian Design pop-up exhibition, curated by Emma Elizabeth at Powerhouse Ultimo. Keen to head along? Sydney Design Week will take place from Thursday, September 15 till Thursday, September 22. For more information and to peep for the full program of events, visit the website.
The Mouse House has brought some of its magic our way, with Disney: The Magic of Animation now on display at Melbourne's newly revamped Australian Centre for the Moving Image. Whether you've always been a fan of Mickey Mouse, can remember how it felt when you first watched Bambi, are able to sing all of Genie's lyrics in Aladdin or fell head over heels for Moana more recently, you'll find plenty worth looking at among ACMI's halls and walls. And in its doors, too — because walking beneath mouse ear-shaped openings to move from one area to the next is all part of the experience. Reopening on Saturday, October 30 and running through till Sunday, January 23 (after a lockdown-delayed season that originally launched on Thursday, May 13), Disney: The Magic of Animation is making its only Aussie stop at ACMI. The exhibition explores everything from 1928's Steamboat Willie — the first talkie to feature Mickey Mouse — through to this year's Raya and the Last Dragon. Obviously, a wealth of other titles get the nod between those two bookending flicks. Fantasia, Alice in Wonderland, Lady and the Tramp, The Jungle Book and The Lion King also feature, as do Mulan, Frozen, Big Hero 6 and Zootopia. The big drawcard: art from the Mouse House's hefty back catalogue of titles, and heaps of it. More than 500 original artworks feature, spanning paintings, sketches, drawings and concept art. The entire lineup has been specially selected by the Walt Disney Animation Research Library, and will let you get a glimpse at just how the movie magic comes to life, how some of Disney's famous stories were developed, and which animation techniques brought them to the big screen. Get ready to peer at hand-drawn dalmatians (which is timely, given that Cruella released this year), stare closely at Mickey Mouse's evolution, examine Wreck-It Ralph models and pose next to Snow White. Wall-sized artworks pay tribute to a number of movies, too — The Little Mermaid piece is particularly eye-catching — and feeling like you're stepping into a Disney movie is an unsurprising side effect. The extended season will also feature screenings, including sing-along sessions of The Little Mermaid, Moana, Frozen and Frozen 2 — plus a viewing of Disney's upcoming release Encanto. Disney: The Magic of Animation is clearly designed to appeal to Mouse House fans of all ages. You, your parents, today's primary school kids — you've all grown up watching Disney flicks. So, while you're pondering tales as old as time, being ACMI's guest, contemplating the animated circle of life and definitely not letting your nostalgia go, prepare to be accompanied by aficionados both young and young at heart. Images: Phoebe Powell. Updated October 26.
If Shakespeare were alive today, what would he be doing? According to the Q Brothers, the creators of Funk It Up About Nothin', with his love of rhythm, rhyme and wordplay, he'd be a hip hop MC. And of all his works, perhaps Much Ado…, already riddled with ribaldry is the most fitting for some funking up. In this production from Chicago Shakespeare Company, Don Pedro and his boys Claudio and Benedick have just returned victorious from their latest hip hop battle, and love is in the air. With a cast of six plus a DJ on the decks, the performers rap their way through this hilarious and high-tempo adaptation. The performances on the single-set stage are buzzing with energy, and with several quick costume changes required, the cast aren't afraid to camp it up or milk a slapstick moment. Claudio's rejection of Hero at the altar and the entrance of Sheriff Dingleberry were particular highlights. Staying largely true to Shakespeare's plot, the lines have been transformed into a rap just over an hour long, complete with smut, innuendo, and parody — just the way the bard would have wanted it. The production is drawing quite a varied audience: young and old, theatre and hip hop fans alike and all of them leave smiling, which is no mean feat. After all, when was the last time you actually laughed at a Shakespearian comedy? https://youtube.com/watch?v=yB3_OLaA56w
When Stanbuli closed, many Sydneysiders waited with bated breath to learn what would take its place in its iconic Enmore Road digs behind the Marie-Louise salon facade. While a sense of cynicism would have been warranted with Sydney's track record of preserving beloved venues, you can officially breathe a sigh of relief with the Porteno crew maintaining its ownership of the building, opening a much-hyped Spanish tapas bar in the space. Named after the salon that occupied the building from the 50s through until the 90s, Bar Louise maintains the eye-catching pink and purple facade while giving the interior a makeover of warm yellow walls, rich wooden tones and fake leafy vines, all reminiscent of a southern Spain wine bar. "We just want to make it a fun place everyone can come and drink wine and eat great food — open seven days a week," Porteno Founder Elvis Abrahanowicz told Concrete Playground. The star of the drinks menu is sherry, with more than 15 varieties available by the glass ($12–32). The signature drop is an ideal start or end to your meal, accompanied by a cocktail, Estrella or minimal-intervention wine. The cocktails at Bar Louise include a coffee negroni ($22), manhattan on the rocks ($20) and Sangria de Maria Lousie ($15), while the wine list showcases tipples from Spain, Australia, Italy, Portugal, Argentina and France. Once you've ordered your opening glass of sherry, your attention will move to the food. The Pulpo a la Gallega octopus ($28) is an absolute highlight, served with potato, aioli and pimento chilli, but there's plenty here for vegetarians, pescatarians and meat-lovers to all discover. Kick things off with your choice of starters which range from gildas ($6) and paleta ibérico served with chips ($32) to mussel escabeche ($16). From there you can get a little heftier with your choices, with some of the exciting options available including charcoal-grilled eggplant and capsicum ($20), garlic and parsley mushrooms ($26), potato and prawn salad ($24), fried pork belly ($26) and thick-cut chorizo in a cider sauce ($26). The chorizo is made in-house, and a lot of the bar snacks are house-cured with the help of Continental Deli Co-Owner and Manager Michael 'Mikey' Nicolian. And, fans of Stanbuli, never fear — the former Head Chef Ibrahim Kasif is opening a manoush restaurant and wine bar with the renowned hospitality team behind NOMAD.
People of the gluten-free world, do we have some news for you. Nutie, Sydney's much-loved maker of GF doughnuts, is moving into Surry Hills. But, instead of focusing just on baked goods, it'll be doing breakfast and lunch as well — meaning that it will churn out a whole menu of sweet and savoury gluten-free goodness. Nutie opened its first shop in Balmain in 2017 and, since May this year, has been running a pop-up cafe on Pitt Street in the CBD. These venues have been super popular but, due to the kitchen size, can only do coffee and an array of baked goods. The new Holt Street cafe will have a full-service kitchen to produce a breafast and lunch menu that is entirely free of any trace of gluten. This includes porridge, Scandinavian-style topped toast and vegan sans-egg 'huevos rancheros'. While this is particularly good news for coeliacs, it's also a win for vegans. Many of Nutie's goods are dairy-free and vegan, including the cakes, brownies, tarts, cookies and — of course — a selection of doughnuts. Look out for the lamingtons, lemon meringue pies and s'more cookie sandwiches. To celebrate the opening of the Surry Hills store next week, Nutie is giving away 500 doughnuts. Get there at 10am (or earlier) on Tuesday, October 30 to land your paws on one. As an added bonus, it'll also be doing $1 coffees for the whole week. Nutie will open at 44 Holt Street, Surry Hills on Tuesday, October 30 at 10am. It'll then be open from 7am–4.30pm Monday to Friday and 8am–4.30pm Saturday.
A seminal piece of Australian gothic horror is coming to the Sydney Opera House — but not in the way you might expect. It's safe to say that Malthouse Theatre's version, which first premiered in Melbourne last year, transforms the acclaimed Aussie tale into its own creation. Kenneth Cook's landmark novel Wake in Fright has been adapted a number of times over the past 50 years, captivating audiences as a famed motion picture as well a 2017 miniseries on Network Ten. Now, it finds new life as a one-woman show, with actress Zahra Newman taking centre stage in this grim tale of violent masculinity in the dark heart of the Australian outback. When bookish school teacher John Grant finds himself stranded in the isolated mining town of Bundanyabba, his ideas of polite society soon fall away as he descends into a haze of drunkenness and brutality. Under the direction of acclaimed theatre-maker Declan Greene, and aided by a score from art-electronica band friendships, Newman brings the oppressive menace of Cook's work to the stage, forcing us to look inwards in ways we might otherwise avoid. Wake in Fright takes over the Playhouse at Sydney Opera House from Tuesday, February 11–Saturday, February 15. Images: Pia Johnson.
Darlinghurst's much esteemed (and very, very tiny) corner of cafe culture, Bootsdarling, has drummed up quite the dedicated pack of coffee and fritters crazed Sydneysiders crowding around the door. Expect a rotating menu of hearty fare like vegetable pie with a creamy tomato sauce, organic grass-fed slow-cooked lamb with vegetable ratatouille and chili pumpkin cornbread, grilled cheese, Thai crab and fish burgers, quinoa salads — even the odd Friday gourmet sausage sizzle. But you'll also find insane sweet things like the salted caramel coconut slice and coffee experiments aplenty — they once brewed up a blueberry cold drip, so expect anything and everything. Image: Trent Van der jagt.
With over 1,400 pieces on display, Capella Sydney has one of the finest art collections of any hotel in the country. If you'd like to get more acquainted with it, you're invited to take part in a new monthly series, The Art of Dining at Capella. Fusing this extraordinary art collection with tantalising cuisine from the hotel's renowned restaurant, Brasserie 1930, this fascinating encounter makes the property even more of a must-visit destination. Curated by international art and design consultancy, The Artling, leading art advisor Fiona McIntosh will guide this exclusive art tour, offering guests incredible insight into the art that adorns the hotel's storied walls. Plus, the tour includes a complimentary glass of champagne and a double pass to the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA), encouraging visitors to immerse themselves further in the city's art scene. There's enough artwork spread throughout Capella Sydney's expansive space to satisfy your cultural cravings. Focused on Australian artists across numerous mediums, you'll discover Otis Carey's GAAGAL mural in the McRae Bar, while Max Berry's Landscape Effect is a suitably peaceful complement to the divine pool area. Elsewhere, pieces by Nadia Culph, Nick Psomiadis, Belinda Yee and George Hall bring even more sophistication to the suites. Each tour begins in the hotel's Farrer Place lobby, which is home to a pair of site-specific fabric wall hangings by Elise Cakebread, Flotsam and Jetsam. Ready to check them out? Starting from Thursday, May 29, guests who make a booking for Brasserie 1930 will have an exclusive opportunity to book this private guided art tour for $40. Images: Ethan Smart.
