Ending the nine-to-five grind with a beverage can make any working day better. Pair that tipple with cheap seafood, and you'll be counting down the minutes until knock-off time. Fratelli Fresh is clearly keeping that idea in mind this August — by serving up $1 oysters all month long. You don't just have to head by after work, however, with the deal on all day, every day throughout the whole month. And there's no missing numeral in the price, although you do need to order a minimum of six and buy a drink as well. If Champagne is your tipple of choice, you can nab your half-dozen oysters with a glass of Chandon for $14. That's not your only choice, though, with the offer available with any drink purchase. You can also order as many oysters as you like, if six just isn't enough. Fratelli Fresh's $1 oysters are available from Thursday, August 1 to Saturday, August 31 across all of its Sydney stores.
Some forms of pasta are simply better than others, and one of those is lasagne. Soft flat sheets of the good stuff caked between pork and beef ragu, bechamel sauce, tomato and parmesan — what's not to love? At Fratelli Fresh's Sydney stores, everyone will be falling head over heels for the Italian dish on Monday, July 29. National Lasagne Day will do that, of course. So will $10 servings of the eatery's classic dish, especially given that a helping here normally goes for more than twice that price. It's an all-day deal, too, so you can mosey on in for a hefty lunch, make a cheap dinner date with your other half or sneakily do both. And, given that you'll be saving on food, you can always treat yo'self to a cheeky wine or beer to go with your lasagne. $10 lasagne is on offer all day on Monday, July 29 at all of Fratelli Fresh's Sydney stores.
As far as classic combos go, pairing a trip to the movies with some popcorn or a choc top is right up there. But you can do better. There's nothing wrong with that combination — it's a cinema-going staple for a reason — but if you're going to be watching vampire flicks, you really want to be accompanying them with Bloody Shiraz gin cocktails instead. That's what's on the bill at Sydney's boutique Golden Age Cinema, which is once again teaming up with Four Pillars Gin for a mini booze and film festival. Each Wednesday night in August, the intimate 56-seat Surry Hills spot is hosting double bills about bloodsuckers — and pouring concoctions made with Four Pillars' coveted Bloody Shiraz gin. It's a lineup worth sinking your teeth into, too, spanning tales of the undead both new and old. It also has a fantastic title, should you feel like getting an excellent 90s Smashing Pumpkins track stuck in your head. On the bill at The World Is a Vampire: A Bloody Shiraz Gin & Film Festival: What We Do in the Shadows and Bram Stoker's Dracula on Wednesday, August 3, to kick off the program with both comedic and amusing vamp movies; and then Interview with the Vampire and Queen of the Damned on Wednesday, August 10, both of which stem from Anne Rice's pages. On Wednesday, August 17, The Hunger and Vampire's Kiss will flicker across the screen — aka the David Bowie and Nicolas Cage-starring double of 80s gems that demands to be seen. Then, on Wednesday, August 24, it's time for the big end of town thanks to From Dusk Till Dawn and Blade. And, wrapping things up on Wednesday, August 31 are recent favourites A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night and Only Lovers Left Alive. These vampire delights will all get a beverage to match, made with that Bloody Shiraz gin, of course. The first screenings each night kick off at different times between 6pm and 6.30pm, with the second movies starting at 8.30pm each evening — but we suggest you get there a little earlier for the drinks. Tickets are $23 for each film. [caption id="attachment_779832" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption]
Sometimes, your tastebuds crave something special. They hanker for the kind of dish you're not going to eat every day, aka a treat yo'self type of culinary experience. Here are three things that they'd likely demand in that situation: lobster, truffles and champagne. If that sounds like your idea of an indulgent meal, Lobster & Co has you sorted between Saturday, September 3–Sunday, September 4, which is when it's returning to Entertainment Quarter for two days of decadence. As always, you'll only find those three aforementioned items on the core menu, too, with Lobster & Co van serving lobster rolls with truffle fries and flutes of Pommery champagne. You'll pay $50 for the food combo, which features a whole confit lobster tail served warm on a caramelised brioche bun with buttermilk fennel slaw, plus a side of parmesan truffle fries. A chilled glass of the champers will cost you $20 extra. Also on offer: a second roll, a Thai fusion number, which includes cabbage, green papaya and sriracha mayo — and lobster, obviously — on a brioche bun. Lobster & Co's latest Sydney stint comes courtesy of food fest Taste in the City — so arrive hungry, obviously. And it's one of two Sydney stops, with the pop-up also headed to Runaway Gardens at First Fleet Park in The Rocks during Sydney Fringe Festival from Tuesday, August 16–Sunday, September 25, too. Images: Karon Photography.
Three friends, a huge music festival worth making a mega mission to get to and an essential bag of goon: if you didn't experience that exact combination growing up in Australia, did you really grow up in Australia? That's the mix that starts 6 Festivals, too, with the Aussie feature throwing in a few other instantly familiar inclusions to set the scene. Powderfinger sing-alongs, scenic surroundings and sun-dappled moments have all filled plenty of teenage fest trips, and so has an anything-it-takes mentality — and for the film's central trio of Maxie (Rasmus King, Barons), Summer (Yasmin Honeychurch, Back of the Net) and James (Rory Potter, Ruby's Choice), they're part of their trip to Utopia Valley. But amid dancing to Lime Cordiale and Running Touch, then missing out on Peking Duk's stroke-of-midnight New Year's Eve set after a run-in with security, a shattering piece of news drops. Suddenly these festival-loving friends have a new quest: catching as much live music as they can to help James cope with cancer. The first narrative feature by Bra Boys and Fighting Fear director Macario De Souza, 6 Festivals follows Maxie, Summer and James' efforts to tour their way along the east coast festival circuit. No, there are no prizes for guessing how many gigs are on their list, with the Big Pineapple Music Festival, Yours and Owls and Lunar Electric among the events on their itinerary. Largely road-tripping between real fests, and also showcasing real sets by artists spanning Dune Rats, Bliss n Eso, G Flip, B Wise, Ruby Fields, Dope Lemon, Stace Cadet and more, 6 Festivals dances into the mud, sweat and buzz — the crowds, cheeky beers and dalliances with other substances that help form this coming-of-age rite-of-passage, aka cramming in as many festivals as you possibly can from the moment your parents will let you, as well. This is also a cancer drama, however, which makes for an unsurprisingly tricky balancing act, especially after fellow Aussie movie Babyteeth tackled the latter so devastatingly well so recently. Take that deservedly award-winning film, throw in whichever music festival documentary takes your fancy, then add The Bucket List but with teens — that's 6 Festivals. There's a touch of the concert-set 9 Songs as well, obviously sans sex scenes. Spotting the dots connected by De Souza and Sean Nash's (a Home and Away and Neighbours alum) script isn't difficult. That said, neither is spying the movie's well-intentioned aim. Riding the ecstatically bustling festival vibe, and surveying everything from the anticipation-laden pre-fest excitement through to the back-to-reality crash afterwards, 6 Festivals is an attempt to capture and celebrate the fest experience, as well as a concerted effort to face a crucial fact: that, as much as a day in the mosh pit feels like an escape and is always worth cherishing, it only sweeps away life's stark truths momentarily. The film's core threesome have their fair share of stresses; pivotally, 6 Festivals sticks with believable dramas. James faces his diagnosis, treatment and his mother's (Briony Williams, Total Control) worries, all while trying to recruit the feature's array of musical acts for his own dream event. Scoring backstage access comes courtesy of up-and-coming Indigenous muso Marley (debutant Guyala Bayles), who graces most of the lineups and shared a childhood with Summer, united by their respective mothers' struggles with addiction — and, now they've crossed paths again, offers to mentor her pal's own singing career. As for Maxie, his drug-dealing older brother Kane (Kyuss King, also from Barons) is usually at the same fests pressuring him into carrying his stash. They're the only family each other has, so saying no doesn't seem an option. Cemented friendships, last hurrahs, big dreams, substance-addled chaos: all festivals boast these tales, whichever one, six or 1000 anyone happens to pick. Again, it's easy to see how De Souza and Nash have chosen not only their overall plot, but its narrative beats — and it's just as easy to understand why, what they're striving for and how it's hoped that viewers will respond. 6 Festivals' live footage is vivid and authentic in its look, texture and tone, and the story sticks to the same relatable terrain. Of course, the line between clichéd and being predictable because that's simply how life is can be incredibly thin, not to mention subjective. Sometimes, 6 Festivals falls on the raw and immersive side of the been-there-done-that equation, and sometimes on the forced and well-worn — like a well-known song either given a definitive new live spin, or sounding exactly as it does whenever and wherever it's played. Always fresh and lived-in, and never just doing what's done, is the film's impressive young cast — even when the dialogue they're uttering is more than a little clunky. It isn't merely Potter who gets saddled with awkward lines, thankfully, as the worst pictures about ailing characters tend to do. 6 Festivals doesn't push its cancer-stricken character to the side and, with all five of its key figures wading through woes, it smartly doesn't use his deteriorating health solely to gift his pals with life-changing lessons, either. Still, whenever the movie gleans an opportunity to spell out its weighty emotions as overtly as it can, it takes it. It needn't; Potter sells James' plight in his yearning eyes and anxious energy, including when getting drunk feels like the only thing to do, while Honeychurch, Bayles and the IRL King brothers all leave their own imprints. Every festival thrives or falters based on its lineup, and this film that flits between six of them is no different — including via the real-life bands and artists that fill its frames. Some get worked into the narrative in those aforementioned behind-the-action chats, others solely bust out their onstage best, but the full roster provides a stelar snapshot of Australia's music and fest scenes. With the live performances, as well as the general on-the-ground atmosphere, cinematographer Hugh Miller (June Again) and editor Ahmad Halimi (The Bureau of Magical Things) achieve the most vital task 6 Festivals has: making feeling like you're there the easiest feeling in the world. The movie overall is a mixed bag, but wanting to rush out of the cinema — or hop up from your couch, with the film hitting streaming on August 25, a fortnight after its big-screen debut — and into the first festival near you is an instant reaction.
If you're vegan, or just generally into vegan-friendly things, then the Vegan Grocery Store is your one-stop-shop for food, beauty, fashion and home goods. Starting off as an online-only business, this brick-and-mortar store on Glebe Point Road has been serving animal-loving and sustainability-minded Sydneysiders since it opened back in 2012. To give everyone the chance to sample a whole heap of dairy-free cheeses, the inner-city grocer is hosting a one-day cheese festival. Popping up on Saturday, July 23, the Vegan Grocery Store invite patrons to head down between 11am and 4pm in order to try over 50 different types of vegan cheese from a variety of cheesemakers. Tickets are just $5 which allows you to sample all of the non-dairy cheese you could ever want. Plus, the entry fees are being donated directly to Moo To Ewe Farmed Animal Sanctuary, an organisation that finds homes for orphaned farm animals. There are sessions every 30 minutes on the day which you can book via the Vegan Grocery Store websites. Top image: Trent Van der Jagt
No matter what he's singing, or whether he's crooning tunes as Ziggy Stardust, Aladdin Sane or The Thin White Duke, David Bowie has always been a talent like no other. That isn't just confined to his time behind the microphone, though. On-screen just like onstage, Bowie has always been inimitable, unique and iconic — and he has the filmography to show it. Just this year, there's a fantastic new documentary about that very fact, actually — and Brett Morgen's Moonage Daydream is indeed part of Golden Age Cinema and Bar's current Bowie-worshipping Sound and Vision movie lineup. But that's just one of the program's delights, alongside blasts from the legend's past that deserve to be seen on a big screen. The dates and times vary, but Sydneysiders can discover why Bowie couldn't have been better cast in The Man Who Fell to Earth (the movie, not the TV series sequel from earlier this year). And, you can dance, magic dance along with Labyrinth, aka the 80s gem to end all 80s gems, and one of the most wonderful things that Jim Henson has ever made. Also on the bill: Bowie sinking his teeth into vampire territory in 1983's The Hunger, and playing a centuries-old bloodsucker with effortless cool; and heading to World War II with Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence.
Antidote — the Sydney Opera House's festival of ideas, action and change – will return following an entirely online program of talks in 2021. The festival returns with a mix of livestreamed and IRL talks boasting an impressive lineup of international names including Brian Cox, Jenny Slate and Jarvis Cocker. Fresh from spending three seasons yelling about a business empire on one of television's biggest shows, Succession star Cox headlines the Antidote bill. The iconic actor will make the trip Down Under to chat about his career, including his ability to play characters known for their anger, malicious ways and sinister mood — which, yes, spans more than just the hit HBO series. His discussion is called The Evil in Us All, after all. As for Slate, don't be suspicious. The Parks and Recreation, Obvious Child, I Want You Back and Everything Everywhere All At Once star, and Marcel the Shell with Shoes On author, will hit Sydney to focus on finding joy and laughter in our weird lives. She also has essay collection Little Weirds to her name, so she'll be on topic. Pulp frontman Cocker isn't playing tunes — no 'Common People' or 'Disco 2000' for you, sorry — but he will be showing folks his attic. His livestreamed conversation is called Good Pop, Bad Pop, just like his recently released memoir, and it'll feature him talking through some of the things he's collected, the tales behind them, and what the objects we hide away say about us. Also on the Antidote lineup: bestselling author Mohsin Hamid (Moth Smoke, The Reluctant Fundamentalist, Exit West), chatting about white anxiety, privilege and prejudice — and Olivia Laing (The Trip to Echo Springs, The Lonely City, Everybody: A Book About Freedom), with the award-winner talking about oppression, resistance and bodies via livestream. Or, there's an event called Ukraine Has Changed Us, which'll include Ukrainian poet and recent Nobel Prize in Literature nominee Serhiy Zhadan live from Kharkiv. Responding to our times in a different way, The Atlantic's science writer Ed Yong, a Pulitzer prize-winning journalist, will discuss global biosecurity and potential pandemics beyond COVID-19. He's the last of the fest's four guests that are appearing via video link — and he'll speak with epidemiologist and UNSW Chair of Biosecurity Professor Raina MacIntyre. Elsewhere, Gunai artist and writer Kirli Saunders will lead a panel with Gumbaynggirr/Bundjalung man and CEO of the Muurrbay Aboriginal Language and Culture Co-operative Gary Williams about preserving and sharing Australia's Indigenous languages. The full Antidote lineup spans 17 talks, conversations and panels, plus four workshops, and an art activation as well — all of which covers chats about storytelling, balancing living with tragedy with retaining hope, Australia's future from a First Nations standpoint, ditching careers in media to become doctors, campaign reporting and China's growing power, too. [caption id="attachment_859192" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jenny Slate, Katie McCurdy[/caption] Top image: Antidote 2020 by Prudence Upton
All plot, all the time: that's how some filmmakers craft movies. Every scene leads to the next, then to the next and so on, connecting the story dots so that event A plus event B (plus event C, event D, event E and more) neatly equals wherever the narrative eventually ends up. Clio Barnard is not one of those writers or directors. Every scene always leads to the next in every film that tells any tale, no matter who's spinning it, but much of what happens in the Dark River and The Selfish Giant helmer's movies doesn't change, shift or drive the plot at all. Indeed, her features often have storylines that seem straightforward, as the tender and tremendous Ali & Ava does. But that uncomplicated appearance — including here, where a man and a woman meet, sparks fly, but complications arise — couldn't be more deceptive. In Ali & Ava, that man and woman are indeed Ali (Adeel Akhtar, Killing Eve) and Ava (Claire Rushbrook, Ammonite), both residents of Bradford in Barnard's native West Yorkshire. He's a working-class landlord — a kind and affable one, noticeably — from a British Pakistani family, and was once an EDM DJ. She's an Irish-born teacher's assistant at the school where one of Ali's tenants' children attends. Frequently, he's on drop-off and pick-up duty, because he is that helpful to his renters. So, when the skies open one day during his school run, Ali offers Ava a ride home rather than seeing her walk to the bus in the pouring rain. They chat, click, laugh, bond over a shared passion for music and slowly let their guards down. But what would a romance be, especially an on-screen one, if the path to love truly was effortlessly smooth? With a lyrical social-realist bent that'd do Ken Loach, living patron saint of British lyrical social-realist filmmaking, proud — see: Loach's I, Daniel Blake and Sorry We Missed You for his two most recent examples — Barnard unpacks everything that roughs up Ali and Ava's tentative courtship. But there's another English director who springs to mind, too, thanks to the way that Ali & Ava can turn from poignant to portentous in a second: This Is England and The Virtues' Shane Meadows. His work finds bliss and joy in ordinary, everyday moments, and also violence and menace as well. One can become the other so quickly that, if it didn't all feel so genuine and authentic, a case of whiplash might be the end result. All three filmmakers possess a commitment to detailing lives that aren't typically fodder for celluloid dreams; all three, including Barnard with The Selfish Giant and now Ali & Ava, make features in the vein that are potent, perceptive, dripping with empathy and as emotionally raw as films come. Ali, friend to everyone, is troubled by more than just regret about no longer hitting the decks. He has a wife, Runa (Ellora Torchia, Midsommar), who no longer loves him or wants to be with him. But he's too proud to tell his family, so they still live together while she keeps studying. That brings judgement his way, with his sister Usma (Krupa Pattani, Ron's Gone Wrong) vocal in her disapproval about his growing closeness with Ava. It makes Ava apprehensive as well, unsurprisingly. She already has enough of her own worries as it is, caring for her five kids — some of which have had kids of their own — as a single mother. One, her son Callum (Shaun Thomas, Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children), remains affected by his father's death a year earlier, and also his parents' breakup before that. He's far from welcoming to Ali as a result, terrifyingly so, hating even the idea of him as his mother's potential friend. Writing a devastatingly layered script, Barnard spies the myriad of factors that test her titular twosome. She sees them with unflinching eyes, in fact. Racism is a constant that Ali is forced to live with. For Ava — who has a top arts degree, but needs a secure job that makes ends meet to support her family — classism has long worked the same way. On both sides, someone that Ali and Ava each knows has a strong, instant, knee-jerk reaction. On both sides, the pair's past woes linger like ghosts. Barnard took inspiration for Ali and Ava from people she met while making her other movies, and she knows that there's nothing that's simple about anyone's life, not for a moment. She knows that we're all haunted by everything that's ever pierced our happiness and shattered our fantasies, and she's determined to wade through exactly what that means. Grief, trauma, domestic violence, mental health, the responsibilities of being a parent and grandparent, the expectations of families, the strength it takes to care for others, the weight of forsaking your hopes and wishes for someone else, the complexities of looking for love when a big chunk of your days are behind you: they all have a place in this deeply thoughtful film. So does daring to put yourself first, striving to work past each and every roadblock, being willing to fight for what you want, and braving the unshakeable truth that nothing is ever 100-percent rosy. These themes, ideas and factors all percolate as the movie spends time with Ali and Ava, rather than through purposeful and overt plot point after purposeful and overt plot point. Again, that's the kind of filmmaker that Barnard is. Off-screen, we get to know people through their company; on-screen here, with cinematographer Ole Bratt Birkeland shooting as he did with the director's astonishing 2010 debut The Arbor, that's what Ali & Ava does, too. The picture's namesakes, and the actors behind them, prove exceptional company. They provide wonderfully laid-bare performances as well, which Barnard directs — and Birkeland lights and lenses — with feeling to match. Just as Ali and Ava's existences swing between euphoric and struggling, the movie about them balances its naturalistic, keenly observant approach with a poetic eye. Never is this more apparent than in scenes where Ali, Ava or both are listening to music. Sometimes he dances on top of his car, or on her couch. Sometimes they sit in his vinyl-filed basement. Sometimes they're just driving. Wherever they are and whatever they're listening to, forcefully and dutifully progressing the plot is never the point; learning who Ali & Ava's eponymous figures are, and understanding them as intensely as possible, always is.
This year might've felt like it has dragged on forever, but festive season is right around the corner already. And if you're the kind of person who likes spending this particularly jolly period searching for gifts and goodies at markets, you're about to be in your element. At Entertainment Quarter from 10am–4pm on Sunday, November 29, you'll be able to wander your way through a huge addition to Sydney's market scene: The Ultimate Christmas Market. It'll feature 16o stalls, all spread around the ring in the site's showgrounds — for social distancing reasons, of course. As for what you'll be browsing and buying, it's a hefty list, with plenty of Sydney small businesses selling their wares. Whether you're looking for a present for someone else or you're keen to be your own Santa, you can check out homewares, clothes, arts and crafts, textiles, jewellery and items for pets. And, stock up on Christmas decorations, ornaments and wrapping paper as well. There'll also be food — to take home to celebrate the season, and to eat while you're wandering around.
The global pandemic has turned things upside down, but one thing that hasn't changed much is Aussies' love for local, small-batch gin. And, now that the warm weather has arrived, it's well and truly G&T time. For those wanting to become true gin aficionados, though, you'll have to look beyond mixing the stuff with Schweppes. Enter Archie Rose's Virtual Experiences, which is bringing the distillery to your living room. The Sydney-based distillery makes some of the best gin in the country, so expect these online, booze-fuelled adventures to level up your next at-home happy hour. First up, you can partake in a virtual gin and whisky tasting ($80), with a flight of five Archie Rose spirits, as well as some tonic and a tasting mat, all delivered to your door. Or, you can go for its cocktail sessions, where you'll be shaking up two tasty gin-based cocktails. The at-home pack that comes with recipe cards and a prep sheet for $85 and you can tune into a live-stream class, too. There's also the blend-your-own gin workshop for $119, which includes everything you'll need to make your own signature gin, plus delivery and a 45-minute live-stream masterclass with an Archie Rose expert. You can select the infusions that match your gin style and choose from flavours like native river mint or juniper, cassia bark and coriander seed. Archie Rose You can also book in private classes for large groups and parties, just send them an email. If you'd rather skip the work and get straight to sipping, the Aussie spirits label is delivering its four bottled cocktails, too, from its twist on the negroni and espresso martini to its specialty concoctions the Tall Poppy and the Golden Gimlet. Check out Archie Rose's Virtual Experiences program and order yourself some top-notch gin over here.
Since cinemas reopened in Sydney, Dendy Newtown has been celebrating by hosting a number of themed film festivals. So far, it has focused on excellent anime, top-notch queer cinema and big-screen musicals — and now, for its last movie showcase of 2020, it's heading into the obvious festive territory. Don't go thinking that the Naughty & Nice Christmas Film Festival is only playing jolly and merry movies, though. If you like your seasonal cinema shenanigans with a tad more darkness than Home Alone's hijinks, your tastes are catered for, too. Yes, Home Alone is on the bill. Of course it is. But so is Finland's out-there Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale, a Die Hard and Die Hard 2 double feature, the Mel Gibson-starring Fatman and musical zombie flick Anna and the Apocalypse. In the more jovial camp, you can also watch The Nightmare Before Christmas, It's a Wonderful Life, Love Actually, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation and Miracle on 34th Street — plus The Muppet Christmas Carol, The Santa Clause, Elf and The Man Who Invented Christmas. Each title plays at different times on different days during the fest, so make sure to check the session schedule before hopping in your sleigh and heading to Newtown. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZ9DDU4R5QI
Since arriving in town a few years back, Salt Meats Cheese has been giving Sydneysiders a pizza-filled treat. And, as part of its lineup of Italian eats, it's been treating the city's residents to plenty of specials — including, this November, the return of its $25 all-you-can-eat pizza nights every Monday across three of its Sydney stores. "Does this look like someone who's had all they can eat?" isn't something you'll be saying when you devour as many slices as your stomach can handle in 90 minutes, so calm your inner Homer Simpson. The only catch is that you'll have to buy a drink as well, but you can choose from both boozy and non-alcoholic options. Available from 5pm at Salt Meats Cheese Dee Why, Drummoyne and Circular Quay (not Cronulla, unfortunately), this hefty feast serves up multiple options, too. You can stick with the $25 pizza-focused option, or add all-you-can-eat gnocchi as well for an extra $5. And if you're vegan or eat a gluten free diet, those can also be catered for for another $5. The varieties of pizza available will change each week, if you need motivation to head along more than once. Don't have an afternoon snack beforehand, obviously. All-you-can-eat Mondays is available at Salt Meats Cheese Dee Why, Drummoyne and Circular Quay.
Sydney sugar fiends can finally prepare their tastebuds for the return of one of Australia's biggest doughnut chains. Since closing down its 30 stores in 2018 during the well-documented collapse of then-owner Damien Griffith's hospitality empire, Doughnut Time has returned to Brisbane under new owners and managers, and to Melbourne, too. Now, it's Sydney's turn — but only for a six-day pop-up. From 10am–4pm between Tuesday, December 8–Sunday, December 13, you'll find Doughnut Time at Macquarie Centre — on level three on the corner of Herring and Waterloo roads in North Ryde, that is — serving up six-doughnut ($38) and four-doughnut ($26) packs. The difference between the two, other than the price? The smaller pack features all-vegan doughnuts. You'll need to pre-order in advance, though, rather than just stop by to pick up a circular dessert. Only a set number of packs are available each day — and you don't want to disappoint your tastebuds. Flavours include 'Love At First Bite' (filled with Nutella and dusted with cinnamon sugar), 'It's Always A Gaytime' (a milk chocolate glazed doughy filled with honeycomb custard, topped with crushed biscuits and caramelised crepes) and the all-vegan 'Liam Hemsworthy' (a red velvet doughnut frosted with cookies and cream, crushed chocolate ripple biscuits and a chocolate glaze drizzle). With the chain now overseen by Queensland entrepreneur Peter Andros, Doughnut Time is eager to put the brand's past behind it — a situation that not only saw its previous stores shuttered without warning, but left many of its staff unpaid. "We think what happened to past employees is unacceptable," the company wrote on Facebook. [caption id="attachment_619757" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Doughnut Time's original Surry Hills store.[/caption]
'Reduce, reuse and recycle' isn't just a catchy slogan. It's a sensible way to help diminish humanity's impact upon the planet — and it's one of the key ideas behind Little Bay's new Looped Festival. Across three socially distanced sessions on Sunday, November 29 (at 10am–12pm, 12–2pm and 2–4pm), this event will focus on the circular economy in a big way, and on getting rid of waste via a range of tactics in the process. Taking place at the Prince Henry Centre, the fest is run by Sydney-based not-for-profit organisation Seaside Scavenge — who are dedicated to shifting from a disposable-driven economy to one where items are made, used, and then reused over and over again. That's their year-round point of focus, but this one-day event will let Sydneysiders chat with folks trying to make the circular economy a reality, including across plastics, textiles and organic waste. As part of your $10 ticket, attendees will learn about the practical tools and services available to help you reduce waste. There'll also be workshops, live music, a Trashy Art exhibition and slam poetry as well. You'll be connecting with brands brands such as Huskee Cup, Sustainable Salons, Zero Co, Farm Wall and Ekoluv — and heading to sessions hosted by OzHarvest, Parva Little Things and Pocket City Farm. There'll also be an onsite thrift shop, and every ticket holder will get two tokens to use at the store (or to pick up a Ben & Jerry's vegan ice cream). [caption id="attachment_700337" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Huskee Cup[/caption]
If you've ever been to a yoga studio with a basketball court below it, you'll have noticed something quite un-zen. During a calming session of yoga, you might hear the piercing screech of a whistle, frequent cheering and the intermittent shrieks of "Great shot Mike!" — or even a marching band procession. Flow After Dark Silent Disco Yoga seeks to give yoga enthusiasts the exact opposite experience, which Sydneysiders can discover on Tuesday, February 9. How exactly does one do silent disco yoga? Quite easily with the introduction of wireless headphones. These bad boys give participants a one-on-one with instructor Kate Kendall, while simultaneously pumping out beats from Sydney DJ James Mack. Also, they're neon. This one-off, 90-minute Vinyasa yoga session will be held at Sydney's Hordern Pavilion and is probably your best (possibly only) chance to show off your best warrior pose while simultaneously jiving to some seriously smooth music. Previous events have sold out quickly, you better snap up some tickets asap if you're keen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_eMNBPaDTg
UPDATE: JANUARY 6, 2020 — Due to complications caused by the ongoing NSW bushfires, Sydney Festival has cancelled performances on Friday, January 17 and Sunday, January 19. The Mermaid will still sun on Saturday, January 18. Performance artist Hanna Cormick is asking who gets to make art and why. Cormick has genetic disorders that mean she uses a wheelchair, brace and respirator — she cannot breathe normal air. In this show, she repurposes those medical devices to imagine herself as a mermaid, unable to breathe the air that we take for granted. It's a show that challenges our approach to sharing and consuming resources but it's also an act of defiance; Cormick risks seizures and allergic reactions whenever she performs in public. The show also comes with a warning for other people with airborne sensitivities and trigger warnings for medical references. It takes place at the Coal Loader and it's one of the cheaper shows to catch during the Festival.
Far more than simply sustenance, food is about bringing people together, creating an experience and sharing something of yourself. Preparing a meal is an act of love, and it's this attitude that a handful of revered cooks will be bringing to Carriageworks for Double Delicious. There's a story behind every dish, and the storytellers, which include writer Benjamin Law and chef Heather Jeong,will be spinning a yarn while slicing and sautéing to tell you what food means to them, both personally and in terms of its cultural significance. It'll be an experience that promises to be equal servings mouth-watering and mind-altering. Image: Courtney Stewart.
Japanese cinema's diverse array of wonders can't be confined to one event. Sydneysiders can watch the latest and greatest films the country has to offer at the annual Japanese Film Festival; however, since 2018, cinephiles can also step back into Japanese movie history, too — all thanks to its classics program. Running until Wednesday, October 23 at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, this film program explores plenty of old-school big-screen highlights, especially if you're fond of spooky tales. A supernatural anthology telling four ghostly stories, the Academy Award-nominated Kwaidan is one of Japan's undeniable standouts, while The Ghost Story of Yotsuya adapts a kabuki masterpiece about murder and revenge. Also on the bill: The Adventures of Tobisuke, about a puppeteer, a young girl and their trek through the valley of the dead; plus the delightfully named Black Cat Mansion, which adds its own spin to the age-old haunted house premise. If you're keen on some retro bumps and jumps, entry is free, but you'll want to reserve your seat online in advance.
Unless you're the artist, most art installations are pretty hands-off — until now that is. To celebrate the launch of its limited-edition ceramic bottle, The Kraken Black Spiced Rum is hosting a special party that'll let you get your hands dirty. For just one night, the Waterloo eatery will be transformed into a dark, art-filled den — appropriately dubbed The Kraken's Lair. Here, you can let it all out as you smash some ceramics (so make sure you wear enclosed shoes), then watch as artist Pamela Irving creates a new installation with the very ceramics you just destroyed. To reward your hard work, tuck into some canapes and enjoy four exclusive cocktails featuring Kraken Rum. Plus, you can get down with live music from DJ Jimmy Niggles and a surprise performer. With tickets at just 35 bucks, you can get some mates together or find yourself a date for an unusual — and affordable — night. Awaken the Kraken will take place on Thursday, October 10. To purchase tickets, head this way.
UPDATE: MARCH 16, 2020 — The Other Art Fair has decided to postpone its upcoming Sydney fair 'in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation'. New dates are yet to be announced, but we'll be sure to keep you updated. 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. If you're staring at that blank space on your bedroom wall and feeling uninspired, fret not. The Other Art Fair returns this March. The celebrated global event returns to Sydney for the seventh time on the weekend of March 19–22. The fair will showcase a lively collection of emerging artists in the stimulating surrounds of The Cutaway in Barangaroo. Presented by Saatchi Art, this year's fair is bigger than ever before. The creative works of more than 130 carefully chosen artists, each selected by a prominent panel of art industry experts, will be up for sale. From the ornate to the inexpensive, The Other Art Fair 2020 offers thousands of artworks starting at as little as $100. Plus, all of the artists will be on-site, so you can chat with them and hear the stories behind your chosen piece. The vast four-day event is complemented by an eclectic array of art activations, hand-poked tattooing, workshops and immersive performances, plus street food and DJ sets. Make a party out of it by attending on opening night ($35), or stop by for a general browse between Friday to Sunday — general entry tickets cost $20 online or $30 on the door.
On Wednesday, December 18, there's no need to settle for just one scoop of vegan gelato — or just one vegan gelato burger on a brioche bun, one serve of vegan granita or only a few vegan cannoli either. Cremeria De Luca won't make you limit yourself, or make a hard decision. Instead, from 11am–9.30pm, it's serving up all-you-can-eat vegan gelato and desserts. Your $20 ticket will nab you all of the above, including vegan fried sweet buns and — in case you need something savoury as well — vegan arancini. Basically, it's the Five Docks store's regular menu, but 100-percent vegan and available as an all-you-can-eat session. Wearing something stretchy is probably sensible. This is a dine-in deal only, unsurprisingly — and you will need to nab a ticket in advance as places are limited. And you'll be eating some mighty fine vegan gelato, too, given that the De Luca family first served up scoops in Italy before making the jump to Sydney.
Ending the nine-to-five grind with a beverage can make any working day better. Pair that tipple with cheap seafood, and you'll be counting down the minutes until knock-off time. Fratelli Fresh is clearly keeping that idea in mind this summer — and serving up $2 oysters every day at all of its venues from December 12–January 31. The deal is running every day — yep, including weekends— from 5–6pm, and there's no missing numeral in the price, but you do need buy a drink to get the discounted molluscs. You can order a maximum of six oysters per drink. If you want to go fancy ('tis this season) the restaurants will also be shucking limited-edition golden oysters, sprinkled with gold dust and topped with salmon roe, for $4 a pop. Excitingly, the cheap oysters also coincide with Fratelli Fresh's regular happy hour, running daily from 3–6pm. So, you can pair your oysters with $3 olives, $4 bowls of fries and tomato bruschetta, and $5 zucchini flowers, pints of beer and glasses of wine. Oh, and $6 Aperol spritzes, espresso martinis, negronis and margherita pizzas. Both the happy hour and oyster hour deals are available at all seven NSW Fratelli Fresh stores: Alexandria, Bridge Street, Crows Nest, Darling Harbour, Entertainment Quarter, Westfield Miranda and Westfield Sydney.
UPDATE, March 19, 2021: Children of the Sea is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. It's not the first animated film to attempt the feat — or achieve it — but Children of the Sea turns the delights of the ocean's depths into a dazzling spectacle. Where everything from The Little Mermaid and SpongeBob SquarePants to Ponyo and Song of the Sea first swam, this gorgeous Japanese movie follows, although comparing this striking animation to its great underwater predecessors doesn't paint the whole picture. Directed by Ayumu Watanabe and adapted from Daisuke Igarashi's manga of the same name by the author, Children of the Sea also paddles in 2001: A Space Odyssey and Akira's slipstreams. If that sounds like a wild ride, then strap yourself in for more to come. An eco-conscious tale about a lonely 14-year-old girl and two boys raised by dugongs that makes a connection between the ocean's vibrance and outer space's infinite expanse, this is an ambitious movie to say the very least. Ruka (voiced by Mana Ashida) is Children of the Sea's aforementioned teen outcast. School is out for the summer but, after a violent incident gets her shunned by her peers in her coastal town, she's at a loose end. Only her mother's (Yu Aoi) day-drinking awaits at home, so Ruka ventures to the local aquarium where her marine biologist father (Goro Inagaki) works. It's here that she not only re-ignites an affinity for the water that she's felt since she saw something glimmering in the tank as a small child, but where she also meets kindred spirits Umi (Hiiro Ishibashi) and Sora (Seishū Uragami). Her new pals have a definite advantage over Ruka in the sea-worshipping stakes, though; until they came to live at the aquarium, where they're taken care of by scientists, the siblings dwelled among the ocean's marine life — and they have exceptional underwater abilities to prove it. Ruka connects with the cheeky, impish Umi and the pale, ethereal Sora just as a series of environmental anomalies start gaining attention — including whale sightings near Manhattan, a meteor crash in the water, and an otherworldly song that's drawing the sea's creatures to one specific spot for a once-in-a-lifetime gathering. Also pertinent: the fact that Umi and Sora seem to be fading, perhaps even dying, thanks to their new life on land; and the possibility that Ruka's link to the duo just might be stronger than anyone imagines. Children of the Sea could've combined the above components into a somewhat straightforward story — awkward teens, the natural world and supernatural elements have been doing big business in Japan's animated fare of late, including Your Name, Weathering with You and Ride Your Wave — but that's not what Watanabe and Igarashi have in store. They're thinking big, bold and existential, as filtered through the experiences of Ruka and her friends. And, in pondering how everyone has a responsibility to the planet, while also recognising that each individual is a speck in a world far vaster than any one of us will ever encounter, the film's creative talents aren't afraid to dive into seemingly conflicting notions. Marrying the ecological with the cosmic, Children of the Sea's wide-ranging aims do occasionally threaten to exceed its reach (that Igarashi's manga was published in five volumes between 2007–12 won't come as a surprise). Accordingly, anyone hoping for a linear and logical progression through the feature's narrative, rather than many a flight of fantasy and a last-act burst of mind-bending imagery, is watching the wrong movie. But through its vivid visuals, this eye-catching, heart-swelling gem always conveys a sense of of awe and wonder — and a feeling that, no matter what a certain big entertainment studio keeps telling us, animation has its unique charms. This film could never be remade as live-action, or be used as template for a version with photo-realistic animals. Indeed, all the special effects in the world can't replicate Children of the Sea's intricate watercolour renderings of the ocean, which look complex, glorious and larger than life. The same applies to the movie's kaleidoscopic array of pictures and hues, the energy and liveliness of its marine ecosystem, and even its detailed human characters, who are clearly animated but never resemble cartoons. Plus, matching its audio to its imagery, Children of the Sea boasts quite the finishing touch. A score by Studio Ghibli veteran Joe Hisaishi (Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle — the list goes on) layers the movie with suitably swirling emotion, and the end result easily sweeps audiences away. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ymJvqelwXE&feature=emb_logo
Fratelli Fresh is adding an eighth notch to its belt and opening its first Italian eatery in the Sutherland Shire. The sprawling Westfield Miranda space offers, well, everything — there's Neapolitan pizza, tiramisu, ten different pastas, all-you-can-eat mussel Thursdays and a $2 oyster happy hour (from 5–6pm daily). There's room for 200 diners and drinkers, including 60 on an al fresco terrace — and a Scoop & Shake gelato and coffee bar on the rooftop. You'll want to be heading here on the restaurant's opening weekend, December 13–15, because it'll be serving up $2 scoops of gelato and $2 coffees all day for three days. On Sunday, the gelato will be completely free all day, too. The house-made gelato comes in flavours like hazelnut and salted caramel, chocolate crunch, and yoghurt and amarena. If you miss out on the opening weekend, head in during the weekday happy hour, which runs from 3–6pm Monday–Friday. During this time you'll find $3 olives, $4 garlic bread, $5 zucchini flowers and glasses of wine and — wait for it — $6 espresso martinis, negronis, Aperol spritzes and margherita pizzas. Yep, that's a mighty fine happy hour. Fratelli Fresh Westfield Miranda is open from 11.30am–9.30pm daily.
Having long proved it's the master of the block party, with hit events like this year's Marrickville shindig Better Daze, the crew at hip hop and events collective One Day is heading back to its inner west home and inviting Sydneysiders to launch into summer in style at its second One Day Only festival. The main throwdown in the four-city One Day Summer Solstice national tour, this one's set to take over both levels of University of Sydney's heritage-listed Manning House to deliver a hip hop-soaked celebration on Saturday, December 7. It'll be a rollicking indoor/outdoor affair, with three stages and space for 3000 partygoers. With local hip hop at the forefront, you'll catch live shows from the likes of Haiku Hands, Mike Akox, Youngn Lipz and Rebecca Hatch, while favourites like Joyride, Klasik, Shantan Wantan Ichiban, Captain Franco and Half Queen grace the decks. Throw in a sprinkling of food stalls, pop-up bars and chill-out zones and you've got a recipe for one heck of a summer-starter. Pre-sale ticket access opens from 10am this Thursday, October 17, with general sale from 10am Monday, October 21. If past events are anything to go by, you'll want to jump on these babies quick — you can sign-up for pre-sale tickets by hitting up One Day on Facebook Messenger. One Day Only runs from 1–10pm.
When you think Halloween, you probably don't immediately think theatre. However, there's something spooky about heading down into a crypt for a show — so, if that sounds like your cup of tea, Deadhouse: Tales of Sydney Morgue is for you. Down in the crypt of St James Church, the second season of Deadhouse promises a collision of Aussie history, true crime, and drama across two immersive plays. Kicking off between October 23 and November 9, you can catch the return of Louisa Collins: A Poison Crown. The tale sees 19th-century widow Louise attempt to prove her innocence in the murder of her two husbands. Or, if a story of jailbreak and life on the run tickles your fancy, you'll want to check out Simmonds & Newcombe: The Deadly Run from November 20–30. For each show, a guide will take audiences through the eerie tunnels and rooms, while the dark scenes play out around you. Since both shows run twice a night for an audience of less than 30, you'll want to get in quick and nab your spot.
The only thing better than a bunch of dogs in one place, is a bunch of dogs in costumes at the pub. There's no doubt about it. On Sunday, October 27, The Beresford will host its annual Halloween-themed dog show. The Surry Hills pub is teaming up with pup pampering palace Dogue to welcome humans and hounds to its courtyard for a day of fun and cuteness. There will be live entertainment, market stalls and prizes for the pups — you're buddy could be dubbed best dressed, best look-alike or best rescue story — so start your outfit brainstorming now. Vampire vizslas, ghoulish golden retrievers, alien alsatians, t-rex terriers, Jack the Ripper jack russells — the creepy costume ideas are endless for man's best friend. Even if you don't have a dog to dress, you can head along and have a gander. Howl-o-ween runs from 11am–3pm.
Looking for another idea for date night? There are stacks of things to do in Sydney, but coming up with something novel isn't always easy. Good news: Scout, the sleek cocktail bar within The Dolphin, has come to your rescue with a brand-new cocktail to kick off your next romantic night out. And you won't be sipping on any old cocktail either. The 'Papaya Don't Preach' ($21), a delightfully refreshing tasting concoction, is Scout's take on the classic whisky highball. Plus, one of the world's most celebrated bartenders is behind it. Talented mixologist Matt Whiley is the man behind London's famed cocktail bar, Scout, which was named one of the World's 50 Best Bars earlier this year. Now, he's in Sydney. So, if it's been a while — or never — since you last visited this Surry Hills spot, there's never been a better time to stop by. Scout's Sydney outpost is known for its unusual cocktails, made with fresh ingredients, including lots of native Australian ones. And Whiley's highball is no exception. He's joined forces with Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky to come up with a brand new take on the classic. For one, he's tossed out your regular supermarket soda and replaced it with tea tree distillate, papaya cordial and pluot (apricot and plum hybrid) soda. Plus, your A-class 'Papaya Don't Preach' will come topped with a papaya glass garnish. Just swing by Scout any time from Thursday, September 17 onwards. Luckily, if you and your date get a bit peckish, you can head downstairs to The Dolphin's hatted dining room – overseen by Icebergs' Maurice Terzini – for Italo-Australian fare, including next-level pizzas and pastas. Images: Trent van der Jagt.
If it's been a while — or never — since you last visited Maybe Sammy, there's never been a better time to stop by. Right now, the 50s-inspired cocktail bar that takes its name after jazz era icon, Sammy Davis Jr., is taking visitors on a new drinking adventure, in the form of a whisky highball. And we're not talking about the whisky highball as you've always known it, with plain soda and any old whisky in the rail. We're talking about a reinvention. What else would you expect from Maybe Sammy, which won Best New International Cocktail Bar of the Year at the 2019 Spirited Awards in New Orleans? The venue is famous for its retro Las Vegas-influenced decor as well as its signature beverages featuring theatrical touches, from pop rocks to rose petals. Bar owner Stefano Catino has joined forces with bartender Andrea Gualdi, who was named 2017 World Class Australia Bartender of the Year, to create a deluxe, bespoke version of the classic whisky highball. This beauty — dubbed Johnnie & Flamingo ($15)— is a perfectly-balanced and refreshing tasting concoction of three delightful ingredients: house-made tropical soda, house-made flamingo cordial (that's citrus and coconut) and Johnnie Walker Black Label Blended Scotch Whisky. Ready to try it? Drop into Maybe Sammy anytime from Tuesday, September 17. You'll find it in The Rocks, making it an ideal spot for a sneaky after-work drink. The pink velvet banquettes, gold lamps, brass fittings, marble tiles and splashes of greenery will transport you to total relaxation — and have you ready for cocktail-sipping — in minutes. What's more, to match the Johnnie & Flamingo, Maybe Sammy's excellent kitchen team is pairing a Smoking Gun bagel for $20, available between 4.30–6.30pm on weekdays. Arrive, not only thirsty, but hungry, too.
One of the original godfathers of dance music is coming to Australia for a five-date nationwide tour. Fatboy Slim, otherwise known as Norman Cook, exploded in the 90s with his brand of big beat that overflowed into the mainstream pop world. From his four studio albums between 1996–2004, he can claim bonafide hits like 'Right Here, Right Now', 'The Rockafeller Skank', 'Praise You' and 'Weapon of Choice'. Fun fact: Cook also holds the Guinness World Record for the most top 40 hits under different names. Sydney audiences can expect the full live show when Fatboy Slim lands next January — hitting up Sydney Showgrounds on Friday, January 31. The UK artist will be supported by 2manydjs, aka David and Stephen Dewaele of Soulwax, with further local support acts to be announced. Image: Fatboy Slim.
This spring, there's a fair bit of art going on in Sydney. But if you don't want to elbow your way through crowds to see sculptures at Bondi, there's — quite literally – a smaller local art exhibition just a few suburbs over: the annual Woollahra Small Sculpture Prize. Considered Australia's leading prize for small-scale sculpture, the exhibition will feature 43 finalist works this year. Head on down to Woollahra Municipal Council and you'll see a bunch of beautiful, thought-provoking and challenging works. You'll come across the winning work — Merran Esson's Autumn On The Monaro — plus sculptures made from the usual metals and stone, plus glazed ceramics paired with neon tubing, the body of a baby deer with rubies and ones made with found objects. Best of all? It's free. To accompany the Prize, there'll be a series of free public workshops and talks, too. On Saturday, October 12, you can catch Ian Howard in conversation with some of the finalists. On the following Saturday (October 19), you can attend a drawing class with artist and curator Siena White, who regularly teaches at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, and also runs Lilac City Studio. Or, on Sunday, October 20, finalist Wanda Gillespie will run an abacus-making workshop. Other highlights include a stitch meditation workshop with finalist Carol Cooke (November 2) and a class with fibre artist Samantha Tannous (November 3), where you'll learn how to turn merino wool into bowls which you can then take home. The 2019 Woollahra Small Sculpture Prize will run from Saturday, October 12 through Sunday, November 3. UPDATE: OCTOBER 11, 2019 — The winner of the 2019 Small Sculpture Prize is Merran Esson for her work Autumn On The Monaro. Sydney artist Benjamin Jay Shand was awarded the Special Commendation award and artists Kieta Jackson and Jessica Leitmanis both received special mention. The above article has been updated to reflect this.
Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the return of Sydney Festival. The yearly festival promises a month of comedy, art installations, theatre and more — and the 2020 program is no exception. While there are many festival highlights to see, one of the more obscure events is the world premiere of physical theatre experience Night parade of one hundred goblins at the Art Gallery of NSW. Kicking off midway through the Sydney Festival, the show takes you on a twilight exploration of the supernatural world of Japanese folklore. Created by the absurdist Clockfire Theatre Company and led by drumming from multi-instrumentalist Masae Ikegawa, the theatrical procession will move past manga-influenced murals by illustrator Kentaro Yoshida and explore otherworldly themes. Then, Night parade... will head into the gallery's major exhibition Japan supernatural: 1700s to now. While you make your way through the gallery by lantern light, you'll catch some kyōka (Japanese 'mad poetry') performed by actors alongside a haunting soundtrack composed for this event by Tokyo-based producer and singer-songwriter Eiko Ishibashi, who performed at this year's Dark Mofo. Night parade of one hundred goblins runs Thursday through Friday nights, from January 16–25, 2020. You can opt for either a 7.45pm or 9.15pm session each night. Grab your tickets here.
There's still time to nab tickets to this year's Broken Heel Festival, which takes over the historic mining town of Broken Hill for a weekend of drag, divas and disco from September 13–15. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in this annual tribute to the iconic Australian film Priscilla Queen of the Desert by celebrating the movie's anniversary with a blowout party — that rocks for three days straight. Drag queens and kings from around the country will come together for a lineup of cabaret performances, comedy, opera and live music. Highlights include an opening night party featuring a Michael Griffiths' Kylie tribute band, plus a Priscilla-inspired party on Saturday. You can also join the locals along the main strip for the annual Drag Street Parade. An openair, interactive screening of the film will take place on the Sunday night, too.
The Museum of Contemporary Art remains the place to be on the last Friday of the month when MCA ARTBAR takes over the gallery with an adults-only party of art, music, design and performance. Each month is curated by a different artist, making the series an ever-changing yet constant facet in Sydney's after-dark culture. This month, on Friday, August 30, step into a world of pagan mystery, hypnotic movement and mesmerising music at MCA ARTBAR: Oracle. This adults-only party, which takes over the entire museum, is inspired by the Oracle of Delphi — a priestess of Ancient Greece — who breathed vapours, spoke in tongues and imparted fierce female wisdom. MCA ARTBAR: Oracle has been curated by experimental artists Willoh S Weiland and J R Brennan. They're the duo currently co-directing the after-dark program for next year's MONA FOMA and have created works across the globe, including in Germany, Finland and Poland. So, you can expect lots of immersive and unexpected performance art and music at this month's after-hours art party. Program highlights include an improvised dancing by ex-Bangarra dancer Yolande Brown to the tunes of Ptwiggs; fast-paced life drawing sessions; and the Polyphony Choir singing David Bowie, Björk, Kate Bush and Daft Punk in ways you've never heard before. Head to the rooftop bar and you'll find Stelly G hyping up the crowd. Then, DJ Yung Brujo will be powering the dance floor, backdropped by incredible views of the harbour, too. It all goes down on Friday, August 30 between 7–11pm. Tickets can be pre-purchased for $18–24 online or at the door for $28.
Since first setting up shop in Sydney back in mid-2017, Betty's Burgers just keeps spreading the burger-filled love. The city is already home to four stores, with a fifth now opening in North Sydney — and, to mark the occasion, the new joint is giving away free burgs. Two varieties will be on offer: Betty's classic burger and its crispy chicken burger. To grab an Angus beef patty, lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese and Betty's special sauce between a bread roll — or southern fried chicken, lettuce, tomato and sauce on a bun — you'll need to head to 100 Mount Street on Wednesday, October 9. Just make sure you're one of the first 1000 people through the doors, because that's how many freebies the store will be slinging. Yes, the early bird catches the free burg. If you're wondering, the store opens at 11am, with one burger available per person until the allocation has been exhausted. Because this is a party, there'll also be a DJ spinning tunes. And, because it's beach themed, you can also win some appropriately beachy merchandise.
This year is flying by at rapid pace and that means summer is just around the corner — and we all need to get our warm-weather wardrobes in order. Resort and swimwear label Tigerlily is offering something very relevant to your interests: a big four-day warehouse sale to get you some much-welcome bikini bargains. There's never a bad time to treat yourself to some new clothes, especially when you're saving a heap of money in the process. The Aussie brand is known and loved for its timeless prints and unique swimwear, so getting your mitts on some of the goods at up to 60 percent off is a major win. Past-season Tigerlily bikini separates will be on sale for just $29 a piece — and it isn't just swimwear. Dresses, shorts, kaftans and sample pieces will also be reduced to help you prep for the summer months. The Tigerlily warehouse sale will take place at Paddington Town Hall from October 10–13, running from 9am–9pm on Thursday; 9am–5pm on Friday and Saturday; and 10am–4pm on Sunday.
If your weekends usually include some combination of dogs, barbecues and Bunnings, well, this event is set to sort you out. Pet re-homing organisation Second Chance Animal Rescue is bringing a slew of homeless pups to a Bunnings near you for a national adoption drive. On Sunday, October 6, the not-profit organisation — which rescues and re-homes cats and dogs in need — is getting local shelters to bring their animals to select Bunnings stores across Australia, including Bunnings Castle Hill. Head down to have a cuddle with some adorable cats and pups in need of a new home. If you're particularly taken with one of the little guys, you can chat to one of the volunteers about adopting either now or in the future. To get some puppy pats, rock up to Bunnings Castle Hill between 11am and 2pm. And if you need some Dulux paint, you'll be able to make a donation to Second Chance's new animal hospital. Hopefully there'll be some snags sizzling, too. PARTICIPATING NSW BUNNINGS STORES Bunnings Castle Hill Bunnings Bathurst Bunnings West Hoxton Bunnings South Nowra Bunnings McGraths Hill
This spring, you can immerse yourself in the wilderness without leaving the city, when the Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year exhibition takes over the Powerhouse Museum. More than 100 photographs will transport you to spectacular scenery and put you eye-to-eye with crested-horn sharks, short-beaked echidnas and flying foxes. As well as being completely captivating, the images show the incredible natural diversity of Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica and New Guinea. The photos will take you from NSW's snow-capped Australian Main Range to waterfalls in Tasmania and WA's Cheynes Beach, where the winning photo was taken. The acclaimed shot by local photographer Mat Beetson features a giant dead fin whale that's being circled by bronze whalers and great whites. It's the first photo taken with a drone to win the competition, with the judges saying the image is "unique and exciting, it reveals incredible beauty in death". The Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year competition is produced by the South Australian Museum, and its entrees are judged on timing, patience, artistry and technique by photography veterans. You can read all about the other finalists over here. Images: Fin Whale's Demise by Mat Beetson, Mountain Echidna by Charles Davis and The Heat Run by Scott Portelli.
UPDATE: 29 SEPTEMBER, 2019 — The Doggy Day is no longer being held at the Paddo Inn and has had a last minute move to Double Bay's Golden Sheaf. For free medical checks, pet photography and the pooch-only menu head across to The Sheaf. The bottomless brunch, however, will still be going down at the Paddo — more info about that over here. Looking for an excuse to spoil your pup, or just go crazy petting everyone else's doggos? Head over Golden Sheaf this month for its first Doggy Day on Sunday, September 29 from 10am–2pm. The bar will be filled with furry friends and is set up to pamper their fluffy ears off. First up, Vets on Crown will be in the house, offering free medical checks. There will also be pet photography shoots by GoBarkly and personalised accessories by Porters 4 Pets. On the pooch-only menu, meatballs and biscuits will be up for grabs. And the first 30 dogs will receive a complimentary gift bag from Healthy Everyday Pets, too. Humans aren't forgotten either. The kitchen opens at midday with a whole spread of steaks, pizzas, burgers and schnittys — and there are jugs of spritzes and mojitios available if you feel like settling in for a Sunday session. Entry is free, but you can book a table over here. Images: Steven Woodburn
In this powerful, one-woman show, Sandy Greenwood brings together the stories of four generations of Gumbaynggirr women from the 1940s to today. Through spoken word, dance, music and multimedia, Greenwood delves into cultural identities and everything that shapes them, from the intergenerational trauma caused by the Stolen Generations to the influences of her relatives. Matriarch is about "honouring my matriarchs; the strong and graceful women of my direct lineage; I am my mother, grandmother and great-grandmother" Greenwood told SBS. The show is a celebration of the women's creativity and traditions, as well as an exploration of the impact of violence. Having appeared at Melbourne Fringe Festival 2018 to rave reviews, Matriarch will make its Sydney debut at Sydney Fringe Festival 2019.
It's beginning to look a lot like the festive season — and at Porteño, that means eating, drinking and shopping. Well, that's what the restaurant will be serving up at its second Christmas market, to be held at its Cleveland Street event space. For a gold coin donation on entry — the proceeds of which will go to Westmead Children's Hospital — attendees will find local designers, creatives and some of Porteño's shop-owning faves all descending upon Cleveland Street for a merry ol' day of gift browsing and buying. Expect all of your canned and pickled goods needs to be taken care of by Continental Deli and Cornersmith, meaning that you can stock up on some edible Christmas essentials as well. Plus, Cork & Chroma will be running a three-hour painting class if you think something homemade will have more resonance. Taking place from 9am to 4pm on Sunday, December 16, the market will also look after your hunger and thirst while you're perusing the stalls and shelves, courtesy of caffeinated brews from 212 Blu, gelato from Redfern's Ciccone & Sons and Porteño kitchen's own bites to eat. As for something stronger, you'll find booze from Jacoby's Tiki Bar and quality drop from Jed Wines — whether you're celebrating once you've wrapped up all your pressie purchasing for the year, or getting some liquid inspiration.
Bungalow 8, King Street Wharf's buzzing social spot, is ending the year with a little Cuban flair and creating Little Havana. So on Monday, December 31, you're invited to join these Caribbean vibes for a lively New Year's Eve fiesta. It's time to farewell the year that was while sipping Bacardi mojitos — found on tap — under luxurious cabana or in the pop-up botanical garden upstairs at The Loft. While you're downing the rum goodness, enjoy the entertainment lineup which will include Aston Shuffle and Luke Million. General admission is from $49 per person but, let's face it, New Year's Eve is time to go all out. And what better way to treat yourself one final time (this year) than securing a drinks and food package? No street kebabs tonight, thank you. Bungalow 8 is offering a variety of packages to suit you and your mate's needs. Single tickets start at $120, providing a steady flow of beer, wine and sparkling from 6–8pm. Or up that to $150, and you'll add an extra hour and spirits to the mix. Alternatively, you can get all your mates to chip in together and score one of The Loft VIP Balcony Packages for either $2500 or $5000, depending on how many bottles of Champagne magnum and spirits you'll be requiring. Plus, all packages come with canapés so you won't have to worry about asking the bartender multiple times throughout the night for beer nuts. Spots are limited, so move fast to secure yours and see in 2019 overlooking the harbour with a mojito in one hand and a canapés in the other — it's a sure way to make sure your Havana good time. For more information on the New Year's Eve Packages and to book your tickets, visit the Bungalow 8 website.
Lusting after an island holiday but lacking the time or funds? The rooftop at The Sheaf is oozing the summer feels you're craving with the Bacardi Rum Shack, a pop-up that's taken over the space until Sunday, January 27. It's open Thursday through Sunday each week and boasts specialty rum cocktails, tropical vibes and a live electronic music lineup. The cocktail list takes a twist on the classics — think watermelon mai tai (Bacardi Carta Blanca and St. Germain elderflower liquor with almond, watermelon and lime), the Mojito Magic (Bacardi Carta Blanca, mint, lime, passionfruit and soda) and the Rum Runner (Bacardi Carta Blanca and Bacardi Carta Oro with blackberry, orange and pineapple). Of course, classic mojitos and piña coladas — festively served in coconut shells — are on the menu, too. Sheaf Sunday Sessions will happen every week as well. UNDR CTRL DJs will play each week and there'll be additional headliners on November 11, December 9 and January 27 — that'll be Running Touch, Total Giovanni and Kilter, respectively. The Bacardi Rum Shack Rooftop is open Thursday to Saturday from 5pm and Sunday from 3pm. For more information, visit The Sheaf's website.
Brimming with raw excitement, emotion and urgency, Bloc Party's debut Silent Alarm was an instant hit amongst tastemakers and critics alike upon its release in 2005. Thirteen years has cemented the album's place as a shining example of mid-aughties indie rock, while its singles 'Helicopter' and 'Banquet' continue to fill dance floors around the world. So it's no wonder that the London quartet's announcement that they would be playing Silent Alarm in its entirety at the Hordern this November was met with much excitement. The first show has already sold out, but a second show has been added for Thursday, November 29. Whether you remember the music of Bloc Party due to late night raves or long evenings spent nursing feelings of desolate heartbreak, this will be an unforgettable evening for connoisseurs of jagged guitarwork, sparse electronica and truly incendiary indie-pop songs. The band be joined by local indie heroes Haiku Hands for the Australian shows.
There's no such thing as an ordinary dish to chef Nelly Robinson, namesake of and driving force behind Sydney restaurant Nel, as his degustation menus keep demonstrating. KFC? Lamingtons? French onion soup? Pots of honey? They can all be given a fine-dining twist, and have. And if it can work for Moulin Rouge! and Paddington Bear, it can work for Christmas. Nel is no stranger to Christmas spreads, but it is celebrating 2023's jolliest time of year with a specific range of treats. The Christmas Degustation takes its cues from European festive meals and traditions. It's also filled with culinary traditions, but not as you know them — from roast spuds to Christmas Day seafood. Nel's chef and namesake Nelly Robinson has found 11 ways to interpret Christmas food staples from around the world while still giving them his usual creative spin. Available from Tuesday, November 14–Saturday, December 23, the Surry Hills institution's new Christmas degustation features a Nel take on seafood blinis featuring crab salad and flowers on mini crumpets, a black charcoal crumbed sausage in the shape of a star that's paired with curry sauce, and a delicate rendition of silly season carbs called Nanna's Potatoes. There are also dishes named after Love Actually, 'O Christmas Tree' and 'Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer' — we can all imagine what that one might be. Rounding out the menu is a reinvention of the traditional Danish Christmas dessert risalamande. In Denmark, a whole almond is often hidden in rice pudding, with anyone who finds it given a prize. In Robinson's version, there's just big flavours instead, with the dessert starring a vanilla rice pudding foam, amaretto ice cream, and an almond, cinnamon and wild rice granola. There are plenty more surprises to be discovered across the 11 courses, plus diners can also opt for a selection of wines meticulously paired with the dishes by the restaurant's head sommelier. Sydneysiders can tuck in for $185 per person, with another $155 each on top for the classic wine pairing or an additional $185 for the premium wine journey. Or, there's a non-alcoholic matching drinks selection for $85 per head. Nel will also be opening for lunch on Saturdays in November, and Friday and Saturdays in December, to give diners extra options.
When an actor has enjoyed the kind of career that the one and only Al Pacino has to his name, there are many ways to celebrate. Or, to be more accurate, there's a plethora of films to watch — because the best way to pay tribute to the Oscar-, Emmy- and Tony-winner, formidable thespian force and one of the greatest talents ever is to bask in him doing what he does best in his movies. Enter You Can Call Me Al, a ten-film retrospective at Golden Age Cinema & Bar that does have a reason behind it, but doesn't need one. Marking the 50th anniversary of exceptional crime drama Serpico, which is home to one of Pacino's all-time best performances, is a worthy cause, of course — but so is revelling in many of his flicks. The season kicks off on Friday, November 10 with a session of The Godfather, another stunning classic, before popping up on various dates until Friday, December 15 with The Godfather Part II, Scarface, Scarecrow, Glengarry Glen Ross, Heat, Carlito's Way, Dog Day Afternoon and, yes, Serpico in a new 4K restoration. With such an impressive roster of films and performances, picking just one screening to attend is virtually impossible. Also on the lineup, and fittingly given that Golden Age recently ran a William Friedkin retrospective as well: the filmmaker's Pacino-starring thriller Cruising.
Melbourne art collective Fast Fashun is heading up to Sydney for a two-day pop-up in Tumbalong Park for Sydney Festival. Hitting the Harbour City for the weekend of January 20–21, the free activation will shine a light on how we can reduce the waste created by the clothes we wear. Attendees will be encouraged to make one-of-a-kind fashion creations from recycled clothes, with members of the Fast Fashun team on hand to run workshops in repurposing clothing using sewing machines, safety pins or just some good old-fashioned creativity. Every hour between 1–4pm, there will be a runway show where the participants can show off their creations. You'll be able to flex your visual eye before hitting the catwalk in front of a cheering crowd to shine a spotlight on how imaginative you can be with pre-loved garms. If you want to get around the Fast Fashun mission of saving clothes from landfill and reducing the amount of single-wear and throw-it-out fashion being produced, follow the collective on Instagram and check out the latest edition of the Fast Fashun zine. Images: Theresa Harrison
Sydney Festival is bringing US singer-songwriter Julie Byrne back to Australian shores for its 2024 edition. The acclaimed folk musician is currently touring behind the release of her devastating new album, The Greater Wings, a record which reckons with the passing of Byrne's longtime creative partner Eric Littmann. You can expect an intimate hour-long journey through the songs of The Greater Wings and Byrne's back catalogue at Sydney Festival's pop-up Walsh Bar art precinct, The Thirsty Mile. [caption id="attachment_641500" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jonathan Bouknight[/caption] If you want to inject some beautifully gentle, intensely personal folk music into your summer, you've got two opportunities. Julie Byrne will be performing on Wednesday, January 17, and then again on Friday, January 19. Both performances will be part of the larger program taking over Pier 2/3 in Walsh Bay, including theatre and art, cabaret and dance, bars and speakeasies, and a late-night club called The Moonshine Bar. Top image: Alexander Kellner
It's about time for her arrival: Christina Aguilera's, that is, with the 'Dirrty', 'Genie in a Bottle', 'What a Girl Wants', 'Lady Marmalade' and 'Beautiful' singer heading Down Under in November for a one-night-only gig. Hitting Australia for the first time since 2007, the singer headlines Victoria's statewide music celebration Always Live, which is returning in 2023 for its second year after a successful debut run in 2022. Aguilera plays Melbourne's Flemington Racecourse on Saturday, November 25, in a show that'll also mark 20 years since her album Stripped. Not in Melbourne? This is a getaway-worthy show, given that it's the only concert she's playing on this Aussie trip. One of pop music's former Mouseketeers, the six-time Grammy-winner leads a bill that spans more than 165 artists at 60-plus events — all in Victoria. In other words, she spearheads a lineup that's designed to get the state's residents hitting up live gigs, and to entice tourists from the rest of the country to make music-filled holiday plans.
