It starts as a riot, the roar of young voices working themselves up into a frenzy of swearing, singing and stamping. They're demanding many things of you already: yes, that's right, teenagers are messy and loud, and they're going to ruin your night with a piece of angsty theatre, so grit your teeth and prepare for music that's too loud and streams of conciousness about drugs and underage sex being awesome.But the moment 17-year-old Charlotte De Bruyne walks onto the stage, the racket stops and you realise that there's something else happening here. Those voices, now quiet, already know that people are sick to death of pre-packaged adolescent cliches. Instead, the thirteen stars of Once and for all... want to share some of their own thoughts on what teenagers are, and what they think of what we think of adolescence, and then they'll pretend to be on drugs, because they know we want that, and...These Belgian teenagers, guided by director Alexander Devriendt, have created a wonderful piece of theatre that achieves the holy grail of performance - they actually excite the audience. Through the inventive uses of a simple, repeated sequence, Once and for all... rejuvenates those who see it, awakening their inner adolescent and filling the post-show foyer with a sea of giddy, enthusiastic faces. Brought to Sydney by award-winning Belgian company, Ontroerend Goed, Once and for all... can sit proudly beside its cousin, The Smile Off Your Face, which made a moving connection with theatre-goers back during the Sydney Festival in January this year. Take advantage of the wonderful stroke of serendipity that brought this show to Sydney and see Once and for all... before it finishes at the end of the month. It will leave you with an energised youthfulness that is more joyful than puberty and longer-lasting than Botox.Photo by Phile Deprez https://youtube.com/watch?v=irL5XeAikxw
Freshly squeezed is how I like my juice — pithy, colourful and frothy on top. It’s a good start to the morning. But how do you get the creative juices flowing? Sydney-based hybrid art collective stagejuice are onto it. Launched in 2010, freshly squeezed brings together some of Sydney’s most exciting emerging artists to mix, whip, taste and test new ideas, interdisciplinary art forms and collaborations in workshops with peers and mentors. More than 20 artists from film, sound, visual arts, dance and theatre are involved in freshly squeezed 2011, culminating in stimulating performances of experimental and raw ideas and pithy new work for all to see. 'Smoke' is this year’s springboard to stimulate inspiring, collaborative work and new thinking. The theme is responded to in any form, literally (or not) by artists including performance and video maker Nick Atkins, performance artist Lucia Giuffre and Beatnik poet Scott Sandwich. Can’t wait for your fix? Check out some of the smoking new works on the freshly squeezed artists' blog. Plus, you can get along and share your juice at a Q&A session after the performance on Friday, October 21. Image by Catherine McElhone.
If ever there were a movie that should have had joint investment with a pharmacy brand, it would be Contagion. Because without doubt, even the hardest cynic will reach for the antibacterial hand wash over the frangipani after seeing this film. Written after the worldwide SARS, swine and bird flu scares, Contagion takes its story from a new outbreak of a deadly virus, which spreads around the world quicker than it can be contained and brings in most of Hollywood's big-name actors along the way. Starring Laurence Fishburne, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Matt Damon, Marion Cotillard — it could almost read as an Oscars guest list. All turn out very serious performances as each and every one is somehow touched by the deadly disease. This movie will remind many of Dustin Hoffman's 1995 film Outbreak, with a similarly untraceable disease killing off its carriers before there's a chance to be cured; however, that film's strength was the search for the original source, a monkey. In this film, the competing storylines do lose a driving force for the plot as we move between the average Joe, the doctors and the government officials trying to contain the disease. Without a doubt, though, this film is spooky. A group of people caught a lift after seeing it, and all quite visibly shied away from being the one to press the button, lest it be a harbourer of some vicious germs. Your usual disaster movie dramas make an appearance — young love, crazy naysayer, government secrets — but because of the hefty weight that the talented cast add to each storyline, the scales tip in favour of making this film one worth seeing. Just maybe not the best date movie — you might be turned off a goodnight kiss. https://youtube.com/watch?v=I5VfNKCQF60
Sydney’s WIM aren’t the kind of band willing to settle for their audience going home thinking “that was nice, what were they called again?”. Sure they share a bit of Grizzly Bear’s much imitated but rarely matched sound, but it’s more than harmonies and reverb here. WIM’s live shows are their own little worlds, enveloping and hypnotic. So, really, it’s about time they released an album. WIM will be celebrating the launch of their self-titled debut this Friday at Paddington United Church, supported by Load Universe, Aim at Brain and Fire Cannon. The choice of venue isn’t just symbolic either — the performance will make use of the Church’s full-size pipe organ and grand piano. Also present will be food! And drinks! As might be expected from such a package deal, tickets are strictly limited. Make sure to book in advance.
Director Wim Wenders is widely regarded as one of the leading auteurs to come out of the New German Cinema. He has a keen sense of how people relate to their surroundings, which he frequently employs to convey emotion. It appears throughout his work: from people confined by their space, and ergo their emotions, in the heart wrenching Paris, Texas; to those shut out, in the case of the angel in Wings of Desire, who wants to escape the shackles of his immortal existence on the periphery of human existence and enter it fully. His latest feature is a documentary about his long time friend and renowned choreographer, Pina Bausch, and her dance company at the Tanztheater Wuppertal, which she led for more than 35 years. Sadly, she passed away a few days before filming was due to commence, turning this project into a tribute, rather than a collaboration. Using 3D technology, Wim Wenders gets into the dancers' space, as they perform a selection of Pina's innovative and ground breaking pieces, along with individual solo performance by the dancers themselves, interviews and silent portraits. With their skilful movements they express a whole array of emotions. Pina Bausch was acutely perceptive and her choreography is an investigation into how humans project their feelings onto the space around them and onto each other. Her dancers were always actively involved in the creative process and you can see how they have channeled this into their movements. The 3D brings you so close to them, it is as though you are catching a glimpse of their souls. In this context, it hardly seems surprising that these two artists, Wim Wenders and Pina Bausch, should have experienced such a meeting of the minds. The challenge of capturing the essence of Pina Bausch's work on film is aptly met by the choice of 3D by Wim Wenders, though the technology is not without its pitfalls, as he freely admits. There is at times a slight feeling of distortion, the depth of field a little out, lending ironically this most "real" of mediums, a slightly "unreal" feel. Though this could be partly a trick of perception, the language of 3D as it is, yet to be defined by filmmakers or learned by viewers. With cuts between performances inside the theatre and outside around Wuppertal, along with interviews, silent portraits and solo performances, the structure of the documentary feels a little stilted at the start. However, it soon finds its rhythm, the editing technique somehow beginning to mirror the pace of the dancing and you are drawn in closer to the beauty and raw emotion on screen. Watching these very visceral performances in 3D, which at times feature the real elements of earth and water on stage, or take place outside, senses are heightened and it is almost as though you can to feel, touch and smell it all. It is a very intense experience, which brings you really close to the dance Pina Bausch created and to her unique insight into the human condition. https://youtube.com/watch?v=LGKzXUWAjnI
There is something wonderful about the fact that Matt Taylor drew his new comic, Lars the Last Viking Goes to the End of the World, completely by hand and on large pages. It conjures up images of old school comic publications, or even Dutch master workshops. Which is fairly fitting, given that Taylor will be launching Lars at China Heights gallery this week. Creative director by day, Taylor turned his design and art skills to creating comics after attending a graphic novel workshop in the US a year ago. The result of that inspiration is Lars: a viking who lives alone on a fjord, and whose adventures are rendered in bold black and white drawings. As part of the launch, there will be a short exhibition of the original pages that compose the book. What is immediately apparent about these pages is that Taylor's plump, cartoonish style gives the illusion of highly coloured sequences in a way far more effective that the actualy glossy colours of Marvel and DC publications. If you can't get enough of Taylor, you can catch him at this Graphic panel at the Sydney Opera House, and keep an eye out for his next work: it may or may not be a zombie love epic.
We can sometimes take the wonders of our modernity for granted, our jaded eyes failing to be entranced by the multitude of stimuli constantly available to us. Yet only a century ago, in 1920s Berlin, the foundations were laid for the modern world as we know it. In the turmoil and upheaval that followed the First World War, old ideas were cast away and creativity flourished, as people embraced a never before experienced freedom to express themselves. The Berlin Sydney programme, which is running concurrently with the Mad Square exhibition, celebrates these pioneers of the modern age with an astoundingly comprehensive array of events at venues across the city. You can experience first hand the vibrant art and culture of the Weimar period, with theatre and music performances, cabaret, exhibitions and films. The more inquisitive among you might enjoy the talks and lectures also taking place, which range from introductions to the main theories and concepts of the time to in-depth panel discussions and symposiums. Topping this all off will be a screening of the restored version Fritz Lang's Metropolis, accompanied by the Sydney Symphony. This is truly a unique opportunity to experience and learn about what is undoubtedly one of the most seminal and exciting periods of our cultural history. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Y9TQkh6F4ZU
It's no wonder, really, that he was known as Mr Glamour. In this cheeky, anti-sexy and downright fun production, Gareth Davies is a force to be reckoned with. Flipping the theatre archetype on its head and then messing up its hair a bit, And They Called Him Mr Glamour is an unexpected insight into the universe of a rising (or perhaps remaining still) star. A startling rant that makes you rethink whatever you thought you were doing here, sitting in a theatre. All the paranoia, self-loathing and pure star quality is there. And the sound of actors treading the boards of the Upstairs Theatre only adds to the production. Davies last appearance at Belvoir Downstairs was one to remember, but this time he does away with the script and relies solely on one of his own making. As if that weren't enough of a challenge, the entire script is a monologue. In lesser hands, this would be a big mistake, but Davies carries it off with an overload of awkward charisma (which, surprisingly enough, isn't an oxymoron). Director Thomas M. Wright surely has no small hand in this either. That said, the set and lighting design is almost as endearing as Davies himself. This intricate and impressive array of bulbs, glass jars, wooden panels, miscellaneous instruments, grit and the occasional piece of Ikea furniture does exactly as it should: overwhelms, and then becomes nothing more than a tool in Davies' capable hands. If theatre is not at all your thing, there couldn't be a better introduction than this. The strange thing about it all is that it's definitely still 'theatre'. And great theatre at that. The whole thing is just the right level of confronting and the right level of laughs to make it all work out quite nicely. Image: Heidrun Lohr
Culture just gained a new semi-precious stone in the guise of a magazine. Here comes Ampersand Issue 4: From the Heart of the Forest to the Edge of the Road. If you're already plugged in the sell will be easy, if not here are the facts. Ampersand describes itself as a 'quarterly curiosity journal'. In other words it can be thought of as a collection of that which would otherwise be left behind, forgotten or simply misplaced. This is the kind of knowledge that slips between the fridge and the oven; cockroach company. But this is not a slur, it's a compliment. You'll find humor, absurd facts, errant investigations, malfunctioning journalism and all kinds of pictures you might otherwise miss. The launch party will be hijacking the New South Wales State Library Ballroom. Hosted by Jennifer Byrne (ABC's First Tuesday Book Club) and featuring readings from both reputable and questionable contributors alike. There is promise of drinks and selected cheeses, plus it is free entry and the magazine will be available for purchase on the night ($10). For a preview of the current issue click here.
Riding high on our Oscar wins, it's time to continue the celebrations, festival style. The Australian Film Festival will revel in its terrible twos over twelve days of films and frivolities, where seminars, food and even some squares of concrete vie for your attention with the silver screen. Making the Australian Film Walk of Fame this year are the beloved Jack Thompson, Gary Sweet and Sigrid Thornton, who all star in James F. Khehtie poignant portrait of the World War II homefront, The Telegram Man. This will screen as part of the Australian Short Film Competition on the festival's closing night. Other stars set to shine during the festival include Isabel Lucas (Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen), who returns from Tinseltown with not one but two local productions: opening night honours with The Wedding Party and the tale of a small town brass band in A Heartbeat Away. True Blood's Ryan Kwanten has also ventured home to co-star with the delightful Maeve Dermody (Beautiful Kate) in the utterly charming superhero fable Griff the Invisible. Another Australian abroad success story, Michael Rowe, has sent back his compelling Camera d'Or winning debut feature Ano Bisiesto (Leap Year) to screen at the festival, while Underbelly alums Gyton Grantley and Damian Walshe-Howling take to the seas in the terrifying true story The Reef. Other highlights include a Jack Thompson lead walk down memory lane with the Popcorn Taxi screening of The Sum of Us. This blue-collar father and son tale features a fresh-faced Russell Crowe, and is well worth a look or a revisit. Another film due a replay is Pixar's superb Finding Nemo, which will screen for free this Saturday (March 5th) down at Clovelly beach. The Australian Film Festival is packed with plenty more besides, so check out the website and order up a serving of patriotism along with your popcorn. https://youtube.com/watch?v=kPjFHXHV140
If you have never seen Mark Ronson live then I have to warn you, almost every performance you witness subsequently will feel like a rip off. The range and diversity of Ronson’s production catalogue spans several genres. In some ways his tireless production acumen is in step with today’s hyper stimulated, spoilt for choice lifestyle. What impresses most is the cutting edge that he demonstrates across the board, from big band to hip hop to electronic pop. Songs from Ronson’s current release, The Record Collection, feature collaborative efforts from artists including Boy George, Q-Tip, Miike Snow and others, all internationally acclaimed in their own right, and his band The Business Intl. One perceived drawback is that with so many big names understandably not in attendance how will the tracks stand up live? Rest assured, Ronson has a habit of sourcing incredible undiscovered talent and the occasional unexpected star to fill in wherever he goes. One advantage to his role as a producer performer is that he knows exactly what will work. His substitutes slot in seamlessly and their enthusiasm and often bemusing talent only add to the experience. Ronson himself also chips in with some of the vocals this time round. I liken them to breadsticks, in that not everyone enjoys them and they are really only there to give you something to nibble on before the main meal. The originality of The Record Collection is in some ways a response to criticism of Ronson’s previous album titled Version. Although most Version tracks were scarcely recognisable, they were all deconstructed and reassembled covers, leading some critics to assert that there was a ceiling to Ronson’s ingenuity. The popular success of original tracks 'Bang Bang Bang', 'The bike song' and 'Somebody to love me' have acquitted Ronson of any such notions. I can’t endorse what he did to his hair in the last 6 months, and I still question his judgement on that remake of The Smith’s Stop me, but few plan a performance as thoroughly and deliver it with the infections energy of Mark Ronson. The event is now sold out.
The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood have a bit of reputation for being kinda sissy; all chicks looking moody in historical dress-ups and stuff. Art for and about women upon whom dudes project pretty heavily, one might say. But the PRB (not to be confused with PBR) do have their claims to badassery and virtuosity. They basically declared that painting from Raphael onward was overly precious, unnatural and dishonest. And they had a pretty legit set of goals, viz. - To have genuine ideas to express - To study Nature attentively, so as to know how to express them - To sympathise with what is direct and serious and heartfelt in previous art, to the exclusion of what is conventional and self-parodying and learned by rote - Most indispensable of all, to produce thoroughly good pictures and statues Their emphasis on quality and truth entailed a high degree of technical rigour, and this show zeroes in on the role of drawing in that return to what the Brotherhood regarded as the more wholesome and legit aesthtics of the Quattrocento. Doing things properly, in a Pre-Raphaelite way, was a pretty thorough process that involved doing sketches and studies and putting in details and working as closely as possible from physical recreations of the scenes they wanted to depict, so it was important to be able to draw well and they ended up drawing a lot, from basic sketches to fully-resolved watercolours. Image: Dante Gabriel Rossetti, 1876. Edward Robert Hughes, 1893.
There is a tacit agreement (or valid argument, which I'm more than willing to take up) that Goodgod Small Club is the prize of the city, an inimitable addition to life after dark. To support this claim logically I'll move through the reasons with care. Firstly, one only has to walk down the stairs and into the bar to realise it looks like nothing else. In a sea of pleather upholstered seats, erratic chandeliers and overused design budgets, Goodgod stands out as an eccentrically pinched inner-city tropical den/island. Secondly, the music is varied in genre and covers most corners of the world. Thirdly, the jugs — of varied liquids, names and histories — consistently seem to satisfy the taste and psychology of their tenants. Fourthly, The Dip. Now, if you take these four reasons and add their latest venture - Goodgod Long Birthday Nights - you've reached somewhat of a foolproof conclusion to your social needs. Spread over the October long weekend, Goodgod will house an array of live music that you'll want to peruse for yourself. Also, be on the look out for the specially conceived, celebration-bent food emerging from The Dip. I know I'm stating this strongly, but some things deserve fervor. Three nights are ahead of you.
The Fantastic Planet Film Festival is entering its terrible twos in spectacular fashion. Tears and tantrums may well spill forth both onscreen and off as a scarily good line up of sci-fi and generally fantastical films take over Dendy Newtown. It's Christmas come early with the creepy Finnish number Rare Exports taking opening night honours. A seriously twisted take on the Santa legend, it might well have you wishing you never believed in the big man in red. Another Philip K. Dick (Blade Runner, Total Recall, A Scanner Darkly) novel has been adapted to the big screen and this festival will host the world premiere of Radio Free Albemuth. With a strong performance from infamously 'ironic' singer Alanis Morrissette, director John Alan Simon's cinematic vision purportedly stays true to Dick's original vein of dark paranoia. Closing night takes the cake with Robert Rodriguez's gloriously gratuitous, 'Mexploitation' revenge thriller Machete. Born of a fake trailer in Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino's exploitation experiment Grindhouse, the film stars Danny Trejo, Robert De Niro, Jessica Alba, Michelle Rodriguez and Steven Segal (plus a cameo from Lindsay Lohan). As a prelude to the closing night party, seriously, what more could you ask for? Check out the program for further features (including Mortal Fools, an existential Aussie adaptation of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream), the short film contingent and info on the Fantastic Filmmaking Forum. A two year old has never been so accomplished. https://youtube.com/watch?v=I16020r--oM
The cinematically inclined are taking the floor for another year of filmmaking marathons, screenings and parties that make up Kino Kabaret. From seasoned pros to keen-bean first timers, filmmakers from all walks of life have signed up for the mad dash to bring an idea to screen in a mere 32 hours. Now you have the chance to join the fun. Three separate screening parties are taking place at Chippendale's Fraser Studios on October 20, 22 and 24, each with their respective party themes: Card Sharks, Hardcore Gamers and Roller Riot (cue appropriate puns). Each evening promises to have free-flowing beer, pizza and prizes to compliment the cinematic acts of daring do. As Artistic Director Matt Ravier reveals: "Kino offers an inclusive, non-competitive experience to give people a taste for filmmaking. Participants pool their resources, ideas, knowledge and equipment. To keep things interesting we're inviting Kino filmmakers from Adelaide, Paris and the US to join in the fun. The result is unpredictable, the energy is contagious ... and in true Kino spirit, the parties — which include live entertainment, snacks, giveaways and open bar — are awesome." The poster says it best: Game on!
One of the keys to successful collaboration is that everyone needs to bring something and preferably something unique, to the table. This is certainly the case with Branch Nebula: an ensemble that incorporates a martial artist, a designer, an acrobat, a footballer, a Parkour practitioner and a 'noicician', alongside your more traditional performers, stage manager, producer and dramaturg. Sweat blends these skills with a simple concept — 'life's tedious chores' — to create a relevant, contemporary and engaging performance that will literally have you off your feet. Branch Nebula are dedicated to making work which presents a multifaceted take on contemporary culture. They seek to create an inclusive form of performance that celebrates diversity and engages with new kinds of audiences. And by all reports, they are doing an exceptional job of it. Sweat is certainly a performance that it would make no sense to miss. Image: photo by James Brown
Out to prove that small does equal beautiful, collective Synergy Percussion have assembled an enticing evening of performances from the 'underground'. Synergy Percussion will present new music, instruments and stories from their explorations across the waters over the past year. And just to hammer home the point, this group — impressive in their own right — have arranged some extraordinary special guests. Namely, jazz virtuoso and label head Simon Barker, bodywork movement artist Zsuzsanna Soboslay, and the exceptional dancer Martin del Amo. Not to mention that this will all take place in the stunningly beautiful surrounds of Newtown's St. Stephens Church. Touche — a point well made. https://youtube.com/watch?v=O-T0EmTVmqc
You should be familiar with version 1.0 already — their take on the political equals highly engaging and powerful theatre. Some will recall This Kind of Ruckus, which delved into sexual violence in contemporary culture, making links with sex scandals involving certain rugby league players. For those who aren't, think Wikileaks as live performance meets video art, with a dash of Boal. In other words, contemporary, democratic theatre at its best. Their latest offering branches out into new and more personal territory, as performer Kym Vercoe explores her unwitting visit to a Visegrad spa hotel, revealing the seething political history that lies buried underneath. Unsurprisingly, this work has already garnered attention from both theatrical and political spheres. I'd suggest you grab tickets (along with a beer and laksa) before you miss your chance. https://youtube.com/watch?v=sUhRNocDDjg
John Tonkin is an artist who takes the relationship between you and the moving image seriously. Currently on view at Breenspace, A Biology of Cognition is a new body of work by Tonkin relevant to his ongoing research into cybernetics and embodied perception. The work is comprised of four interactive video loops that react and change depending on your movements within the space. Playing with those moments of reality where you are contemplative yet distant, Tonkin offers scenarios from everyday life that skirt the poetic but do not fall victim to it. Anyone interested in image-human interconnectivity and perception will glean something from Tonkin's weathery domains.
A definitive example of New Hollywood cinema, Five Easy Pieces (1970) is a film that takes no measures to gild the lily — this is cinema served straight up. In line with other iconic features from the era such as Mike Nichols The Graduate (1967), director Bob Rafelson has managed to channel a particular mood of the time (such as the desire to shirk responsibility) into one personal scenario. Our guide is child-prodigy-turned-oil-rig-worker Robert Dupea (Jack Nicholson), as he makes his way back home to visit his dying father. During this road trip (of sorts) we discover a few crumbs about this cantankerous, always-drinking, apathetic man. Ultimately however, Dupea remains a mystery, both to himself, those around him and the audience — this is a man who has vacated himself. Part of The New Contemporary Galleries Film Program at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, New Hollywood is an ongoing series taking place every Wednesday as part of Art After Hours.
The closer we get towards “the future”, the more jaded about it we seem to become. For decades after Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, the lack of flying cars was the primary complaint circulating in geek circles, but since the advent of colour television private air vehicles have been synonymous with post-apocalyptic dystopias. Back to the Future II raised hopes for hoverboard transportation by the year 2015 but, while the film’s prediction of a Florida Marlins victory in ’97 proved to be correct, it looks like the availability of hoverboards is about as likely as the release of Jaws 19. Now we’re faced with this whole thing about global warming and the end of the world. This is what seems to take priority in Now and When, two films and an immersive soundscape resulting from a competition inviting architects to create a vision of Australia 40 years from now. 'Now' captures aerial images of Australia’s urban and non-urban regions as they are now. 'When' is a sequence of 17 futuristic environments imagining what these will look like when we reach 2050 and beyond. Though global warming and the lack of actual land is a prime concern, it here leads not to massive dehumanisation and a lack of food sources but to a bunch of Aussies all swimming around happily in the ocean. These water worlds are certainly the most interesting — particularly the submerged city 'Syph', which features separate pods that work together to provide a comfortable underwater life. And for those disenchanted by the idea of living under the sea, some of the proposed cities do take place on more conventional building sites.
They say the camera never lies, but there is little doubt that at times it can be economical with the truth. Yet we continue to be enchanted by the magic of photography and its ability to capture a moment in time, putting our full trust in this most unreliable of narrators. There are so many factors beyond the frame which can affect the final image and how it is perceived by us: the angle from which a photo is taken, the effect of line and of exposure, can easily change the meaning. Whether or not this is caused by a happy accident or deliberate manipulation, it certainly makes for a particularly subversive playground for artists to frolic about in. The artists taking part in the Bad Angle exhibition at Stills gallery have been chosen because their photographs and videos challenge our perception. The pieces examine the practice of looking, believing, capturing and transforming. Using a variety of methods and showing diverse and varied influences, from the suburban uncanny, to the cinematic, the supernatural and the pagan, to name just a few, their works celebrate the magic of the medium we call photography.
There's something very charming about the way us English-speakers group animals together. Sometimes we're all caught up in their appearance: a blush of flamingos, a prickle of porcupines, a whiteness of swans. Or we're taken by the way they move: a fall of lambs, a glide of flying fish, a walk of snails. Other times, it's simple alliteration: a leap of leopards, a bike of bees, a rhumba of rattlesnakes. Or pure creativity: a mess of iguanas, a storytelling of ravens, an aurora of polar bears. Whatever the back story, these collective nouns captivate, so much so that Noun Collective is staging their second exhibition on this very topic. Noun Collective invited artists to respond to their most favourite collective noun, make an artwork and be part of the upcoming palaver of paintings at Gaffa Gallery. Image: Cat Macinnes, A Parcel of Dears
You've heard the rumours, now it's official: the Kings Cross pub to beat all pubs is reopening, and FBi radio are at the helm of the new era. While you may not have been quick enough to catch the members launch last week, the news is still good, with the official launch she-bang happening next Friday. As if a new live music venue in Sydney wasn't enough of an event, they've decided to jazz it up a bit. Possibly Australia's most contagious band, Dappled Cities Fly, will be headlining and previewing the material from their new album. But that's far from all. Turns out they've somehow crammed five stages into the joint, so you can take your pick of acts from the line up. I'd suggest wearing your dancing shoes for Canyons or World's End Press, or perhaps Kirin J Callinan for something with a little more swing. If you'd rather just mooch around looking indie, Belles Will Ring or The Laurels should do the trick. With about a zillion acts to choose from, you're certain to find something that's 'your thing'. And did I mention? This whole extravaganza is free. Dig in! Oh, and remember to check out the new interior by Matt Woods while you're at it.
AMP's AMPLIFY Festival began as an experimental think-fest in 2005 and is now a celebrated biennial treat bringing the world's top thinkers in innovative technologies together for one hell of a chin-wag. The theme for this year's festival is "Everything Connects" — an exploration of the interconnectedness not only of emerging technologies themselves, but also of the nature of their impact on our world. In this new world order, information and how we get it is constantly changing before our very eyes. It is also radically transforming how we think, what we see, how we relate socially and the ways in which we conduct our business. The AMPLIFY 2011 line-up is as extensive as it is impressive: we have Obama's technology policy advisor Prof. Mike Nelson, the inventor of Wi-Fi Dr. John O’Sullivan, and key players from MIT's Centre for Digital Business and the Deloitte Centre for Edge Innovation Dr. Andy McFee and John Hagel respectively. Natalie Tran, video blogger extraordinaire will be there, as will founder and director of the Zero Emissions Research Initiative Gunter Pauli, and too any other great minds and future-shapers to mention. This is literally a genius-fest. If you miss out on/can't afford the limited tickets available to attend in person you can catch the live streaming of the speaker sessions for free here. *5% of all ticket sales go to the One Laptop Per Child program.
Remember this? Sure, Brian Eno may not be coming back this time, but the city can look so lovely all lit up, and light sculptures are seriously more sustainable (and less noisy) than fireworks. Living up to their name, the good people at Vivid Sydney are arranging for the installation of 40 light sculptures all around Circular Quay, turning the area into an immersive and interactive exhibition from 6pm to midnight each evening. Like, really interactive. Like, you are allowed to climb on some of them! And others include a giant etch-a-sketch where you get draw with light, and fireflies that gather and group themselves according to the movement and position of observers' torches. We're also promised a crystal spiderweb and some giant rainbow men (I can't help thinking of these guys but I'm sure it'll be much more advanced) but the rest they're keeping quiet for now, so you'll need to go see them, wander amongst them and clamber all over them for yourself.
It has been a couple of years since The Jungle Collective first started taking over Australian warehouses and slinging plenty of plants, all thanks to its huge sales in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney. These leafy excuses to fill your home with greenery always have a bit of a celebratory vibe, so the outfit's next New South Wales outing should come as no surprise — it's hosting a plant sale house party. While all of those gorgeous green babies are the main attraction — and more than 170 varieties of them, too — browsing and buying in an old heritage building isn't something you get to do every day. It's happening twice, across the two days of Saturday, March 9 and Sunday, March 10. You'll pick up everything from fiddle leafs and monsteras to giant birds of paradise and rubber trees, as well as oh-so-many ferns and hanging plants. You'll also be able to shop for designer pots, get expert advice from the horticulturalists onsite, listen to jungle tunes and even nab a $5 discount if you show up in fluro attire. It's all happening at 260 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood, with two-hour sessions held at 8am, 10am, 12pm and 2pm on Saturday, plus 10am and 12pm on Sunday. While entry is free, you'll need to secure a ticket to head along — they'll be available from midday on Monday, March 4.
Spending your silly season in Sydney, but your loved ones are in another city? Missing the usual family shindig? Feeling a little home alone? PS40 has your festive fun covered, thanks to its Home Alone Orphans Christmas Party. We're not saying that someone will slap their hands to their face and scream as if they've just put on aftershave, but, well, we're actually pretty sure that several someones will do just that. Really, what everyone will be doing is drinking their way through the bar's boozy Christmas cocktail menu, listening and tapping their toes to Christmas tunes played by a jazz-funk band, and eating their way through Christmas-themed canapes. And, saying "Christmas" a whole lot, of course. 'Tis the season, ya filthy animals. The merry get-together takes place from 6pm on Saturday, December 22, and entry is free. Image: Alana Dimou
If seasonal change has left you in a dizzy headspin of new colours and fabrics and prints and jackets — or if, y'know, you just like some fancy new clothes now and then — you'll be pretty pleased to know that the Big Fashion Sale is coming back to Sydney for four days this March. The name pretty much says it all. This thing is big. You'll find thousands of lush items from past collections, samples and one-offs from over 50 cult Australian and international designers, both well-known and emerging, including Kenzo, Marni, Phillip Lim, Karla Špetić, Adidas, Kowtow, Macgraw, Thursday Sunday and more. With discounts of up to 80 percent off, this is one way to up your count of designer while leaving your bank balance sitting pretty too. Prices this low tend to inspire a certain level of ruthlessness in all of us, though, so practise that grabbing reflex in advance. This is every person for themselves. The Big Fashion Sale will be open 9am till 8pm Thursday, 9am till 6pm Friday and Saturday, and 10am till 4pm Sunday.
Urban Winery Project is back in Sydney for its seventh season, again taking over Three Blue Ducks Rosebery for two nights on Wednesday, February 21 and Thursday, February 22. Patrons can expect another year of top-notch food, Vinteloper wine and grape stomping shenanigans. Founded by the team behind Adelaide Hills wine label Vinteloper, the event originated in Adelaide back in 2012 and also popped-up in Melbourne in 2016 and 2015. This is UWP's second year running at Three Blue Ducks, with last year's guests stomping enough shiraz to fill a whopping 3456 bottles, making it the largest batch yet. While famed chefs Andy Allen and Mark LaBrooy prepare a feast over an open grill, guests will get their hands — and feet — dirty, too. The event's signature immersive experience begins with some good old stomping of the grapes and is accompanied by a winemaking and appreciation seminar, along with a Q&A. Diners will also be the first to sample and potentially purchase the wines made at last year's event, including a red blend and a white blend. Once the messy part is done, guests gather around share tables for Allen's four-course degustation, matched with Vinteloper wines including a shiraz, tempranillo, gewürztraminer and riesling. There's no denying it's a pricey night, but, for the caliber of food, wine and the chance to stomp your heart out, it will at least be a paycheck well spent. Urban Winery Project X Three Blue Ducks Rosebery Pop-Up is happening on February 21 and 22 at 6.30pm for a 7pm start. Tickets are $140pp for four courses with wines and an interactive winemaking experience. Bookings via UWP's website.
Move over, regular old land-based yoga — there's a new type of bending, stretching fun in town. That'd be FloatFit, which combines high-intensity interval training with getting flexible, all while you're floating on water. No, you're not on a boat. And no, you're not on a large-scale floating platform. Instead, you'll work through your workout on an AquaBase, a one-person exercise platform that adds an extra dimension to your exercise, working your core as you continually stay balanced. If that sounds like your kind of thing, AquaPhysical is hosting a number of free classes throughout February so that you can give it a try. From February 5 to 17, multiple sessions will be held in Baulkham Hills, Liverpool, Lidcombe, Concord, Camperdown and Salamander Bay. It's a one-day per venue kind of deal — sometimes in the morning, sometimes in the evening — so make sure you check the schedule. And, while you won't pay a thing if you're a member of the pool, non-members will still have to pay to get in.
Sydney's beloved taco-slinger Toby Wilson (Ghostboy Cantina, Bad Hombres) has recently returned from Mexico and he's brought a legit taste of the street food scene back with him. To showcase his new recipes, Wilson will take over the Mecca Alexandria kitchen with Las Taquerias de Mexico — offering a set menu of tacos and snacks over two sittings a night on March 16, 17, 23 and 24. The eight-course taco degustation is based off of Wilson's food journey, with regional dishes from Mexico City, Guanajuato, Guadalajara, Oaxaca and Baja California represented on the menu — think lamb barbacoa tacos, zucchini flower and Oaxaca cheese quesadillas, ceviche tostadas and al pastor tacos. Other dishes will be announced on Wilson's Instagram in the lead up to the pop-up. For drinks, they've imported tequila and mezcal from the distilleries Wilson visited on his trip, with Mexican beer, cocktails and natural wines also on offer. There will be an additional drinks pairing option available for $40, or patrons can buy drinks as they go. As it's a fairly intimate venue, tickets for each sitting are limited. $60 for snacks — sans drinks — is definitely on the pricey side, but Wilson's tacos could certainly be worth it.
You know that feeling of unbridled joy and energy you get in the opening scene of The Lion King when you scream "naaaants een-vwen-yaaaaaaa ma-ba-gee-chi-ba-va" (or some variation thereof) as baby Simba is hoisted up by Rafiki? That's why you should pay to see the Spice World: The Movie at Moonlight Cinema on February 9. Even though you've seen it a million times, you have it on DVD and Blu-ray (for some reason), and on a USB drive that's permanently in the TV, you should still buy a ticket. The sheer thrill that you'll feel when an outdoor cinema full of adult women all scream "you gotta, you gotta, you gotta, you gotta SLAM SLAM SLAM SLAM" will be an experience like no other. The joy of sharing, nostalgia and sing-screaming are all rolled into one sing-a-long event at the Belvedere Amphitheatre at Centennial Park, so snap up a ticket while you can.
In 2011's Le Havre, Aki Kaurismäki explored Europe's refugee crisis in his trademark way: with empathy, a droll sense of humour and a bittersweet outlook. He tackles the same subject with the same approach in The Other Side of Hope, although you could never accuse the Finnish filmmaker of simply retracing his own footsteps. Rather, the writer-director steps from a tale of transition to one of acceptance. It's a shift that not only reflects global events over the past seven years, but also comes with a much-needed message. What the world needs now is compassion, Kaurismäki posits — an idea that applies when asylum seekers arrive in prosperous nations searching for better lives. The Other Side of Hope begins when Syrian refugee Khaled (Sherwan Haji) hops off a boat in Helsinki. Looking for a new home far from Aleppo, he just wants the chance to start afresh, however Finland proves far from welcoming. Meanwhile, leaving his wife and his old salesman life behind to enter the restaurant trade, Waldemar Wikström (Sakari Kuosmanen) requires help getting his new business going. Both men are fleeing their respective pasts, but Wikström's plight can't compare to Khaled's, and the film doesn't claim otherwise. Instead, after Wikström spies Khaled hiding behind his eatery, the movie shows how an act of kindness shapes their intertwined fortunes. In other hands, a parade of cheesy cliches would ensue, but Kaurismäki isn't any other filmmaker. There's a reason that he's considered Finland's best living auteur, and why his movies receive widespread international attention. While they're the kind of plaudits that every director dreams of, no one views the world quite like Kaurismäki. He fills his frames with characters that wear their eccentricities on their sleeves, yet couldn't be more relatable. He shows people struggling with all types of problems, both commonplace and more extreme, while still banding together because it's the right thing to do. Further, he charts life's ups and downs without avoiding its sorrows, but never removing optimism from the equation either. Indeed, there's a word that sums up his work perfectly: humane. Another word springs to mind: absurd. It's evident when a fight quickly turns into a job offer and when salted herring is served up as sushi, two of the movie's wry, hilarious developments. From its deadpan humour to its rockabilly soundtrack, The Other Side of Hope is often offbeat, albeit in a very specific way. Kaurismäki isn't trying to make an over-the-top comedy — instead, his film recognises how odd everyday existence really can be. It's why his cast turn in portrayals that seem naturalistic as well as a little detached, whether the world-weary Kuosmanen is grimacing through a poker game or the scene-stealing Haji is relaying Khaled's background with a calm demeanour. Lensed by Kaurismäki's regular cinematographer Timo Salminenn, the movie's visuals operate in the same manner as the performances. Every shot overflows with lifelike detail, with smoke hanging in the air and pain oozing from a stranger's glare, yet every image feels like it has been meticulously arranged. It's the same sensation that great still-life paintings evoke: of not only capturing reality, but capturing the artist's unique perspective along with it. Of course, The Other Side of Hope isn't a static image frozen in time. Observed with the same compassion it champions, and proving as earnest as it is amusing, the film is an intricately composed portrait brimming with melancholy, sincerity and worldwide relevance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asR1B7NrhQQ
Ceramicist Milly Dent is inviting you to get your hands dirty. In April, she'll be hosting workshops in porcelain casting and mould making, giving you the chance to create your own pieces, then glaze them with stunning colours. There'll be two workshop series, each taking place over three sessions. The first session will involve a mould making demo and an introduction to slip casting, followed by an opportunity to make your own mould. At the second, you'll experiment with an array of porcelain – both white and coloured – as well as a bunch of underglazes and glazes. Finally, when the third session rolls around, it'll be time to cast a third creation and put the finishing touches on your previous works. The first series will be held on April 10, 17 and 24; and the second on April 11, 18 and 25. All sessions will run from 6.30–8.30pm. Milly Dent has exhibited at numerous of Sydney's galleries, including Saint Cloche, the Australian Design Centre, Kerrie Lowe and Damien Minton. Images: Amy Piddington
Everyone loves Gelato Messina's creative ice cream concoctions; however, believe it or not, there is a way to make their chilled sweet treats even better. You know how dessert takes oh-so-divine when it caps off an amazing meal? Yep, that's how to amplify your Messina experience. At the latest instalment of their Messina Eats pop-up series, Melbourne burger joint 8bit is in the spotlight. Following in the footsteps of Huxtaburger and Mr Claws, Wonderbao, Hoy Pinoy, Burn City Smokers and more, they're serving up four epic burgers and loaded fries, while the appropriately arcade game-themed shindig will also feature a gaming station to keep you entertained between bites. As for your final course, Messina will be unleashing the Mortal Cookie Kombat — a milk choc chip cookie and milo crumble, topped with a scoop of dulce de leche gelato. And, it wouldn't be a burger feast without some milkshakes to sip on, which Messina is taking care of as well. Messina Eats runs from noon until sold out on March 23 and 24 in the carpark at Messina's Rosebery HQ.
If your pup's been trying to sad-eye his or her way into your Easter celebrations, but without much chocolatey success, here's a solution for you both. On Saturday March 17, Mad Paws, an Aussie pet-sitting network, is hosting its annual Dog Easter Egg Hunt at Sydney Park. For four furry hours, your drooling, slobbering one will be the focus of all attention. As well as the main attraction, there'll be an agility course competition, dog whispering sessions, an artist working on pawtraits and a photography corner, where you and your pooch can pose together. Whatever you do, make sure your four-legged friend doesn't leave home until they're looking their very best: at the end of the day, the best-dressed dog will score a special prize. In between all that action, find time to wander around the stalls, which will be peddling doggy treats such as pupcakes, offering massages and dental check-ups, and hosting workshops, including one on first aid. All proceeds will go to Maggie's Rescue, a Marrickville-based animal welfare charity with a no-kill policy.
There's no simple, obvious or clear-cut way to approach the story of Donald Crowhurst. An amateur British sailor who tried to circumnavigate the globe for publicity and prize money, his is a tale so strange that it can only be true. For those unfamiliar with the 50-year-old saga, Crowhurst jumped from selling homemade navigational equipment to sailing around the world as part of a lucrative 1968 contest. Participants were required to complete their voyage alone and without making any stops — something that, at the time, had never been done before. Setting off with virtually no experience on a barely seaworthy boat that he'd designed himself, Crowhurst unsurprisingly ventured straight into troubled waters — and made many questionable decisions once he got there. As a quest for fame and glory, his efforts smack of misplaced hubris. At the same time, with a struggling business to his name and a family to support, he was facing considerable financial pressures both before and after he committed to the trip. His need to win the race, and the £5,000 cash that came with it, was sparked by more than just a desire to stroke his own ego. With Colin Firth taking on the role of Crowhurst, Rachel Weisz co-starring as his wife Clare, and David Thewlis popping up as the pushy publicist keen to sell the story (and embellish it where needed), The Mercy endeavours to depict both sides of its protagonist. The film chronicles the bluster and bravado that undeniably drove Crowhurst's fateful actions, while also exploring the pain and pressure behind them. The details are not only fascinating, infuriating and heartbreaking, but also incredibly complex. Still, just like sailing the seven seas solo, communicating all of that on screen is a hard task to master. No stranger to the real-life plights of obsessive men determined to succeed, director James Marsh (Man on Wire, The Theory of Everything) turns The Mercy into two films in one; a plucky underdog adventure crashing into an All Is Lost-style survivalist epic. Both have their merits, but they don't quite fit together — like much of Crowhurst's vessel, appropriately. While it's easy to admire the efforts of Marsh and screenwriter Scott Z. Burns (Contagion) to offer a well-rounded account, the first half of the movie often feels like it's just ticking as many melodramatic boxes as it can. Instead, the film hits its stride when it leans into the drama of the voyage itself, flitting between Crowhurst's escalating struggles at sea and Clare's own troubles at home. It's these later scenes that showcase Marsh's versatility, as set to a well-pitched score by the late composer Jóhann Jóhannsson (Arrival). With the assistance of cinematographer Eric Gautier (Into the Wild), the filmmaker finds visually expressive ways to convey the physical perils and emotional stresses faced by Crowhurst, while handling Clare's efforts to keep afloat (economically rather than literally) with a suitably reserved yet resonant air. In the process, he also showcases Firth and Weisz's adaptability, whether transitioning from eager to regretful and afraid, or from supportive to strong in the face of tragedy. Firth, understandably, gets more of a chance to shine than Weisz, but their respective character arcs prove equally compelling and convincing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L03PXWLmfQE&feature=youtu.be
Gelato Messina is about to become a place both wonderful and strange. With Twin Peaks finally happening again in the form of an eagerly anticipated third season, the gelato kings are getting in on the action by turning two of their stores — one in Sydney and one in Melbourne — into the show's iconic Double R Diner for one day. Naturally, there'll be themed frozen goodness aplenty, as well as free scoops. It's going to be damn fine indeed. In what will be Messina's first ever store transformations, the Double R Diner is set to take over the Newtown store on May 22. There mightn't be staff called Norma and Shelly on-hand, but there will be custom-made cherry gelato 'pie'. If that's your idea of dessert heaven, then here, the ice cream is what it seems. This must be where pies go when they die. In addition to the limited edition pie — there will only be 50 slices available per store — Messina has created three custom Twin Peaks flavours. They'll be served up for free (yes, free) between the hours of 12pm and 4pm, and then again from 5pm to 10pm. Just what those varieties will be, if they'll be wrapped in plastic, and whether there'll be a jukebox on-site playing tunes you just want to click your fingers to — well, you'll have to head along to find out. You can probably expect good, hot, black coffee too. Let's just hope there isn't a fish in the percolator. Unless you've been trapped in the Black Lodge for the past 25 years, you'll know that the whole thing is timed to coincide with the start of new Twin Peaks season, which will drop on Stan in Australia at 2pm on Monday, May 22. All 18 episodes have been directed by David Lynch, so we're in for quite the treat. Celebrating with pie and gelato is something Special Agent Dale Cooper would approve of — remember his wise words of advice: "every day, once a day, give yourself a present".
Once the dust begins to settle on Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia Resort 2018, the fashion week will wrap up by flinging open its doors to consumers for two days only. Mercedes-Benz Fashion Weekend Edition brings the glitz, glamour and buzz of the shows to the public, with a curated selection of runway shows, talks and workshops at Carriageworks from May 19 to 20. Across the MBFWE weekend, there'll be plenty to keep attendees busy. Sit where the style set sat just days before and watch the latest Resort 2018 looks from Australia's top designers take the runway. With a few fashion seminars being held during the day, the event really kicks off with Alice McCall's Spring/Summer 2017 — and you can shop the looks you see straight from the runway. Saturday brings a full day of events from style sessions with industry leaders, to a runway photography masterclass on how to shoot like the pros, to hair and makeup workshops with Redken and Napoleon Perdis respectively. Then of course, there are the multiple fashion shows throughout the day featuring the latest active, sports-luxe and resort ready-to-wear collections fresh from the MBFWA runway. And if you need a break from the stylish hustle, give your heeled tootsies a break and kick back with a glass of sparkling and a bite to eat in the MBFWE Hub. If you've ever wondered what actually goes on during these weeks of street style, catwalks and jet-setting glamazons, sneak a glimpse into the world of fashion, and discover the best local and international industry talent to hit Aussie shores. Image: Lisa Maree Williams / Getty Images. Words by Lucinda Starr and Quinn Connors.
The 31st annual Taste of Manly is a weekend celebration of all things food, drink and culture in the northern beaches suburb. The festival takes over Manly Beach along The Corso for a two-day extravaganza where patrons can enjoy the iconic surroundings while soaking in this indulgent cultural event. Local restaurants will put on special menus while the fine wine and craft beer venues — like the popular Manly Wine and 4 Pines Brewpub — will showcase their artisan booze. The festival also includes special pop-up restaurants, wine and beer stalls, live music and activities, as well as a sustainability hub. It will run from 11.30am until 5pm on both Saturday and Sunday.
Prepare to sip your way around one of New South Wales' grapiest regions because the Hunter Valley Wine Festival is back for the fifth year. It's a completely different event to the Hunter Valley Food and Wine Festival, in case you were wondering. Here, in vineyard country, one vino fest really isn't enough. Taking place from 11am to 5pm on June 24, it's the reason you've been needing for a weekend jaunt away from the city — not that anyone really needs an excuse for that. The area's wineries, large and boutique included, will come together at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley for a day-long showcase of the Semillon, Chardonnay, Riesling and Shiraz varieties they're best known for, plus emerging, organic and biodynamic tipples too. Tickets cost $20, which includes five tasting tickets and a tasting glass. When you're not sampling wine with booze-loving abandon, you can also try out some local beer and cider, or eat your way through a selection of local cuisine.
Outdoor escape artists We Are Explorers are leading 20 adventurers two hours north of Sydney to a secret, secluded conservation area for a two-day wilderness surf escape. Keen surfers will set out early Saturday morning — as well as transport to and from Sydney, all gear will be provided, including insurance, permits, surfboards and wetsuits. With surf pros in tow, no experience is required and those that need it will be guided through beginner lessons. Photography is also provided for the entire weekend, so you'll head home with sick shots of you catching some waves. For downtime, they'll be settling up a full tent village with an outdoor kitchen where all meals are provided (campfire jams should be expected). The crew is also planning a few surprises for the drive home — and though we're not sure what that means, we're certainly intrigued.
The Clock Hotel is going all out for Negroni Week 2017, joining forces with Campari to transform their top floor balcony into an 'Italian paradiso' for a cocktail party on Thursday, June 8. The opulent bash will centre around a sub-zero version of the cocktail — which will flow through an enormous Campari ice sculpture throughout the evening — and a giant Negroni that will be filled with not only alcohol, but a burlesque performer as well. Apart from the requisite drinks, a three-piece band will be on-hand to entertain guests, while Italian treats like fresh pastas and a massive charcuterie board will be yours for the grazing. Of course, you can't have a Negroni party without the cocktail and the Surry Hills stalwart is turning out a special menu for the occasion. On offer will be a classic version of the cocktail, the Negroni Royale with elderflower and Prosecco, and the Breakfast in Rome, which will come topped with mini toast. They've also created a non-Negroni option, a smoked chocolate boulevardier with cacao-infused bourbon, Campari, sweet vermouth, chocolate bitters and cacao smoke. Three cocktails are included in the ticket price of $50. If you can't make the party, the cocktails will be on offer at The Clock for the duration of Negroni Week, which runs from June 5-11. Plus, $1 from every Negroni sold will be donated to Oz Harvest — so you'll be doing some good with those booze bucks too.
Every July, two things happen. The US commemorates a date that makes film fans think about invading extra-terrestrials, and Murray's Craft Brewing Co on the New South Wales north coast throws a month-long celebration of American brews and food — aka Murray's American Beer Month Festival. Beverage and burger lovers keen on a two-hour weekend trip to Port Stephens will find plenty of both on the agenda, including themed tipples aplenty and meals inspired Elvis. Sip on one of eight brews, including a blood orange IPA, and snack on culinary specials. Yes, an Elvis burg filled with bacon, peanut butter and jam is on the menu — as is a mac 'n' cheese pizza. There'll also be free beer and wine tasting, brewery tours and US-centric entertainment every Sunday. Entry is free and the fest runs daily from 10am; however, if you're keen on jumping on the shuttle from Nelson Bay, that'll cost you $5 each way.
Looking to expand your wine repertoire, but don't know where or how to start? Sydney's most prestigious wine show is back, and on Saturday, July 29 you can taste, drink and experience wine judged and deemed the very best by a panel of vino experts. Not sold yet? Said panel will be at your disposal to guide you through all things wine — discover new oeno-trends in grape varieties, uncover the secrets to building a great wine collection and learn new tips to take your palette to the next level of refinement. It's the perfect place to go from wine-enthusiast to wine-expert in a few short hours. Before the show begins, wines are divided by class, ranked and judged on variants including complexity and balance, so once you arrive you can celebrate the winners by tasting your way through their fruits of success. Try full, fruity and fragrant reds and clean, balanced whites. There'll of course be bubbly, as well as flavourful sparkling rosés and nutty fortified wines. Plus, executive chef Tim Browne will pair the prized wines with unlimited gourmet boards of Sydney Royal's award-winning cheese and charcuterie. With up to 2,200 wines on offer (and a limited amount of tickets), you'll want to nab your spot now. Snag a ticket for $80 per person, or grab a friend for a $150 double pass because we all know wine is best paired with a fellow oenophile friend.
Reboots don't just involve huge movie franchises — they can also apply to film festivals, too. When the Turkish Film Festival returns from July 5 to 16, it should feel both familiar and fresh. Indeed, the existing fest has evolved, boasting more films and more screenings in more places, plus a few special events as well. Heading to Palace Norton Street and the Chauvel Cinema, this year's TFF will feature seven movies that showcase the current state of Turkish filmmaking. It all kicks off with Rosso Istanbul, the latest effort from Italian-Turkish director Ferzan Özpetek, before offering up everything from 2014 Cannes Palme d'Or winner Winter Sleep and photographer-focused documentary The Eye of Istanbul to The Water Diviner's Yilmaz Erdoğan and Cem Yilmaz showing off their newest flicks. The program also includes Australian-made, Turkish-set Guardians of the Strait, a doco made by an all-female crew about the narrow waterway twisting through the heart of Istanbul. For those who want to go on a culinary journey as well as a cinematic one, The Turkish Way showcases Catalan cuisine across Turkey, with popular Istanbul chef Maksut Aşkar in attendance. As with all food-focused flicks, you'll want to grab dinner beforehand to avoid a hangry viewing experience. If the inevitable food envy wins out, you can also join chef Aşkar for a one-night only Turkish feast hosted by Efendy on July 14.
Roll up to The Burrows at 200 George Street from 5pm each night, and you'll have company — a selection of Sydney's food trucks will be rolling up with you. Once the sun starts setting every evening, the inner-city hangout will become a meals-on-wheels wonderland. They're calling it Twilight Dining, but you can call it dinner. Kicking off for Vivid, and accompanied by DJ beats, the new culinary gathering will see American-style eats, devilish doughnuts, organic wonders, deep fried pizzas, yum cha, fresh seafood and more tempting your tastebuds. Expect four different vehicles rotating nightly, with Double Dip, Agape, Pimp My Donut, Fritto and Co, Lets Do Yumcha, Mama Lihns, Greek Street Food and The Shuck Truck among those dishing out delicious fare. Plus, there'll be a special guest — a yet-to-be-announced Melbourne food truck cruising up to Sydney for the first time. Drinks-wise, Craftys Pop Up Bar has your bevs covered until 11pm, when you can then head on over to new laneway bar Alleyway. And, as fun as eating up a storm during Sydney's lights, arts and culture fest is, Twilight Dining is an ongoing affair. Yum.
Same-day succulent delivery service Little Succers is running a build-your-own terrarium bar in Chippendale for a two days only. Book in for an hour-long slot on December 9 or 10 and you'll be given the tools to build the terrarium of your dreams. The pop-up will stock a variety of succulents of all shapes and sizes ready for you to take home. With pots from Couani and Uashmama — as well as Little Succers' very own custom pots — and soil, crystals and other decorations, you'll have everything you need to create a masterpiece. And if you're looking for a more festive Christmas gift, snag a succulent wreath or a Merry Cact-mus Christmas tree — choose between one clothed in either pompoms or lights. While you're at it, succulent-clad wreaths are available in both large and small sizes to really put you in the festive spirit.
It's in Newtown that you'll find some of Sydney's best locally brewed beer, most epic sweet treats and greatest bowls of ramen. And to celebrate the suburb's delectable contributions to the city's foodie scene, the Newtown Good Food Fair is returning for a fourth year on Sunday, October 8. Organised by the Newtown Precinct Business Association, the event brings together more than 30 of Newtown's brewers, bakers, growers and chefs. These include Young Henrys, Black Star Pastry, Rising Sun Workshop, Acre, Cairo Takeaway, Queen Chow, Suzy Spoon's Vegetarian Butcher, The Stinking Bishops, and Gelato Messina. For your gustatory convenience, they'll all be gathering in two easy-to-reach spots: Newtown Square and nearby Eliza Street. It all kicks off from 11am at both locations with the above food and drinks, as well as live music, and continues until 4pm at Newtown Square and 6pm at Eliza Street.
