For much of the past two weeks, Greater Sydney residents have been masking up as part of the New South Wales Government's response to two recent locally acquired cases of COVID-19. Donning face coverings has been compulsory in indoor public settings and on public transport, rules that were tweaked slightly last week but still scheduled to remain in place until 12.01am on Monday, May 17 — and today, Sunday, May 16, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has confirmed that the mask mandate will indeed end tomorrow. Sydneysiders, including those who live in Wollongong, the Blue Mountains and the Central Coast, will no longer need to wear a mask on public transport and at public indoor venues. That covers customer-facing staff members in hospitality as well, and anyone in gaming areas. So, you won't have to don a mask in any situation across the state. But, they will still remain strongly recommended. Basically, if you can't guarantee social distancing somewhere — or you're using public transport — you're advised to wear them. https://twitter.com/NSWHealth/status/1393733822450081792 The restrictions have been eased because no further local COVID-19 cases have been identified over the past week. Although NSW Health is yet to find a direct link between the two recent community-acquired cases and a case with the same genomic sequence in a returned overseas traveller, the NSW Government is still happy to ease restrictions. Compulsory mask-wearing isn't the only current restriction that's changing for Greater Sydney residents. As also announced today, at-home gathering caps will be completely scrapped, singing and dancing will be permitted again in indoor venues, and you'll be able to standing up while drinking. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in NSW, head to the NSW Health website.
It seems a pretty hard task to follow Hannah Gadsby's international smash-hit show, Nanette. After all, the one-woman stand-up performance copped serious praise on its 18-month travels across Australia and the UK, even scooping the top honours at both the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe. It also spawned its very own Netflix special. And when Gadsby used the show to announce she was quitting comedy for good, we thought that was it. But indeed, the beloved Aussie comedian gave the follow-up a red hot crack when she returned to the stand-up stage with her latest work, Douglas, named after her own pet pooch. While Nanette pulled apart the concept of comedy itself, dishing up an insight into Gadsby's past, Douglas takes you on a "tour from the dog park to the renaissance and back". Gadsby took Douglas to stages across Australia and New Zealand in late 2019 and early 2020, and now, to the delight of house-bound people across the world, is bringing it to Netflix next month. Available to stream globally from Tuesday, May 26, the show will bring us all some much-needed comic relief. As Gadsby says: "mark it in your socially-distant calendars...then wash your hands". https://twitter.com/Hannahgadsby/status/1249668347693654019 Hannah Gadsby's 'Douglas' will be available to stream globally on Netflix from Tuesday, May 26.
When the Australian Government announced last week that pubs, bars and nightclubs would be closing the following day to help contain COVID-19, it led to the mass-buying of booze across the country. Bottle shops are not impacted by the closures, but it didn't stop Aussies stocking up just in case. Booze is just the latest item to be targeted by panic-buying, with toilet paper going first, then essential food items. Supermarkets across the country have since introduced strict two-pack-per-person limits on coveted items, such as eggs, sugar, white milk, frozen desserts and canned tomatoes, and now bottle shops are following suit. Australia's major bottle shops have today, Tuesday, March 31, introduced new temporary restrictions on alcohol. "In partnership with all major Australian alcohol retailers...we have applied moderate restrictions on the amount of produce customer can purchase," a statement on the BWS website reads. "Don't worry, supply isn't drying up, these changes have been made to ensure this is enough for everyone to responsibly enjoy their drink at the end of the day." Thankfully, the limits aren't quite as strict as those on food. In NSW, Vic, ACT, Qld, NT, SA and Tas, there are per person, per transaction limits on six categories, with customers able to buy from up to two different categories at a time: 12 bottles of wine two casks of wine (up to ten litres) two bottles of spirits (up to two litres) two cases of beer two cases of pre-mixed spirits/RTDs two cases of cider [caption id="attachment_766137" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Stephen Dann via Flickr[/caption] The above restrictions have been enforced at major stores around the country, both in-store and online, including Woolworths Group's BWS and Dan Murphy's; Aldi; and Coles's Liquorland, First Choice Liquor and Vintage Cellars. The new limits follow and supersede the restrictions introduced by the Woolworths Group last week. In WA, the purchase limits are stricter, to adhere to state regulations, with customers able to buy a maximum of two from the following categories: 11.25 litres of beer, cider or pre-mixed spirits; 2.25 litres of wine; one litre of spirits; and one litre of fortified wine. All the alcohol retailers are also encouraging social distancing, have introduced maximum capacities at their stores, and are offering pick-up, with some offering delivery. The temporary alcohol limits are now in place at stores across Australia. 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.
Music festival fans, where's your head at? We can tell you where it'll be if you're looking to send off the year with a stacked lineup of dance floor favourites: Glenworth Valley. The end-of-year staple Lost Paradise has just announced its return for 2023, and it's making a comeback with plenty of big names. Between Thursday, December 28–Monday, January 1, Lost Paradise will unleash a massive program of live music and DJ sets that include appearances from headliners Flume, Dom Dolla and Foals, plus Basement Jaxx, Bicep and Carl Cox on the decks. The Central Coast festival also shares some names with the recently announced Beyond the Valley lineup — namely Kelis, The Jungle Giants, Channel Tres, Cassian, Jayda G, DJ Heartstring, Overmono, Lastlings, BIG WETT and salute. Other notable names include local festival favourites like Lime Cordiale, PNAU, Winston Surfshirt, Royel Otis and Sycco; pop heavyweight Holly Humberstone; 'Afraid to Feel' hitmakers LF System; and international dance mainstays Kettama, Barry Can't Swim, Ewan McVicar and Yung Singh — the last of which has racked up nearly a million views on his Melbourne Boiler Room set from earlier in the year. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWZ5F00eG_k Since first unleashing its specific flavour of festival fun back in 2014, Lost Paradise has become a go-to way to see out one year and welcome in another — and with its just-dropped roster of talent for 2023, that's set to be the case across its riverside setup again this time around. Also on the bill: wellness, art, sustainability, ideas and food, all as part of a four-day camping festival. So, there's plenty to get excited about and to tempt you to make the journey an hour out of Sydney. While the full rundown of activities hasn't been revealed as yet, the lineup hints at pottery sessions, workshops centred around First Nations culture and speed dating. And, camping-wise, options span everything from rent-a-tents to luxury glamping. This year, Lost Paradise is opting to steer away from a traditional first-, second- and third-release ticket strategy. Instead, ticket prices will gently increase in accordance with demand. Of course, it's the Lost Paradise lineup that'll get you to the festival in the first place. So, enough chatter; here it is: LOST PARADISE LINEUP 2023: Artist Lineup Flume Dom Dolla Foals Kelis Lime Cordiale Pnau The Jungle Giants Channel Tres Holly Humberstone Overmono Winston Surfshirt Lastlings Royel Otis Sycco Dice Haiku Hands Big Wett Skeleten Cat & Calmell Velvet Trip Sloan Peterson Pirra Jet City Sports Club Salarymen Birdee 王煒 Thunder Fox Sputnik Sweetheart DJ Lineup Bicep (DJ Set) Carl Cox (Hybrid Set) Jayda G Basement Jaxx (DJ Set) Kettama DJ Heartstring Cassian Ewan McVicar Lf System Barry Can't Swim Salute Stüm Sam Alfred Yung Singh Heidi Saorise c.frim Litmus (Live) Club Angel James Pepper Ayebatonye Elijah Something Mincy Caleb Jackson Crybaby Jacqui Cunningham Conspiracy Crew Caitlin Medclaf Troy Beman Shantan Wantan Ichiban Flexy Ferg Waxlily Cleo Sasha Milani Madami Lost Sundays Soundsystem Cricket Mash Anika Silly Lily Zach Williams Toaka Lost Paradise returns to Glenworth Valley from Wednesday, December 28–Sunday, January 1. Pre-sale tickets are available from Tuesday, August 29 with general tickets from Wednesday, August 30. For more information, head to the festival's website. Top image: Jordan Munns.
Everyone loves cheese, but it's rare that it takes centrestage in a restaurant. It's usually one of so many sandwich fillings or pizza toppings, or it might be a pre-dessert course if you're somewhere extra fancy. But everyone's favourite dairy product is about to get the recognition it deserves at The Stinking Bishops, a cheese bar and retailer set to open in Newtown later this month. Kieran Day, who co-owns the venture with Jamie Nimmo, says he was inspired to open his own cheese shop after seeing similar places while travelling through Europe. "I have worked in the food industry for a number of years now, from delis to restaurants, and thought that the concept would work really well, combining a cheese shop with a dine in aspect," he said. Day plans on stocking a range of local and international cheeses and is "looking towards holding a nice supply of raw milk and specialty cheese". There'll also be bread, pastries, cured meats and house-made pickles available for purchase. The dine-in menu is still undergoing "rigorous taste testing processes", according to the Stinking Bishops' website, but will mainly consist of cheese and cured meat boards, pate, salad and various 'Mr. Crispy' toasted sandwiches (pictured above), matched with carefully selected wine, beer and whiskey. The Stinking Bishops will be located at Shop 5, 63-71 Enmore Road, and Day is aiming to open in mid-March. Images from the The Stinking Bishops' blog and Facebook page.
If you've been longing for years to see opera on Sydney Harbour, but haven't yet managed to scrape enough cash together to buy a ticket, here's your chance. On Easter Saturday, Opera Australia will be selling seats at the current show — La Boheme — for just $45 a pop. To get your hands on one, all you have to do is turn up at the box office at 2:30pm, wearing something a little bit French (i.e. a beret, a sailor's shirt or a scarf covered in croissants). Note that the box office is at Mrs Macquaries Point, not the Opera House. 400 tickets will be up for grabs, so, if you get there early, you should be in with a good chance. Each Francophile can buy up to two seats, to be used on either Saturday or Sunday night. Once all of the $45 bargains are snapped up, tickets will be $99. Of all the operas in the world, La Boheme, written by Giacomo Puccini, is among the most performed and accessible. Premiering back in 1896 at Teatro Regio (the Theatre Royal) in Turin, it tells the story of painter Marcello and poet Rodolfo, who live in poverty in Paris. The duo put their art before financial stability, as well as their tumultuous relationships with their lovers, Mimi and Musetta. If the story sounds familiar, you might know it from the rock musical Rent, which is loosely based on La Boheme. The Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour production transports the tale into the romantic, lamplit, snowy streets of 1960s Paris. Expect some enchanting surprises, including falling snow, fireworks and balloon-borne children. Image: Prudence Upton.
Once upon a time, this spot was a craft beer bar specialising in Sunday roasts. Since changing hands in 2023, Taphouse has offered a space for approachable yet creative drinks, fresh takes on suburban Cantonese-style bites and special signature dishes. One of those signature dishes, the spice bag, a viral pinnacle of Irish-Chinese fusion cuisine, debuted on St Patrick's Day to massive popularity. Now it's getting the spotlight in a new regular menu offering: Sunday Shenanigans. This weekly set menu celebrates Irish-Chinese food in all the best ways. The Taphouse's take on the Irish-Chinese delicacy is available to purchase all week for $21. Or, it's a tempting deal to book Sunday Shenanigans for $34pp. That will get you a feast of prawn crackers, vegetarian spring rolls, salt and pepper fries, egg fried rice, chilli chicken, sweet and sour chicken and a healthy portion of McDonnell's Curry Sauce—mandatory for the true Irish-Chinese food experience. Drinks-wise, you can pair the feast with $12 pints of Guinness or a five-spice bloody mary made with your choice of vodka, gin or tequila, Taphouse Spice Mix, tomato juice, coriander, cucumber and lemon for $15. To book a seat at Sunday Shenanigans, visit the Taphouse website.
This month, a lucky bunch of Sydneysiders were treated to the second event in a series of secret suppers hosted by Red Rock Deli. The exclusive supper series — running until September at secret locations across Sydney and Melbourne — sees some of Australia's most talented chefs whipping up mouth-watering, three-course feasts inspired by Red Rock Deli's new limited-edition range. And when we say exclusive, we mean it — only 20 lucky guests get to tuck into each lavish dinner. On Thursday, June 20, Duncan Welgemoed put up a firey three-course feast reminiscent of the smoky bites his popular Adelaide restaurant, Africola, is known for. After guests were picked up from North Sydney Station and whisked away to the Coal Loader. This space formerly functioned as an industrial coal bunkering site, and guests were given the rare opportunity to dine in one of the historic underground tunnels. There, Welgemoed dished up plates inspired by Red Rock Deli's flame-grilled steak and chimichurri flavour. In the first course, Welgemoed served slow-roasted and smoked peppers, thoum (garlic dip) and cucumbers with charred flatbreads, while his dessert was a delightful comination of tahini ice cream, baklava and mandarin oil. But it was the slow-roasted beef ribs with chimichurri, slow roasted cauliflower and tahini that was the real winner — to recreate it at home, check out the recipe here. Chris Yan, of Sydney's lauded dumpling den Lotus, is up next. The dinner will take place on Thursday, August 8 and will be inspired by Red Rock Deli's red chilli and creamy coconut chips. To nab tickets for Sydney's upcoming Red Rock Deli supper, enter the ballot here to be given the chance to purchase tickets. Images: Kitti Gould
With all this time spent at home, you might as well make it interesting. Maybe throw in some problem-solving, clue-cracking and a spot of mystery? If any of the above takes your fancy, strap yourself in for the latest at-home escape room experience from the masters of intrigue at Ukiyo. The Brunswick-based escape room studio has been delivering locals their lockdown puzzle fix via a series of interactive online experiences. And the next one unfolds over four brain-teasing days, kicking off next Wednesday, September 16. Dubbed Bird Cage, this new virtual game takes its cues from the likes of Stranger Things, The Ring and Slender Man, serving up an Aussie twist on the retro sci-fi thriller. The story's set deep in the outback, pulling players into a paranormal mystery involving a creepy scientific institute, its prized specimen and a very unwanted escape. Delve into this immersive head-scratcher solo, or with your housemates, cracking clues and solving puzzles as the game unfolds. All you'll need to play is a computer with internet access, though there's also a Stranger Things-inspired pillow fortress competition to enter if you fancy a shot at winning a $200 Ukiyo voucher. Tickets for Bird Cage are just $5 per person, or you can nab a household ticket for $15 (for three or more players).
The Vic Hotel Enmore is kicking off the long weekend with the traditional Bad Friday. Hosted by The Music Booze Co and FBi this marks the fifth year of a long weekend event that has in the past filled the Vic's courtyard with the likes of The Preatures, Sticky Fingers and DMA's. This year's solid lineup includes Gang of Youths, the Lulu Faes, Flowertruck and many more, with DJs playing all arvo. Add to the mix that famous Vic spit roast and it's a darn attractive way to spend your afternoon off in the (fingers crossed) sunshine.
For those of us who bemoan the destructive tendencies of music's digital revolution — making such endearingly humble (and ubiquitous) devices as vinyls and walkman permanently redundant — the newly released Sharetapes are giving modern music a decidedly old-school twist. Sharetapes, the product of an Australian start-up, are the iPhone and Spotify era equivalent of a casette mix-tape. The credit card-sized tape allows you to make a playlist using such online services as YouTube, 8tracks and Spotify and then writing it to one of your blank tapes by hitting record at sharetapes.com. Then, simply tap your tape on an NFC-enabled smartphone (recent Android, Windows or Blackberry devices) or scan it using any QR code application (all your other iPhones and smartphones) and you can easily share your favourite playlists with your friends. These transportable, shareable and fashionably retro cards are awesome for bands or DJs hoping to connect their music with fans. And in the spirit of the mix-tape heyday of the '80s and '90s, these cards are the perfect companion for the modern lover. While once upon a time, teenage romantics would use their casette mix-tapes of MC Hammer and Barry White to woo their high-school crush, the modern lover simply has to swipe their card across their prospective other's iPhone and get ready for the romance to get a-flowing. We're giving away five packs of Sharetapes, with each packet including five individual tapes. To be in the running, simply subscribe to Concrete Playground (if you haven't already) then email us with your name and postal address at hello@concreteplayground.com.au.
Everyone loves Jamie's Italian. Or at least that's what we discovered when, back in November last year, we reported that the Jamie Oliver had officially bought back his Australian restaurant chain after its parent company, the Keystone Group, went into receivership. People were ecstatic. Now the deal has officially gone through and the man, the myth, the legend himself is heading to our shores to relaunch his six Jamie's Italian restaurants with a greater Aussie focus in mind. Oliver will visit Sydney between May 8 and 12 to launch a brand new menu that will centre on Australian produce and wine, collaborating with local suppliers including Sydney's Joto Fresh Fish and Serendipity Ice Cream, Adelaide's Boulangerie 113 and Melbourne's That's Amore Cheese. He's also got managing director Ben Shaughnessy in the fold, who moved to Sydney earlier this year after seven years at the Jamie Oliver Restaurant Group UK – no doubt to get this Aussification process started in advance of the big boss' arrival. The menu will continue to feature Italian classics, but will now be more focused on sustainable and locally sourced ingredients — think wild mushroom ravioli (made fresh daily on-site), 12-hour slow-cooked oxtail lasagne and slow-roasted juicy porchetta stuffed with garlic, chill and herbs. The updated wine list will be decidedly more Australian too, which is a welcome (and necessary, in our opinion) change for the restaurants. To celebrate the launch, Jamie's Italian will offer a signature pasta dish for only ten bucks, starting May 8 through to the end of the month and changing every Monday. Oliver is also introducing 'kids eat free' during the Easter holiday in all six of the restaurants, with a selection of six 'award-winning' kids' menu dishes available for every main course ordered. To maintain brand consistency, Parramatta's Jamie's Italian Trattoria will change names and become the sixth Jamie's Italian in Australia, joining existing locations in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth and, of course, Sydney. Perhaps Oliver's arrival in Australia will even see him scope out a location for a venue in Melbourne, which has oddly been left out of the Jamie's Kitchen fold. Either way, we can't wait to dig in to some delicious, lovely jubbly pasta and know that it was made with the Australian climate and produce in mind. Jamie Oliver will visit Sydney from May 8–12 to officially relaunch Jamie's Italian. But you can visit any of his six restaurants at any time. For more information, visit jamieoliver.com.
Brisbane rock five-piece Waax have been steadily gaining a following over the past few years. This month, they're set to cross the border for a gig in Byron as part of NSW Government initiative Great Southern Nights. They'll be playing at The Northern, situated right in the centre of Byron Bay and just a few minutes' walk from its famous Main Beach. Not that you'll be thinking of the surf when Waax lets rip with their take on alternative post-punk. Likened in the past to acts such as Siouxsie and the Banshees and Yeah Yeah Yeahs, their debut album, Big Grief — incidentally recorded in Byron Bay — just fell short of a place in the Top 10 last year. You can catch them at the coastal pub on Saturday, November 7 at 6pm or 9.30pm. For the latest info on NSW border restrictions, head here. If travelling from Queensland or Victoria, check out Queensland Health and DHHS websites, respectively.
The 12 sandstone sculptures at the Living Desert State Park sit atop a quiet hillside, catching and throwing rays of sunlight to highlight the skyline. Each has a different story to tell. Gordon Pupangamirri's work, Tiwi Totems, features carved birds, fish and tortoises that are emblematic of the traditional burial poles of the Tiwi people of Bathurst Island, off the Northern Territory coast. Meanwhile, Aztec Indian Antonio Nava Tirado's imagery of the sun and moon encased in a standing stone, Bajo El Sol Jaguar, represents life's dualities. These structures were erected by international artists in 1993 after the City of Broken Hill established the sprawling reserve as a conservation site for native flora and fauna. Images: Destination NSW
Sydney's Taronga Zoo boasts its own glamping experience, as well as a luxe new eco-retreat. At Melbourne Zoo, you can stay overnight in the elephant exhibit. Next year, southeast Queensland's Australia Zoo will follow suit, opening a campground that'll also include glamping and eco cabins. Slated to launch in 2020 to celebrate Australia Zoo's 50th anniversary celebrations, the new addition to the Irwin family's Beerwah zoo has unsurprisingly been dubbed Camp Crocodile Hunter. It'll feature a combination of tent accommodation, powered sites for caravans and RVs, glamping-style tents and cabins — with 108 sites included in total. Wildlife lovers can also look forward to a new cafe, an entertainment and pool area, covered cooking areas and a mountain bike track. And, there'll be facilities for school camps, too. Expect all of the above to be put to frequent use, with Australia Zoo anticipating that Camp Crocodile Hunter will attract more than 39,000 visitors each year. Increasing both tourism and zoo patronage is clear aim of the $8 million project, which has received Queensland Government support alongside Australia Zoo's own funding. Just what else the "luxury bush camp experiences" will entail hasn't been revealed, but for folks keen to extend their trip to the famed zoo across at least two days — and avoid having to trek offsite to stay the night — that's obviously on the agenda. From the crocoseum and croc school, to the onsite wildlife hospital, to a lineup of animals that spans tigers, cheetahs, giraffes, lemurs, meerkats, otters, rhinos, kangaroos, koalas, emus, crocodiles and more, there's definitely plenty to see. https://www.instagram.com/p/BwRk7kkF1eZ/ Camp Crocodile Hunter was first announced back in April, but construction started just this month, after the completion of planning work for all of the campground essentials — aka electricity, water and public amenities. Australia Zoo's Camp Crocodile Hunter is slated to open in 2020. For further information, visit the venue's website. Top image: Andy Mitchell via Wikicommons.
When Sydney-based streetwear label The People Vs. started out in 2013, they set up a small boutique space in Seminyak. Four years later, and a year after opening their first Australian flagship shop in Bondi Beach, they're back to launch their own Bali outlet. It's both a return to their roots and a big leap forward for the brand, with their first bricks-and-mortar venture overseas dubbed their "premiere global concept store". The People Vs. Seminyak continues their recent run of success, with the label currently stocked at more than 30 retailers in Australia, New York and Japan. Indeed, if you've wondered where their vintage-esque grunge style was born, wonder no longer: it was here. Time spent scouring Seminyak flea markets, and experimenting with techniques — washing, dying and printing included — helped them to develop the nostalgic blend of surf, punk, rock and streetwear they're known for today. While they can't be accused of following a trend, The People Vs. is the latest Sydney joint to turn Bali into their second home of late. Restaurateur Maurice Terzini unveiled the Italian Riveria-style Da Maria last year, while restaurant and bar Mrs Sippy just recently made the jump. Find The People Vs. Seminyak at Jl. Laksmana Basangkasa, No. 78 Oberio. Seminyak. Head to their website for more information.
Short of physically volunteering your time, there aren't many ways you can help those in need over lunch. But Sydney-based social enterprise food company Two Good is looking to change that, with their buy-one, give-one lunch delivery model. Having just expanded from Sydney to Melbourne this week, Two Good are delivering delicious salads through Deliveroo — and for every one sold, a meal is donated to domestic violence shelters in both cities. They're not just any old salads either. The Two Good guys — Rob Caslick and Cathal Flaherty — have worked with the most loveable man in the international food world Yotam Ottolenghi and renowned Melbourne chef Andrew McConnell to create two options that far surpass any soggy salad you were planning on making in your office's kitchenette this afternoon. Ottolenghi's creation is a poached chicken salad with chargrilled zucchini, sorrel, capers and pine nuts, while McConnell looks after the vego option with a cracked wheat and freekeh salad with preserved lemon and berries. The salads — available to order for lunch through Deliveroo — are $14 and $13 respectively, which is a pretty standard price for a salad in this town. And, considering for each salad you order the legends at Two Good will donate a meal to a domestic violence shelter in your city, it's an incredibly low cost way to food yourself and help someone who needs it. Meals are donated to ten shelters around NSW and to The Safe Futures and St Mary's House of Welcome in Victoria. What's more, Two Good also employ women from the shelters they work with in NSW, and are looking to do the same in Victoria in the next three months. If you want to buy a salad, you can place an order through Deliveroo from 11.15am in Melbourne and Sydney. For more information on Two Good, go to twogood.com.au.
Travelling further than your own city hasn't been all that easy over the past 18 months, all thanks to the pandemic and the restrictions and border closures that've come with it. But, back at the end of June, Virgin Australia announced that it was going to give Aussies some extra incentive not just to travel, but to get vaccinated against COVID-19 so that borders can reopen, restrictions can ease and jetting off on holiday can become a reality again — and now the airline is coming through. The carrier has just launched a new giveaway called VA-X & Win, which is handing out free flights, a heap of frequent flyer points, lounge memberships and Virgin Australia PJs to Aussies who've had the jab. That's the catch, obviously. To enter, you'll need to roll up your sleeve first. You'll also need to be a member of the airline's free-to-join Velocity frequent flyer program. Here's how it works: once you've had both doses of the COVID-19 vaccination, you'll head to the airline's website, fill out the form with all of your details and wait to find out if you've won. You've got until 11.59pm on December 31, 2021 to enter, and you'll need to tick a box confirming you've been vaxxed, and also have proof of your jabs to show if asked. The full prize pool includes 25 return business class flights, 50 return economy flights, 30 Virgin Australia lounge memberships and 85 sets of pyjamas, with 50 people scoring 10,000 Velocity points and ten folks nabbing 100,000 points. Also, one person will become a Velocity Points millionaire, with the lucky winner then able to put those points to plenty of use. "We are offering an opportunity for every fully vaccinated Australian aged 18 and over to enter the Virgin Australia VA-X & Win competition, for simply rolling up their sleeve, getting vaccinated and protecting their community and the future of our country," said Virgin Australia Group CEO and Managing Director Jayne Hrdlicka. "We know how important it is to reach the vaccination thresholds as soon as possible, especially for those people living in New South Wales and Victoria, and we're proud to play our part in adding to the benefits of getting vaccinated." Qantas has also launched a similar giveaway, if you'd like to double your chance to win across both airlines. And, if you're now looking for vaccination clinics, you can check out a handy online map that collates vaccination hub, clinic and GP locations. It covers all Australian states and territories, including New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. To enter the Virgin Australia 'VA-X & Win' competition, head to the airline's website before December 31, 2021.
From the filmmakers behind Little Miss Sunshine comes an unconventional fantasy romance starring Paul Dano (There Will Be Blood) and real-life girlfriend, up-and-coming Zoe Kazan. Ruby Sparks, in cinemas from September 20, tells the story of Calvin (Dano) - a young novelist, who, despite achieving success with in his career, is now struggling with both his writing and his love life. After creating an inspiring fictional character called Ruby things start to look up, then Calvin meets a living, breathing Ruby (Kazan), sat innocently on his couch. Concrete Playground has 20 double passes to giveaway to see Ruby Sparks. For a chance to win, make sure you're subscribed to Concrete Playground then email your name and postal address to hello@concreteplayground.com.au
For the next three months, the Sydney Opera House will not be home to any operas, Vivid Live performances, thought-provoking talks or podcast recordings, with all public performances suspended until at least June 17. But you will be able to relive many of the highlights from its 47-year history when the Sydney icon launches its digital program tomorrow, Wednesday, April 1. The latest cultural institution — around Australia and the world — to launch an online platform, the Opera House has today unveiled 'From our House to yours', which will see full-length performances, talks, long-form articles, podcasts and behind-the-scenes content brought to your screens. As well as a heap of footage that's never been seen by the public before. Kicking things off is award-winning Aussie musician Missy Higgins with a recording from her 2019 forecourt concert at 6pm (AEDT) on Wednesday, April 1. You'll also catch a conversation from this year's All About Women with writer Chanel Miller about her new memoir Know My Name on Thursday, April 2 at 6pm (AEDT); footage of last year's Dance Rites — Australia's annual First Nations dance competition — on Friday, April 3 at 6pm (AEDT); Sydney Symphony Orchestra performing Beethoven's sublime Symphony No. 9 on Saturday, April 4 at 6pm (AEDT); and a recording of The Writers Room with Celia Pacqoula (Rosehaven), Josh Thomas (Please Like Me), Luke McGregor (Rosehaven) and Dan Harmon (Rick and Morty, Community) at 6pm (AEST) on Sunday, April 5, where the writers discuss characters, plots and dealing with deadlines. [caption id="attachment_752071" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dance Rites by Anna Kucera[/caption] You'll also be able to access a bunch of free content on demand, plus new videos, recordings and articles will be released daily every Wednesday through Sunday, with each week's schedule announced on the Tuesday. The launch comes after the Opera House's exclusive broadcast event for Piano Day 2020 last Saturday, which featured performances by Andrea Lam, Margaret Leng Tan and Simon Tedeschi; unreleased recordings of Jon Hopkins and Joep Beving; and an interview with composer Nils Frahm. If you want a sneak peek into what you can expect from the new digital initiative, check out the broadcast here. From our House to yours launches at 6pm on Wednesday, April 1 on the Sydney Opera House website and will run until at least mid-June. Each week's schedule will be announced on Tuesday.
Long before Australia was plunged into a cost-of-living crisis, German-born supermarket chain Aldi was beloved by budget-conscious shoppers for its discounted groceries. Fans of cheap snow gear love the brand for cheap winter threads, too — and everyone knows someone who has nabbed a bargain bed, TV, barbecue, air fryer, outdoor setting or kettle from the retailer. Next on Aldi's list: $3.25 beers. No, there's no figure missing from that number. Yes, that's a wallet-friendly price for a frothy. If you're in Sydney on Wednesday, December 13, you can also enjoy the cheapest pub visit that you're ever likely to have while still buying a drink. To celebrate its new summery beers, which are called ALD IPA and are brewed by BrewDog at its Brisbane base, Aldi is setting up a one-night-only pop-up pub. Meet Special Brews by Aldi, with beverages costing $3.25 there as well, and the beers on offer from 3–7pm at Hotel Sweeney's on Clarence Street. In the past, Aldi has showcased its low prices by hosting a pop-up bar where gin, wine and cheese only cost $4.41, also in Sydney; serving up six gyoza for $1.44 at a pop-up dumpling truck, again in the Harbour City; and slinging 37-cent barista-made coffee in Melbourne. So, not only are the bargain brews on-brand, but so is setting up a site to launch and celebrate them. Head along to Special Brews and you'll get a sneak peek at ALD IPA, because it'll be available at the pop-up before it hits supermarkets on Wednesday, December 20. It's a first-come-first-served setup with no bookings, which means that arriving early is recommended. There'll also be a three-drink limit per person, so you won't even spend $10 on brews. Tucking into some chips while you drink will up your budget, however, with Special Brews featuring Aldi's Blackstone crisps in smoky chorizo (aka smoked paprika, pork, garlic and salt) and truffle and olive oil flavours for $3.49 a pack. Also on offer on the night: limited-edition BrewDog stubby holders and socks. "Produced in our state-of-the-art brewery in sunny Brisbane, our new ALD IPA is packed with all the hops and flavours you dream of in a quintessential summertime beer. It may boast a price tag fitting for ALDI, but it is the same high quality that BrewDog fans are so used to enjoying across our entire range, so we hope that Aussies enjoy picking up a case of ALD IPA in their weekly shop and cracking open a cold one this summer," said BrewDog Australia CEO Ed Bott. Described as "a fresh, fruity ale with tasting notes of citrus, stone fruits and a hint of toast", made with four different hops and coming in at four-percent ABV, ALD IPA will cost $13 for a four-pack — so, still $3.25 each — at Aldi. The one caveat: you can only get it at Aldis in states where supermarkets can sell booze, so in New South Wales, Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory and Western Australia. Special Brews by Aldi will pop up at Hotel Sweeney's, 236 Clarence Street, Sydney from 3–7pm on Wednesday, December 13. In states where supermarkets can sell alcohol, you'll also be able to pick up a four-pack of ALD IPA in Aldi stores from Wednesday, December 20 until sold out.
There's no such thing as a quiet night in Paddington. Ever the hub of Sydney's inner eastern nightlife, Paddo has some of the best venues around for a day (or night) out on the town. Just see our recommendations to find out why. To keep that spirit high and give you even more reason to hit up the local hotspots, the venues that makeup PADDO(Collective) are throwing a series of specials and live music events from Wednesday, May 1, to Sunday, May 5. To give you an idea of what to expect — the sun-soaked Latin American restaurant and bar Tequila Mockingbird is offering a Sunday fiesta with $12 porchetta tacos and $12 margaritas from 12–3pm and a mariachi band from 1–4pm. Local art gallery Saint Cloche and Mediterranean diner Omeio are teaming up for a Sunset Session from 5.30–7.30pm on Thursday, May 2, with boxes of deli morsels available alongside seating to enjoy BYO bevvies and live music from DJ Jnr Stax and guests. Simultaneously, at the beloved local bottle-and-bites shop P&V Merchants is Indie Tunes & Indie Wines, with live music hosted in the cosy rear courtyard of the shop. Peruse the shelves for a bottle from indie wineries, then enjoy the tunes from 6–8pm. Local pub-feed and rotisserie chicken hotspot The Paddington is hosting a celebration of Indian food and culture on Wednesday, May 1. From 6–9pm enjoy an Indian banquet menu and a special offering of Indian live music to enjoy with your food. This is just a sample of the full program, with more events taking place across Paddington between Wednesday, May 1 and Sunday, May 6. For more details, visit the PADDO(Collective) website. PADDO(collective) Live Music Week is proudly supported by the NSW Government and Woollahra Municipal Council.
If bustin' makes you feel good — ghostbustin', that is — then start singing the appropriate theme tune: the movie franchise about vanquishing spirits is returning again. Notching up the supernatural comedy series' fifth film, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire has locked in a date with cinemas in March 2024, and now has a trailer teasing what's to come. Perhaps the most important details: Paul Rudd, Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and Ernie Hudson are all back. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is the sequel to 2021's Ghostbusters: Afterlife, which means that not only is Rudd (Only Murders in the Building) returning as Gary Grooberson, but that Carrie Coon (The Gilded Age), McKenna Grace (Crater) and Finn Wolfhard (Stranger Things) are back as well. The latter trio play Callie, Phoebe and Trevor Spengler — yes, the daughter and grandchildren of the late Harold Ramis' Egon Spengler — who became initiated in the family business when they inherited his old farmhouse. As the just-dropped first sneak peek at Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire shows, this film is reversing the last flick's swap — so, rather than taking place in Oklahoma, it's back in New York. There, summer is proceeding as normal until an unseasonable chill kicks in. The reason for the plummeting temperatures isn't any old blast of cooler weather, either, which is where the Ghostbusters come in. Also in Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire's cast: Kumail Nanjiani (Welcome to Chippendales), Patton Oswalt (What We Do in the Shadows), Celeste O'Connor (A Good Person) and Logan Kim (The Walking Dead: Dead City), alongside OGs Murray (Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania), Aykroyd (Zombie Town) and Hudson (Quantum Leap), as well as Annie Potts (Young Sheldon). The new film will arrive four decades after the first Ghostbusters initially hit screens, with Gil Kenan (A Boy Called Christmas) directing. Not only did 1989's Ghostbusters II follow before Ghostbusters: Afterlife, but also 2016's women-led, excellent and wrongly maligned Paul Feig-helmed Ghostbusters. After directing Ghostbusters: Afterlife, Jason Reitman (Tully, The Front Runner) — who is the son of Ivan Reitman, who helmed the first two movies — co-writes the script this time around. Check out the trailer for Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire below: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire will open in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, March 28, 2024.
In July, four years after Beijing authorities confiscated his passport and banned him from leaving China, Ai Weiwei got back his right to travel. And this week he'll be using it, as he travels to Melbourne to speak at the opening of the National Gallery of Victoria's Andy Warhol | Ai Weiwei exhibition. Yes, that’s right — Ai Weiwei will be appearing in the flesh. In Australia. You'll find him at the NGV on Monday, December 7 at 6.30pm, where he'll be having a mighty chat with the ABC's Virginia Trioli. Needless to say, Andy Warhol | Ai Weiwei is the NGV's summer blockbuster. The gallery developed the exhibition in collaboration with the Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh and, of course, Ai Weiwei himself. The show aims to explore the concepts that inspired both artists. Gear up for more than 300 works, including never-before-seen pieces by Warhol, brand new commissions from Ai Weiwei and installations that’ll devour you. Pretty much every medium you can think of comes into play – from painting and sculpture to film and photography to music and social media. Tickets for Ai Weiwei's talk will go on sale to the public at 10am on Wednesday, December 2. And we reckon they'll sell out at Tay Swift speed — so you're going to have to be quick on the uptake. If you're a lucky, lucky member of the NGV, you can get in early in their members pre-sale, from 10am the day before. Ai Weiwei in Conversation at The National Gallery of Victoria will take place on Monday, December 7 at 6.30pm at NGV International. You can buy tickets here.
Remember Tiger King mania? Of course you do. When Netflix's true-crime docoseries about Joe Exotic dropped in March 2020, it seemed as if everyone on the planet tuned in, dropped their jaws and couldn't stop talking about the chaotic real-life story. The fact that it released just as worldwide lockdowns hit helped boost its success, obviously. In the aftermath, other networks and platforms in the US rushed to get in on the action. That's when dramatised versions of the former Oklahoma private zookeeper's tale started being greenlit all over the place. Two big new series were swiftly slated: one starring Saturday Night Live, Ghostbusters and Yesterday's Kate McKinnon as Carole Baskin — a glorious piece of casting if ever there was one — and a completely separate show with none other than Nicolas Cage playing Exotic. Neither series has surfaced yet, thanks to the pandemic. But, in sad news for Cage fans (aka everyone), the second show has just been scrapped. Variety and The Hollywood Reporter have reported that the Amazon has ditched its series — which means no blonde mullet for Cage. There's a chance the folks behind it might shop it around to other streamers and networks; although, whether anyone else picks it up, and if Cage will still remain onboard to play the tiger aficionado, one-time US presidential candidate and current incarcerated felon, is all clearly yet to be seen. This take on Exotic's tale was expected to chart his origin story, chronicling how he took on that moniker, became a larger-than-life version of himself and found himself on his present path. While Exotic has received plenty of media attention in his time, particularly recently, the Amazon series was due to take its cues from Leif Reigstad's 2019 Texas Monthly article 'Joe Exotic: A Dark Journey Into the World of a Man Gone Wild'. For now, anyone keen on more Tiger King mayhem will need to wait until the McKinnon-starring series comes to fruition. It's actually set to shoot in Brisbane this year. And, Cage fans will just have to console themselves by looking forward to him playing himself, and playing a truffle hunter as well. If you need a reminder as to why Joe Exotic's story keeps on keeping on, check out the Tiger King trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acTdxsoa428 The Nicolas Cage-starring Joe Exotic series has just been scrapped by Amazon. Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness is available to stream on Netflix, though. Via Variety / The Hollywood Reporter. Top image: Netflix.
Here's one more reason to love Darlinghurst's haven of hip hop, cheese and wine Big Poppa's: it's putting together a big night of carbs and vino in the form of a five-course pasta degustation. That's almost half a dozen different handmade pasta dishes to enjoy while you sip wine from northern Italy and bop your head to hip hop beats. You'll enjoy blue swimmer crab fusilli paired with chilli and thai basil, poached quail tortellini, and beef cheek ragu served with a fresh pappardelle pasta, all created by Big Poppa's Executive Chef Liam Driscoll. And there'll be a couple of veggie dishes in the mix, too, including the triangoli stuffed with butternut pumpkin and tortiglioni with roasted ox-heart tomatoes, star anise and stracciatella. The degustation is $75 for five courses and you can add on matched wines for $50 (total $125). If you choose the latter, each dish will be paired with a glass of vino from Marion and Corte Lavel — two labels run by the same family from the Veneto region in the north of Italy. You'll start with a floral pinot bianco and work your way through to a velvety and spicy 2013 red. [caption id="attachment_758610" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kitti Gould[/caption] Big Poppa's pasta degustation will take place from 6.30–9.30pm.
The carols tell us to deck the halls with boughs of holly, and we do. We adorn trees and place wreaths on doors as well. But decking out your tastebuds with a feast of delicious goodies is just as much a part of the festive season as all of those decorations, plus the presents we give and receive. Is it really Christmas if you haven't treated yo'self and your loved ones to all of the baked goods? This year, your Yuletide joy definitely won't be the same if you're a Bennett St Dairy fan and you miss out on its limited-edition Christmas cookie dough. After getting everyone baking during lockdowns, and earning a hefty following in the process, the Sydney-based favourite has dropped a batch that's all about red velvet and white chocolate. 'Tis the season to head to your nearest Woolworths, then get cooking. This new flavour works cocoa and vanilla into Bennett St Dairy's signature dough, and then adds big chunks of white chocolate. Wondering what to pair it with, once those cookies are baked? Forget sticking to milk — vanilla ice cream is the recommendation. The Bondi cookie company actually soft-launched the festive dough a few weeks back, and received a huge reaction. "Almost immediately our socials were flooded with questions (and even a couple of very funny threats) demanding we reveal which Woolies stores would be getting delivery of our 'red velvet and white choc' dough next," said Bennett St Dairy cofounder James Meek. Now, the red, white and green rolls of dough have hit 900-plus Woolies around the country, marking Bennett St Dairy's first holiday-themed product since Valentine's Day this year. If you enjoyed its raspberry bullets and white chocolate flavour back then — a collaboration with Darrell Lea — you'll be ready for this new special. There is only a small supply, however, with around ten tonnes of dough made — which equates to around 20,000 rolls. So, it really is a first in, best dressed situation. A pack retails for $13 for 500 grams. Find Bennett St Dairy's red velvet and white chocolate cookie dough at Woolworths stores around the country for a limited time.
What is it about treehouses that fire up even the most uninspired of imaginations? The promise of adventure, escape or retreat? Nobody ever really grows out of wanting a treehouse. The team at American based O2 Sustainabilty certainly haven't. They have dedicated their lives to designing and building some of the world's most innovative, beautiful and liveable treehouses — turning childhood dreams into adult spaces for work, rest and play. Based on geodesic design principles, these treehouses are both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound, not to mention environmentally sensitive. Not only does the design of each treehouse take into account the growth and health of the 'host' tree, but they also insist on using only sustainable materials. And 5 percent of O2's profits from commercial builds are donated to local community and environmental groups. As part of their dedication to sustainable design, the 02 team have also built a series of luxury treehouse in eco-minded resorts around the world. So even if having your treehouse is out of the realm of possibility at the moment, you may want to think staying in one on your next holiday.
While there's no shortage of markets running in Sydney this month, one to add to your list is the South Eveleigh Openair Artist Markets — open on Thursday, December 1 and Friday, December 2, from midday-8pm each day. While we would never go all Grinch on you and suggest you skip Sydney's Christmas-themed bazaars, feel free to shake things up with this end-of-year affair where the stalls aren't strictly focused on all things Santa. Instead, you'll find a plethora of pop-ups offering unique present ideas. Specifically, there's contemporary art by the likes of Catherine McGuiness, Lional Bawden and Kieran Butler which ranges from acrylic drawings, printed textiles and posters. Plus, you'll enjoy live music by DJ Kombi & Co and snacks from the eateries on Locomotive Street including Eat Fuh, Fishbowl, Lucky Kwong and Pepper Seeds Boutique Thai Bites. Thirsty Thursday happy hour by Whitton will run from 4-6pm on December 1, while BrewDog South Eveleigh will celebrate the opening of its new location within the iconic and historic Locomotive Workshop by giving the first 200 customers through the door the chance to win free beer for a year. Add in the fact that the event is a showcase by Studio A — a social enterprise that tackles the barriers faced by artists with intellectual disabilities — and we don't think you'll mind the missing mistletoe decor much at all. For more information on the full program visit South Eveleigh Open Air Artist Market's website.
There is absolutely no denying that Lorde is the artist of the moment. And the hype surrounding today’s video release for her latest single, 'Team', is no different, with all the clicks causing Vevo to crash minutes after the clip was posted. 'Team', directed by LA director Young Replicant (The xx, M83), sees Lorde mostly sitting down — limiting her usually impressive dance moves. But she knows where she's going with it. "This video was borne from a dream I had a few months ago about teenagers in their own world, a world with hierarchies and initiations, where the boy who was second in command had acne on his face, and so did the girl who was queen," she said on her Facebook page. "I dreamt about this world being so different to anything anyone had ever seen, a dark world full of tropical plants and ruins and sweat. And of this world, I dreamt about tests that didn't need to be passed in order to be allowed in: sometimes the person who loses is stronger." The vid — plus several of Lorde's recent live performances, including a killer ARIA appearance in Sydney over the weekend — have come to prove that as she continues to gain ridiculous popularity, her style becomes more and more quirky. And we dig it — the 17-year-old, continuing to demonstrate the power of youth in her ironic music videos. 'Team' is the third single to be released from Pure Heroine. Lorde will return to Australia in February to perform at Laneway Festival.
Say adios to a mild October; the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority are adding a little spice to the calendar with 2013's Fiesta. A free celebration of Latin American music, dance, food and culture, the festival is expecting more than 200,000 punters from Saturday, October 12, till Saturday, October 26. Tumbalong Park will host Chile’s Quique Neira, Buenos Aires' Kevin Johansen and Brazil’s Sistema Criolina, while a Carnivale-style parade will cha-cha-cha their way along Darling Harbour on October 12 for one heck of an opening night that includes giant puppets, samba dancers, capoeira performers and batucada drummers. Tumbalong Park, Harbourside Ampitheatre, Cockle Bay and the Village Green will see food stalls, craft stalls and learn-to-salsa classes also join the line-up.
Saturday morning is rapidly becoming the new Friday night thanks to bottomless brunches, with mimosas and prosecco often the tipple of choice. If, however, you're more of a hophead than a bubbles enthusiast, Misfits in Redfern has just the thing for you — Brews with the Crew. The Brews with the Crew series involves three-hour bottomless boozy lunches featuring a different brewery each month. So, expect to see Aussie brewers serving up sumptuous schooners paired with a feast whipped up in the Misfits kitchen. It's $70 a pop and includes three hours of craft beer and a hearty share-style banquet to help line the stomach — think brisket sliders, duck pancakes, onion rings and soy- and sesame-glazed chicken wings. It kicks off from noon on the second Saturday of the month. First up is all-vegan brewery Yulli's Brews on March 13. Then, WA alehouse Beerfarm is taking over on April 10, before much-loved Marrickville brewery Grifter serves up cold ones on May 8. While Misfits has a laidback vibe, bookings are essential to secure a spot at one of these coveted sessions. So, go ahead and book via the website. Images: Steven Woodburn
You may have thought bringing the chefs behind the World's 50 Best Restaurants to Melbourne next year was enough. But Wine Australia, Tourism Australia and The World's 50 Best have decided to take it one step further and bring the world's top sommeliers along with them. If you had access to that calibre of people — wouldn't you? Last month, we waxed lyrical on the World's 50 Best Restaurants awards and the week of foodie fun that surrounds it — industry events, workshops and eats that will go down between April 1-17. The news that the greatest wine minds in the world are tagging along for the celebration is the cherry on top of an already delicious sundae. The pool of sommeliers are from restaurants already in the top 50 and the Best Sommelier in the World competition. They're the biggest wine nerds from around the world, and they'll be treated to trips to our most important wine regions, as well as specially tailored tastings that show off the best that Australia has to offer. The point is to bring together the most influential people in the wine game from around the globe and really show off what's available in our Great Southern Land. So while we won't be able to attend any of these exclusive industry events, they will bring light to the Australian wine industry and hopefully encourage more chefs to explore what's available food-wise in Australia. It ties in perfectly with the restaurant awards and Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, which is celebrating its 25th birthday this year. These sommeliers will sample the best wines our shores produce in conjunction with the best food in the world, which hopefully, according to Wine Australia CEO Andreas Clark, will help them to "walk away with a refreshed perspective and love of Australian wine". The wine list throughout the events will be curated by some of Australia's sharpest wine minds, with the panel being drawn from a pool of wine writers, sommeliers, winemakers and consultants with the aim of showcasing the quality and diversity of Australian wines. Panelists include Franck Moreau of Merivale, Amanda Yallop from Quay and the editor of Gourmet Traveller Wine, Judy Sarris. As the world becomes more and more connected, the unique gastronomies and wine cultures from all around the world are becoming more apparent, and more available, on a global scale never seen before. This event and others like it are the embodiment of a spreading and sharing of these cultures and their individual bold flavours. William Drew, Group Editor of the World's 50 Best Restaurants, said: "Wine is a key aspect of the overall gastronomic experience and Australia boasts some of the finest wine producers in the world, so this collaboration makes perfect sense." And while we blush with a feigned modesty, we truly can't help but agree.
It's a dilemma as old as walls themselves. Do you use the space to hang something stunning? Or put in shelves to hold your books and gewgaws? Finally there is a solution that allows for both form and function. Riveli art shelves are a brilliant idea, formed of modular shelf units that can fold up against the wall, revealing the artwork on the underside. Even better, you can customise it with your own works and change them with your moods as you can slide your own images in and out, or attach them with magnets. And if you're the sort of person who always favours function over form, you can insert other materials, like mirrors or white boards to create a supremely functional set of shelves... or just use them to play an elaborate game of noughts and crosses. [via Core77]
Los Angeles duo Electric Guest are heading to Australia for Splendour in the Grass, fresh from touring around the world. The band appeared in MTV's Artists to Watch in 2012 list and have recently released music videos for popular tracks 'American Daydream' and 'This Head I Hold'. Their album, Mondo, which was produced by Danger Mouse, has been dubbed "a seamless fusion of Motown, '70s daytime radio funk lite, indie rock and '60s French pop". In addition to playing at Splendour, Electric Guest will play sideshows in Sydney on July 31 at Oxford Art Factory and in Melbourne on August 1 at the Northcote Social Club, and Concrete Playground has some tickets to give away. To go in the running to win a double pass to see Electric Guest at Sydney's Oxford Art Factory, just subscribe to Concrete Playground (if you haven't already) then email your name and postal address to us at hello@concreteplayground.com.au
An expanding arts and cultural phenomenon in the heart of Austin, Texas, each year South by Southwest hosts thousands of musicians, showcases the latest innovations in technology and introduces some of the year's most intriguing movies to the world. Amongst the most buzzed about films of SXSW 2014 was an Australian production named The Infinite Man, a low-budget, sci-fi rom-com about a man who attempts to give his girlfriend the perfect romantic weekend, only to accidentally trap her in a never-ending time loop. In the wake of its world premiere in Austin, with a release date set for the middle of the year, we spoke with producers Kate Croser and Sandy Cameron about the process of getting the movie made, the story's biggest influences, as well as the rapturous reception that saw the film listed by Time, Indiewire and The Hollywood Reporter as one of the most exciting movies of the festival. WORKING ON A BUDGET Financed through Film Lab, an initiative of the South Australian Film Corporation that offers funding to Australian scripts that can be produced on a limited budget, The Infinite Man was written and directed by first-time feature filmmaker Hugh Sullivan, who Cameron first met at university. "When Film Lab was announced, it forced us to start thinking," Cameron recalls. "We came up with a bunch of ideas … and it quickly emerged that that was the one that would work." Low-budget filmmaking can be tricky, but the producers had high praise for their writer-director's work ethic. "I think he really enjoyed it, but at the same time it was very challenging," says Croser. "We promised the crew we wouldn't work any overtime, because we couldn't afford to. So as soon as we finished for the day, whatever was left over, Hugh and the director of photography would just go out and [film] themselves … they were working much longer hours than anyone else." INSPIRING SCI-FI Naturally, The Infinite Man is far from the first time that romance and science fiction has been mashed together. "A touchstone for us was always Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind," asserts Croser. "It's not time travel, but it's got a similar sensibility and tone, and it's also a love story like ours … for us, the time travel is secondary to the exploration of the relationship and the characters." Cameron, meanwhile, makes a comparison that was also made by several critics, to Shane Curruth's cheaply made, highly convoluted time travel drama Primer. "Something that can be done on that low budget, that can get across that complexity of ideas, that was an inspiration, to a degree," says Cameron. "People were giving feedback in Austin saying 'this is like the funny Primer.'" HEADING SOUTH BY SOUTH WEST For the producers, getting into SXSW was always the goal. "A big part of our plans was to get a big festival to launch the film, because being such a small film, you need to get that exposure somehow," says Croser. "The SXSW audience is exactly the audience for the film." "The most exciting experience for us was the world premiere", she continues. "We got there and saw the name of the film up in lights, which was really exciting, and then we saw a line around the block. We sat down in the cinema with the audience and from the moment the film started, people were laughing, and the room felt so warm, and the response really felt genuine … that was just the best feeling."
There are a lot of cliches in breaking up. It's not you it's me. I can't be with anyone right now. You're not in love with me; you're in love with the idea of me. Pretty much all of those cliches, it seems, had their first outing in an 1879 play, A Doll's House by Henrik Ibsen, when Nora Helmer walked out on her husband, introducing the European public to the idea that relationships can and sometimes should end. It didn't go down too well, with many people scandalised and the ending softened for a future production. But it's an idea that's lasted and a play that's never lost its resonance. Much-loved independent company Sport for Jove are breaking with their usual Shakespeare programming to present this traditional but ever sparkling, beautifully honed production. A Doll's House is all about lead Nora (Matilda Ridgway), devoted and happy wife of Torvald (Douglas Hansell). She believes her bank manager husband is a more heroic man than he is, though he's openly a self-involved, controlling sexist around her. For his part, he thinks she's a helpless, pretty little bird, though it's something she layers on for his benefit. Little does Torvald know that Nora once engineered a scheme that would save his life but hurt his pride — and you know that revelation is not going to go down well, despite her faith in a "miracle". A Doll's House stuns with its early feminist insights into power and relationships, but its ultimate idea that to flourish in a couple, we first need to know ourselves as individuals is one that resonates for all genders. The emotional minefield of bad relationships is palpable in this crystalline production, adapted and directed by Adam Cook. A lot of this works so well because Ridgway is sensational in the part. As Nora, she has to manage so many different modes of being in front of so many different characters, and each evolving as her predicament progresses. From ditsy to defiant, she gracefully nails each stop on Nora's journey, while adding playful charm that actually makes us like her. If Ridgway's not in demand for a dozen main stage roles after this, it's a scandal. While performances from the whole cast (including Anthony Gooley as the slippery Krogstad and Barry French as dear family friend Dr Rank) make the script sing, it's a shame that the set seems to try for full 19th-century bourgeois Norway on a budget. With unrestored vintage furniture, insurance-firm grey carpet, startlingly ordinary doors, and brown, brown everywhere, the look is so drab and depressing, it's distracting. Most baffling of all, when the set does break from realism — with semitransparent back walls bathed in glowing blue light — it's only to create another eyesore. Even for a traditional staging, it's unfortunate that more creative solutions could not have been found for a room furnished "comfortably and tastefully". Designer Hugh O'Connor has done a wonderful job with the period costumes, however, which set the tone for the drama nicely. Some stories never get old. Others only get more interesting when we are allowed the joy of viewing of them with modern eyes. A Doll's House is such a story. With a 'sequel' coming up from the crafty minds at Belvoir, it's worth catching up on this classic now.
The Crown fans, it's time to say goodbye to the 20th century. You'll also be farewelling the show's leaps back several decades, too. When season six of Netflix's royal drama arrives later in 2023, the hit series will embrace the 21st century, including the early days of Prince William and Kate Middleton's relationship. Netflix has confirmed that The Crown will return this year for another dose of regal intrigue, although no exact release date has been announced. Based on past patterns, it's safe to expect it to arrive in November. For now, the streaming service has unveiled its first sneak peek at the next batch of episodes, however — images, not a trailer — which does indeed focus on the man currently second in line to the throne after Queen Elizabeth II's passing in 2022. Screen debutant Ed McVey takes on the role of Prince William, while newcomer Meg Bellamy will slip into Middleton's shoes. The Crown's sixth season will follow the IRL pair's first meeting at university in St Andrew's, starting the story that's played out in plenty of headlines and a ridiculous amount of worldwide media coverage since 2001. While everything that's popped up in the show draws its details from history — dramatised history, of course, but still history — this next instalment is bound to feel even more familiar. Getting closer to our current time will do that. When the series began, it kicked off with Queen Elizabeth II's life from her marriage to Prince Philip back in 1947. The first season made its way to the mid-50s, the second season leapt into the 60s, and season three spanned all the way up to the late 70s. In season four, the royal family hit the 80s, while season five covered the 90s. Just like in season five, Downton Abbey, Maleficent and Paddington star Imelda Staunton dons the titular headwear, while Game of Thrones and Tales from the Loop's Jonathan Pryce wears Prince Philip's shoes — and Princess Margaret is played by Staunton's Maleficent co-star and Phantom Thread Oscar-nominee Lesley Manville. Also, Australian Tenet, The Burnt Orange Heresy and Widows star Elizabeth Debicki returns as Princess Diana, with The Wire and The Pursuit of Love's Dominic West as Prince Charles. News around the show's fifth and sixth seasons has changed a few times over the past few years. At the beginning of 2020, Netflix announced that it would end the royal drama after its fifth season. Then, the streaming platform had a change of heart, revealing it would continue the series for a sixth season after all. There's no trailer yet for The Crown season six, but you can revisit season five's trailer below: The Crown's sixth season will hit Netflix sometime before 2023 is out — we'll update you with an exact release date when one is announced. Images: Keith Bernstein / Netflix
Cold and dark and gloomy, winters in Hobart aren't exactly the most attractive proposition. Or at least they weren't until the birth of Dark Mofo. Presented by the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), for the past few years this immersive arts festival has disturbed and dazzled locals and mainlanders alike with a mix of music, performances, installations, light and sound works, and art that simply defies categorisation. And from the looks of things, 2017 will be no exception. Revealed today at the stroke of midnight (of course), the latest Dark Mofo lineup is an expectedly weird and wondrous beast, featuring all manner of artists from around Tasmania, Australia and the world. Creative director Leigh Carmichael has called the program their "most ambitious yet", while pointing to a number of works — including iy_project 136.1 Hz, a large-scale laser work by the UK's Chris Levine, and Siren Song, a city-wide audio piece involving a range of female artists — as highlights sure to keep "the audience, the organisers, and some of the authorities enthralled." [caption id="attachment_616924" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Image courtesy of the artist and Dark Mofo.[/caption] Carmichael also draws attention to 150.Action, from Austrian artist Hermann Nitsch. The dark, disturbing performance piece involves an orchestra and around 500 litres of blood, and is sure to be one of the standouts of the final weekend. "This work will be extremely confronting and challenging, but we would encourage our audience to embrace the opportunity to witness the intensity of the ritual, in this one-off exclusive performance, unlikely to ever happen in Australia again," said Carmichael. Then there's Crossing, a 200-kilometre pilgrimage down the Midlands Highway, which will take participants on a pilgrimage to six different churches over six consecutive nights. They'll experience a mix of light, sound and video art along with organ and theremin performances from Melbourne's Miles Brown. [caption id="attachment_616925" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Image: Antony Crook. Courtesy of the artist and Dark Mofo.[/caption] Of course it should go without saying that this is just the tip of the iceberg. This year's enormous music lineup features the likes of Scottish art-rock legends Mogwai, indigenous hip-hop act A.B. Original, and Norwegian black metal pioneers Ulver in concert with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. There'll also be an industrial-scale transcendental rave at Hobart City Hall presented by the Red Bull Music Academy. MONA, meanwhile, will use Dark Mofo as a platform to unveil its latest exhibition, The Museum of Everything, described by its curators as "an astonishing assortment of artworks from the world's first and only wandering institution for the untrained, unintentional, undiscovered and unclassifiable artists of the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries." The exhibition will have its grand opening on the first Saturday of the festival, and will be on display at MONA until early April 2018. Then there are the Dark Mofo staples. The annual Winter Feast will once again feed all comers, while Dark Mofo Films will feature a selection of big screen curios new and old. And who'd want to miss the annual Nude Solstice Swim, a communal dip in the ocean at sunrise the day after the longest night of the year? Just remember, winter in Hobart can be pretty bloody cold. Dark Mofo runs from June 8-21. Tickets go on sale at 10am on Tuesday April 11. For more information visit www.darkmofo.net.au. Top image: MONA/Rémi Chauvin, 2014. Courtesy MONA Museum of Old and New Art, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.
Corey McMahon directs a small cast in this funny yet serious piece about two actors who make friends with a seemingly ordinary bloke called Adam and unwittingly throw his life into chaos. It's a play about human connection, our perception of mental illness as a society and the consequences of using someone's life in the name of 'art'. "Music proves that the central character can be a fully formed person who just happens to have a mental illness," says McMahon. Music by Australian playwright Jane Bodie is having its world premiere as part of Griffin's Independent season. Since winning the 2006 Victorian Premier's Award for A Single Act, Bodie has been busy directing and writing for both television and theatre. She's also squeezed in a gig at NIDA as head of playwriting. You might have caught her play This Year's Ashes back in 2011. Music marks her return to the Griffin stage, in what looks like an interesting year ahead for the Stables. Inspired by her brother's teenage years, the play includes some of his favourite songs from the era, including 'This Charming Man' by The Smiths, 'Transmission' by Joy Division, 'Rock the Casbah' by The Clash, 'Into Temptation' by Crowded House, 'Spellbound' by Siouxsie and the Banshees, 'Fools Gold' by The Stone Roses, 'Song 2' by Blur 'Miserere Mei, Deus' as performed by the Kings College Chapel Choir. Music runs from April 2 to 26 at the SBW Stables Theatre in Kings Cross, and thanks to Griffin Theatre Company, we have three double passes to the first preview to give away. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address.
If you're currently in wanderlust mode, currently waiting for a new travel deal to decide where you're going next, then we have some news for you — running off to Australia's iconic Red Centre has just gotten incredibly affordable, thanks to Qantas' latest flight sale. We think this part of Australia is always a worthy travel destination but it's just that much more appealing with cheap tickets. It's the perfect excuse to explore the extraordinary regions around or between Uluru and Alice Springs — full of quintessentially Aussie landscapes and wildlife. The sale launched this morning and runs until September 26 (or until sold out). During this time, Qantas is slinging tickets to the Red Centre for $199 each way. That's a saving of about $180 each way. But the discounted tickets are only available during specific dates in summer. Nab this deal for flights between November 1 and December 14, 2022, as well as between January 17 and March 30, 2023. This might be a quite specific period, but it's also one of the best times of year to visit. And are you wondering what to do once you get there? Uluru's incredible Field of Light installation is a permanent recommendation — and you can also check out our guide to visiting the Red Centre. Qantas' Red Centre sale runs until 11.59pm AEST on Monday, September 26 (or until sold out). Images: © Tourism NT
In a place like Sydney where the state of our public transport system is constantly being debated and criticised, the Subway Etiquette Posters by NYC artist Jason Shelowitz, or Jay Shells, could provide some relief to regular commuters. Despite NYC being in a different hemisphere, it's good to know that Sydneysiders are not the only commuters who experience run-ins with nail clippers and subway polluters. Jay Shells' Subway Etiquette posters are the product of a survey of 100 commuters and their pet peeves, poking fun at things like eating on public transport, noise pollution, seating priority and physical contact. [via Trendhunter]
Two immersive nights of music are coming to Carriageworks. In honour of their 40th anniversary, Synergy Percussion is presenting Xenakis vs Pateras, a performance of contemporary percussion scores by renowned composers. The first night will feature Pleiades,which was composed in 1978 by Iannis Xenakis. It combines the different sounds of percussion instruments, ranging from drums to vibraphones. A performance of Australian composer Anthony Pateras' original work Beauty Will Be Amnesiac or Will Not Be At All is presented the next night as a counterpoint to Pleiades. Pateras incorporates many of the same percussion instruments but sound engineer Jérôme Noetinger will overlay an electronica sound using six different channels of electronic sound design. The musicians will be set up on different platforms throughout the space in Carriageworks, allowing the audience to move freely around the room. The mobility of the audience creates a unique musical experience for each individual. https://youtube.com/watch?v=xwndhuUEj2w
Restrictions and lockdowns have meant many Melbourne art galleries have spent more time closed than open in 2020. But it seems the culture gods have smiled down and cut us a little slack when it comes to one of the biggest, most anticipated art events to hit the city in three years. With art galleries now able to begin reopening, the NGV Triennial is set to return for its blockbuster second iteration this summer, taking over NGV International from Saturday, December 19. Held every three years, the Triennial made its huge debut in 2017, pulling a hefty 1.23 million visitors and remaining the NGV's most visited exhibition even today. Triennial 2020 looks set to follow suit, as artists from over 30 different countries share a diverse spread of works reflecting on a truly unique time in our world's history. Melbourne art lovers will be overwhelmed by the free large-scale exhibition of international contemporary art, design and architecture, showcasing 86 projects by more than 100 artists, designers and collectives. Expect to see US artist Jeff Koons pay homage to the goddess of love Venus with a towering mirror-finished sculptural piece, while renowned interior designer Faye Toogood reimagines a series of gallery spaces with commissioned furniture, tapestries, lighting, sculpture and scenography. Turkey's Refik Anadol has put together a video work, capturing digitised memories of nature with help from artificial intelligence and machine learning. Meanwhile, a showcase by Yolngu woman Dhambit Mununggurr is replete with her trademark blue hues, including a set of 15 large-scale bark paintings. Lauded Japanese architect Kengo Kuma joins forces with Melbourne-based artist Geoffrey Nees, using timber from trees that died during the Millennium Drought at Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens to construct a pavilion. The structure will then feature as part of a multi-sensory walkway delivering audiences to a new piece by South Korean artist Lee Ufan. If ever there was an exhibition worthy of your post-lockdown gallery-hopping debut, it's this. [caption id="attachment_795361" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of Refik Anadol Quantum Memories 2020 © Refik Anadol Photo: Tom Ross[/caption] Top image: Installation view of Porky Hefer, 'Plastocene – Marine Mutants from a disposable world' 2020, courtesy Southern Guild, Cape Town. Photo by Tom Ross.
Tokyo-based bar Tokyo Confidential touches down in Sydney next month, and what better place to host the pop-up than Japanese-inspired restaurant and listening bar Rekōdo? Drop in to the vinyl bar at Barangaroo House from 6–10pm on Wednesday, May 1, for elevated house party vibes, with DJs spinning a playlist devised by the bar's co-founder Tom Egerton and venue manager Sho Nomura, alongside a curated selection of Tokyo Confidential's signature cocktails. The menu for the night features four cocktails. Options include the Tea Sea with gin, sauvignon blanc, green tea, grappa and salt; the Tokyo Banana Colada with bourbon, banana, coconut and pineapple; and the Glass Slipper with rum, yuzushu, pandan and melon. "It's exciting to be able to bring our brand of hospitality to Sydney and share it with guests, to really try and bring some of Tokyo with us. We aren't the typical Japanese bar people may be expecting," Egerton says. In addition to the cocktail lineup, Rekōdo's Head Chef Michael Dabbs has designed a small menu of bar food to complement the drinks, including dishes like bang bang chicken, yellowfin tuna nori tacos, and soft-shell crab baos. Make a booking at the Tokyo Confidential x Rekōdo website.
Prepare to see some very fashionable pups strolling the streets of Australia, because instantly recognisable fashion label Gorman has launched its latest line of limited-edition dog coats. What's more — as part of a collaboration with PetRescue — those new threads will have their wearers looking good for a very good cause. All profits will go towards providing extra support and boost awareness for the life-changing organisation, which advocates for change around Australia's dysfunctional pound system and helps find forever hopes for lots of pups. The quilted dog jackets are available in three different exclusive Gorman prints — named Neighbours Garden, Walk It and Green Fingers — and four sizes, ensuring pups big and small can look the goods. Each features a polyester shell and lining and adjustable velcro straps for the perfect fit. [caption id="attachment_718376" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Harvey in Green Fingers.[/caption] Just imagine how many looks your fluffball will get down at the dog park. If you do want to snag one, however, we recommend you head in-store or online ASAP — these babies are known to sell out quickly. Gorman's PetRescue range of coats is now available online and at Gorman stores nationwide. Prices start at $39. Top image: Floyd in Green Fingers.
Writers and film buffs have their festivals, and art lovers are treated to spectaculars all year 'round, but it's not so often we get to stop and take stock of the music world. With very few panel-style events, our interaction with music mostly consists of late-night jaunts to the local bandroom under the influence of a few cheeky bevies. Enter BIGSOUND 2014: the Australian music world's equivalent of SxSW. This morning these Brisbane legends released their lineup for the 2014 festival and, at 80 bands deep, it's pretty impressive. Reading like a who's who of local up-and-comers, the bands involved include Sydney festival darling Alison Wonderland, Adelaide rockers Bad//Dreems, Melbourne '90s revivalists Client Liaison and 19-year-old Brisbanite Thelma Plum. Running for just two days from September 10-12, this annual music conference will be jam-packed with not only live performances but panels, interviews and talks from the world's best. This year's international speakers include James Minor from SxSW, Tom Windish from The Windish Agency, Ben Marshall from the Sydney Opera House, and Jerome Borazio and Danny Rogers from St Jeome's Laneway Festival — maybe the only Aussie festival that saw any success this year. Taking place as always in Fortitude Valley, this local love-in will run over 12 locations including new sites such as The Underdog, The New Globe, The Elephant, Crowbar, and a new outdoor venue by Brightside and Magic City. You'll have your work cut out for you to see everything, but luckily you can start planning now. Tickets have gone on sale today via Oztix with a 2-day pass only setting you back $69+bf. For a lineup of 80 stellar bands, you've gotta admit that's a pretty decent deal. Check out the full lineup: Airling Alison Wonderland APES Ash Grunwald Avaberée BAD//DREEMS Banoffee Baptism of Uzi Blank Realm BONJAH Brad Butcher Caligula's Horse Client Liaison Coach Bombay Crooked Colours D.D Dumbo Deep Sea Arcade Devon Sproule DMAs Ernest Ellis Eves Fieldings Flyying Colours Fractures Fraser A. Gorman Gold Fields Halfway Hayden Calnin HITS Holy Holy I'lls Indian Summer Jack Ladder & The Dreamlanders Jane Tyrell Jess Ribeiro and the Bone Collectors Jesse Davidson Jimblah Karl S. Williams KINGSWOOD Klo KLP LANKS Left. L-FRESH The LION Lia Mice Little May Lime Cordiale LOWER SPECTRUM Luca Brasi LUCIANBLOMKAMP Lurch & Chief Major Leagues Mansionair Milwaukee Banks Morning Harvey Oisima Okenyo Olympic Ayres Orphans Orphans PACES Panama Pikelet REMI Ruby Boots Sampology ft. Tom Thum & Jordan Rakei Scenic Steve Smyth Step-Panther Stillwater Giants Sweet Jean Sydonia Teeth & Tongue The Bennies The Creases The Harpoons The Murlocs The Phoncurves The Tiger & Me Thelma Plum Thrupence Tin Sparrow Tkay Maidza Tully On Tully wordlife Yeo
A Brush With Fame is a fundraiser that gives us 'normies' the chance to own a one-of-a-kind work of art made by some of our favourite bands and musicians. After years of hosting some of the world's best musical artists, Sydney's FBi Radio is releasing a collection of artworks created specially for them by everyone from Yeasayer to Iggy Pop, Vampire Weekend to Boy and Bear. As these acts passed through the hallowed halls of Sydney's favourite indie radio station, they were asked to stick fabric markers to plain white canvas, and let those creative juices flow. The visual ramblings were then collected, and will soon be on sale for the public to own. In addition to the possibility of owning a piece by a favourite musician, works by visual artists like Archibald finalist Abdul Abdullah and street artist Beastman are up for grabs. There's also a canvas doodled on by acerbic wit-smith, Marieke Hardy, and one by the brains behind Mambo, Reg Mombassa. The sale goes down on November 22 via the wonder of eBay, with bids starting at $50. All the funds go towards running the not-for-profit public radio station. Head to the FBi site to see a list of all the artists, pictures of their many varied visual offerings, and all the other necessary details.
Everyone's favourite melancholic hitmaker Post Malone is coming back to Australia later this year. The global superstar was just in the country in January and February supporting Red Hot Chili Peppers, but he must've enjoyed his time Down Under, because he's already announced a run of headline Australian shows as part of his If Y'all Weren't Here I'd Be Crying world tour. Diamond-certified multiple times over, Posty will be hitting Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne throughout November on this run of shows. You can catch him at the Brisbane Showgrounds on Thursday, November 23; The Domain in Sydney on Wednesday, November 29; and Melbourne Showgrounds on Thursday, November 30. He's also swinging past New Zealand beforehand for a show in Auckland on Tuesday, November 21. The fun, however, does not stop there. Live Nation's tour poster for the Australian run of dates includes four other yet-to-be-announced stops: Canberra, Gold Coast, Ballarat and Perth. Interestingly, these locations lineup with where and when the touring festival Spilt Milk usually pops up. The festival is set to drop its lineup this coming Tuesday, July 4 at 8am, so it looks like Malone may be a real possibility to headline this year's edition. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXhTHyIgQ_U This tour is in support of Post Malone's fifth studio album Austin which is set to arrive on Friday, July 28 featuring recent singles 'Mourning' and 'Chemical'. You can expect a career-spanning performance dipping into his most recent album, 2022's Twelve Carat Toothache, and his catalogue of global smashes like 'Congratulations', 'Rockstar', 'Sunflower' and 'Circles'. Check out the poster for Post Malone's Australian tour below — featuring the Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane shows, as well as the unannounced Canberra, Gold Coast, Ballarat and Perth dates. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Nation Australia (@livenationaustralia) POST MALONE: IF Y'ALL WEREN'T HERE I'D BE CRYING AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND TOUR DATES Tuesday, November 21 — The Outer Fields at Western Springs, Auckland Thursday, November 23 — Brisbane Showgrounds, Brisbane Wednesday, November 29 — The Domain, Sydney Thursday, November 30 — Melbourne Showgrounds Post Malone is touring Australia and New Zealand in November 2023. Tickets for Australian shows go on sale online on Monday, July 13 — at 1pm in Brisbane, 12pm in Sydney, and 11am in Melbourne, with pre-sales via Vodafone from Thursday, July 6 and from Live Nation on Tuesday, July 11. For more information, head to the tour website. Tickets for New Zealand shows go on sale online at 12pm on Thursday, July 13, with pre-sales via One NZ on Thursday, July 6 and from Live Nation on Tuesday, July 11. For more information, head to the tour website. Top image: Chrisallmeid
Films concerning cars and racing have often been less than fantastic (unless Ryan Gosling or Vin Diesel is at the wheel). However, Ron Howard may be about to add another option to that short list with Rush, a film for motoring and film enthusiasts alike. "You've seldom felt more alive in a movie theatre than you will experiencing Rush," was Variety reviewer Peter Debruge's verdict on the film, which is currently sitting at 100 percent fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. Rush explores one of the most famous rivalries in Formula 1 history — British bad-boy James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth) versus disciplined champion Niki Lauda (Daniel Brühl) — and their memorable 1976 season where Hunt and Lauda pushed each other to the limits of their sport, resulting in a horrific crash and legendary comeback that earned its own page in sporting lore. The events of that season in a sport that saw deaths occur annually at the time is the stuff of great human drama, giving Hemsworth and Brühl plenty of fuel to work with. What is set to push Rush to pole position on the grid though is the incredible realness created by Howard's camera techniques throughout production. He takes the audience deep into the thick of the action by integrating cameras directly into the cars themselves. The race sequences eradicate the boredom of watching cars go around and around and allow us to enjoy the action and the film's exploration of ego. Add in a Hans Zimmer score and this could be very busy come award season. We are holding a private advance screening of Rush on 2 October at Dendy Newtown, ahead of the film's national release on 3 October. To be in the running for one of 75 double passes, just subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then click here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=ZKqB987FpMI
