Recently reborn Camperdown stalwart The Lady Hampshire has already cemented itself as a charming no-frills pub in the first few months since it reopened under the guidance of PUBLIC. The Parramatta Road haunt boasts a sunny courtyard, a killer live-music program and a tasty house lager — plus former Baba's Place chef Brendan King in the kitchen, who is continually striking a balance between the affordable and the inventive with his pub menu. As part of King's weekly wheelhouse of eats, he hosts a curry and can night at the pub every Tuesday. The promotion offers patrons a loaded plate of King's latest curry creations and a can of beer or cider for just $20. While the weekly deal is usually enough to have you venturing out for a midweek meal, things are being taken up a notch on Tuesday, July 18. King has enlisted the help of his longtime friend and 2021 MasterChef winner Justin Narayan to take over the kitchen for one night. [caption id="attachment_908738" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pat Stevenson[/caption] Narayan will be whipping up a Fijian-Indian chicken curry with chapati, masala potato and coriander green chilli chutney, available for $20 with a complimentary can of beer or cider. He'll also be cooking up a cheesy version of The Lady Hampshire's popular samosa spring rolls, and creating a gulab jamun and cardamon ice cream as a post-dinner treat. Rounding out the night's offerings will be a few drops from Narayan's vino brand Acceptable Wine. A special vino list ranging from prosecco to pinot noir has been curated to complement the night's menu. "When Brendan called and told me about Lady Hampshire's curry and can Tuesdays, he had me at curry," Narayan says. "We've both come so far from when we first met — I'm getting ready to open my first restaurant and Brendan's a Head Chef, so when we get the chance to cook together it's always going to be something extra special." View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Lady Hampshire (@theladyhampshire)
David Lynch has brought a sublime array of stunning sights to screens large and small over the past four-plus decades, but getting Nicolas Cage to serenade Laura Dern with Elvis Presley's 'Love Me' in Wild at Heart is among the most spectacular. So it's no wonder that Pleasures Playhouse, Sydney's new six-week music and arts festival, has chosen the 1990 movie to kick off its film season — and for free as well. Running on select Tuesdays from the end of September through till late October, Send Noods Cinema will pair classic flicks with Biang Biang Noodles and P&V's natural wine. And yes, every part of that equation is impressive. Also worth heading along for: the entire fest's venue, aka the old, usually abandoned Harbour City Cinema in Chinatown. Wild at Heart starts the program at 7pm on Tuesday, September 27, with 1996's Queen Latifah-starring heist film Set It Off following on Tuesday, October 4. Also on the bill: a hefty dose of the Material Girl on Tuesday, October 18 courtesy of Madonna: Truth or Dare, aka In Bed with Madonna; and, on Tuesday, October 25, 1974's rock musical comedy horror gem Phantom of the Paradise. While Wild at Heart is free, all other sessions are ticketed, with tix on sale from 10am on Thursday, September 8.
Do you guys ever think about watching the biggest movie of 2023 in the comfort of your own home? Barbie is a pink-hued dream on the big screen, where everyone should see it once — and it'll beam just as brightly via streaming from Tuesday, September 12. That's when the highest-grossing box-office hit of the year will hit digital, arriving on premium video on demand to rent and buy in Australia and New Zealand. By now, thanks to the pandemic, we all know the fast-tracked drill: these days, films make their way to home entertainment far faster than they used to before 2020. In Barbie's case, like everything from Dune, The Matrix Resurrections and Everything Everywhere All At Once to Elvis, Nope and Don't Worry Darling before it, it'll be both screening in cinemas and shining Kenergy onto your TV at the same time. You'll find Barbie available to stream via all the usual platforms — think: Google Play, YouTube Movies, Apple TV, Prime Video, Fetch, Foxtel Store, Microsoft and Telstra TV Box Office — in Australia and New Zealand. And, of course, you'll find a Greta Gerwig-helmed, Margot-Robbie-starring smash that sports rosy colours, does indeed bring the popular doll to screens, but couldn't be more smart and meaningful about it. Marking actor-turned-director Gerwig's third solo stint behind the camera after Lady Bird and Little Women, Barbie gets its namesake (Robbie, Babylon) struggling with life's big questions — and, when the film's key Barbie and Ken (Ryan Gosling, The Gray Man) drive through Barbie Land's gates to discover what's on the other side, struggling with Los Angeles as well. Splashing as much humour as pastel tones throughout its frames, Barbie is scripted by Gerwig and fellow filmmaker Noah Baumbach — her helmer on Greenberg, Frances Ha, Mistress America and White Noise, and real-life partner — and boasts a cast that's a gleaming toy chest of talent. All those on-screen stars help fill the feature with Barbies, including Issa Rae (Insecure) as president Barbie, Dua Lipa (making her movie debut) as a mermaid Barbie, Emma Mackey (Emily) as a Nobel Prize-winning physicist Barbie, Alexandra Schipp (tick, tick... BOOM!) as an author Barbie and Ana Cruz Kayne (Jerry and Marge Go Large) as a supreme court justice Barbie — plus Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) as diplomat Barbie, Kate McKinnon (Saturday Night Live) as a Barbie who is always doing the splits, Hari Nef (Meet Cute) as doctor Barbie, Ritu Arya (The Umbrella Academy) as a Pulitzer-winning Barbie and Sharon Rooney (Jerk) as lawyer Barbie. There's also a whole heap of Kens, including Simu Liu (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings), Kingsley Ben-Adir (One Night in Miami), Ncuti Gatwa (the incoming Doctor Who) and Scott Evans (Grace and Frankie). And, Michael Cera (Arrested Development) plays Alan, Emerald Fennell (The Crown) plays Midge, Helen Mirren (Shazam! Fury of the Gods) is the narrator, America Ferrera (Superstore) and Ariana Greenblatt (65) are humans, Jamie Demetriou (Catherine Called Birdy) is a suit, Will Ferrell (Spirited) wears a suit as Mattel's CEO and Connor Swindells (also Sex Education) is an intern. We expect that you know all of the above already given how well Barbie has been doing in cinemas, where it has also cracked the top 15 of all time — and become the first movie by a solo female director to make $1 billion at the global box office. And yes, we expect that you'll now get 'I'm Just Ken' stuck in your head again (and again and again). Check out the Barbie trailer below: Barbie will be available to stream from Tuesday, September 12 via platforms such as Google Play, YouTube Movies, Apple TV, Prime Video, Fetch, Foxtel Store, Microsoft and Telstra TV Box Office in Australia and New Zealand. It's also still showing in cinemas Down Under. Read our review.
New year, new set of holiday plans? If that's how you celebrate December flipping over to January every 12 months, then you're probably already scoping out where to head when 2023 becomes 2024. Here's some inspiration: Hamilton Island, Bali, Fiji and Tokyo, aka places that Virgin is slinging cheap fares to in its latest sale. This new batch of discounted flights spans more than 500,000 fares for both domestic and international legs. Prices start low, at $45, which once again gets you from Sydney to Byron Bay — the normal cheapest fare in any flight sale — and vice versa. From there, the domestic side of the sale covers everywhere from the Sunshine Coast and Hobart to Canberra and Broome. Fancy a trip to the Gold Coast, Cairns, Launceston, Alice Springs or Darwin instead? They're also on the list. This excuse to book a getaway runs until midnight AEST on Monday, October 23 — unless sold out earlier, with fares to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide also covered. That means paying $59 one-way from Melbourne to Launceston, $69 from Sydney to the Sunshine Coast and $109 from Brisbane to Hamilton Island. Also among the local fares: Sydney to Hobart from $85, Melbourne to the Gold Coast from $109, Sydney to Adelaide from $125, Brisbane to Melbourne from $129 and Perth to Broome from $189. Internationally, you'll need to go via Cairns if you're keen to head to Tokyo, starting at $699 return. Among the other global return options: Bali (from $449 from Adelaide or the Gold Coast, $559 from Brisbane, and $629 from Melbourne or Sydney), Fiji ($509 from Brisbane, $529 from Sydney and $579 from Melbourne), Vanuatu ($569 from Brisbane) and Samoa ($579 from Brisbane). And, Queenstown is also on the agenda, with both one-way and return legs. One-way from Sydney starts at $259 and return from $445, Melbourne at $265 and $425, and Brisbane $295 and $515. If you're wondering when you'll need to travel, the fares cover select periods between Tuesday, January 16–Thursday, August 29, 2024, with all dates varying per route. Inclusions also differ depending on your ticket and, as usual when it comes to flight sales, you'll need to get in quick if you're keen to spend some, part or all of next year anywhere but home. Virgin's latest sale runs until midnight AEST on Monday, October 23 — unless sold out earlier. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
What do a twisted woodland, enchanted big-screen stories, the best new art that the Asia-Pacific region has to offer, movies about mad science, the work of Queensland artist Judy Watson, the fashion designs of Iris van Herpen, and an exploration of the importance of plants to Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander peoples all have in common — and with Brisbane, too? They're each featured on the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art's big 2024 program. GOMA's tribute to fairy tales was announced in 2022, and arrives before 2023 is out; however, as the newly announced full lineup for next year shows, it's just one of many reasons to visit South Brisbane — and, if you're making the trip from elsewhere in Australia, Brisbane in general — before 2025 rolls around. Running from Saturday, December 2, 2023–Sunday, April 28, 2024, Fairy Tales is quite the blockbuster, and comes with movie program Fairy Tales: Truth, Power and Enchantment at Australian Cinémathèque to match. The 100-plus-piece showcase and its corresponding flicks will focus stories that we all lapped up as kids, telling us about otherworldly critters, wishes, spells and more. From venturing into the woods to peering through the looking glass, and also pondering what happily ever after means — while featuring works by Henrique Oliveira, Patricia Piccinini, Jana Sterbak, Kiki Smith, Abdul Abdullah and Ron Mueck along the way, plus a costume worn by David Bowie in all-time classic Labyrinth, pieces from Where the Wild Things Are as both a book and a movie, and threads from 2012's Mirror Mirror by Eiko Ishioka, and more — this showcase is primed to entrance. [caption id="attachment_919713" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Henrique Oliveira / Brazil b.1973 / Baitogogo 2013 / Palais de Tokyo, Paris / Plywood and tree branches / 6740 x 1179 x 2076cm / Courtesy SAM Art Projects, Galerie GP&N Vallois, Galeria Millan / © Henrique Oliveira / Photograph: André Morin / This work is indicative of a new commission by Henrique Oliveira for the exhibition 'Fairy Tales' at QAGOMA.[/caption] Set to arrive while Fairy Tales is still working its magic are both Seeds and Sovereignty and mudunama kundana wandaraba jarribirri: Judy Watson. The first will run from Saturday, March 2–Sunday, September 8, 2024 also at GOMA, and feature artworks about not only Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander peoples bond with plants, but with Country. The second will take over Queensland Art Gallery to celebrate the Queensland artist's career, spanning four decades and highlighting her emphasis on Waanyi Country in northern Queensland, where her family is from. Also on display at GOMA until Sunday, September 8, 2024: sis: Pacific Art 1980–2023, which centres on contemporary pieces from the titular region — with Lisa Reihana, Yuki Kihara and Latai Taumoepeau among the artists with works on display. [caption id="attachment_923891" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Iris van Herpen / Netherlands b.1984 / Hydrozoa dress, from the 'Sensory Seas' collection 2020 / Collection: Iris van Herpen / Photograph: David Uzochukwu / © David Uzochukwu.[/caption] Midyear, Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses will head to GOMA as well, in an Australian exclusive for the massive exhibition about the Dutch fashion designer, as organised by the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. It visits Down Under after displaying in Paris. "Set in direct dialogue with a selection of contemporary works of art, installations, videos, photographs and objects from natural history, the exhibition brings together more than 100 garments created by van Herpen, seeking new forms for femininity and challenging our notions of haute couture. It will include a recreation of van Herpen's Amsterdam studio and a space dedicated to her fashion shows, accompanied by a sound work by Dutch artist Salvador Breed," said curator Cloé Pitiot. "Iris van Herpen is one of the most avant-garde figures of her generation and Sculpting the Senses, organised by Musée des Arts Décoratifs, offers a sensory exploration of the pioneering Dutch designer's multidisciplinary practice. It's a creative universe that merges fashion, contemporary art, design and science," added QAGOMA Director Chris Saines. [caption id="attachment_923890" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mit Jai Inn / Thailand b.1960 / Planes (Electric) (detail) 2019 / Oil on canvas / Dimensions variable / Installation view, 'Encounters', Art Basel Hong Kong, 2019 / Image courtesy: The artist and Silverlens, Manila & New York / © Mit Jai Inn.[/caption] Then, come Saturday, 30 November 2024–Sunday, April 27, 2025, it'll be time for The 11th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (aka APT11) at both GOMA and Queensland Art Gallery. While it's too early for specifics, artists and collectives hailing from Australia, Asia and the Pacific will have pieces on display — and a cinema lineup, events, live performances and the like will also be on the agenda. As well as its fairy tale flicks, the Australian Cinémathèque has plenty in store. The Magic of Monty Python will celebrate the obvious for two January weeks, then the films of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger — so The Red Shoes and Black Narcissus, for instance — will be in the spotlight from February–April. When May hits, those movies about mad science will start rolling until late June, such as The Bride of Frankenstein and The City of Lost Children. [caption id="attachment_923889" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Production still from The Bride of Frankenstein 1935 / Director: James Whale / Image courtesy: Universal Pictures.[/caption] QUEENSLAND ART GALLERY AND GALLERY OF MODERN ART 2024 PROGRAM: GOMA and Queensland Art Gallery: Saturday, December 2, 2023–Sunday, April 28, 2024 — Fairy Tales at GOMA Saturday, March 2–Sunday, September 8, 2024 — Seeds and Sovereignty at GOMA Saturday, March 23–Sunday, August 11, 2024 — mudunama kundana wandaraba jarribirri: Judy Watson at Queensland Art Gallery Saturday, June 29–Monday, October 7, 2024 — Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses at GOMA Until Sunday, September 8, 2024 — sis: Pacific Art 1980–2023 at GOMA Saturday, 30 November 2024–Sunday, April 27, 2025 — The 11th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (APT11) at GOMA and Queensland Art Gallery Australian Cinémathèque: Saturday, December 2, 2023–Sunday, April 28, 2024 — Fairy Tales: Truth, Power and Enchantment Saturday, January 13–Saturday, January 27, 2024 — The Magic of Monty Python Wednesday, January 31–Wednesday December 11, 2024 — For the Love of It: A Curator's Pick Saturday, February 3–Saturday, April 27, 2024 — Technicolor Dreams and Transcendent Reality: The Films of Powell & Pressburger Friday, May 3–Sunday, June 23, 2024 — Mad Science For more information about the Gallery of Modern Art and Queensland Art Gallery's 2024 exhibitions, plus Australian Cinémathèque's 2024 lineup — all of which will occur at Stanley Place, South Brisbane — visit the venue's website. Top image: Still from 'Cinderella' (1922) dir. Lotte Reiniger, courtesy British Film Institute.
It’s a truly eye-popping spread of international art stars at the AGNSW’s summer blockbuster, Pop to Popism. Much of it will be familiar; you’ll see Warhol’s famous Marilyn series and Lichtenstein’s In the Car. But beyond the colourful brushstrokes of American artists picking apart consumer culture, you're bound to stumble across a few local and lesser known artists who were nowhere near the New York hotbed of creative activity. Though you might not find their works stamped on pencil cases and postcards in the gift shop, here’s a list of underrated artists you ought not to skip over. Alain Jacquet: Pop and the Dot Roy Lichtenstein spoke about breaking an image down into tiny abstract elements. But unlike his clean lines of handpainted dots, Alain Jacquet developed a more textured technique by allowing different coloured dots to bleed into each other. This French artist was part of a mini-movement at the tail-end of Pop Art. Like their American cousins, the European artists of the school of New Realism were interested in using the materials of everyday life and avoiding the traps of figurative painting. Jacquet’s reworking of Manet’s canonical Luncheon on the Grass deserves to be appreciated up close. Like a hazy summer dream, there is a real sense of warmth and vitality to his work. Annandale Imitation Realists: Pop and Protest In 1960s Sydney, the beginnings of a local Pop Art scene might be attributed to the Annandale Imitation Realists, a group describing themselves as a 'spoof art organisation'. Mike Brown, Colin Lancely and Tony Tuckson produced eclectic mixed media assemblages, drawing from a range of different sources. Breaking through the conservatism of public life, these edgy inner-westies were passionate crusaders for free expression. In fact, Brown was the only Australian artist to be successfully prosecuted for obscenity. While Warhol and Lichtenstein imitate the aesthetic of advertising, this group revelled in nonsensical statements, visceral messiness, and a disregard for authority. They represent an exotic and exuberant counterpoint to the Pop Art that was unfolding across the Pacific. Martha Rosler: Pop and Activism An overlooked figure in the male dominated world of pop art, Martha Rosler moves within the spectrum of social critique. Her incisive series House Beautiful: Bringing the War Home fuses together militancy and materialism. Using photomontage, she reconstructs advertisements aimed at housewives with scenes from the Vietnam War. It's a bizarre juxtaposition; the models are all smiles while soldiers and child casualties peep through windows. Like Richard Hamilton’s earlier and more famous collage, this is a satire of the modern home. But Rosler’s series feels a lot more pressing. She simultaneously tackles the outdated ideal of femininity and the ethics of a media saturated war. Vivienne Binns: Pop and Feminism With second wave feminism in full swing, Vivienne Binns shocked her Sydney audience by exhibiting paintings of vaginas in 1967. Becoming one of the first female artists to address sexuality, her intricate and brightly coloured works drew strong backlash. An abbreviation of vagina dentata, Vag Dens is one of the most significant paintings of this period. In terms of her style, it is as if Abstract Expressionism has entered the realm of '70s psychedelia and become infused with sexual empowerment. Still active today, Binns has a reputation as one of the most radical women on the Australian art scene. Martin Sharp and Tim Lewis: Pop and Deconstruction While you’re sure to see Martin Sharp’s shiny psychedelic posters of Bob Dylan and other famous faces, his collaborative works with Tim Lewis represent the point at which Pop Art began to turn in on itself. During the dying days of this global phenomenon, the Aussie duo was preoccupied with appropriating the big personalities of the movement. It's interesting to see the cartoonish and the cult of celebrity paired with aesthetic purists, like Mondrian, and tortured geniuses, like Van Gogh. Imposing the new faces of postmodernism onto the masters of modernism, they created playful works that prematurely historicise Pop Art with the kind of wry humour it probably deserves. Edward Ruscha: Pop and Language A mighty artist in his own right, Edward Ruscha is more of an associate than a proponent of Pop Art. Of course, one of the rivers running through this art movement is text: whether it be the onomatopoeic sound effects of Roy Lichtenstein, the capitalist slogans of Barbara Kruger, or the self-aware ramblings of Mike Brown. Though Ruscha's training was similarly grounded in commercial art, his word paintings are more visceral and experimental than his colleagues. For instance, he has been known to use odd materials like gunpowder and red wine in his work. Fascinated by "the raw power of things that made no sense," he combines the spoken sounds of language with the written word to create a kind of visual noise. Gilbert and George: Pop and Performance Although these cheeky Londoners have long been part of the Kaldor collection, it's interesting to see Gilbert and George reframed as a part of Pop to Popism. Beginning their career with a series of performances, they insisted that art is everything the artist does. By repeating the same set of activities every day, they turned their lives into a perpetual performance. Their later photo-based works have a strong graphic quality. Full of "words and turds", these brightly coloured self-portraits are highly stylised reflections of modern life. At the tail-end of the exhibition, it's hard not to love this pair of conservative rebels with their mix of English propriety and bodily glee. They might be thought of as the contemporary caretakers of Pop Art. Images: Martin Sharp, Alain Jacquet, Mike Brown, Martha Rosler, Vivienne Binns, Martin Sharp and Tim Lewis, Edward Ruscha, and Gilbert and George.
When venues around the world starting shutting down to help stop the spread of COVID-19, the Sydney Opera House was one of them, closing its doors to shows and audiences back in mid-March. By the end of October, however, it'll slowly start kicking back into gear – with the iconic site revealing its reopening program. While the cultural institution hasn't been quiet over the past seven months thanks to a massive lineup of free digital concerts and talks that everyone has been able to watch at home, it will begin welcoming patrons back in the door in line with easing New South Wales restrictions. It isn't abandoning its online activities, but they'll run in tandem with its physical events. At a festival such as Antidote, for instance, you'll be able to head along in-person or watch digitally. The Opera House's festival of ideas, action and change, Antidote will return for its fourth year on Sunday, November 29, running as a one-day event that features talks, workshops, visual art, installations and other immersive experiences. Hosting speakers in the Joan Sutherland Theatre and making its program available online, it'll include sessions on everything from the state of America in 2020 to eschewing cynicism in favour of optimism — and workshops focused on growing edible balcony gardens, too. And as for the guest lineup, it spans Indigenous-led design advocate Jefa Greenaway, climate change social researcher Rebecca Huntley, and Kiley Reid, the Man Booker-shortlisted author of Such a Fun Age — among others. [caption id="attachment_786056" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Jefa Greenaway, by Peter Casamento[/caption] Antidote is just one of the events on the Opera House's new program. If you're eager for a few laughs, comedian Tom Gleeson will hit the venue's stage in December with his latest show, called Lighten Up — and if you'd prefer live tunes, you can choose between a tribute concert to Australian jazz icon Don Burrows and the sounds of improvisational trio Vazesh. In the theatre realm, Sydney Theatre Company's Rules for Living will tread the boards, while kids will be able to watch Diary of a Wombat come to life as a puppet show. Although dance is part of the lineup thanks to the return of Dance Rites for 2020, it's running solely as a digital event, so prepare to check out the annual First Nations dance competition at home. You'll definitely need to leave the house, though, if you're keen to tuck into dinner while listening to musicians from the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Australian Chamber Orchestra. That's on offer at Bennelong for the first time, pairing a meal with a live performance between Thursday, October 29–Sunday, December 20. The Opera House will also be resuming its tours from Thursday, November 5, and Portside will reopen for dining from Monday, November 2. The Sydney Opera House's reopening program kicks off on Thursday, October 29. For further information or to buy tickets, visit the venue's website. Top image: Brett Stevens
Stay tuned. More info coming soon.
How does anything compete with Mrs Macquaries Point's stunning view of Sydney Harbour, the city, the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge? By placing a 350-square-metre cinema screen at the scenic spot every summer, and filling it with an impressive array of new, recent and classic movies. That's the Westpac Openair Cinema setup, aka a Sydney institution — and it returns from Sunday, January 8—Tuesday, February 21, 2023. This summer's season will open with Steven Spielberg's new flick The Fabelmans, and there's a hefty list of movies to follow. Also on the lineup: the cinema-focused Empire of Light, the Cate Blanchett-starring Tár, #MeToo drama She Said, the Emma Thompson-led Good Luck to You, Leo Grande, and The Lost King with Sally Hawkins and Steve Coogan. And, there's also culinary thriller The Menu, bleak Irish comedy The Banshees of Inisherin, Whitney Houston biopic I Wanna Dance with Somebody and certain blockbuster Avatar: The Way of Water, as well as stunning volcanologist documentary Fire of Love, the Emily Brontë-focused Emily, saucy threequel Magic Mike's Last Dance and rom-com What's Love Got to Do With It. Throw in Olivia Wilde's Don't Worry Darling, 2022 Palme d'Or-winner comedy Triangle of Sadness, haute-couture comedy Mrs Harris Goes to Paris, and sessions of classics like Titanic, the OG Top Gun, Quentin Tarantino's Jackie Brown and Cinema Paradiso as well, and the Westpac Openair Cinema bill is clearly stacked. All of those titles are joined by the Australian premiere of Darren Aronofsky's The Whale, aka the film that's bringing Brendan Fraser back into the spotlight; a preview of Guy Ritchie's Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre; Damien Chazelle's starry and jazzy Babylon; and the Bill Nighy-starring Living. Movie buffs will also score another chance to see Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Bullet Train, Everything Everywhere All At Once, Top Gun: Maverick, Ticket to Paradise and Elvis, plus Jodie Comer-starring NT Live production Prima Facie. And, in a special collaboration, viewers will be treated to a session of artist Wu Tsang's Moby Dick; or, The Whale thanks to Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the Art Gallery of New South Wales. It'll play with a will be live score, levelling up an already special way to see a movie. Kitchen by Mike's Mike McEnearney will be behind the event's food range just like in 2022 — and booking your movie tickets ASAP is recommended. Across the summer of 2018–19, more than 40,000 tickets sold within the first two days of pre-sale. So, put 9am AEDT on Monday, December 12 in your diary ASAP, or Wednesday, December 7–Friday, December 9 for pre-sales if you're a Westpac customer. [caption id="attachment_880098" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Maccoll[/caption] Images: Fiora Sacco
Lightning Ridge might be best known for its enduring opal mining history, but the community's collection of bizarre museums is definitely a close second. Beer Can House is one such structure, which does what it says on the proverbial tinnie. Others not to miss are the Bottle House Museum, the Astronomers Monument, Amigo's Castle and the Kangaroo Hill Complex. Image: John, Flickr
We made it through 2020. We're in the throes of a new year, with two months of summer still ahead of us. The holidays are done and dusted, and as we get back into the swing of work it can be easy to get swept up in all the chaos and miss out on the good stuff — like outdoor cinemas, gigs, award-winning musicals and G&T pop-ups. It's time to make the most of the summertime events you probably meant to check out in 2020 but didn't. New year, new you. And that means getting outside and embracing the best of Sydney life. Here are seven things to do this summer and autumn to help lift your mood. Get out there and enjoy it.
In celebration of the Mardi Gras season, Object Gallery are gearing up to run a series of Make Play workshops, aimed at unveiling creative potential in unknowing Sydneysiders. Unleash your very own out-of-this-world being with Justin Shoulder's Fantastic Creatures Workshop; let Sydney glamourpuss Matt Format help you create your own faaaaabulous lashes in the Bespoke Eyelashes Workshop; put that frustrated costume designer to work in Angela Sinnett's Costume Design 101 or get yo' Mardi Gras bling on with the Bling Your Runners Workshop (again with Sinnett). Then learn how to shoot, cut and upload the entire festival experience, with Gareth Tillson's indispensible iPhone/iFilm Workshop. Want more Mardi Gras events? Check out our top ten picks of the festival.
With more than 130 events, 22 world premieres, 24 Australian exclusives and over 50 free events to discover, getting the most out of the 2025 Sydney Festival is hungry work. Fortunately, the fest has partnered with some of Sydney's best restaurants to offer exclusive offers so you can stay fuelled up for the city's annual celebration of art and expression from Saturday, January 4, to Sunday, January 26. Here's where you can enjoy a pre- or post-show bite or sip — without breaking the bank — during this year's fest. Beast&Co Beast&Co combines the elegance of European flavours blended with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Their menu is a celebration of comfort eats delivered with culinary excellence, showcasing dishes that play with surprising fusions of world cuisines. The offer: Beginning with marinated olives, choose between Beast&Co's famous small plates — either bone marrow or roasted miso cabbage — then move on to the main course, a mouth-watering flank steak or roasted cauliflower, for $55 per person. Location: Shop 15/425 Bourke Street, Surry Hills Cafe Sydney Perched atop Customs House at Circular Quay, with spectacular views across Sydney Harbour, this stalwart of Sydney's dining scene has built a reliable reputation over the past 25 years. Expect an accessible menu of crowd-pleasing dishes, an innovative, award-winning wine list and polished service. The offer: A daily selection of a la carte specials, with a focus on quality cuts of meat, fresh and exotic seafood, including chilled crustaceans, freshly shucked oysters and grilled ocean fish. Location: Customs House, Level 5, 31 Alfred Street, Circular Quay Georgie Wine Bar This New York-inspired neighbourhood food & wine bar offers a relaxed menu of bistro and comfort food hits in an art deco fit-out that balances accessible dining with a luxe vibe. The offer: Kick off your meal with a selection of salumi and cheese. Follow it up with a choice of either arancini balls or calamari fritti and complete your pre- or post-show dining experience with a glass of house wine or a refreshing beer for $55 per person. Location: 2 Bond Street, Corner of George Street and Bond Street, Sydney Jounieh Jounieh is a standout spot on Sydney's waterfront, offering a fresh take on Modern Middle Eastern cuisine. With its stunning views of the harbour, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy delicious food in a relaxed setting. Located near the arts precinct, surrounded by theatres, restaurants, and bars, the atmosphere is both peaceful and vibrant. Whether you're here for a casual meal or a special evening out, Jounieh offers a memorable experience in one of the world's most beautiful cities. The offer: At this modern Middle Eastern hotspot, select the vegetarian, meat or seafood special. Showstoppers include golden cauliflower, slow-cooked lamb and Moreton Bay bugs — served with dips, salad and more, plus a house wine or beer for $55 per person when you book for two diners or more. Location: 2/17 Hickson Road, Dawes Point LILYMU This vibrant pan-Asian restaurant in the heart of Parramatta Square champions the flavours and traditions of Southeast Asia come together in exciting new ways. With a fresh, modern twist on classic dishes and drinks inspired by China and the region, LILYMU brings a bold, creative energy to every plate and glass. It's a place where old meets new, offering a unique take on familiar flavours in a relaxed, contemporary setting. The offer: Utilising fresh and ethically sourced ingredients cooked over coals and in searing hot woks, LILYMU's Sydney Festival set menu stars kingfish and coconut ceviche with taro and sea grapes, roasted eggplant with apple ponzu and furikake, and chicken gyoza with plum vinegar for $55 per person when you book for two diners or more. Location: 3 Parramatta Square, 153 Macquarie St, Parramatta Lotus the Galeries This CBD diner offers modern twists on traditional Asian dishes, serving up fresh, handmade dumplings, bao and vibrant small plates. Located in the heart of the city, it blends casual dining with bold flavours and a sleek, contemporary atmosphere. With an innovative menu that draws inspiration from across Asia, Lotus is a go-to spot for anyone craving creative comfort food. The offer: This set menu stars barbecue pork buns, salt and pepper tofu, barramundi with black bean sauce, crispy eggplant and squid ink fried rice for $55 per person when you book for two diners or more. Location: The Galeries, Level 1/500 George Street, Sydney Pearl Dining Pearl Dining offers a refined dining experience with a menu that blends modern Australian flavours with pan-Asian influences. Located in the heart of the city, Pearl Dining's focus on quality ingredients and impressive presentation promises a memorable culinary experience. The offer: Drawing inspiration from the culinary craftsmanship of Hong Kong, enjoy six dishes including prawn dumplings, barbecue pork belly, wok-fried Angus beef flank and Asian greens for $55 when you book for two diners or more. Location: Level 1/50 Bridge Street, Sydney Pier Bar This waterfront bar in the Pier One Hotel is an elegant harbourside destination for casual drinks. On the shore of Sydney harbour, steps from Sydney Festival's hub, The Thirsty Mile, and the theatres of the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct, this bar is perfectly situated for both pre-and post-show drinks and snacks. The offer: For $30 per person when you book for two guests or more, you can enjoy a share platter of artisan cured meats, pickles and cheese, as well as your choice of one house wine, beer or soft drink. Location: 11 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay Planar Bar and Dining With uninterrupted views of Darling Harbour, Planar is an al fresco retreat with a blend of indoor and outdoor areas. The menu celebrates fresh Australian produce and the diverse, eclectic influences of Modern Australian cuisine. The offer: Experience a delightful two-course menu showcasing Modern Australian cuisine. Set against the stunning waterfront views of Darling Harbour, you will be welcomed with wine of your choice before indulging in the iconic dishes crafted from locally fresh ingredients for $55 per person. Location: Shop C08, Ground Floor ICC Sydney, 14 Darling Drive, Darling Harbour The Living Room at Park Hyatt Sydney Indulge in the inviting ambience of The Living Room at Park Hyatt Sydney, where their relaxed harbourside all-day dining experience pairs iconic views with top-of-class hospitality. The offer: Cocktail and sandwich set. La Vie en Rose Cocktail + Chicken Katsu Sandwich or La Vie en Rose Cocktail + Tofu Katsu with Vegan Mayonnaise for $30 per person. Location: 7 Hickson Road, The Rocks Lotus Dumpling Bar Located in Circular Quay, this popular dumpling house offers a vibrant dining experience with a focus on fresh, handmade dumplings and modern Asian dishes. Known for its creative take on traditional flavours, the menu features a variety of dumplings, bao and small plates, alongside a curated selection of cocktails and teas, with a side serving of iconic harbour views. The offer: Diners can enjoy some of the restaurants most popular dishes, including mushroom and vegetable spring rolls, pork xiao long bao, jade prawn dumplings, kung pao chicken with tofu and peanuts, steamed broccolini with sugar snap peas and kale with a side of steamed rice, as well as a glass of Cavedon Adelia prosecco or a non-alcoholic drink on arrival for $55 per person when you book for two diners or more. Location: 50 Bridge Street, Circular Quay For more details about the best places to wine and dine during Sydney Festival 2025, visit the Festival Feasts webpage. Top image: Nikki To
Sometimes, you can read a book and imagine exactly what a TV adaptation would look like. Anyone who thumbed their way through The Southern Vampire Mysteries before it was turned into HBO's True Blood can't make that claim, however. Created by Six Feet Under's Alan Ball, this undead-focused horror series drips with mystery, lust and gothic excess. And blood, obviously. It's a show set in a world where vampires aren't just a fantasy — and at a time when a synthetic product that shares the show's name has allowed them to live side-by-side with humans, in theory. At the centre of this vamp-fuelled intrigue sits small-town Louisiana waitress Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin), who happens to be telepathic. She also happens to fall in love with 173-year-old vampire Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer). When their romance attracts the attention of the area's vampire sheriff (Alexander Skarsgård), that's when the drama begins.
Since its highly anticipated re-opening back in 2015, Chippendale's Old Clare Hotel has held a firm place as one of the city's best boutique hotels. Reborn from the (metaphorical) ashes of the historic and dearly beloved Clare Hotel, and adjoining Carlton United Brewery Administrative Building, the hotel boasts heritage timber panelling and exposed brick walls, furnished with pendant lighting and vintage furniture. Plus, you can bring your pup along thanks to several dog-friendly suites. On request, they come decked out with extras like handmade pet bowls crafted by Motion Ceramics, Fuzz-Yard plush toys and a miniature retro-style lounge for your pet's sleeping and relaxing. For guests on the go, there's a pet directory listing animal-friendly bars and eateries, and handy dog-walking and dog-sitting services available through the hotel. And your furry mate can even get in on the all-important room service action, with a complimentary menu of in-room pet dining options. They'll find treats like Yummi roo bites for cats and Savourlife beef-flavoured dog biscuits, and dry and wet food, all available 24/7. Other hotel amenities include a rooftop pool and bar, private gym and free bike hire, as well as in-room massage services. Guests can also take advantage of custom-made bicycles to explore the surrounding neighbourhood. At night, simply relax at The Clare Bar — or at the hotel restaurant, Automata (before the beloved Hatted restaurant shuts its doors in December 2022), which gives all guests a cool 20% off. Alternatively, you've got the wealth of delicious dining options just a hop, skip and jump down the road at Sydney's Chinatown. And the best of Redfern and Surry Hills is an easy stroll from your digs. Location, location, location. Now you can book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations everywhere.
The Good Place wrapped up its existential laughs in 2020. The Office and Parks and Recreation have both been off screen for a few years now, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine will soon be coming to an end, too. So, you might be wondering where you're going to get your 20-minute servings of warmhearted comedy from in the future (other than from rewatching all of the above shows again and again, of course). Enter: Rutherford Falls. Each of these sitcoms, including the newcomer that you've never heard of until now, have one thing in common: they involve writer and producer Michael Schur. He held both roles on The Office, co-created Parks and Recreation and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and created The Good Place. Yes, he has a distinctive brand of humour — and it's a delight. With Rutherford Falls, the man behind a hefty amount of the past two decades' best comedies is reteaming with one of his past stars — and co-stars. Schur also actually appeared in The Office, playing Mose Schrute, cousin to Dwight. Here, he's working with Ed Helms again, who leads the new series as a descendant of the man his town was named after. Helms' Nathan Rutherford runs tours informing the public of his family's history, and his ancestor's founding of Rutherford Falls 400 years ago. He's also proud of the statue, nicknamed 'Big Larry', that sits in a prominent place. But when it is suggested that the sculpture should be moved, he isn't happy — all in a town that borders a Native American reservation and has hardly been respectful of that aspect of its heritage. As well as Helms, in his first ongoing TV part since The Office, the new comedy stars Jana Schmieding (Blast), Michael Greyeyes (I Know This Much Is True), Jesse Leigh (Heathers) and Dustin Milligan (Schitt's Creek). And, you'll be able to see if it lives up to its Schur-penned predecessors when it hits Stan on Friday, April 23, with its entire first season available to binge that day. Check out the trailer for Rutherford Falls below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmSK3XliTk4 Rutherford Falls will be available to watch via Stan from Friday, April 23.
In a bid to help rejuvenate the hospitality and arts industries following two pandemic-affected years, the New South Wales Government introduced Dine & Discover vouchers. These $25 vouchers have been hanging around for a while — and were even extended — so it seemed like we all had forever use them. But the end of June has crept up on us, and you now have just a few more days to score discounted meals and tickets. For anyone who hasn't already burnt through their vouchers, we've pulled together a list of suggestions from the Concrete Playground team. They're our picks for where you should use any remaining Dine & Discover vouchers before they expire on Thursday, June 30. From bustling Inner West restaurants to award-winning stage shows, here's where to nab a sneaky $25 off over the next few days. COURTNEY AMMENHAUSER, BRANDED CONTENT MANAGER Been thinking about taking a punt on a new restaurant but don't want to end up with a dud dinner? Got your eye on an event but aren't sure if it'll be a fav or a flop? This is precisely where, I believe, you should use your Dine & Discover vouchers this week. When the government is paying, take a risk on something new, I say. That way, even if it isn't the greatest meal or event you've ever experienced, you've at least ticked something off your hit list without losing any cash. Been wanting to see more independent theatre shows? Book a ticket to Cleansed at The Old Fitz Theatre. Curious about what Toby Stansfield is serving up at the pub next door? Book in feast at the Old Fitz Hotel and find out. Whatever it may be, now's a good time to scratch that culture itch — for free. GRACE MACKENZIE, STAFF WRITER The winter chill isn't keeping me away from the ocean and — with a cheeky discount courtesy of the NSW Government — I'm diving in on a whale tour. The openair boat sets off from Manly Wharf three times a day. But, if you can't make it before the end of June, use your Discover voucher to nab yourself a whale-watching date in the future. Upon your return to Manly's bustling esplanade, take a wander up out of the thick of it and use your Dine voucher at Busta for a glass of vino and a bowl of pasta — plus something tasty from its exceptional snack menu (hello, gnocco fritto). Get yourself there on Tuesday or Wednesday and BYO something natty and fun from next-door wine shop Winona. Whales and wine in winter? Delightful. NIK ADDAMS, BRANDED CONTENT MANAGER Moving to a city a month before that city goes into lockdown isn't life advice I'd give my future self, but that's exactly what I did in 2021. That said, the Dine & Discover vouchers were a great way for me to start ticking things off my Sydney list. I spent my first Dine NSW voucher at Andiamo, a lively trattoria around the corner from my new pad in Summer Hill. Not only was the hype around this place making some of the best pizzas in Sydney justified (even if I am still doing the research), but the buzzy atmosphere and al fresco vibes were a great welcome to the neighbourhood. I used one of my Discover vouchers on a night of local theatre — my multitalented colleague Courtney Ammenhauser was part of the company that staged the very fun Hot Mess at Kings Cross Theatre in June 2021. A year later, I suggest taking my lead, even if you can't see the same show. Those looking to spend their remaining voucher on the theatre can score a discounted ticket to Lilac, an intimate 90-minute play currently on at the venue. [caption id="attachment_764363" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Keith Saunders[/caption] BEN HANSEN, STAFF WRITER One of my favourite places to watch live music in Sydney is the City Recital Hall. It's a stunning venue, the music always sounds incredible and it's right next door to the best pasta in Sydney. If you're a classical music fan, you can take your pick of the hall's huge program of upcoming shows. If like me, you gravitate more towards contemporary tunes, you can use your Discover voucher to snag discounted tickets to some of Australia and New Zealand's best songwriters including Paul Kelly, Alex the Astronaut, Ngaiire and my personal pick, effervescent folk singer Aldous Harding. As for your Dine voucher, Sydneysiders are staring down the barrel of quite a cold wintery week, so my pick would be a hot bowl of noodles and soup. The soft shell crab laksa at Uncle Joe's Malaysian Kitchen and the tonkotsu chilli ramen at RaRa are both situated under the $25 price point, meaning you can warm yourself up with a hearty feed free of charge. MELANIE COLWELL, NATIONAL BRANDED CONTENT EDITOR I think if we were to summarise the general vibe of 2022 so far, it'd be 'brain fog'. That comes courtesy of various viral illnesses making the rounds, plus general fatigue from a rough few years. So, what better way to prove you've still got some neurons firing in the ol' noggin than locking yourself in a room and doing a bunch of mind-bending puzzles in a race against the clock? I'm going to use my final Discover voucher on a session at The Cipher Room in St Peters. The new themed room La Rébellion, where your group will be part of a resistance group in dystopian France, sounds pretty appealing given the state of the world right now. After breaking free, I will be making tracks to Redfern to use my final Dine voucher at Flyover Fritterie's new digs. I never managed to visit the hole-in-the-wall spot in the CBD, so I'm keen to finally tuck in to all manner of vegan Indian street food. I have my eye on the chilli fritters and dosa potato jaffle, which comes loaded with peanut chutney, coconut and cashews — and a piping hot chai, of course. SARAH WARD, ASSOCIATE EDITOR I'm playing along from Brisbane, but if I was in Sydney and had Dine & Discover vouchers to make the most of, I'd predictably put them to use at a cinema. Yes, a film critic would say that — but if you felt like you watched your way through every movie on streaming ever during lockdowns, and just got generally sick of the sight of your TV, laptop and phone, you'll also love staring at the big screen in a darkened theatre right now as much as I do. There's simply no better place to see a film. Three of my favourite Sydney spots are all accepting Dine & Discover vouchers — and one is even taking both, so you can use them on snacks as well. That'd be Surry Hills' Golden Age Cinema and Bar, which is showing Oscar-nominated Norwegian film The Worst Person in the World, exceptional Iranian drama A Hero and one-of-a-kind horror-comedy The Love Witch before the month is out. And those two other picture palaces I mentioned? At the Randwick Ritz, ace new and recent releases like Nude Tuesday, Everything Everywhere All At Once, Top Gun: Maverick and Baz Luhrmann's Elvis are worth your time (and the government's Discover vouchers), while the also wonderful Hayden Orpheum is also showing Brit flicks Mothering Sunday and Operation Mincemeat. Top image: RaRa Ramen, Luisa Brimble.
Lockdown has limited many activities in our day-to-day day lives — trips to the pub, dinner parties with friends and weekend brunches, to name a few. But one thing that Sydneysiders' have been working diligently on perfecting is our at-home snack game. Snacking is a real highlight of our homebound lifestyles with heaps of Sydney hospo favourites offering sweet and savoury treats to get us through. Surry Hill's new Korean cafe Soul Deli is the latest to try its hand at a special lockdown delight with the introduction of new Korean baked doughnuts. The doughnuts come in both sweet and savoury flavours. One savoury option packs in cheese with fried kimchi, while the other features fried veggies in a baked croquette. The sweet choices come either filled with soboro and sweet potato or twisted with a sweet sesame topping. The kimchi used in the savoury doughnuts is house-made and can be ordered separately with jars of traditional, vegan white, vegan red and stir-fried kimchi are all available for purchase. The doughnuts are available each Wednesday in a doughnut box that features a mix of both sweet and savoury flavours. In order to ensure you get your hands on these tasty treats, head to the Soul Dining website before 9pm the night before to pre-order your boxes. If pre-ordering slips your mind, there will be a limited number of doughnuts available for takeaway each Wednesday until sold out. "Customers need to be quick, as last week's kimchi cheese croquettes were gone in an hour," Soul's Illa Kim says. The doughnuts are available until the end of August, but if they prove a hit for locals, more flavours may be introduced and Kim has indicated that the baked treats could find their way onto the menu as a permanent fixture. Soul is even encouraging customers to leave a note on its website with suggestions for flavours or inclusions in its next dosirak, a new range of boxed meals its offering throughout lockdown. Soul Deli was opened earlier this year by Illa Kim and her husband Daero Lee as an offshoot of their contemporary Korean restaurant Soul Dining. The cafe is open 7am–9pm daily and offers a range of deli staples like kimchi, pickles, sauces and snacks, as well as heartier cafe meals with a Korean twist. Head down for lunch or dinner and nab yourself a Korean fried chicken roll, pulled pork kimchi cheese sandwich, pork schnitzel or soybean stew. Soul Deli's baked Korean doughnuts are available every Wednesday. Pre-order by 9pm each Tuesday for next-day pick-up, or you can drop by from 2pm each Wednesday when the team will be selling a limited number of takeaway doughnuts, until sold out.
Busby's soft lamp-lit ambience and velvety red carpets are the perfect match for a pasta and wine night, complete with spinning records. And the experience is even more enchanting when heading out to dinner won't put undue stress on your wallet. Priced at $30, every Monday–Wednesday evening at the restaurant is now marked with a trio of pasta dishes ready to ramp up your midweek mood. Featuring two menu favourites and a weekly rotating pasta special, your dish is paired with a house red, white or rosé. Ready to dine? Your options include rigatoni with winter greens, kale pistou and pecorino, or baked ziti with white bolognese and béchamel sauce. Meanwhile, you're invited to head along each week to discover what special dish the chefs have cooked up in the kitchen. Situated inside Oxford House, aka Paddington's first lifestyle hotel, this welcoming brunch spot transforms into a laidback wine and hi-fi bar after dark. So, plan your next date night or catch up with friends to the sound of clinking glasses and vinyl crackle. [caption id="attachment_924011" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jonny Valiant[/caption]
What sits at the heart of European storytelling? That's a question that one of Australia's must-attend film festivals has been pondering for three years. It was back in 2022 that Europa! Europa initially started showcasing the breadth of cinema from across Europe — surveying as many countries as it can fit into each annual program, and swinging from the latest to the greatest pictures from across the continent. 2025's event kicks off in February to explore that idea again. Attending Europa! Europa's opening night this year means discovering what makes a French box-office hit, for starters. A Little Something Extra, directed by comedian and actor Artus, was its nation's highest-grossing homegrown movie of 2024. When it kicks off this Australian film fest in Sydney and Melbourne on Wednesday, February 12, it'll start the celebration of cinema with a tale about jewel thief and his son at a summer camp for young adults with disability. Returning to Ritz Cinemas Randwick in Sydney, plus both Classic Cinemas Elsternwick and Lido Cinemas Hawthorn in Melbourne — both for a month, running until Wednesday, March 12 — Europa! Europa has compiled a roster of 44 movies from 26 countries. Accordingly, its latest program lets viewers dig into what drives filmmaking from Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark and Estonia, and also Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Spain, Switzerland and Ukraine. Titles from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, Georgia, Montenegro, Norway, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden and the United Kingdom are on the list, too. Unsurprisingly, the largest contingent comes from France. Indeed, Gallic cinema provides Europa! Europa with its centrepiece film as well — and it's an Australian premiere, with Once Upon My Mother stepping back to the 60s. The festival's headliners bring big-name talents, as well as touching documentaries to Sydney and Melbourne. In Another End from The Wait director Piero Messina, Gael García Bernal (La Máquina) plays a mourning widower exploring tech-enhanced ways of facing grief, with Renate Reinsve (Presumed Innocent) and Bérénice Bejo (Under Paris) co-starring. The Dardenne brothers (Tori and Lokita) co-produce the Belgian tennis academy-set Julie Keeps Quiet, while Sweden's 2025 Oscar submission The Last Journey hails from Swedish journalists and TV hosts Filip Hammar and Fredrik Wikingsson, and focuses on a trip to France with the former's father. Still on familiar faces, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan Academy Award-nominee Maria Bakalova (The Apprentice) leads the satirical Triumph, French standouts Daniel Auteuil (An Ordinary Case) and Sandrine Kiberlain (November) get farcical in Love Boat, and Mélanie Laurent (Freedom) and Guillaume Canet (All-Time High) portray Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI in their final days in The Flood. Other highlights from the fest's slate of new titles include Spain's I Am Nevenka, about an IRL MeToo case; U Are the Universe, a Ukranian sci-fil film made during the current war; the Sundance-premiering Sebastian, about a writer who is also a sex worker; Anywhere, Anytime, a modernisation of Italian masterpiece Bicycle Thieves; and Loveable, from the producer of The Worst Person in the World — and the list goes on. Europa! Europa's annual retrospectives keep proving a drawcard, too. After shining the spotlight on Poor Things and Kinds of Kindness director Yorgos Lanthimos in 2024, the festival is jumping back into French film history by heroing the iconic François Truffaut. Four of the French New Wave filmmaker's movies are on the lineup, all showing as new 4K restorations: Shoot the Piano Player, The Soft Skin, Two English Girls and Finally, Sunday!. Europa! Europa Film Festival 2025 Dates Wednesday, February 12–Wednesday, March 12 — Ritz Cinemas Randwick, Sydney Wednesday, February 12–Wednesday, March 12 — Classic Cinemas Elsternwick and Lido Cinemas Hawthorn, Melbourne Europa! Europa will screen in Sydney and Melbourne from Wednesday, February 12–Wednesday, March 12, 2025. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the festival's website.
Australian grime fans have been dealt a disappointing blow: Stromzy has announced he is cancelling his highly anticipated upcoming tour. The UK sensation was set to grace Australian shores later this year on the much-delayed H.I.T.H World Tour alongside a run of festival dates as the headliner for Spilt Milk, but has confirmed in a statement released through the festival that he has pulled out of all of his international tour dates for the remainder of 2022. "It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to inform you guys that due to circumstances beyond my control, I must cancel international commitments for the remainder of the year which includes my Australian and New Zealand tour," said Stormzy. "You guys have waited so patiently and I am so sorry that this has to happen after all these ups and downs. I love you guys and I promise I will be back as soon as I can with a show that's bigger and better than ever." Originally scheduled for 2020 before being pushed back multiple times for pandemic-related reasons, the run of dates was finally supposed to kick off in Perth on Wednesday, November 23, before hitting Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Wellington and Auckland, as well as Ballarat, Canberra and the Gold Coast with Spilt Milk. While losing Stormzy is a huge blow for the festival, Spilt Milk has come through with another exciting international headliner in his place. Highly influential Grammy-nominated indie-pop singer and one of 2022's biggest breakout stars Steve Lacy has been added to the lineup for all three Spilt Milk dates. An original member of the popular funk and soul group The Internet, Lacy has worked with the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Solange and Tyler, the Creator. Following solo success with his debut album Apollo XXI as well as singles like 'Dark Red' which you've almost certainly heard on TikTok, the Californian singer-songwriter has found huge mainstream success this year with the release of his album Gemini Rights and its lead single ' Bad Habits' which currently sits at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US. Alongside his appearances at Spilt Milk, Lacy has also announced a run of headline dates across the east coast of Australia. He'll be popping up at Melbourne's The Forum on Tuesday, November 22, The Tivoli in Brisbane on Tuesday, November 23 and Sydney's Enmore Theatre on Monday, November 28. Due to the lineup change, Spilt Milk will be offering refunds for anyone who requests one via Moshtix before 5pm Thursday, October 4. After that, you can also pop your tickets up for sale on the festival's resale facility. Those that want to head along to catch Lacy alongside previously announced acts like Flume, The Wombats, Spacey Jane, G Flip, Fisher and Peach PRC can access tickets via the Moshtix resale. Tickets for Steve Lacy's solo shows will go on sale via the Frontier Members pre-sale at 9am local time on Tuesday, October 4, before the general public tickets go on sale on Wednesday, October 5. [caption id="attachment_851188" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jordan Munns[/caption] Stormzy has cancelled his run of Australian and New Zealand shows including his appearances at Spilt Milk. Refunds for Spilt Milk are available via Moshtix until 5pm, Thursday, October 4.
For a lot of us, this year has been a time of reflection, much of which saw us reliving the glory days while we wait for life to get back to normal. For the arts lovers among us, that probably meant harking back to all your days watching live theatre, catching a panel discussion, head-bopping to live tunes and throwing shapes in sweaty mosh pits. Here at Concrete Playground we've been reminiscing about some of the standout gigs we've been to in past years and it's gotten us pretty damn excited for the new memories we'll be making come 2021. So, we've teamed up with Sydney Opera House to celebrate its reopening. The iconic Aussie arts venue is inviting you to share the most memorable moments you've had there — either within its walls or on its steps. Then, in January, a selection of the best moments will be projected onto the sails. All you need to do is share your favourite memory via the website, email or social media along with #MySydneyOperaHouse. We jumped on board, too, so if you need some inspiration, check out nine of our most memorable Opera House events over the past five years. Then, take your own trip down memory lane for the chance to have your moment splashed across the sails for all of Sydney to see. [caption id="attachment_793882" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Miku, Daniel Boud[/caption] DANCE RITES, 2019 It's only been running for six years, but the annual dance competition has become a firm favourite on Sydney's events calendar. First Nations dancers and musicians travel from north-east Arnhem Land, the Torres Strait and just down the road to perform in a temporary sand pit positioned by the Opera House steps in a celebratory exchange of cultures. Hundreds of performers compete for various prizes, and in 2019 the top gong was presented to local dance group Muggera, from NSW. You might know its founders Darren and Jax Compton from NITV's Move It Mob Style or Yabun Festival. Seeing Darren and Jax's group recognised at the city's iconic building was a moment of local pride. Emma Joyce, Branded Content Editor [caption id="attachment_793876" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] SOLANGE, 2018 The force that is Solange was evident when she first took to the stage at Sydney Opera House. Sure, we knew it before, but not quite like this. The gig was visually arresting, with movement as much a part as the music. Combine that with the show's main songbook, A Seat at the Table, and its themes of race and womanhood and it was one hell of a gig. Each song bled into the next, making for one super-slick, seamless sonic delight, only to be heightened by the monochromatic costumes, perfectly timed dancers and dramatic red light swathed across the stage. Having been to both of Solange's sell-out Sydney shows, I left both astounded by her genius. The 2018 gig was a feast. The 2020 one? Well, it was one of the last big gigs Sydney saw this year, which holds a weight of its own. Cordelia Williamson, Branded Content Producer [caption id="attachment_793874" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Clare Hawley[/caption] 'IN THE HEIGHTS', 2019 Without trying to trivialise all the bad things that have happened this year, the delayed release of the In the Heights screen adaptation was a huge disappointment. But it made me all the more grateful for having seen the Blue Saint Productions tour for Sydney Festival. I only managed to nab standing room tickets, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise — because as soon as the show began, with the colourful mix of Latin rhythm, rap, hip hop and soul music, you wanted to be on your feet grooving along. It was captivating and joyful — and, at times, searing, as the characters deal with themes of loss, racism and identity. If I wasn't already convinced of Lin Manuel Miranda's genius from listening to the Hamilton soundtrack on repeat, witnessing this revolutionary show (and learning he wrote the first draft in college) was the final stroke. Melanie Colwell, Branded Content Editor [caption id="attachment_793877" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Keith Saunders[/caption] DAWN CHORUS, SYDNEY PHILHARMONIA CHOIRS, 2020 Despite 2020 being the year of minimal gigs, Sydney Philharmonia Choirs' Dawn Chorus is one that stands out from more than a decade of gig-going. The one-off concert took place on the Monumental Steps and, despite being at the crack of dawn (literally) and the pretty grim weather, it drew quite the crowd. I hadn't woken up that early for a while — 5.30am after a night out ain't easy for some. But, huddled for warmth on a summer's morning, we all stilled as soon as the a cappella voices echoed through the dark. It was a no-frill performance; pure vocals backdropped by the Opera House sails and using the naturally theatrical lighting of sunrise. I can't recall if the sun actually burst through the clouds at this moment but, as the choirs sang Dolly Parton's gospel-style ballad 'Light of a Clear Blue Morning', it sure felt as if it did. Cordelia Williamson, Branded Content Producer [caption id="attachment_793879" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] TEN YEARS OF FUTURE CLASSIC, 2015 It was only five years ago, but 2015 feels like another age. Touch Sensitive's 'Pizza Guy' was on heavy rotation. Chet Faker was still chill with his stage name. And baby-faced Harley Streten was riding high off the back of his debut album Flume. It was an exceptionally good time for Redfern-based record label and artist management company Future Classic — the glue sticking these artists (and many others since) together. For Future Classic's ten-year anniversary, it was awarded prime real estate during Vivid Festival on the Western Broadwalk for an openair gig packed with partygoers and supporters. And what a way to blow out the candles. Sydney had recently adapted to its new lockout laws, but there was a sense that the party spirit couldn't be dampened. Emma Joyce, Branded Content Editor [caption id="attachment_793881" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] KAMASI WASHINGTON, 2019 If you're a fan of the dizzying afrofuturist neo-jazz genius that is Kamasi Washington, then you'll probably already know how good his 2019 gig in the Opera House Concert Hall was — even if you weren't there. The LA tenor saxophonist has played at the House a couple of times, taking to the stage with his eight-piece band. Last year, it was all about Heaven and Earth; Washington's two-and-a-half-hour double album that gets to the belly of progressive improvisational jazz. The solos were some of the most exciting and raw musical experiences I've had, particularly the two drums. It was a mind-blowing, quasi-cosmic performance of freeform jazz, funk and hip hop. It left no question that Kamasi Washington is an artist in his prime — and of his time. Cordelia Williamson, Branded Content Producer [caption id="attachment_793875" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Prudence Upton[/caption] 'BARBU', CIRQUE ALFONSE, 2017 When I went to see Quebec-based troupe Cirque Alfonse perform Barbu in 2017, I was, somewhat (naively it turns out) anticipating something akin to Canada's most famous circus export. But Cirque du Soleil this was not. It started fairly predictably — trampolining, trapezing, juggling — before descending into utter, yet carefully choreographed, chaos. There were four men roller skating while pulling each other along by their luscious beards. Someone dressed in a mirror-ball spinning around the circular stage inside a giant hoop. The two female acrobats performed a contortionist duet on a pole and an elder gentleman performed comedic skits in platform heels with his rodent accomplice. And most of this happened with the ensemble wearing barely anything — and, at some points, nothing at all — soundtracked by the increasingly frenetic stylings of a live three-piece band (a DJ/violinist, a guitarist and a whip-clad, corseted drummer). On the screens around the room, video footage played of naked people running through meadows. Despite it happening in The Studio, one of the Opera House's smallest spaces, it was impossible to know where to look. Barbu was astonishing in many ways, from the impressive strength of the performers to how each feat was more random, bizarrely erotic and death-defying than the one before. It was unlike anything I had ever seen before — or since. Melanie Colwell, Branded Content Editor [caption id="attachment_793878" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] THE DEEP PURPLE POOL HALL, 2015 We can thank Ben Marshall for a lot of fond memories at Sydney Opera House over the years — including seeing Tame Impala perform by the steps, blissing out to Sufjan Stevens and chanting back at The Preatures' cover of The Angels' 'Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again?'. But one of the quieter wins of his reign as curator of Vivid Live was introducing a space at the House where we could get a well-made cocktail and shoot the breeze with our besties. In 2015, Marshall invited the team from Tio's and The Cliff Dive to create a pop-up bar in the Concert Hall's northern foyer with pool tables, soft furnishings and DJs. It's where we debriefed. Where we formed new friendships and solidified old ones. It's where we fell back in love with Sydney and its capacity to transform the city's landmarks in winter. Emma Joyce, Branded Content Editor [caption id="attachment_793883" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Prudence Upton[/caption] PAUL KELLY AT THE FORECOURT, 2017 It doesn't get much more Aussie than seeing our country's bard performing at the foot of the Opera House. Paul Kelly's music is loved because it is Australia put into song. Though he was promoting his latest album Life Is Fine, his hits were what really entranced the crowd. He indulged us, too, playing songs like 'To Her Door' and Australia's Christmas anthem 'How to Make Gravy'. But, for me, it was 'When I First Met Your Ma' that made this one of the most memorable gigs in my young lifetime. What I deem to be one of the greatest love songs had me crying. But it wasn't just the tune, rather the sum of its parts — the setting sun, the glistening Sydney Harbour, the Opera House sails behind me and Kelly's live tunes sung unapologetically with an Aussie twang. At the risk of sounding completely sappy, it was a moment of true pause; one where you forgot about what's on next or that thing you messed up two days ago and you're just there — absolutely loving it. Cordelia Williamson, Branded Content Producer Relive your most memorable Sydney Opera House moments and share it via social media with the hashtag #MySydneyOperaHouse. Or, submit your entry to the competition via the website, email to myhouse@sydneyoperahouse.com. It can be a photo, video, drawing, a written story, an illustration or an audio — just get creative. Submissions close Thursday, December 31 2020. Top image: Hamilton Lund
The Sydney Opera House invited Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard to sing inside the structure of its iconic sails and the result is stunning. Standing on a metal platform and surrounded by the strikingly brutal concrete ribs of the sails, Hansard sings a beautifully raw version of his acoustic song 'Stay the Road'. Written just across the harbour in the Rocks, 'Stay the Road' is the last track on Hansard's 2015 album Didn't He Ramble, which he's in Sydney at the moment to tour. He's playing – this time inside, rather than above, the Concert Hall – on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 October. The video is part of a series called Nooks and Crannies produced with Intel Australia to showcase the inside of the Opera House. Image: Teresa Tan.
Timothée Chalamet has played a teenager falling in love over summer (Call Me By Your Name), King Henry V (The King), Paul Atreides (Dune and Dune: Part Two, Willy Wonka (Wonka), a cannibal (Bones and All), a love interest for Saoirse Ronan (Lady Bird and Little Women), a young man struggling with addiction (Beautiful Boy), the Vice President's son (Homeland) and more, but there's a look of fierce enthusiasm that comes over him when he's talking about a project that he spent more than half a decade working on, stars in and also produced: A Complete Unknown. Portraying Bob Dylan on-screen isn't a simple task. In fact, when I'm Not There attempted the feat in 2007, it enlisted six actors, including Australians Heath Ledger and Cate Blanchett (The New Boy), to share job. As evident from his hypnotic performance in A Complete Unknown — and his singing and guitar-playing, learned for the feature — Chalamet not only embraced but aced the challenge. For A Complete Unknown, he steps into Dylan's shoes from back when the movie's title proved true, then stays in them until four years later when that phrase definitely no longer applied. In 1961 at the age of 19, Dylan met his idol Woody Guthrie (Scoot McNairy, Speak No Evil), visiting him in hospital as a fan from Minnesota. Come 1965, after songs such as 'Blowin' in the Wind', 'The Times They Are a-Changin' and 'Subterranean Homesick Blues' had struck a chord, whether he'd go electric at the Newport Folk Festival was the source of huge controversy. Dylan did, as history will always remember. Chalamet, working with director James Mangold (Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny), brings that specific slice of the icon's life to the screen in a film that keeps garnering him award nominations. He's the young Dylan, arriving to chase his music dream with little more than the guitar that's rarely out of his hands. He's also the thrust-to-fame-swiftly Dylan, after mentorship from Pete Seeger (Edward Norton, Asteroid City), while cultivating a complicated relationship with the already-renowned Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro, Fubar), and as he's trying to maintain a relationship with artist and activist Sylvie Russo (Elle Fanning, The Great), who is based on the real-life Suze Rotolo. And, Chalamet wouldn't mind being Dylan again in the future, if the "incredible opportunity" came up. "The amazing thing about Bob Dylan is every chapter is interesting. This is almost the most fertile because it's the beginning," Chalamet advises. This is the period of his life where the least is almost available, especially in the early 60s, but you can make a movie out of almost any period of Bob's life." How does it feel to lead a Bob Dylan biopic and to have the man himself tweet about it? "I didn't know if he was ever going to say anything because, true to the reclusive artist that Bob is, I don't know if he'll ever see the movie, truthfully," Chalamet says. "But seeing that post was hugely affirming. When you're a young artist, I don't care how successful you are, to get a pat on the back from a legend — especially a legend of few words like Bob Dylan — it was a dream come true, literally. I mean, it was beyond my wildest dreams. It was an enormous pat on the back and affirmation, and a moment for me in my life and career to go 'okay, I'm doing the right thing'." Passion radiates from Chalamet, clearly. It does the same from Mangold, who returns to the music-biopic genre after 2005's Johnny Cash-focused Walk the Line — Cash is also part of this flick, with Boyd Holbrook (The Bikeriders) in the part — plus from Fanning and Barbaro, too. "Think about it: between the ages of 19 and 24, he wrote 15 or 20 of the most-important songs of the century," the filmmaker behind A Complete Unknown, who co-wrote the script with Jay Cocks (Silence), adapting Elijah Wald's 2015 book Dylan Goes Electric! Newport, Seeger, Dylan, and the Night That Split the Sixties, notes of Dylan to Concrete Playground. "That's pretty remarkable when you think about what probably we were all doing between 19 and 24 years of age." Fanning was a massive Dylan devotee going in; "I was huge Bob Dylan nut, and I had a poster of him on my wall and I was a fanatic, so I felt like I kind of manifested this part in in many ways," she shares about playing Russo, a take on Rotolo with the name changed at Dylan's request. For Barbaro with portraying Baez, she speaks about her gig, the IRL great that she's acting as and performing with Chalamet — after learning to sing and play guitar herself — with equally deep feeling. "It's an absolute career highlight for me," she tells us. As it works its way from Guthrie's hospital bedside to Newport, exploring who Dylan was at the time through his music and impact, the commitment from its many key forces echoes from A Complete Unknown as memorably as its wealth of tunes. Chalamet, Mangold, Fanning and Barbaro also spoke with us about how important it is that the movie isn't trying to paint one definitive portrait of its subject, the film's exploration of an artist evolving, speaking with Baez, Cash and Dylan's connection, parallels for the cast with reality and more. On How Mangold Knew That Chalamet Was the Right Actor to Bring This Period of Dylan's Life to the Screen James: "Well, 'know' is the strange word. I had an instinct that he'd be good. We don't know anything. I mean, we just try. And Timmy's phenomenally talented. Can sing. And I think has some of the mercurial, playful aspects of Bob in him, in his own personality. I thought he could find parallels. The act of playing a role like this isn't really the act of doing an impression or mimicry — it's really, to me at least as I feel it, it's about finding the harmonies between your own personality and the person you're playing, and finding a way to meet somewhere in the middle where you're still bringing your authentic acting self. You're not just doing an impression in which the performance is judged by how well you do Bob's mannerisms only, but how well you can fold that into who you are and come out with something authentic, and real, and soulful that exists in the space between. He's one of the best young actors of our time. And he's also a wonderful guy. And it seemed so logical, it seemed actually a no-brainer, to be honest. It seemed like a really exciting proposition. I cannot say I knew he would hit it so far out of the park that he would find such a great chord. We often present ourselves, as directors, we often try to get you guys to write about us like we knew everything in advance and we had a vision, and the vision comes to life — and we love it when you write about us that way. But in reality that isn't the way it is. We have a hunch. We have a hope. We have a prayer. And sometimes we're right and we keep it in the movie. Sometimes we're wrong and, if we can, we get it out of the movie. But the reality is that I had a hunch Timmy would be great. But I also demanded a lot of him. He had to learn over 40 songs and play them live, and be still in character acting, meaning it's not just 'can you learn the song and sing?' — it's 'can you learn the guitar, sing this song and do it like Bob Dylan in a scene while there's romantic tension or some other kind of dramatic energy going on?'. You're talking about a lot of chewing gum and riding bicycles and juggling at the same time. And Timmy's a pretty remarkable talent himself. And you're also talking about a young man in Timmy who has met with fame from an early age like Bob. So there are whole other levels where — and stardom and all that it brings — so that there were so many levels that he could bring insight and talent to this job." On How Crucial It Was to Chalamet That This is a Film About a Moment in Time and an Artist Evolving Timothée: "That's exactly it. This is a movie firmly about an artist evolving, as you so wonderfully put it. This is an interpretation. This is not a definitive act, and I think James Mangold, our director, always had a very solid eye on that. This is a man who's alive and well, who knows the history of how this went down. And a lot of the footage, not particularly from 1961–63, but definitely from 64 onwards, is available online and it's wonderful. It was very helpful to me in my interpretation of the character and of this period, but ultimately this is an interpretation. That's why Elle Fanning's character is a Sylvie Russo, as opposed to Suze Rotolo. This is more of a fable. And nonetheless, it's also, of course, a Bob Dylan biopic." On How the Film's Exploration of Artistic Evolution Resonates with Fanning Given That She's Been Acting Since She Was a Toddler Elle: "Yeah, technically two, because I would play my sister at a younger age in things, in flashback scenes — they would just call me in. But I think that's one of my favourite things, honestly, about this film and watching it as a whole. This slice of Dylan's life was so much about making artistic choices and not being pigeon-holed into one thing. So it's actually been a really nice reminder to me to follow my instincts. I always have followed my instincts pretty much. And when I haven't, it's like 'oh god, it's always best to do that'. And I love surprising people and picking parts that are going to surprise people, and surprise myself and challenge me. That's just what I want. I don't want to ever be put into a box of a certain genre or certain film. I mean, people will try to do that to everyone, because it's more palatable for people when you understand where they're coming from. That's what Dylan has done — he's never allowed anyone to do that to him. So it's been inspiring, and the movie is really about that, to be honest. So I loved watching the film for the first time, and seeing that journey was great. Because obviously I wasn't in every single scene, so it's fun to watch the scenes I wasn't in. But I try to push myself." On How Portraying an IRL Figure, and an Icon, Changed How Barbaro Approached Her Part Monica: "It was very big shoes to fill. She's an exceptional musician and I had no music training, so my main call to action was to learn to play guitar, and learn to sing, and get my proficiency up to a level where you would believe that I'd been doing that for years and years. And then also, the benefit is, as much as her voice is absolutely impossible to replicate, she had these iconic qualities that people referred to a lot. When they talk about her, they mentioned her tight vibrato and the key that she sings these songs in. And so just trying to expand my range and trying to sound like her — the finger-picking, that was a particular style that she played with. And just diving into those specifics to try to get that recognisability there was a huge part of the process." On Mangold Revisiting Johnny Cash On-Screen After Walk the Line — and Finding Someone New to Play Him James: "I really didn't give it much thought in terms of my own oeuvre, although I was aware that it was the second time this real-life character was appearing in my film. It just seemed a necessity, the more research I did. It wasn't really very featured at all in Elijah Wald's book, but the more research I did — and I also had the knowledge from making Walk the Line that Johnny Cash and Bob had been pen pals during this period — but the more research I did, and knowing that Cash was on stage in the wings when Bob went electric, was there and even lent his guitar, his acoustic guitar to Bob when he went back out on stage to sing his last song 'Baby Blue', the last acoustic song, at Newport 65, I thought 'well, what am I going to do with Johnny?'. And I asked Dylan's manager, Jeff Rosen, if they still had the letters that Johnny Cash had written to Bob. And they did. And he sent me scans of all these letters, which were magnificent — a kind of beautiful, romantic example of an artist a few years ahead of Bob, writing him fan letters and bolstering a sense of confidence in the young man about his writing and his ability from someone Dylan admired. And so this correspondence suddenly became central to me, because as I was trying to assemble — as much as I was trying to tell Dylan's story, he is a bit inscrutable, and I felt like you could learn more by also telling the story of those that surrounded Dylan, and the way his genius affected each of them differently. And what was so necessary about bringing Johnny into the story was that he's the devil on that shoulder. If you have Pete and Lomax and Joan Baez all on this shoulder saying 'stick with the team; don't cross over to that dangerous, suspicious popular music', you had Johnny Cash on the other shoulder who was saying 'track mud on someone's carpet'. Which was literally one of Johnny's lines in his letters to Bob. And that he made it his business to encourage Dylan to stay bold and to stay on the leading edge, was so wonderful to me. And then Cash also ironically had a band, and somehow got special dispensation to bring his band on the stage at Newport without anyone having a meltdown — which indicates or, I think, reveals, how Bob was a symbol. The reason they didn't want Bob to go electric was not because they hated all music with an electric guitar or a drum, but because he had become the centre pillar, holding up the tent of classical folk music. And if Bob turned, that meant the tent would fall." On Chalamet's Run of Playing Young Men Discovering the Reality of What Fame and Power Means as Paul Atreides and Bob Dylan — and Parallels with His Own Experience Timothée: "I think what's most fascinating about the world of Dune, and of this period of Bob Dylan that we explore in this film from 1961–65, is both were born of the open-mindedness of culture in America in the 1960s. Dune was written in this middle 60s period, it was written on the West Coast, but in a similar time in American history where people were groundbreaking with their creativity and open mindedness. And as far as relating to these roles, it's really not that fascinating to try to dissect or even to talk about, because the ways or parallels are apparent or not apparent, and I have no interesting perspective for anyone beyond the ways they're apparent to you or to me. And the ways they're not apparent are also apparent, because I'm not a space prophet and I'm not a lyrical prophet." On What Fanning Was Excited About, Coming to A Complete Unknown as a Huge Dylan Fan Since She Was a Teenager Elle: "Well, I was excited about multiple things. Jim and I were supposed to, he was supposed to direct me in a film many years ago, and so to be able to — that didn't work, but then he remembered me from that time and so asked me to come on for this. And I'd done a movie with Timmy before, so we were friends. I was huge Bob Dylan nut, and I had a poster of him on my wall and I was a fanatic, so I felt like I kind of manifested this part in in many ways. And obviously, the film was like five, well, more than five, years in the making. We were supposed to film it five years ago and then COVID and the strikes happened. So we had a lot of time to think about it. There were points where we thought it might fall apart — is everyone's schedules going to work? — so I was very happy that the schedules worked out that I was able to stay on and do it. [caption id="attachment_987697" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kate Green/Getty Images for The Walt Disney Company Limited[/caption] And then, the thing is Sylvie, even though her name is different, she really she is Suze Rotolo. So she's not actually a fictionalised character, it's just that her name is changed because Bob Dylan himself, he talked to Jim a lot about the script and he's read the script — I haven't met him or talked to him — but he wanted her name changed. That was the one thing that he wanted, because he felt like she, and this is touched on in the movie a lot, that she was a private person. She never wanted to be a public figure. And Suze has now passed. So there was something, there was a weight to that, that I subconsciously always felt every day. Because I don't know if Bob will ever see this movie, but still if he does one day, I hope that I captured that essence of their first love, because obviously it was a very sacred and precious thing to him. And Suze wrote a novel, a memoir called A Freewheelin' Time, so I read that and had so much information about their relationship. And honestly, scenes from that book are verbatim in our story. So in a lot of ways, her story is very true to the trajectory of their relationship. Dates are changed, she wasn't in Newport in 65, but the fights that they had and the things that they shared together is very true to what the relationship was. Obviously Suze was, I guess, a muse, but I guess more inspired him many times over. There's so many songs he's written about her. And he really wasn't in the political scene, he wasn't into politics until he met Suze, because she was a real political activist at that time in the 60s, in the West Village and the youth movement and civil rights movement, she introduced that to Bob. I knew how special of a figure she was to him, so I wanted to honour that and make it true to first loves around the world that we have. Inevitably they don't work out, but keep 'em in your heart." On What Barbaro Drew From Speaking with Baez — and What It Meant to Her Monica: "I did have the chance to speak with her. I was nervous about reaching out, but I was so absorbed and obsessed with her and her life, and every corner of what I could find in any interview, memoir, documentary, and even within the songs and the way she sang them, that we were starting to film and I started having dreams about her. And I kept dreaming that we were hanging out and we always had a really good time. And so I think my subconscious was telling me that 'it's okay to reach out' — like 'you do understand her, I think, well enough to know that she'll have a conversation with you'. And I felt like it was a very Joan thing to do, to be bold enough to reach out so. So I did, and we spoke on the phone, and hearing the sound of her voice on the phone with me is one of the most-beautiful experiences I think I've ever had. It was emotional. It was everything to me, and she mentioned at one point that she was hoping I would reach out — and that just felt incredibly validating in my decision. And also I felt it made me feel like I really had understood something about her, and that I was on the right path. And the next day I performed 'Don't Think Twice' live, which was my first song live in front of a live audience on a big stage with guitar, with singing — difficult guitar song, too, that I had taken a year to learn with no prior experience. And so I was all bundled up and nervous for that, and then as we were doing takes of it, I just felt something release, and I felt like she had sort of — whether she knew it or not — sort of sent me on my way, and I was able to fully embrace the research I had done, but try to blossom into this character in the movie, and create as her and try things as her. I felt like somehow, even though she didn't give me permission, I felt somehow like I suddenly had it, had that permission to try things as Joan." A Complete Unknown releases in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, January 23, 2025. Images: courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2024 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.
Even Polyphemus the Cyclops needs sunglasses. Just because Polyphemus doesn't exist shouldn't stop us from dreaming up eyewear for him. That's what Italian artist Giuseppe Colarusso appears to be suggesting in one of the images from his ongoing series of reality-defying Improbabilita. The uniting theme of all the 50+ whacky visual concepts in this project? Unlikelihood. Sourced entirely from Colarusso's skewed yet strangely logical imagination, his bizarre inventions aim to draw a double-take from the viewer. At first glance these might be real things — until your improbability reflex kicks in. How about a set of cutlery with limp rope handles that totally negate their functionality? A sink without a plughole? Dice denuded of their dots? A hieroglyphics computer keyboard? A mix of real-life construction and Photoshopping, there are over 50 such concepts live on Colarusso's very entertaining website. Each item is easily worthy of the International Chindogu Society — chindogu being, of course, the Japanese art of the 'un-useless invention', a tradition which over the years has brought us such hilarious ingenuities as the butter gluestick. Funnily enough, like chindogu, Colarusso's surreal images more often than not raise the question of "Why doesn't this exist?" If you stop and think of the physical logistics of such a thing — for example, spaghetti in an ice cream cone — during that whimsical moment of pause before you realise why the object's existence is totally unlikely, for the briefest fraction of a second there, it's likely. Via Colossal.
It's been a big few months for new hotels around Australia, including just-opened spots and places that'll launch in the coming months and years. Sydney now boasts the first Down Under outpost for Ace Hotels, and will soon score Porter House Hotel, too — plus the local debut of The Waldorf Astoria in 2025. Melbourne has welcomed the design-driven AC Hotels, Newcastle is nabbing its own QT with a rooftop bar and a suite in a clock tower, and the Gold Coast is nabbing The Langham. There's also a new hotel in the works for the Barossa in the middle of a vineyard, and the Yarra Valley is getting one as part of a big gig venue. Don't go thinking that Brisbane is missing out, though — because that's where the new voco Brisbane City Centre comes in. The chain has just taken up residence on North Quay right next to Brisbane Quarter, which means that it's in a prime riverside position. And, to take advantage of that location, it features a views aplenty, as well as a rooftop pool. Brisbane's first voco hotel — and the second for Queensland, after voco Gold Coast — it also comes with 194 rooms, as well as hangout space Kraft & Co. There, you can drink coffee by day and kick back in a lounge bar by night. You'll find the latter on the ground floor, slinging everything from eggs for breakfast and brunch through to cocktails till late. Wherever you're spending your time at this new staycation spot, you'll be surrounded by a sleek fitout by Sydney-based interior design studio JPDC, which takes its cues from the hotel's riverside locale. Dark blue tones are a big feature, alongside neutral colours — and maximising natural light. Among the site's features, voco Brisbane City Centre also boasts an all-hours gym, plus 11 meeting and function spaces. And, as part of a sustainability push that also includes aerated shower heads and refillable Antipodes products, guests can zip around the city for free on handcrafted bamboo bikes from Wyld Bikes. Find voco Brisbane City Centre at 85–87 North Quay, Brisbane. For more information or to make a booking, head to the voco website.
UPDATE: MONDAY, AUGUST 17 — Taco Tuesdays has been extended by two weeks until August 25. To celebrate its weekday reopening, award-winning cocktail bar PS40 has teamed up with much-loved Mexican eatery Chica Bonita to bring Sydneysiders an after-work treat. Taco Tuesdays will take over the CBD laneway bar from July 21–August 25, with a different regional taco and cocktail menu on offer each week. As can be expected from these two powerhouses, the menu will be elevated well above your standard taco night offering. It's also the city crowd's chance to taste some of chef Alejandro Huerta's incredible cooking, as the Chica Bonita CBD location remains closed. Kicking off on Tuesday, July 21, the menu will begin with tacos from Mexico City. Varieties will include wagyu with salsa verde and cilantro; truffle and potato with Oaxaca chilli; shredded chicken and chorizo with queso fresco and avocado leaf; and haloumi with charred avo, chicarrón and roasted salsa roja. Apart from the four tacos, punters will also receive a special margarita or themed cocktail on arrival — and it'll cost $50 all up. [caption id="attachment_654874" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Alana Dimou[/caption] Bookings are available via email at 6pm, 7.30pm and 9pm each Tuesday. As the bar will be open for just 30 guests during each time slot, all four nights are likely to sell out, so get in quick. Top image: Chica Bonita, Kitti Gould.
When the Hopetoun Hotel closed its doors back in 2009 — due to reported excessive fines and council requests — the people of Sydney had no idea that it would be the start of a dark period for live music venues. Since then, the Surry Hills hotel has been sitting boarded up on the corner of Bourke and Fitzroy Streets. But exciting reports and social media whispers suggest that the Hoey has been sold — and to a proprietor who will support live music, no less. Yesterday The Brag reported that Adrian Bull of Blind Records had purchased the site. This appears to be confirmed by his comments on a Facebook post discussing the sale. The Hopetoun Hotel closed in 2009 amid live music fan protests and an unsuccessful online campaign. Up until then, the venue was a vital part of the local music scene, and had helped launch the careers of several musicians, including Sarah Blasko. Looks like she'll live! And, better yet, the Hopetoun is located outside of the lockout zone. We're looking to confirm these reports with the new owner and will update this story when we do. Via The Brag. Image: Wikimedia Commons.
RISING 2025 keeps inching closer, with the Melbourne music, art, culture and architecture festival set to take over the Victorian capital across Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, June 15 — and it isn't done adding to its lineup just yet. How do you close out 12 jam-packed winter days, not to mention an event where you could be playing mini-golf in Flinders Street Station Ballroom one moment, then enjoying Pakistani R&B and Punjabi rap the next? With a literally underground five-hour gig that's making Melbourne history. The fest has announced Track Work — Music From the Underground, which will take audiences to a brand-new location. Feel like you've seen live tunes at every venue in the Victorian capital there is? You haven't headed 20-plus metres below St Kilda Road to the yet-to-open Anzac Station for a gig before. First Nations label BAD APPLES MUSIC is behind the event, with Briggs, BARKAA, Birdz and Jayteehazard on the lineup. Headline sets, DJs, MCs: they're all on the bill at this daytime concert, which is running from 11am–4pm on Sunday, June 15. Also huge: the fact that admission is free. Alongside the entertainment, Track Work doubles as a chance to take a self-guided walk-through of the station — and to see Tracks, the new public artwork from Victorian First Nations artist Maree Clarke, which features the fur seal and fairy penguin among other animals that live in Bunurong / Boonwurrung Country's coastal climes. "Track Work is a uniquely Melbourne moment — a chance to experience two of the most important, original and charismatic voices in music in this country. Briggs, BARKAA and their BAD APPLES MUSIC family will reveal one of the city's most significant new spaces with a baptism of bass and beats in a free afternoon of DJs, MCs and celebration," said RISING Co-Artistic Director Hannah Fox, announcing the event. "As a powerful finale for RISING, we're thrilled to partner with Metro Tunnel Creative Program and BAD APPLES MUSIC to create something bold, fun, unexpected and unrepeatable." Also on the RISING lineup, as previously announced: a free installation by a teamLab alum, exclusive Suki Waterhouse gigs, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Yasiin Bey with Talib Kweli, Portishead's Beth Gibbons, Aotearoa favourite Marlon Williams, Olivier-winning hip-hop dance work BLKDOG, Zoë Coombs Marr's new variety show, a film retrospective dedicated to Miranda July, Tropical Fuck Storm playing The Forum, Melbourne Art Trams' latest iteration and much, much more. [caption id="attachment_1005634" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Isaac Turier[/caption] Track Work — Music From the Underground takes place from 11am–4pm on Sunday, June 15, 2025 at Anzac Station, Melbourne, with entry via the Domain Road and Albert Road station entrances. Entry is free but booking is required via the festival's website. RISING 2025 runs from Wednesday, June 4–Sunday, June 15 across Melbourne. Head to the event's website for further information.
The monopoly supermarkets once held over us food eaters has waned in recent years. Market halls are becoming the logical response to people's renewed interest in small batch, bespoke, local, sustainable, organic produce, because who wants to spend hours traipsing all over the city looking for the good stuff? Not us. Luckily, Sydneysiders now have a providore marketplace which brings all the aforementioned things together in one location for you to pack into your roll-along nanna trolley. As well as housing Archie Rose Distillery, Black Star Pastry, Three Blue Ducks and Italian restaurant Da Mario, The Cannery also offers everything you need to live a wholesome, healthy life together in one place. The huge 4500-square-metre retrofitted warehouse in Rosebery has a greengrocer, a butcher, a baker, a coffee roaster, restaurants and a cooking school. It's been in development for some time. The first stage saw Grain Organic Bakery, Zeus Street Greek, 5th Earl and The Choc Pot open their doors, then came Vive Cooking School, organic grocer Wholefoods House, artisan butcher Kingsmore Meats and Welcome Dose Specialty Coffee. It also landed a sustainable bottle shop, The Drink Hive, which features refillable beer and wine stations, and regular market days on weekends.
We Steal Secrets is the story of Wikileaks, and from the outset it fast becomes apparent how little you know of an organisation dedicated to transparency and the sharing of information. Directed by Alex Gibney (Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room), the documentary mirrors the real-world by focusing on two key individuals: Wikileaks' Australian founder Julian Assange and Bradley Manning, the US soldier whose disclosure of classified documents thrust Assange onto the world stage. The stories of the two men are told with surprising sensitivity, particularly in the case of Manning, who — on account of his ongoing incarceration — is represented exclusively by typed words on a screen. Sent over the course of his deployment in Iraq, the catalogue of Manning's brief online exchanges with various hackers reveals an extraordinarily lonely soul unable to reconcile serious questions about both his own identity and what he perceived to be the ongoing cover-up of atrocities by the US Government. "I want people to see the truth," he wrote, just before leaking hundreds of thousands of classified documents to Assange. "It affects everyone on earth." In all, We Steal Secrets: The Story of Wikileaks achieves a fine balance in its depiction of two men whose lives became inextricably linked and, thereafter, changed almost certainly for the worse. We Steal Secrets: The Story of Wikileaks is in cinemas on July 4. Thanks to Universal Pictures, we have 10 double in-season passes to give away. To be in the running, subscribe to our newsletter (if you haven't already) and then email hello@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address. Read our full review of We Steal Secrets here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=SdezJrNaL70
We've seen some pretty amazing accommodation locations in our time (caves, catacombs and ski jumps included), but none quite take the cake like atop one of the world's most recognisable and romanticised landmarks: the Eiffel Tower. Yep, the Eiffel Tower. This new accommodation option (way better than the Montmartre apartment you rented in 2014, sorry) comes from holiday rental website, HomeAway. They've created a casual luxury apartment up there that can fit you, five of your closest friends and only the one of the best views in the goddamn world. Airbnb, you've been one-upped. Of course, you can't actually book this on the site — you'll have to win your way in. In what promises to be the most epic of all Paris holidays, the winner and five friends will receive airfares from their nearest city to Paris and one night (as well as dinner and brekkie) in the luxury Eiffel Tower digs. They'll also chuck in another three nights accommodation in another HomeAway apartment so you don't have to fly to Paris just for one night — but, let's be honest, it's only going to be a letdown after your Tower stay. The trip must be taken from July 2-6, but unfortunately it's only open for US residents. Boo. The promotion follows a slew of similar competitions from Airbnb, the latest of which gave punters a chance to spend a night in a Parisian shark tank. So for our next holiday, accommodation booking companies, we'd like to request a bed in the Statue of Liberty's torch.
From a field of 52 finalists — including, for the first time in its history, an equal number of works from both male and female artists — the 2021 Archibald Prize has been awarded to Melbourne-based artist Peter Wegner for Portrait of Guy Warren at 100. An unanimous decision by this year's judges, Wegner's portrait of the centenarian and fellow artist won the gong in a fitting year, with the Archibald turning 100 in 2021 as well. "Guy Warren turned 100 in April — he was born the same year the Archibald Prize was first awarded in 1921," Wegner said. "This is not why I painted Guy, but the coincidence is nicely timed." "I have been working on a series of drawings of people who have turned 100, beginning with my Aunty Rita seven years ago. I've gone on to draw more than 90 centenarians," Wegner continued. "I chose to paint Guy Warren because he is one of the most incredible centenarians l have ever met. This portrait honours Guy in the 101st year of his productive and meaningful life." [caption id="attachment_814783" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Winner Archibald Prize 2021. Peter Wegner, Portrait of Guy Warren at 100. © the artist. Photo: AGNSW, Jenni Carter.[/caption] Winning for the first time, Wegner was also a finalist in the 2020, 2016, 2011, 2004 and 2000 Archibalds. Warren won the prize himself in 1985 with a portrait of artist Bert Flugelman — and became an Archibald subject for the seventh time with Portrait of Guy Warren at 100. Wegner's win comes after 2020's history-making recipient Vincent Namatjira, who became the first Indigenous artist to receive the prize. In 2019, when Tony Costa emerged victorious, he did so with the first portrait of an Asian Australian to ever win the award. In 2021's main field, two artists also received high commendations: Sydney artist Jude Rae, who was recognised for her self-portrait Inside out; and Brisbane artist Pat Hoffie, who submitted Visaya in a c-collar, a portrait of her daughter. [caption id="attachment_814782" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Winner Wynne Prize 2021. Nyapanyapa Yunupiŋu. Garak – night sky. © the artist. Photo: AGNSW, Mim Stirling.[/caption] The winners of the Wynne and Sir John Sulman prizes were similarly revealed today, Friday, June 4, spanning a number of other pieces. Yolŋu painter and printmaker Nyapanyapa Yunupiŋu took out the former — which awards the best landscape painting of Australian scenery or figure sculpture — for Garak – night sky. The piece represents Djulpan, the Seven Sisters star clusters that are also known as Pleiades, and marks the second time that Yunupiŋu has been a Wynne finalist. This is also the sixth year in a row that an Indigenous Australian artist has been awarded the Wynne prize. The category also hands out three other gongs, with Tjungkara Ken receiving the 2021 Roberts Family Prize for Seven Sisters, Noel McKenna winning the Trustees' Watercolour Prize for South Coast headland (2), Ottoman rose, and Leah Bullen awarded the John and Elizabeth Newnham Pring Memorial Prize for Arid garden, Wollongong. [caption id="attachment_814779" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Winner Sulman Prize 2021. Georgia Spain, Getting down or falling up. © the artist. Photo: AGNSW, Mim Stirling.[/caption] The Sir John Sulman Prize goes to the best mural, subject or genre painting, and was this year awarded to Georgia Spain for Getting down or falling up. Limbs feature heavily in the piece, which was selected as the winner from 21 finalists by fellow artist Elisabeth Cummings. Across the three prizes, 2144 entries were received this year — the second-highest number ever after 2020. And, the three prizes received the highest-ever number of entries from Indigenous artists. The winning portraits and finalists will be on display at Sydney's Art Gallery of NSW from tomorrow — Saturday, June 4 — up until Sunday, September 26. If you don't agree with the judges, you can cast your own vote for People's Choice, which will be announced on Wednesday, September 1. ARCHIBALD PRIZE 2021 DATES Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney, NSW — June 4–September 26, 2021 Gippsland Art Gallery, Sale, Victoria — October 8–November 21, 2021 Hazelhurst Regional Gallery & Art Centre, Gymea, NSW — December 3–January 16, 2022 Maitland Regional Art Gallery, Maitland, NSW — January 23–March 6, 2022 Cowra Regional Art Gallery, Cowra, NSW — March 18–June 22, 2022 Manning Regional Art Gallery, Taree, NSW — July 8–August 21, 2022 If you can't make it to any of the above dates, you can check out the award winners and finalists of the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman prizes on the Art Gallery of NSW website. Top image: Winner Archibald Prize 2021. Peter Wegner, Portrait of Guy Warren at 100. © the artist. Photo: AGNSW, Jenni Carter.
Double Bay has welcomed an exciting new corner restaurant and bar to the former Cafe Perons space on Bay Street. Bartiga comes from co-owners Charlie Kelly and Head Chef Faheem Noor, arriving in Sydney's east with a menu inspired by Southeast Asian cuisine that the team describes as "modern yet not defined". The Kelly family have operated out of the site for more than four decades, with Charlie taking over the reins from his mum Vicky, who was in charge of the beloved cafe before him. With its latest iteration, the kitchen has shifted to focus on flavour-packed eats from an accomplished Sydney chef paired with an impressive list of wines and cocktails. "Double Bay has had its ups and downs, but the current atmosphere is the most exciting it's ever been," says Charlie Kelly on the ambitions for the venue and neighbourhood. "With visionaries like Charles Melic, Double Bay is poised to compete with the likes of James Street and Rodeo Drive." Noor brings experience from the bustling kitchens of Tetsuya's, Empire Lounge and Gordon Ramsay's Maze, unveiling a slate of dishes that nod to classic flavours as well as more trendy modern menu staples. The tried and tested Moreton Bay bug roll is given a makeover with the addition of red curry pesto, and comfort foods from across the globe collide with the barbecued prawn tom yum spaghetti. Other signature menu items to keep an eye out for when venturing to Bartiga include the MB4 scotch fillet topped with an Asian herb chimichurri and crispy onions, beef rendang sausage rolls, XO pipi linguine, prawn toast sandos, and spiced chicken wrapped in pandan leaves. Accompanying the dining options is a crowd-pleasing drinks menu. Alex Cameron (Franca) has curated the wine list, with 80 different drops listed under both 'Classics' and 'Future Classics'. Rounding out the offerings is a playful cocktail menu that's been created with some help from Vincent Valliere, owner of Byron Bay's Casa Luna. Sweet tooths should look no further than the banana and vanilla espresso martini, while those that like their drink a little more stiff can opt for the Skyfall — a combination of whisky, amaretto, macadamia liqueur and bitters. Double Bay residents who used to frequent Cafe Perons can also still drop in for their daily caffeine fix. Branded Bartiga Express, the restaurant is open from 7am for takeaway cappuccinos and flat whites, using beans from specialty roasters ONA Coffee. For now Bartiga is just open for dinners from 5pm, but as things ramp up you can expect lunch to be added to the fold from 12pm each day. Bartiga is found at the corner of Short and Bay Street, Double Bay. Head to the restaurant's website to make a booking. Images: Jude Cohen and James Pellegrino
This article was written on Yuggera Country. If you'd like to send a physical letter that acknowledges that fact, now you can. Since the end of August this year, Gomeroi woman Rachael McPhail has been leading a campaign to get Australia Post to recognise First Nations place names — and this week, coinciding with NAIDOC Week, the government enterprise has released guidelines on how you can include traditional names when you're addressing letters and parcels. As McPhail outlined in the first post from her @place_names_in_addresses Instagram account on August 31, "every area in this country had an original place name, prior to being given its colonial town/city name, and I believe that it's important to acknowledge this". She explained that she had started including traditional place names when filling in her address in online orders, and noted that it's a small gesture with a meaningful impact. "Adding in the nation or country that you are on is something easy that all Aussies can do to be more inclusive of our Indigenous history. I would love for @auspost to make the original place name a standard part of address information in Australia, the same as your house number and postcode," she commented. Now, Australia Post have announced that Aussies can follow McPhail's lead — and advised how folks should go about it so that your mail is sorted properly by its electronic letter sorting technology. Whether you're including a traditional place name in the address field or the sender field, or both, you should write it directly underneath the recipient or sender's name. Then, below that, you should then include the street address, town or suburb. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Australia Post (@auspost) Following this format will ensure that the mailed item is delivered correctly, and without delay, all while acknowledging Australia's traditional owners. If you're now wondering where to find the appropriate First Nations place name — either for your own address, or for whoever you'd like to send a letter or package to — Australia Post recommends visiting the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies' map of Indigenous Australia on its website, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Land Councils, or Cultural Centres in your local area. Speaking to the ABC about Australia Post's guidelines, McPhail said that she is also campaigning for a "comprehensive and accurate database of traditional place names that you can cross reference with post codes, but has been verified by elders in all the communities around Australia". For more information about Australia Post's addressing guidelines, visit its website. For further details about the campaign to get First Nations place names recognised by Australia Post, head to its Instagram feed.
Naming your brand new bar after a Talking Heads song gets immediate brownie points around here. If you're creating bevs with a Victorian-era cocktail shaking machine, you can stay. Two of Australia's most regarded (and awarded) bartenders, Luke Ashton (ex rock and roll bar Vasco) and Charlie Ainsbury (ex cocktail heaven Eau de Vie), have today opened their new Darlinghurst cocktail bar, This Must Be The Place. The cocktail-tired will want to scurry to this joint quicksmart; Ashton and Ainsbury have channelled their award-winning skills into creating a modern twist on the ever classic Spritz. A 60-seater bar focused on unpretentious cocktails, seasonal produce and specialty wines, This Must Be The Place features a reclaimed timber bar, lounge chairs and a floor-to-ceiling blank 'canvas' wall to be decorated quarterly by established and emerging artists. But the real drawcard here is the 'Tanqueray No.TEN Crawley’s Imperial Shaker', a mighty, six-foot-tall Victorian era cocktail making machine. Yep. Stay with us. The bar's Imperial Shaker has been recreated from a nineteenth century drawing, if you can believe it, by industry expert Jason Crawley. Crawley's created just five of the machines from the drawing, all handmade in New Zealand. Four buggered off to the States, while the fifth sits in this brand new Darlinghurst bar. Just look at the thing: Ashton and Ainsbury have a certifiable bucketload of accolades under their belts, some which paid for the the brand new bar — Ashton took out 2013's Diageo Reserve World Class Australian Bartender of the Year, raking in a $100,000 prize to open his own bar. Not too shabby. Then Ainsbury won the following year and the lads earned themselves a nice little bar-starting stash. Hence the Imperial Shaker. This Must Be The Place can be found at 239 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst. Open daily 3 - 11pm. Image: Daniel Boud.
It's never too late to learn something new, and we're not just talking about the ins and outs of superannuation. Rather, turning your brain to studying — and possibly launching yourself into a new career — has never been so easy. Open Universities Australia (OUA) helps you find a degree to fit your goals and study it online. So, no matter your physical proximity to the university running the course, or your life commitments, you can make it happen. Whether you're a first-time student, an aiming-to-finisher, or just looking to extend your career options by adding another notch to your belt, we know that half the battle can be figuring out what you actually want to study. Rather than spending hours trying to nut it out, why not use the time you've already dedicated to your favourite television show? Chances are, your favourite genre might give you a pretty good clue as to what you're into. Read on to discover eight possible careers based on a small-screen hit, then go tell your mum that you weren't wasting time after all. YOU LOVE: THE HANDMAID'S TALE Consider studying: Bachelor of Psychological Science and Sociology with University of South Australia (UniSA), Bachelor of Behavioural Studies with Swinburne University or Master of Public Policy and Management with Flinders University. Well, things are pretty bleak at the moment in Gilead. And they have been for June (Elisabeth Moss) since the show — an adaptation of Margaret Atwood's novel of the same name — began. An oft-bleak reflection of parts of our world in the modern day, The Handmaid's Tale isn't a happy watch, but it is an important one — and from it arises a wider commentary on policy, oppression and herd mentality. If you really want to unpack everything that's happening to June, or if the eerily familiar (and frustrating) circumstances have lit a fire in your belly, consider studying a degree in policy, social studies or psychology, available online through OUA. YOU LOVE: BROOKLYN NINE-NINE Consider studying: Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice with Griffith University or a Master of Criminology with Macquarie University. You only need to spend a little time on social media to know that Brooklyn Nine-Nine has become a cult TV offering — there are memes everywhere. The comedy has a surprising amount of heart behind Detective Jake Peralta's (Andy Samberg) antics and the joke-a-minute vibe (if you didn't laugh at that Backstreet Boys cold open, then you don't have a sense of humour). Although it's cloaked in fictional comedy, this show covers some seriously diverse crimes. This, plus the backlog of true crime documentaries on your to-watch list, prove that there are seriously interesting stories out there and some wild stuff that happens in the world. If you want to hustle your case-cracking prowess into a career, explore a degree in criminology with Griffith University. Or, if you've already got a bachelor's degree and notched up some work experience in the field of security, you can jump into a masters with Macquarie University. YOU LOVE: GAME OF THRONES Consider studying: Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing) with Curtin University, Master of Writing with Swinburne University or Master of Arts (TESOL) at Bond University. Just because it's over doesn't mean it's really over — the characters of Westeros and Jon Snow's immense sadness can live on in your heart long after the final episode. And we've found a way for you to continue your obsession with the epic fantasy series based on George R.R. Martin's books. You can learn to appreciate the intricacies of the world he created or, even better, create your own Westeros (maybe one where slightly less characters die) by taking on a creative writing course online through OUA. You can start from the very beginning with Curtin University's bachelor degree, which allows you to explore different styles including poetry, short fiction and screenwriting. Or, you can hone your already established craft with a masters with Swinburne University of Technology or Bond University. The latter explores the principles of the English language and will grant you a teaching qualification, too. YOU LOVE: CHERNOBYL Consider studying: Diploma in Science with University of New England or Associate Degree in Engineering at University of South Australia. It's the one everyone has been talking about, and it recently rated the best TV show of all time on IMDb. Chernobyl, which explores the catastrophic incident at a Ukrainian power plant in 1986, breaks down a particularly harrowing chapter of history. The disaster had far and long-reaching consequences and the show gets you thinking about what happens when science and human error combine to fail us. If your brain is ticking over with nuclear reactor designs or chemical equations, it might be time to hit up OUA to embark on a new career in science or engineering. YOU LOVE: SEX EDUCATION Consider studying: Bachelor of International Public Health with University of NSW or Master of Public Health with Curtin University. Netflix's very funny, very sweet British show has basically everything you need for a weekend binge show: good writing, a great cast and a storyline tackling critical gender and sexuality issues among young people. Oh, and Gillian Anderson. Sex Education tells the story of Otis (Asa Butterfield) trying to making it through high school while contending with his mother (Anderson), who is a sex therapist working from home. A show that anyone, young or old, can find something to relate to in, Sex Education is a worthy reminder that health and sexual education should be taught comprehensively to young people. If you think you could fill those very important shoes, considering studying a public health degree with a leading uni online through OUA, which could open you up to career opportunities in government agencies, research or community health programs. YOU LOVE: RICK AND MORTY Consider studying: Bachelor of Arts (Animation and Game Design) with Curtin University or Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) in Games Design and Development with Murdoch University. Yeah, we know — it's a silly one. But it's pretty damn funny. Rick and Morty was created by Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon, of Adventure Time and Community respectively, and it's not for the underage (or faint-hearted). Following mad scientist Rick and his grandson Morty as they go on interdimensional adventures, the show is wacky, original, and a little gross. But, it may also get you thinking about the rising popularity of adult cartoons, and the animation teams behind their increased profile. So, if you've always had an artistic streak that you'd like to nurture into a full-blown career, have a search through the online options through OUA for animation and game development. YOU LOVE: THE GOOD PLACE Consider studying: Bachelor of Education (Primary, Secondary or Early Childhood) with Curtin University. One of the most clever shows in recent years has to be Michael Schur's The Good Place. From the man who brought us Parks & Recreation and The Office comes a comedy starring Kristen Bell as Eleanor — an unremarkable person during her life on earth who wakes up in The Good Place, or a heaven-like utopia, being shown around by Michael (Ted Danson). Three seasons of moral questions, philosophical quandaries and people just being human ensue. While a lot of it is silly fun, The Good Place does provide a solid vessel for the discussion of ethics, via creative uses, and exploration of belief. It also hammers home, while we watch Chidi attempt to teach Eleanor moral philosophy, that the world needs more good teachers. Live your dream and explore your own moral questions by becoming one. YOU LOVE: SUITS Consider studying: Bachelor of Laws with University of New England and Juris Doctor with Flinders University. Pre-prince days for Meghan Markle brought us Suits, an Aaron Korsh-created legal drama focusing on Mike Ross and Harvey Specter, lawyers working at a large firm in New York City. While Mike (Patrick J. Adams) goes in entirely untrained and manages to pull off working large cases without a sweat, we don't encourage that — in fact, we'd strongly urge you to look into a law degree, which you can study online through OUA. Combine your interests in watching endless episodes of Suits (there are nine seasons), besting someone in a verbal argument and, if you like Mike, helping the underdog by getting a law degree. The two-piece suits await. Explore hundreds of degrees from leading Australian universities available online through Open Universities Australia. You could have a new skill by the end of the year. Hop to it.
Sometimes, the world handily delivers answers to questions you didn't even know you ever had. You might not have actively wondered to yourself "what'd happen if New Zealand treasures Taika Waititi and Rhys Darby played pirates?", for instance, but we're betting you're now keener than a buccaneer searching for a bottle of rum to discover how it turns out. Best add Our Flag Means Death to your 2022 must-watch list, then. Arriving sometime in March on Binge in Australia — with release details in NZ yet to be confirmed — the HBO Max sitcom sees Darby lead the show as Stede Bonnet, who was a real-life pirate who took to the seas in the early 18th century. The reason that his story is getting the streaming treatment? Bonnet was a 'gentleman pirate', as the just-dropped first teaser trailer for Our Flag Means Death dubs him. He left his life of privilege to rove the oceans, which this comedy is set to have plenty of fun with. As the initial sneak peek shows, Bonnet has some bold ideas about how life onboard should run — bold compared to the usual pirate stereotypes, that is. And, that's set to see him clash with a very famous name from pirate history: Blackbeard, which is who Waititi will be playing. The two immensely funny NZ talents are joined by a long list of co-stars that includes Ewen Bremner (First Cow), David Fane (Paper Champions), Nathan Foad (Bloods), Joel Fry (Cruella), Samson Kayo (Truth Seekers), Rory Kinnear (No Time to Die) and Leslie Jones (Death to 2020). And, while Our Flag Means Death is the brainchild of writer, showrunner and executive producer David Jenkins (People of Earth), Waititi directs the pilot — and executive produces, lending his name and support to another up-and-coming comedy after doing the same with Reservation Dogs last year. And yes, that means he's directing Darby yet again, as he's already done in everything from Flight of the Conchords and What We Do in the Shadows to Hunt for the Wilderpeople. Check out the trailer for Our Flag Means Death below: Our Flag Means Death will start streaming in Australia via Binge in March — we'll update you when an exact date is revealed. We'll also update you when release details in New Zealand are announced. Top images: Aaron Epstein/HBO Max.
Independent skate shop UPS is your go-to for everything skate related. That includes limited-edition shoes, streetwear, hardware and, of course, some of the best boards you can find on Aussie shores. It's all sourced from top local and international brands, including Vans, DC Shoes, Butter Goods, Passport and Converse. The shop is owned and run by skaters, too, so you know you're getting expert buyers and staff that know their stuff. To browse the UPS collection, you don't even need to leave the house thanks to its online store — and it'll ship directly to your doorstep.
Sydney's Art Gallery of NSW has taken its weekly after-hours session online — and the next two editions are all about NAIDOC Week, a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and achievements. On Wednesday, November 11, you can join a discussion between author and presenter Yumi Stynes, Aboriginal rights activist and proud Bundjalung woman Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts, and four-time Archibald Prize finalist Blak Douglas (aka Adam Douglas Hill). Douglas' 2020 portrait of Dujuan Hoosan, star of the documentary In My Blood It Runs, is on show at the AGNSW until Sunday, January 2021, alongside Vincent Namatjira's award-winning depiction of sporting star Adam Goodes — the first-ever portrait by an Indigenous artist to take out the top gong in Archibald Prize history. The following week, on Wednesday, November 18, curator of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art Coby Edgar will chat with artist and Arrernte woman Marlene Rubuntja, whose stunning sculptures feature in the gallery's new exhibition entitled Joy. Both sessions will be streamed on the AGNSW's Facebook page and Youtube channel. If you're in Sydney and can make it to the gallery, you can also head along to a free Indigenous-led guided tour of the Yiribana Gallery. [caption id="attachment_789035" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Blak Douglas, 'Writing in the sand' (2020). Copyright the artist. Photo by Felicity Jenkins, AGNSW.[/caption]
Since Australia started easing out of COVID-19 lockdown, the country's internal border restrictions have earned plenty of attention. With tactics to stop the spread of the coronavirus implemented at a state-by-state level, each Aussie state has navigated the situation in its own way when it comes to letting non-residents visit. In Tasmania, that has meant some strict quarantine requirements — which, for non-Tassie residents who weren't classified as essential travellers, entailed spending 14 days in government-designated accommodation. But, for most of the country, quarantine is no more. From Monday, October 26, travellers from Queensland, the ACT, SA, WA, the NT and New Zealand, which are deemed low-risk areas, are allowed to hop on a plane and head across the Strait. After you've filled out a Tas e-Travel form, of course. [caption id="attachment_784489" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Flaming Lips, Mona, Hobart, Mona Foma 2016. Photo Credit: MONA/Rémi Chauvin. Image Courtesy Mona, Museum of Old and New Art, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.[/caption] Some good new for Sydneysiders: this will be an option for you, too, come Friday, November 6. On this date, Tasmania is set open its borders and airports to NSW travellers, pending further public health advice. In other words, if there's an outbreak before then, it might reverse the decision — but if NSW continues its stretch of relatively low levels of community transmission (there have been just three new cases in the past four days) we'll be good to go. "What we want to see in a jurisdiction that we open up to is less than five cases of unknown transmission in the last 28 days," Premier Peter Gutwein said in a press conference. "New South Wales over the last 28 days has had six only in a population of nearly eight million people, so they are on top of this." If you're in Melbourne, sadly the changes won't apply to you just yet. Premier Gutwein noted that the state still hopes to open up to Victorians from December 1, but that they're pleased to "see them driving their numbers so low" and will "be responsive to the evolving situation there". Kiwis legally must complete at least 14 days of managed isolation or quarantine when returning to New Zealand. Travellers will also be tested for COVID-19 during the two-week stay. The New Zealand Government has raised its travel advice to "do not travel" — the highest level — regardless of destination. Keen to start planning an adventure south? Mona Foma has announced it'll return to Launceston and Hobart in January — and we've pulled together this list of exciting food and drink spots in the state's northeast. Visitors from low-risk areas (currently Queensland, the ACT, SA, WA, the NT and NZ) are allowed to visit Tasmania without quarantining. You must fill out a Tas e-Travel form a maximum of three days before you arrive. The state is set to open to NSW from Friday, November 6. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Tasmania and the state's corresponding restrictions, visit its online COVID-19 hub. Top image: Bay of Fires via Lia Kuilenburg for Tourism Tasmania.
Hold onto your paper plates, Sydney — there's another Night Market coming to Carriageworks. This time it's curated by Biota's James Viles and will feature lots of native, ethical, foraged and locally sourced ingredients, reflecting this year's theme of 'wild'. Over 40 stallholders will take over the carriageway from 5–10pm on Friday, July 19. You can expect to once again sample goods from New South Wales' top tier of restaurants, winemakers, breweries and providores, alongside 'wild' cooking demos, including foraging with Oakridge's Matt Stone. Menu highlights, curated by the aforementioned Viles, will include seven-cheese Oaxaca quesadillas from Chula, Bloodwood's much loved sticky pork ribs with burnt butter, and an Indigenous barbecue station from caterers Mirritya Mundya. Joining the night markets for the first time will be Sydney faves LP's Quality Meats, A1 Canteen, Hartsyard and Anason. On top of that you can expect to be forced to choose from tasty treats from market favourites Porteño, Rising Sun Workshop, Belles Hot Chicken, Boon Cafe, the Fish Butchery and Continental Deli. As usual, we can expect beer supplied by Enmore's Young Henrys and The Grifter Brewing Co.; cocktails by ginmakers Archie Rose, Newtown's Jacoby's and Melbourne's Starward Whisky; and wine lists from the likes of Monopole, Wyno and Newtown's P&V Wine. Fittingly, PS40's native ingredient-spiked sodas will also make an appearance in line with the wild theme. Make sure you snag tickets to the Winter Night Market ASAP — they're $10 a pop and usually sell out. CARRIAGEWORKS WILD NIGHT MARKET FOOD AND DRINK LINEUP FOOD A1 Canteen Acre Eatery Alibi Bar Efendy Belles Hot Chicken Bertha Meats Bloodwood Restaurant & Bar Boon Cafe Bretzelwagen by Pepe Saya & Olsson's Sea Salt Chula Continental Deli, Bar & Bistro Edible Bug Shop Fish Butchery Gelato Messina Hartsyard Kepos Street Kitchen Kitchen by Mike LP's Quality Meats Marta Mirritya Mundya Pasta Emilia Porteño Rising Sun Workshop Saga The Pines Kiama Three Blue Ducks DRINKS Archie Rose Distilling Co. Batch Brewing Company Cold Drip Co Demoiselle Distillery Jacoby's Tiki Bar Jilly Wines Monopole P&V Wine + Liquor Merchants Poor Toms Gin PS40 Scotchmans Hill Starward Whisky The Grifter Brewing Co. Wild Kombucha by Ballsy Wildflower Brewing & Blending Wyno Young Henrys Images: Daniel Boud and Jacquie Manning.
If you want to get your hands on a bunch of Sydney's best Mexican food all in one spot, then The Entertainment Quarter is the place to be this weekend. Sydney's tamale queen Rosa Cienfuegos, Blacktown's hot new birria taco joint Smoking Gringos, Carbon and Baja Seafood will all be on-site across Saturday, November 4–Sunday, November 5 to fill your weekend with flavour at the free Dia de los Muertos Fiesta. Joining this all-star cast of Sydney favourites will be a flash tattoo station, street art installations, Latin-American bands and lucha libre wrestling. Mexican-Australia tattoo artist Skullavera will be in command of the station showcasing designs based on Calaveras and traditional Mexican symbols. If you get thirsty throughout the day, a couple of Mexico's most iconic purveyors of beverages Patron and Jarritos will both have stands set up, offering margaritas, palomas, Mexican beers and Jarritos' popular soft drinks. Patron will also be hosting a tequila masterclass for anyone looking to expand their palate. The kids are invited to the Dia de los Muertos Fiesta too, with face painting, crafts and family-friendly games all part of the program.
Not one, but three, designers have put their two-wheeling brains together to come up with tokyobike's latest offering: the company's first ever Designer Series. It's a trio of bikes that will make you seriously want to shell out (and at this price, you'd be skipping more than a few meals). The first, a schmick golden number, is the work of Everything Elevated, who are based in New York and Oslo. It's a single speed with dropped handle bars that gets its inspiration from early minimalist track racing bikes. The second you'll want with you next time you're in Paris. Calico Wallpaper, a Brooklyn-based company run by couple Nick and Rachel Cope, based their concept on the bikes you see in 1930s French films. It's so comfy you can ride all day. The dreamy blue, white and burnt orange paint job reflects the transition from dawn to dusk. Not good at making decisions? The third in the series is your pick. It's white on one side and grey on the other. Joe Doucet, award-winning Brooklyn-based designer, is behind this third bike, with half-canvas, half-rubber handles, which are handmade in Italy. This kind of design doesn't come cheap. Each limited edition bike will set you back $2,500 a pop. Orders are available online. Images: Tokyobike.
It's been a hot minute since a new dining precinct launched in Sydney. Darling Square's Exchange Building was the talk of the town in 2019. Barangaroo was the word on everyone's lips in 2017. And you couldn't avoid a trip to Tramsheds the year before that. Food hubs aren't new of course, Chinatown and the inner west's Little Italy have been around for decades, but they've definitely seen a resurgence in the 21st century. Thanks to a certain pandemic, however, 2020 hasn't been heavy on new openings — until now. Western Sydney is now home to Parramatta Square: a $3.2 billion, 3000-square-metre precinct that's attracted some big names in the hospitality industry. When complete, it'll be home to more than ten restaurants — as well as plenty of office and retail space — and a chunk of them have opened their doors today, Wednesday, October 21. [caption id="attachment_787018" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maurice Terzini and Lang Walker by Nikki To[/caption] Maurice Terzini — who's behind Bondi favourites Icebergs Bar & Dining and Ciccia Bella — has opened a second outpost of Ciccia Bella in the precinct, which — after a changing of the guard in the OG kitchen — focuses on cucina povera (rustic-style peasant food) and woodfired dishes, rather than just pizza and pasta. Created by Nic Wong (The Apollo and Cho Cho San), the menu stars plenty of cheese and charcuterie (including that mortadella from LP's Quality Meats), chilli-spiked mussels, pork cotoletta and wagyu steak. You will find some pasta here, too, including a spicy broccoli orecchiette, fusilli alla norma and wagyu lasagne. Also opening in the precinct today is a new 160-seat restaurant by the duo behind Henrietta and Nour, Ibby Moubadder and Jorge Farah. While their other restaurants have a definite Lebanese edge, Lilymu is serving up dishes from China and Southeast Asia. For this, the duo has hired ex-Mr Wong chef Brandan Fong who's making tom yum prawn dumplings, pipis with XO, red curry scampi and — for dessert — tres leches cake. Drinks are equally creative, featuring the likes of a dragon fruit and gin sour, and a margarita made with Thai chilli-infused tequila. [caption id="attachment_787017" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rivareno Gelato by Nikki To[/caption] You'll also find Noosa-born Shake Shack-style burger favourite Betty's, poke bowl chain Fishbowl, Rivareno Gelato and Sushi Yuzen at the Square, and they're set to be joined by florist Rose & Co, Harvey's Hot Sandwiches, Threefold Pastry and Ruse Bar and Brasserie in the not-too-distant future. We'll be sure to let you know more about those when they open their doors. Find Parramatta Square on the corner of Darcy and Macquarie streets, Parramatta. To check individual restaurant's opening hours, head to their websites. Top image: Nikki To
Tropfest is entering its 21st year with a lot to brag about. The grassroots short film festival that started in a Darlinghurst cafe now has thousands of loyal fans in Sydney alone, a reputation that knows few geographical boundaries, and famous friends including Toni Collette, Baz Luhrmann, and Geoffrey Rush. But it's still at heart a generous wee thing, its main two goals being (a) launch the careers of our most talented budding filmmakers, and (b) give around 150,000 Sydneysiders a big old free night of live entertainment, good company, sophisticated boozing, and really great short cinema. This year the 16 finalists have been selected from 700 entries. Each film must in some way include 2013's signature theme 'balloon', but that and the running times are about where the similarities end. This year filmmakers are really reciprocating the love to Tropfest, venturing to far-flung and dangerous locations (settings include a mental asylum and cartel territory in the Mexican desert) and tackling the most vexed of issues. Matt Bird takes on tasers, while Tim Blackburn and Lyndal Moody join forces to chew on a more long-standing bone of contention — the monobrow. Other entries include Katie Wall's soap-within-a-movie short Scene 16, Daniel Reisinger's CA$H COW — A 63% True Story (with guest appearances from Mel and Kochie) and Tropfest third-timer Topher Field's The Hustler. You can also expect to see animation and documentary sitting alongside the omnipresent comedies and dramas. Proper cinephiles will recognise more than a few names from the full list of finalists, but there are plenty of rookies going up for the big prizes too. An interesting fact to note is that five of the 16 finalists shot their films on DSLRs, hence the Nikon DSLR Film category introduced this year. It's amazing what standard technology can do when it's taken beyond the 'auto' button. This year's winner will drive away in a 2012 Toyota Corolla Levin ZR (provided they can see over the $10,000 cash money it's stuffed with), take home the latest Nikon D800 plus $2000 of lenses and accessories, and rub shoulders with cinematic royalty during a week of meetings in LA. Gates open at 11am on screening day, so get in early to secure a spot. From 3 to 6pm there'll be live music from Round the Corner, Meg Mac, Clubfeet, and the winner of Tropscore, with red carpet arrivals rolling in straight after. And if you don't like live entertainment, a communal atmosphere, or 4 Pines brews, SBS will be screening the festival on free-to-air TV at 8.30pm. https://youtube.com/watch?v=FiOWbemZuoU
