With the Year of the Pig almost upon us, The Rocks is turning its regular weekend markets into a Lunar New Year celebration. From 10am on Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday between February 1–10, lanterns and themed stalls will be lining the cobblestones of Playfair Street, George Street and Jack Mundey Place. As is usually the case at The Rocks' regular Friday Foodie Market, there will be plenty of tasty treats to choose from, with Mr Bao and Let's Do Yum Cha slinging steamed buns and dumplings, a special Banh Mi snag at Jarrod's Shakes and Snags, and Agape Organic Food Truck's menu of duck fries and san choy bao. On the sweeter side, Merry Pops, Yum Thai Juice Bar and Som Som Candy are providing everything from smoothies to pig-shaped fairy floss for the New Year. You can find the perfect new year gift for anyone with a selection of boutique stalls offering everything from silk scarves to spicy Thai condiments. Plus, if you happen to be there at 1pm, 2pm or 6pm, you'll find yourself in the middle of a traditional lion dance. The market will stay open until 10pm each night.
If jungle vibes inside an inner-west warehouse sounds like your perfect outing, head along to the Jungle Collective's indoor plant sale on January 26 and 27. It's the latest greenery-filled market from The Jungle Collective, a Melbourne nursery that stocks all kinds of weird and wonderful species. After opening up its warehouse, which isn't usually open to the public, for a few markets on home turf, they're trucking their way up to St Peters for another warehouse sale here. Whether you're after a hanging pot plant, some palms for the garden, a Fiddle Leaf or a giant Bird of Paradise, chances are you'll find it here. Have a reputation for killing your cacti? Overwatering your ferns? Don't worry — there'll be horticulturalists on site on the night to give you advice and chat through any questions you might have. Here, you can be inspired by greenery aplenty, and learn to incorporate plants into your home and living spaces, while browsing and soaking up some tunes. Due to expected demand, the sale will be held in four sessions on Saturday (8–10am, 10am–noon, 12–2pm and 2–4pm) and two on Sunday (10am–noon and 12–2pm) and attendees will need to register for free tickets. Plus, if you wear beach-inspired attire, you'll get $5 off your purchase.
This Saturday, January 26, the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel will again host the annual Sydney event both your pooch and you will be pumped for: the Every Man and His Dog stand-up paddleboard race. Also open to those without a paddleboard (it can be hired on the day) or a four-legged friend (can't hire, go without), the race offers something for everyone, with different categories including long distance, sprint and a team relay. And there are awards for best-dressed dogs (and humans). You don't have to participate, if you're like us, you'll likely be crazily Instagramming from the shore. It's dogs on paddleboards, people. Dogs. On. Paddleboards. Kicking off at 7.30am, the SUP race will leave your tummy grumbling. Luckily, the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel have your back (or stomach) with snacks available from the market place out the front and from inside at the bar, which is open for breakfast from 7am.
There's escaping the city for an afternoon, and then there's driving 20 minutes down a dirt road to a secluded river and hopping into a canoe. In this canoe, it's quiet, very still. The Kangaroo Valley's bushland surrounds you, ascending on either side of the waterway, creating a landscape that's punctuated only by the occasional kingfisher flapping by or a solitary trout breaking the surface with a small splash. And I haven't even mentioned the best bit: this canoe is filled with wine. And snacks. So as you're floating down the river — minimal paddling is necessary — you'll be able to pop a bottle of local sparkling and tuck into a few canapés. As you might have guessed, this isn't an ordinary off-you-go oar-bearing experience. Usually part of WildFEST, the regular three-day celebration of the food, drink and wilderness of NSW's Southern Highlands, this excursion is making a one-day return trips in January, April and October. Led by experienced paddler Travis Frenay, the Canoes, Champagne and Canapés experience will lead you along the Kangaroo River in a custom-built double canoe, through the sunken forest and past a convict-built sandstone wall. Travis has an insane amount of knowledge on the area and will be able to answer pretty much anything you throw at him. There will be two sessions on the day day (at 11.30am and 2.30pm), with the whole thing setting off from Beehive Point and taking around two to three hours. Prices are on the heftier side at $195 each, but includes all food, wine and equipment. Plus, this part of the Valley isn't highly accessible for people without their own gear, so it's a great (and bloody delightful) way to explore the area on the water. Note: if weather conditions suggest your rusty old sedan won't make it there and back, the organisers may provide transport down the dirt road. But if it's dry, you're all good. It's part of the adventure.
It has been a couple of years since The Jungle Collective first started taking over Australian warehouses and slinging plenty of plants, all thanks to its huge sales in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney. These leafy excuses to fill your home with greenery always have a bit of a celebratory vibe, so the outfit's next New South Wales outing should come as no surprise — it's hosting a plant sale house party. While all of those gorgeous green babies are the main attraction — and more than 170 varieties of them, too — browsing and buying in an old heritage building isn't something you get to do every day. It's happening twice, across the two days of Saturday, February 9 and Sunday, February 10. You'll pick up everything from fiddle leafs and monsteras to giant birds of paradise and rubber trees, as well as oh-so-many ferns and hanging plants. You'll also be able to shop for designer pots, get expert advice from the horticulturalists onsite, listen to jungle tunes and even nab a $5 discount if you show up in jungle-themed attire. It's all happening at 260 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood, with two-hour sessions held at 8am, 10am, 12pm and 2pm on Saturday, plus 10am and 12pm on Sunday. While entry is free, you'll need to secure a ticket to head along — they'll be available from midday on Monday, February 4.
For the second time in just a few months, one of Lady Bird's boyfriends has turned to illicit substances. For the second time in his four-movie filmmaking career, Peter Hedges explores a black sheep's holiday homecoming. Both of these statements require some unpacking, but they demonstrate just how well-worn much of Ben Is Back feels. As Timothée Chalamet did in Beautiful Boy, fellow Lady Bird co-star Lucas Hedges portrays a young man grappling with drug dependence and disappointing the devoted parent who just wants him to get clean. And as the elder Hedges did in 2003's Pieces of April, the writer-director charts the drama of an awkward family reunion. There's another layer of familiarity to Ben Is Back, too: Peter and Lucas Hedges are father and son. As well as the movie's similarities to other accounts of addiction and reconvening relatives, perhaps that's why it largely seems like the product of folks firmly in their comfort zones. The plot rides the usual emotional rollercoaster, ending exactly where everyone expects. With the film's tone, Peter Hedges tries to find a balance between sensitive and tense, and between heart-wrenching and sombre as well. Visually, the picture makes the most of grey hues and anguished close-ups, each adding to the recognisable mood. And although Lucas Hedges' performance is reliably raw and multifaceted, the impressive young actor never quite reaches the heights that he demonstrated in Manchester by the Sea and Boy Erased. Still, Ben Is Back has a spark to it, with Julia Roberts proving the picture's powerhouse package. Wearing the weight of a mother's unconditional love in every patient step and searching gaze, she plays suburban mum-of-four Holly Burns. Arriving home from Christmas Eve church choir practice with her excited pre-teen kids (Jakari Fraser and Mia Fowler), she suddenly shares their enthusiasm when she spies Ben (Lucas Hedges) standing on their snowy doorstep. Only high-schooler Ivy (Kathryn Newton) is wary — thanks to his complicated history, her older brother is supposed to be in rehab, as paid for by Holly's second husband Neal (Courtney B. Vance). But Ben promises that he's happy, healthy and has his habit in check, which Holly chooses to believe, imploring the rest of the family to follow suit. With reminders of his past mistakes littered around both his home and his hometown, Ben's pledge to his mother and Holly's faith in her son each prove hard to maintain. While there's little that's surprising about Ben Is Back's story (even when it endeavours to chart its own path into near-thriller territory), Roberts remains a source of continual astonishment. A much rarer presence on cinema screens of late than in her 90s heyday, she steps into her second doting mum part in as many movies, after 2017's Wonder. And yet, nothing about her performance paints by the numbers. Indeed, this is really her film, and it tells her character's tale. Holly has experienced a life tougher than her well-appointed two-storey house makes plain, although not as rough as the places that Ben's return takes her to — and Roberts makes that difficult clash evident without needing to explain it in words. Also present in Roberts' fine-tuned portrayal is a narrative that everyone knows, yet is scarcely given such nuance and attention. Ben Is Back tells of parental sacrifice, as evident in everyday choices rather than grand or tragic gestures. It's a story about the cost of caring — the toll a mother willingly pays when always offering a shoulder to cry on, lending a helping hand, trying to see the best in her children and endeavouring to do what's right for one kid when she has three others at home. Hedges' script attempts to thread this idea into a broader statement on suburban addiction, and, specifically, the destructive influence of prescription drugs. It's a noble quest, and one of the movie's more ambitious moves. Ultimately, however, Ben Is Back works best when it focuses on the quietly expressive Roberts, and lets her commanding work turn an intimate snapshot into a bigger story. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQI_hkFKlHc
With the NSW Government's controversial new music festival licensing regime taking its toll on events around the state, local industry bodies have taken it upon themselves to prevent more damage being done. First, Bluesfest's director Peter Noble published a scathing open letter to the State Government and, just last week, 17 festivals and touring companies organised the Don't Kill Live Music rally, which got 20,000 people down to Hyde Park. And now, a gig at the Metro Theatre is being thrown in the same vein. Taking over the CBD live music venue on Thursday, March 7, the gig will feature performances from the likes of Gordi, Josh Pyke and Eskimo Joe's Kav Temperley, as well as stand-up stars Tom Ballard, Cameron James, Matt Okine an Mel Buttle. The night of local tunes and stand-up has been organised by the Night Time Industries Association (NITA), which represents Music NSW, Sydney Fringe, hospo groups Solotel and Applejack and venues including Mary's, The Lansdowne, Oxford Art Factory and Giant Dwarf. With all artists donating their time, proceeds from the $50 tickets will go towards funding NITA's 'Unite for the Night' campaign. This will include media and communications activities that raise awareness about current policies affecting the association's members in the lead-up to the March 23 election.
You know that feeling where you're begrudgingly up before dawn only to have your heart warmed by a surprise sighting of a hot air balloon set against the sunrise? Well this one's for you — and if you haven't ever experienced such a dawn, this one is really for you. In April, the Canowindra International Balloon Challenge sees the skies above the historic central-west town come alive with the roar of burners and the kaleidoscope of colourful hot air balloons in the atmosphere. The full event takes place over a whole week in April, with official balloon competitions happening throughout the week. The comp involves a number of difficult tasks, the most entertaining of which is the key grab — the aim is to fly your balloon in to try and pluck a large novelty key from the top of a flagpole, with the winner receiving some major dollar bills. There'll also be a campfire cookout and concert on Anzac Day evening (April 25). The final Saturday night sees the Balloon Glow and Night Market, where balloon operators light up their burners in the dark and in time to music.
If you fall into one (or all) of the following categories — cinephile, culture vulture or need-something-to-do-on-Wednesday-night — we have something that'll pique your interest. The Art Gallery of NSW is gearing up for a two-month-long showcase of Chinese cinema. Neon Gods will run alongside the upcoming Heaven and Earth in Chinese Art: Treasures from the National Palace Museum, Taipei exhibition. The series is a celebratory showcase of works from the most remarkable directors of Chinese language cinema in the 20th century — think Ang Lee, Edward Yang, Hou Hsiao-Hsien and Tsai Ming-liang. Presented on rare 35mm film print sourced from both national and international archives (film stock nerds rejoice), this series features everything from action classic Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon to revenge odyssey Rebels of the Neon God to the once-forgotten landmark of queer cinema The End of the Track. Boasting a cast of what the gallery's curator of film, Ruby Arrowsmith-Todd, describes as "rebels, action heroines and queer outsiders", the retrospective promises to reacquaint you with, or introduce you to, some of the most innovative, bold and significant films in sinophone cinema history. Neon Gods is running from Wednesday, February 20 to Sunday, May 5. Screenings will take place at 2pm and 7.15pm on Wednesdays and 2pm on Sundays. For the full program and to reserve tickets, vist the website.
Combining art classes with alcohol — it's what Cork & Chroma is all about. And for five nights, Sydney's source of boozy creativity is taking its wine-fuelled sessions outdoors to Good Food Month's Night Noodle Markets. Between Thursday, October 11 and Friday, October 19, South Australian winery Brands Laira will set up a pop-up crafty cellar door at the Hyde Park markets. Cork & Chroma will have everything set up for you to create your winery-inspired masterpiece, so all you need to do it get comfy at an easel, drink vino and snack on Asian snacks. Tickets cost $60, and include talented folks giving you expert art advice, some wine and food from the market, as well as all the supplies that you'll need on the evening. The classes run from 6–8pm and bookings are essential. Consider it a ready-made date idea or just a nice way to experience the Night Noodle Markets without having to queue up at each stall.
Every year, runners from all over Victoria limber up for the Bendigo Bank Fun Run, a fundraiser for Bendigo Hospital. The event is split into a five-kilometre walk or run, or a ten-kilometre, 15-kilometre or half-marathon run. So, whether you're a pro who barely breaks a sweat or you can't stand running and would prefer to stroll at a leisurely pace, there's an event for you. There will also be dedicated colour stations positioned along the track to add a little more excitement to the festivities. All you have to do is register online — as either an individual or team — and then start training. All entrants who make it across the finish line will score a medallion and a free brekkie loaded with healthy goodness courtesy of The Spotless.
Given the size of Sydney Fringe Festival's 2018 program, it's no surprise that it'll all culminate in a decadent, magical, art-fuelled closing event: The Last Supper. This extravagant feast, taking place on Sunday, September 30, is promising live performers, live music and a plethora of indulgent dishes — under the stars in Kensington Street Festival Village. First, you must choose which restaurant's delights you would like to feast on, be it Olio's Sicilian delights, Eastside's whimsical creations, Mekong's inventive Southeast Asian fusion or the French wonders of Bistrot Gavroche. Then, on arrival at the dinner, you'll be ushered to your seat at a long table, accompanied by up to 12 of your hungry disciples. Over two glorious hours, your chosen eatery will deliver multiple courses, designed especially for the festival. Expect to find yourself surrounded by snake charmers, fire twirlers and rain dancers. Keep an eye out, too, for tango musicians and Fringe Festival headliners, who'll be making surprise appearances. For anyone who prefers a moveable feast, Spice Alley's myriad of street food vendors will peddle tasty fare, while Gin Lane will serve spirits infused with foraged local ingredients and Handpicked Cellar Door will offer its wines for tasting. Whichever way you experience The Last Supper, you're encouraged to 'dress on the wild side' and dance, dance, dance. The Last Supper will take place on Sunday, September 30. The ticketed meals are available across two sessions, 5pm and 7.30pm, and cost $60 per person. To nab a seat at the table, visit the website.
Sydney's much praised Ume Burger has extended its repertoire to Japanese-inspired hot dogs, having launched Ume Dogs at Melbourne's HWKR food hall last month. Now, owner Kerby Craig will bring it back home to give Sydneysiders a taste for one day only on Friday, September 28. The pop-up will take over Edition Coffee Roasters' new Haymarket digs from 5.30pm, where Craig will be slinging his wood-smoked pork frankfurts alongside snacks by the Edition team. Dogs include the classic Ume (wagyu mince sauce, kewpie mayo, minced onion and cheese) and the Kansai (pickled wakame, kewpie, tonkatsu sauce, snow crackers and bonito flakes). Plus kimchi dogs with crunchy noodles and curry dogs with red pickles. Edition's coffees will of course be up for grabs, too, and beats by DJ Andrew Levins will add party vibes to the food offering. After the pop-up, Ume Dogs will only be available down in Melbourne for now — so best nab a taste while you can.
Erskineville's freshly renovated Imperial Hotel is now home to Priscillas, a "drag and dine" restaurant where you'll find everything from plant-based food to late-night drag shows. Now, Priscillas is hosting the cheeky and raunchy Rood Food festival until October 10. A month-long festival of dirty dishes, cocktails and kinky drag, its magnum opus is the hilarious show Bone Appetite & Oral Outhouse. A three-act drag extravaganza performed by Sydney queens Krystal Kleer and Coco Jumbo, the show comes with a side of phallic fare, crude cocktails and an interactive game, titled the 'glory hole game'. Including a three-course set menu (featuring a total of ten dishes) and a glass of bubbly on arrival, tickets are a very appropriate $69. Some of the dishes you should expect include Bachelor Balls (herbed zucchini balls with spiced yoghurt), The Gay Time Gag Ball (salted caramel ice cream with almond nuts) and Panna Knockers ('perky' vanilla panna cottas). If you'd like to sip on more than just one glass of bubbles, you can choose from cocktails such as The Nut Buster ($17) and the The Blushing Blowy ($17). Brace yourselves. You can also taste the tantalising drinks and food, without going all out on the set menu and show. The Rood Food a la carte menu and cocktails are available every night throughout the festival. The Rood Food festival will run until October 10, with Bone Appetite & Oral Outhouse happening every Monday and Wednesday night from 6.30pm.
It's in Newtown that you'll find some of Sydney's best locally brewed beer, most epic sweet treats and greatest bowls of ramen. And to celebrate the suburb's delectable contributions to the city's foodie scene, the Newtown Good Food Fair is returning for a fifth year on Sunday, October 14. Organised by the Newtown Precinct Business Association, the event brings together more than 30 of Newtown's brewers, bakers, growers and chefs. These include Young Henrys, Black Star Pastry, Queen Chow and Gelato Messina, just to name a few. For your gustatory convenience, they'll all be gathering in two easy-to-reach spots: Newtown Square and nearby Eliza Street. It all kicks off from 11am at both locations with the above food and drinks, as well as live music, and continues until 4pm at Newtown Square and 6pm at Eliza Street.
Is your bookshelf filled with borrowed library paperbacks? You really should return them, you know. Do it this Saturday, September 1 and — provided you haven't racked up too many late fees — you can pick some books for keeps for as little as $1. From 10am, Ashfield Town Hall will be filled with a tonne of pre-loved books from the Inner West Council's eight public libraries. Sift through dog-eared novels, laminated travel books and food-stained cook books. The best part? If you're a member of any of the inner west libraries — that's Ashfield, Dulwich Hill, Balmain, Haberfield, Leichhardt, Marrickville, Stanmore and Sydenham — the books will only cost you one buck. If you're not, you can join online, otherwise books will be $2 each.
Marrickville's annual street festival will take over the inner west suburb once again on Sunday, October 21. Over 120 stalls will flood the streets in a full day celebration of live music, local entertainment and international cuisine that champions Marrickville's multicultural community. A massive lineup of local bands and acts will perform across four stages, with the main stage including the likes of Liz Martin Band, The Protesters and Edens March. The Break music competition will return to showcase the best that the region has to offer, and an international stage will put on flamenco performances and African, Greek and Polynesian dance shows. Of course, stalls will offer up fresh produce and a tonne of different food options from local vendors. Expect fried things, big vats of paella, Vietnamese nosh and heaps more. Image: Fiora Sacco.
If you've been dreaming about a new set of wheels to help you gracefully glide into the sunny season, the legends at Amsterdam-born bike label Lekker can help you out. This weekend, the company's Sydney store will host another edition of its ever-popular 'garage sale' filled with bikes, bargains, eats and beats. The party starts pedalling at 10am on Saturday, October 6 at Lekker's cheery Surry Hills store (conveniently located on the Bourke Street bike path). Those in the market for new wheels will be able to test ride a few different designs, and, if all goes well, buy one — all bikes, accessories and parts will be discounted, some by up to 50 percent. Backing up the fun and embracing those sweet spring vibes, there'll be a soundtrack of groovy tunes, plus free food and drinks. Don't risk a sleep-in, though — Lekker's past sales have seen pretty hefty lines of punters keen for those bicycle bargains and you don't want to miss out.
If seasonal change has left you in a dizzy headspin of new colours and fabrics and prints and jackets — or if, y'know, you just like some fancy new clothes now and then — you'll be pretty pleased to know that the Big Fashion Sale is coming back to Sydney for four days this October. The name pretty much says it all. This thing is big. You'll find thousands of lush items from past collections, samples and one-offs from over 50 cult Australian and international designers, both well-known and emerging, including Opening Ceremony, Isabel Marant, Kenzo, Marni, Phillip Lim, Karla Špetić, Adidas, Kowtow, Matteau Swim and more. With discounts of up to 80 percent off, this is one way to up your count of designer while leaving your bank balance sitting pretty too. Prices this low tend to inspire a certain level of ruthlessness in all of us, though, so practise that grabbing reflex in advance. This is every shopper for themselves. The Big Fashion Sale will be open 9am–8pm Thursday, 9am–6pm Friday and Saturday, and 10am–5pm Sunday.
Tipples and tunes is a familiar pairing, as everyone that's been to a music festival or a jazz bar knows; however the combination doesn't get much swankier than this. At Vino & Violins, you'll tuck into a four-course meal, drink matched wines and listen to the classical stylings of musicians from the Australian Chamber Orchestra. Taking place at The Bridge Room from 6pm on Thursday, October 18, the event is hosted by Barossa winery Peter Lehmann — so expect the vineyard's wines, plus dinner whipped up by chef Ross Lusted. You'll find out just what will be served on the night, but it will start with canapés. Wine expert Malcolm Stopp will be MCing proceedings, while ACO violinists Aiko Goto and Thibaud will be providing the live soundtrack. Actually, the musicians will be doing more than that. Rather, they'll be playing pieces specifically chosen to reflect the vino, playing with characteristics such as flavour, body and style. Tickets cost $90 for what promises to be a sensory meal.
Shortstop is celebrating its birthday in the best possible way: by giving away a boatload of free doughnuts. Saturday, September 8 marks four tasty years since the coffee and doughnut specialists started slinging rings of dough and cups of joe from its first store in Melbourne. And to mark the anniversary, the bakers will whip up a special limited-edition birthday cake doughnut (topped with sprinkles, naturally), which they'll be giving away free with every transaction at its Barangaroo outpost. There will only be 1000 available, though, so best get there in the morning — because once they're gone, you won't see them again until birthday number five.
Presented by Casus, Australia's only Indigenous contemporary circus ensemble, The Women of Chasing Smoke, explores the world's oldest living culture, delving into 40,000 years of history and covering family, art and the power of women. It's an honest, evocative, playful and triumphant quest for identity that reflects on what has been — and what might yet be. Directed by Samoan-Australian Natano Fa'anana, the show stars traditional dancer Pearl Thompson; Gudjala Kabulba woman Lara Croydon, a trapeze artist, juggler and storyteller; and Wakka Wakka woman Ally Humphris, a dancer, gymnast and circus artist who specialises in flying, hand balance and ground acrobatics. The show will run on Friday, September 28 at 7.30pm, Saturday, September 29 at 3pm and 8.45pm and Sunday, September 30 at 5pm.
Three decades ago, a New York City cop just wanted to spend Christmas in Los Angeles with his estranged wife. He arrived at Nakatomi Plaza with little else on his mind — but before the night was out, he'd be crawling around in vents, battling German terrorists, and proving that absolutely no one messes with John McClane and his loved ones. Of course, that's the plot to Die Hard. With the action classic turning 30 this year, you'd better believe that the Ritz Cinema is celebrating. On Friday, November 23, it's hosting McClanefest, which will screen the first three films in the franchise in one huge marathon. Even better — Die Hard, Die Hard 2: Die Harder and Die Hard with a Vengeance will all screen in glorious 35mm, so you'll be able to see every inch of their explosive excellence (and plenty of Bruce Willis doing his thing in a white singlet, too). Tickets cost $25 (or $20 for cinema members), and it all kicks off at 7pm and runs until after 2am. If you're thinking "aren't there five films in the series?", well, you're right. But no one wants to revisit the awful (and awfully titled) Live Free or Die Hard and A Good Day to Die Hard.
Popcorn, choc tops and cinema under the stars — it's all coming to Woolwich's Clarkes Point Reserve for the first time. Between Friday, September 28 and Monday, October 1, the Woolwich Open Air Cinema will crank up the projector and play four films over four nights. Get a dose of Pixar nostalgia with Finding Nemo, go over-the-top with Crazy Rich Asians, snuggle up to your nearest and dearest with a rewatch of Notting Hill and remember how young Matt Damon looked 21 years ago — and how great an actor the late Robin Williams was — thanks to Good Will Hunting. Gates open at 4pm each day, with the movies kicking off at 6.15pm — so if you arrive early, you have plenty of time to soak in the lower north shore surroundings. Picnics are welcome, but you can't bring your own alcohol; however, there's a bar selling not only snacks, but wine, beer, spritzes, and gin and tonics, as well as cheese and charcuterie platters for two, porchetta rolls, vegetarian baguettes, and chicken and chorizo paella. Image: Mary and Andrew via Flickr.
Redfern's neighbourhood retro-style bar, Misfits, is appropriately kicking off Sydney's Mardi Gras Parade weekend with a big blowout. The Miss Misfits Mardi Gras Party, hosted by April Fools, is returning for its second year on Friday, February 28, from 7pm and going until the wee hours — so put on your dancing shoes, with drag performances, gay party anthems, and plenty of glitter. They're putting on an in-house glitter station so you can sparkle too, plus there'll be be three bedazzled cocktails to choose from to get your night started. There's the cheekily dubbed Purple Rain, the regal Kweens Cup and soulful Impersonating Beyoncé Is Not Your Destiny, Child — all fabulously dressed. There will also be food specials and giveaways, with prizes like free oysters and sparkling vino, cocktails, a bottle of bubbly and a $50 bar voucher. Should you win the grand prize, you'll nab a $500 dinner for you and nine of your nearest and dearest. Once Saturday rolls around, you'll need to recover before the parade starts. So, head back to the bar for its monthly Lunch Club at midday, which you can book here. Food will cost you $45 and your hair-of-the-dog option comes in the form of bottomless glitter prosecco — yep, that's a thing — for an additional $20, so you can get over your hangover and start the pre-game for the rest of the Mardi Gras shenanigans to come.
If, this January 26, you're looking for a thoughtful way to reflect on the impact of the arrival of the First Fleet and Australia's colonisation on its First Nations people, you should join the folks from Sydney Festival the evening prior. The fest will hold two events on the evening of Saturday, January 25: Procession and The Vigil. Led by Aboriginal Elders at Sydney Town Hall at 6pm, the procession will make its way through the CBD streets until it reaches Barangaroo Reserve at around 8pm. There, after the raising of Jacob Nash's huge flag installation, the overnight vigil will begin. For the second time, Sydneysiders will stake out at Barangaroo from sunset right through to dawn on the morning of January 26 (that is, what's recognised as Australia Day). It's a long night, but there will be performances and talks from First Nations artists happening throughout; as well as a traditional smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country, you'll be able to see Dan Sultan, Muruwari musician Matthew Doyle. the Buudja Buudja Dance Clan and the Meuram Murray Island Dancers perform. You can drop by at any time or stay all night — if you're in it for the long haul, make sure you bring warm clothes and snacks. Feel free to take some mates with you, but the event is also a good opportunity to meet new people and have conversations around the anniversary and what it means for all Australians. Both events are free, but you should register your interest for Procession here.
UPDATE: APRIL 14, 2020 — Due to popular demand, Salt Meats Cheese's one-kilogram cheese wheel pasta can now be delivered to your door, every day. Cheese and pasta go together like few food combinations. As great as they both are individually, a particularly enticing alchemy of flavours occurs when they join forces. But simply sprinkling grated mozzarella or ground parmesan over your spaghetti is yesterday's news. Eating pasta served out of a cheese wheel is what it's all about now. Salt Meats Cheese has long been hopping on everyone's current favourite Italian culinary bandwagon with its dish — and while Australia's restaurants and eateries are currently in takeaway and delivery-only mode, that doesn't mean you have to miss out on your cheesy pasta fix. Every day, you can order one kilogram of brie cheese spaghetti for $39 from its Drummoyne store — and have it brought to your home via Salt Meats Cheese's new app. While you're sitting at your own dining table, you'll be able to tuck into the cheesiest bowl of pasta you're ever likely to taste, with each serving designed for two people. Flavour-wise, there are a few available, because even a meal like cheese wheel pasta can use a few additions. Just classic cheese is on the menu, as are black truffle sauce, carbonara and a supremely indulgent four-cheese sauce. Elsewhere on the menu, you'll find one-kilogram bowls of gnocchi, vegan pizza, wine and desserts. Download Salt Meats Cheese's new app for iOS and Android. Delivery is available from 5–9pm.
Australia's real-time restaurant deals app, EatClub — which was launched by celeb chef Marco Pierre White — is now offering $5 takeaway dishes from a heap of inner city restaurants this week. From Monday, March 16 to Friday, March 20, you can score a $5 feed. All you have to do is redeem a takeaway deal, then use the app's ordering and payment feature to complete your order. To give you an idea of what's part of this sweet deal, you could be tucking into a cheeseburger from Burger Project, fried chicken from Banh Mi from Mr Bao Buns and Banh Meats & Co rice noodle salads, plus eats from Fish & Co, Yay Pot, Remicone and Chapayom — all for just a fiver. This is in addition to all the deals the eateries already offer as part of the app's aim to fill restaurant tables on quieter nights while also offering diners to eat out for up to 50 percent off. So, overall, you'll be able to score a delicious feed for less than a trip to your local chicken shop. To get involved, you just have to update the app, or download it if you're a newbie. Then claim a takeaway deal from any venue displaying a $5 icon on the map, select order and pay via the app and take your pick of a cheap treat (and anything else your heart desires). The chefs will whip it up in the kitchen, ready for you to pick up in no time. Make sure you download the EatClub app here.
Marrickville ceramics studio Clay Sydney is bringing back its super-popular in-studio classes from June, so you can book in for a fun date night or catch up with a mate. After a brief hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions (and moving classes online), the in-studio workshops will be running with limited class numbers. The studio's resident ceramicists will be running wine and cheese nights (BYO vino and cheese), where you'll learn the basics of ceramic design. You'll be hand-building a vase or mug out of white speckled clay then using vibrant glazes to finish. If you'd rather skip the snacks and get straight into getting your hands dirty, Clay hosts wheel throwing classes, plus date night-specific ones on Sunday evenings. The 90-minute classes will take you through how to throw clay on the wheel. Other classes include a mug and mimosa workshop and a planter party. At the end, you'll get to take home a perfectly imperfect product, handmade by you. You can check out times here. Or, if you're planning a special occasion, you can also arrange a private class — think hens parties, birthdays and corporate events. Clay Sydney has changed up its studio a bit to ensure safe social distancing, as well as implemented stricter cleaning routines. In-studio classes will set you back $80, which includes all the gear and guidance you need. For those who would prefer getting creative from the couch, Clay Sydney has been running its Clay At Home sessions ($55), which will continue. Online classes work like this: sign up and the studio will courier you clay and tools; watch the webinar at the scheduled time (or take an on-demand class), chat to the tutors and make your creation; drop your work off at the no-contact spot outside the Marrickville studio; the team will fire it; and you'll be able to pick it up from the no-contact pick-up point. You can also watch the webinar at a later date if you need. For future class dates and to book your spot, check the Clay Sydney website.
At its locations in Surry Hills and North Sydney, Devon Cafe is serving up a dedicated truffle menu again this winter. It's a sizeable menu, and one item that caught the attention of our taste buds is the truffle egg sando ($20). Combining fluffy white bread, omelette, mushroom pâté and shaved truffle, this is a tasty a twist on a Japanese classic, and it's available through to the end of August. If you're keen on something sweet to end the meal, try the cafe's truffle sundae ($17.50) — truffle-infused soft serve, truffle honey and sea salt, served in a waffle cone or cup and topped more fresh truffle. Also on the menu this year: a truffle latte ($7.50), curly fries with parmesan and truffle ($19), truffle-topped mi goreng ($35) and a wagyu rice dish topped with truffle ($36). With Sydney's current COVID-19 restrictions, cafes are allowed one person per four square metres, so we recommend you make a booking before heading in. Devon's truffle menu is available at its North Sydney and Surry Hills cafes.
In response to COVID-19, film festivals around the world have been making the shift to online programs for 2020 — and Australia's fests are no different. Sydney Film Festival is doing just that, as is the Melbourne International Film Festival. Also going virtual: the Human Rights Arts and Film Festival. HRAFF's addition to the digital fold is called Humankind, and it runs between Monday, May 18–Sunday, May 24. Each day, it'll screen a different film online. And yes, while that means that the fest's lineup is quite small, it's also mostly free. Although registering for tickets is still required, six of the seven movies on the program will be made available to viewers without paying a cent. You can opt to donate, though, if you can spare $2, $10 or $50. On the bill: poignant New Zealand drama Whale Rider; documentary No Time for Quiet, about the Girls Rock! camp in Melbourne; and fellow music-focused doco Her Sound, Her Story, which explores the experiences of women in the industry. Or, you can check out environmental documentary Tomorrow, which is co-directed by Inglourious Basterds star Melanie Laurent; Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise, about the African American poet and activist; and Backtrack Boys, which dives into a jackaroo-led youth program. Humankind is also screening excellent Aussie doco In My Blood It Runs, which tells the tale of 10-year-old Northern Territory resident Dujuan — and tickets to watch it online cost $15. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmahNqD3Dvw&feature=youtu.be
In Sydney's southwest, night markets with aromatic foods, lively crowds and a general hubbub of activity until 2am are held throughout Ramadan — the Islamic holy month. With fasting occurring from dawn till dusk throughout the month, Lakemba's Haldon Street turns into a festive feast as soon as the sun sets. It's melting pot of Lebanese, Palestinian, Syrian, Burmese, Malaysian, Bangladeshi, Pakistani and Indonesian cuisines offered for iftar — the evening meal ending the daily Ramadan fast. Walk through and you'll find everything from camel burgers, shawarma and kaak (a Pakistani street bread) to Syrian ice cream, knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry) and Lebanese coffee. Running from Sunday, May 5 through Wednesday, June 5, the Lakemba Ramadan Night Markets are a community-wide celebration open to all, fasting or not, with festivities running well into the evening and ending with suhoor — the pre-dawn meal before daily fasting resumes. Lakemba's night markets run from around 5.00pm till 2am. You'll find them at the station end of Haldon Street.
Pick your favourite movie, change the concept slightly and Hollywood's next big hit could be born. It worked for The Fast and the Furious, which took Point Break's storyline, swapped surfboards for cars and spawned a hugely successful franchise, and it somewhat works in Little as well. Sequels and spinoffs aren't as likely to follow in the current case, but this age-swap comedy serves up a bit of fun with its reversed take on 80s classic Big. To be accurate, it serves up a highly predictable tale, themes to match, a few laughs, energetic performances and a star-making turn from 14-year-old Marsai Martin. Best known for TV sitcom Black-ish, Martin is a comic force to be reckoned with as Jordan Sanders, a character she shares with Regina Hall. The younger actress plays the 13-year-old version of the hotshot technology entrepreneur — both when she was originally a bullied, anxious, science-loving teenager suffering the ultimate humiliation at her school talent show, and when the tyrannical thirty-something is turned back into her adolescent self by a kid waving a magic wand. As an adult, Jordan has been coping with her youthful torment by becoming a rich, unpleasant control freak, unleashing much of her intimidation upon her long-suffering assistant April (Issa Rae). Then she picks on a child, wakes up to discover that she's now a child again herself, and is forced to enlist April to act as her legal guardian. Obviously, there's no question that writer-director Tina Gordon (who also helped pen What Men Want) and her co-scribe Tracy Oliver (Girls Trip) have seen Tom Hanks dance around on a walking keyboard in Big. The link is right there in Little's name. Martin has too, and that's where the film actually sprang from. The teen actress watched the movie, came up with a twist and pitched the idea to the right person. Now she's starring in the end product. She's also an executive producer on the picture — the youngest ever in Hollywood. Thanks to this origin story, there's a shameless feeling of familiarity to the flick — yet it's by design, rather than through arrogance, ignorance or laziness. The film's pace is breezy and its tone is bouncy, creating a feel-good, upbeat, self-empowering vibe, which should surprise no one. The expected jokes and messages also arrive on cue. Indeed, Little is well-aware that everyone knows where it sprang from, that it's never going to be original, and that plenty of other body-swap comedies have also done something similar. As a result, it rarely contemplates breaking the mould. More than that, it doesn't think it needs to. The film does pair its concept with the African-American experience, and calls out the fact that these kinds of antics usually only involve white characters, but it's otherwise content to stick to the formula. And while playing it safe is rarely the path to big-screen success, there's a reason for Little's approach. Instead of stepping into new territory, the movie adheres to the template, relying on its cast to add much-needed personality. In exaggerated mode, Hall has a ball. Finding the sweet spot between affable and awkward, Rae does as well. In the precocious Martin's case, she shines brighter than her character's oversized sunglasses and glitzy outfits. Without her, all of the film's cliches and tropes would take centre stage, from Jordan's initial shock at her sudden transformation, to the inevitable makeover montages, to the just-as-expected learning of life lessons. But while they're still all blatantly apparent, Martin's spark goes a long way. Crucially, she inhabits her character like an adult placed in a kid's body, rather than a child playing dress-up imitating someone older. With the younger Jordan strutting around in designer clothes, confidently ordering whisky at a bar and even flirting with her teacher when she's sent back to school, it's a vital difference, and it shows. Little still belongs to one of today's most pervasive and worrying trends — where everything can, should and must be rehashed over and over and over again — but it finds a way to stand out. In the crowded age- and body-swap genre that counts everything from 13 Going on 30 and 17 Again to Freaky Friday and The Change-Up, that too makes a difference. A big one, fittingly. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWzxkqHn6D4
It's Cinco de Mayo time again, and with the holiday always comes a slew of Mexican food offerings. For the occasion, Neutral Bay's SoCal is bringing back its all-you-can-eat taco night on Tuesday, May 7 — so best start making room in your stomach now. For $30, you can tuck into as many tacos as your tum can handle. Think varieties like fish with pineapple and coriander salsa, smoked brisket with sweet chipotle and tofu with kimchi and daikon slaw. For drinks, the bar will be slinging margaritas for a tenner all night, too. You'll need to book a table between 5–10pm for the deal. And we suggest you do so soon — last year booked out very quickly. It's all part of the venue's second Taco and Tequila Fiesta, which celebrates Cinco de Mayo with a week of festivities.
What's better than a freshly brewed cup of coffee? Only having to wait 15 seconds for it. Much-loved Surry Hills cafe Single O (previously Single Origin Roasters) has streamlined the filter coffee process, launching a first-of-its-kind coffee on tap. And it's celebrating with a day of free brews on Wednesday, April 17. As well as being extremely fast, Single O's new filter coffee taps are also self-serve. Just tap your credit card (if you're not heading in on the free day), choose one of the four taps and wait 15 seconds while your reusable cup, or loan-a-mug, fills with freshly brewed batch coffee. You'll be able to choose from uniquely crafted brews such as the Sweet Sixteen Birthday Blend, with notes of peaches and cream; and the mango- and guava-heavy Nicaragua Cup of Excellence. From 7.30am–3pm on the Wednesday, the coffee will be free, but usually it'll set you back between $4–5 a cup. Or, you can order a tasting flight of three for $7. Aside from free on-tap coffee, the day is a good excuse to check out the popular coffee spot's recently renovated and expanded interior, which was designed by Sydney architect Luchetti Krelle, who's also behind Barangaroo restaurant Banskii, lower north shore bar Manly Greenhouse and Marickville cafe Matinee Coffee. Single O will be serving up free batch brews from 7.30am—3pm. UPDATE: APRIL 15, 2019 — Free batch coffee will now be available with BYO cup from 7.30am–3pm. The above coffee has been updated to reflect this.
Every Monday, Salt Meats Cheese Broadway serves up slices upon slices of pizza for its weekly all-you-can-eat night. It's a time when gluttony isn't a sin — but if you're vegan, you might've been holding back. Fancy as much pizza as you can handle, but without any animal products? And pasta, too? Then mark Tuesday, May 14 in your diary. From 5pm, SMC will serve up unlimited vegan slices and bowls for $25. The only catch is that you'll have to buy a drink as well, but you can choose from both booze and non-alcoholic options. As for the pizza lineup, patrons can choose from multiple varieties, all of which come topped with not-zzarella cheese. Pizzas include the margherita, eggplant with basil salsa, and roasted potato with garlic and rosemary. Or, opt for the vegetariana, which combines tomato, zucchini, eggplant and roasted red capsicum — or a slice of truffle and mushroom. If you'd like gluten-free bases, too, that'll cost you an extra $5.
At this year's Vivid Sydney you can celebrate women in music in the most unlikeliest of places: a barber shop. Ziggy's Barber Salon in Darlinghurst (serving ladies and gents, by the way) is known for its fashion-forward haircuts and now, apparently, cutting edge gigs. Featuring established and emerging talent, artists including Abby Dobson, Lupa J, Jade MacRae and Sayah & Xira will be taking to the, erm, floor as part of an awesome lineup of women in the Aussie music scene. Kick back and enjoy the tunes in a traditional barber chair or dance your heart out on the salon floor. These barber shop beats will be spread across a weekend, with different acts playing on three different nights running from Thursday, May 30 until Saturday, June 1. The party is all ages and it's a BYO drinks policy. Tickets are $25–35 for each gig, or you can get a pass to all three for $60. Do Vivid a little differently this year and add this pop-up live music party to your itinerary.
UPDATE: February 4, 2021: Burning is available to stream via SBS On Demand, Google Play, YouTube Movies and iTunes. A part-time deliveryman's worried face reflects the entire world's problems in Burning. Played by the quietly expressive Yoo Ah-in, Jongsu never seems as if he'll allow himself even a second's rest and relaxation. He looks stressed when he's walking the Seoul streets during his rounds. He appears anxious when he happens to run into his former neighbour, Haemi (Jun Jeong-seo), who he can't actually remember properly. Whether the pair is reconnecting intimately, Jongsu is feeding Haemi's cat while she travels to Africa, or he's visibly unimpressed when she returns with the cooly charming Ben (Steven Yeun) on her arm, he's never at peace. A silent stare and inner solace aren't the same thing, as Jongsu's complicated gaze makes so plain again and again. What some filmmakers can't convey with an enormous cast of actors, Lee Chang-dong achieves with the captivatingly melancholy Yoo. What some can't manage across several movies, the writer-director does in mere seconds here. Lee is no cinematic slouch — this is his sixth stint behind the camera, joining a spate of rightfully applauded tiles such as Peppermint Candy, Oasis, Secret Sunshine and Poetry — but there's a particular alchemy to Burning from its opening moments. A love triangle that's also a slow-burning thriller as well as a potent statement on class and gender divisions in modern South Korean society, the film captures a world so visually detailed and emotionally loaded that every frame entices and intrigues. It captures the world, not just a world — from pretty young women selling dreams via lottery tickets, to the chasm between the haves and the have nots, to the feeling that everything, everywhere is always ablaze. When Jongsu and Haemi cross paths, she sells him a dream, too — of being a couple, of a life beyond the abandoned Paju family farm he's just moved back to, and of a future that's not just one routine struggle after another. When she arrives back from her trip with the canny, confident Ben, the jealous Jongsu sees that fantasy slip away. Worse, he sees how starkly different everything is for someone of wealth, comfort and means. "There is no difference between playing and working," Ben offers without a blink, a statement that couldn't be more piercing to someone whose existence is all work and woe and inertia, and rarely any play. But, adapting a short story from Haruki Murakami's The Elephant Vanishes, Lee finds an especially stunning way to build and dissect the pair's rivalry. A ruminative mystery, a fine-tuned character study and an intricately observed examination of human relationships all at once, one of the joys of Burning is its wholesale aversion to simplicity. Here, as in reality, nothing is straightforward. Indeed, Lee takes life's enigmas and puzzles, thrusts them into view and forces the audience to ponder along with him. His film doesn't just ask how well you can really know someone, but whether you can ever actually know someone — and if, with Haemi, Jongsu even does. As it watches its increasingly paranoid protagonist yearn for his new love and stew over his competitor, this haunting, penetrating movie doesn't just wonder what a person is capable of, or what we're willing to embrace and ignore, but how we learn to reconcile the contradictions and ambiguities of human nature that we experience every single day. Lee has always favoured an observational, unobtrusive directorial style, allowing the camera to roam and linger when it needs to, and letting his actors express what they need to to get his stories across. He's also a deft hand at crafting strong but slippery scripts — narratives that say much but leave plenty unsaid, and leave ample room for interpretation. Burning fits the mould, although there is no mould when it comes to the filmmaker. Rather, Lee deploys the same general approach, applies it to a new tale and ensures that the result always feels fresh. The space that he carves out in Burning, and the freedom he gives his exceptional cast, is revelatory. In affording viewers the scope to glean their own insights, sift through their own complexities and come to their own conclusions, this 148-minute movie proves revelatory for everyone. Back to the stellar trio that Lee pushes front and centre, though — not just experienced South Korean star Yoo, but first-timer Jun and The Walking Dead's Yeun as well. Burning would be a lesser film without any of them, with the distance in Jun's performance (the sensation that there's always something just out of reach, specifically) so perfectly attuned to the movie's mood. If Yoo is the picture's face of anxiety, uncertainty and fragile masculinity, however, then the ever-impressive Yuen is its sly, murky, tantalisingly elusive core. How fitting it is that Burning, like Haemi, spends its time caught between the two — and utterly refuses to be pinned down by choice. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eI9UYcEwUYA
There's a feeling that all wine lovers know — the feeling of tasting a new drop that's never before touched your lips, savouring the flavour and realising how delicious it is. Multiply that by 12, and that's what Bonnie's latest Wine Safari night is all about. You'll taste sup new tipples. You'll enjoy never-before-sampled natural wines. You'll be quite happy, obviously. The third in the Bondi venue's ad-hoc series, this night is all about Lucy Margaux by Anton Van Klopper, so prepare for fresh drops from one of the country's best natural wine labels. From a Pinot Noir Pet-Nat to a Chardonnay to a Merlot — and to vino with names like Sangiovese Stupefacente and Aussie Bum and the Frog, too — a dozen varieties will be there for the tasting from 6pm on Tuesday, March 26. Attendees will also be able to buy bigger portions of each wine by the glass from $16, and nab takeaways. Also heading to the hangout inside Bondi Beach Public Bar are the evening's hosts: Van Klopper, Marie-Sophie Canto (The Dolphin Wine Room), Gabrielle Webster (Icebergs Dining Room & Bar) and James Hird (Icebergs Dining Room & Bar, The Dolphin Hotel). Food-wise, their colleague Monty Koludrovic will be cooking up three kinds of red pizza frittatas.
So, you're the eager kind of bastard (not the Snow type, mind you) who likes to throw spoilers in the face of your lessers? Lucky for you, the Game of Thrones edition of Since I Left You trivia is here, so you'll be able to use that smug mouth to win. Or die. Lovers of the books and returning TV series (April 15 – permanent maker it in your calendar) should make a date with the CBD bar, with a GoT trivia night happening on Tuesday, April 9. Costume is not mandatory, but that's part of the fun. White walkers, maesters, red priests, naked extras and dung-faced peasants will also most likely be in abundance, so if you really want to impress you'll need to think outside the boxset (someone had better turn up as the animated map of the opening credits, is what we're saying here). Food and drink will be available for purchase — with $15 carafes of wine available all night — and host of prizes are on offer. If you're keener than a Stark heading back to Winterfell, booking a table for your team at info@sinceileftyou.com.au is necessary. And don't delay — it's winter soon.
What's the deal with trivia nights based on pop culture commodities? They're great, that's what — and with events based on everything from Friends to Brooklyn Nine-Nine, they're clearly a hit. This time, it's Seinfeld's turn in the quizmaster's spotlight. The show about nothing has inspired an evening about everything that made its nine-season, 180-episode run so great. The fun unravels at the The Governor's Ess rooftop from 7pm on Wednesday, May 22. Entry free (just as George Costanza would like it), but you should book a table in advance as these trivia night usually book out. Lock in some mates who think they know every conceivable detail about the hit 90s sitcom — and about Jerry, George, Kramer and Elaine. The quizmaster will put your affection to the test, potentially covering everything from soup to sponges, puffy shirts to Pez dispensers, and even the parade of famous faces that played Jerry's girlfriends. Yada, yada, yada — you get the picture. Of course, the bar will also be serving their usual array of drinks, in case those pretzels make you thirsty.
Getting arty while sipping tipples has fast become everyone's favourite thing to do, and for plenty of good reasons. It's creative, it's fun and it's the equivalent of reliving your primary school art classes as a wine-sipping adult. And, while there's no shortage of places and sessions popping up for the imbibing artists amongst us, Boozy Finger Painting promises something different on a number of levels. As the name suggests, you'll be unleashing your crafty talents using your fingers — and truly feeling nostalgic as a result. For $70, Work-Shop will supply the canvas, paint, gloves if you don't want to get too messy and a primer on what to do, plus two glasses of Cake red wine. Then it'll let you loose. You can also BYO tipples if you think you'll need more liquid inspiration — and you can also use body parts other than your fingers if you'd really like. The next sessions take place as Work-Shop's Sydney HQ from 6.30pm on select Friday evenings between June and October.
Restock your reading pile without paying a cent — yes, Free Comic Book Day is back for 2019. First started in the US in 2002, the event has grown into an annual international celebration, paying tribute to comics and graphic novels in all of their forms. Each and every year, Kinokuniya gets in on the action. This year, the CBD store will be giving away more than 13,000 free comics; however that's just the beginning of the shenanigans. Expect an explosion of pop culture in The Galeries, including a cosplay competition, an artist's alley — where some of Sydney's top creators will sketch pieces for fans — and an incredibly timely Star Wars trivia comp. 2019's Free Comic Book Day does fall on Saturday, May 4, after all. You'll also be able to pick up a free tote showbag (all those comics need to go somewhere) if you register in advance for the early bird queue, take part in a nanoblock building comp, and nab 20 percent off all graphic novels and manga. The fun starts when the store opens, with Kinokuniya trading from 10am–7pm.
The 90s were great. That shouldn't be a controversial opinion. Whether you lived through them or have spent the last couple of decades wishing you did — aka binging on 90s pop culture — Oxford Art Factory's New Year's Eve shindig will indulge both your retro and your festive urges. Drinks, tunes, fashion: expect all of the above at the No Scrubs: 90s and Early 00s party from 9pm on NYE. Of course, it's up to you to make sure the clothing side of thing is covered, and to get into the spirit of the season. If you want to use Mariah Carey as a style icon, it'd be fitting. Expect to unleash your inner Spice Girl and Backstreet Boy too. TLC, Destiny's Child, Savage Garden, Usher, Blink-182, No Doubt — we'd keep listing artists, but you all know what you're getting yourselves into. Entry costs $10 on the door, with the fun running through until 3am.
Many of us have had a first date on an old-school pedal boat, holding hands and having mundane conversations about the weather. And now you can relive that (but with better chat) when the recognisable boats return to Cockle Bay this summer. From January 4–28, you'll be able to hire one of the leg-powered vehicles for $30 a pop, which'll get you a whole 30 minutes on the water. If you think half-an-hour in the blistering Sydney sun sounds like a recipe for sunburn, you'd be right, but, thankfully, the boats come equipped with a shade to keep you cool. The pedal boats fit up to four people (so you can bring your mates or plan a double date) and you do have to wear a life jacket while cruising on Darling Harbour. You can't book online, and have to just rock up and hope that's one free, but if you do need to wait, there are plenty of places to eat and drink on the Wharf. Cockle Bay Wharf Pedal Boats are available from 11am–8.30pm daily.
Until Sunday, March 3, Carriageworks is playing host to the latest exhibition by American artist Nick Cave, which explores issues of gun violence, gender politics and race relations in America. Until is his largest solo presentation, and marks the same achievement for the Eveleigh venue — and now, as part of Sydney Festival, it's getting two after-hours art sessions. Until Later will see Cave's pieces combine with talks, live music and DJs spinning tunes, adding an extra layer to the works and installations gracing Carriageworks' walls. Taking place from 7pm on Monday, January 14 and again at the same time on Monday, January 21, it's your chance to explore the exhibition in a different way. It's also far from your usual Monday night activity. Tickets cost $39, and both dates boast impressive lineups, so head along to see Mojo Juju and Ngaiire one week, then Nakhane and Charlotte Hatherley the next. Each session will also include an in-conversation chat hosted by Wesley Enoch and featuring Ayebatonye Abrakasa, while Ayebatonye will also be behind the decks. Image: Zan Wimberley, 2018.
It's a case of new year, new idea at the Australian National Maritime Museum in January, with the Darling Harbour spot hosting its first series of after-hours waterside parties. Head by on Friday and Saturday nights throughout the month and sunset shindigs await at Summer Lates — with DJs spinning tunes, food and drinks available to purchase, and the museum's exhibitions open as well. Yes, a boozy night at the museum is in store on January 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26. You'll be able to wander through the world of sharks at On Sharks & Humanity's showcase of artwork, step into an a story about the fight for recognition of Indigenous sea rights via Gapu-Monuk Saltwater, and venture to the ocean's depths thanks to James Cameron's Challenging the Deep. Like the parties, the first two exhibits are free to enter; however peering beneath the sea with the director of the Titanic does attract a $12–20 fee. Timing-wise, the waterfront bar will start serving up summery cocktails from 5pm, running through until 10pm — and you'll be able to enter the museum until 8pm. Teaming up with Surry Hills' Fishbowl, ANMM is putting on a tasty salad menu for the occasion. Think salmon sashimi with beets, edamame and kale; free-range chicken with coriander, cucumber, roast sesame dressing and and wasabi peas; and hand-pressed tofu with radish, shallots and a miso tahini dressing.
For nearly six decades, Robert Redford has sparkled on the silver screen, dripping charm across the original The Great Gatsby, solo seafaring drama All Is Lost and everything in between. His resume is as sizeable as his charisma, but as his acting career reportedly comes to an end, the 82-year-old's allure couldn't shine brighter. The primarily 1980s-set The Old Man and the Gun is the story of two men: a real-life thief and the detective on his trail. It's also a tale that's intricately attuned to its leading man. Seeing Redford rob banks and stage heists once more feels like the perfect swansong for a talent who became a star thanks to Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting. Likewise, that the movie is all about doing what you love couldn't feel more fitting for his final on-screen role. After stating that The Old Man and the Gun would be his last performance, Redford somewhat walked back those comments with a 'never say never' attitude. If this does turn out to be the four-time Oscar nominee's final hurrah in front of the camera, he's leaving viewers with a treasure of a filmic goodbye that keeps its scale small and intimate, but boasts a big heart as it ponders big existential matters. A loving tribute and a wistful take on a true story combined, The Old Man and the Gun recognises that pursuing a passion is what life is all about and, if you're able to do just that, it changes everything. Much to cinema's great benefit, Redford has chased his dream through acting since 1960. The man he's playing here did the same by walking into banks and demanding their money. Dressed respectably, hat, jacket, tie and all, Forrest Tucker's (Redford) modus operandi is always the same. He steps into a financial institution, steps up to a member of staff and courteously asks for their cash. He gestures gently towards the gun under his arm, all while conducting his stick-up politely, smoothly and with a smile. Afterwards, once he's waltzed out with the loot without customers noticing, bank employees routinely tell the police how nice he is. In his 70s and out of jail again after one of his many stints inside, Tucker is still doing what he does best, usually with long-term pals Teddy (Danny Glover) and Waller (Tom Waits). Sparking up a romance with widow Jewel (Sissy Spacek) doesn't change Tucker's love for his chosen profession, and neither does the sleuthing of determined Texas cop John Hunt (Casey Affleck). Drawn from a 2003 New Yorker article with the same evocative name, Hunt's, er, hunt for Tucker helps shade in some of the latter's backstory. But this isn't about documenting all of the details, with getting a sense of the eponymous old man more important than working through his biography. That's what Jewel does, as their relationship progresses even after Tucker is upfront about his line of work. The film follows her cues, offering a casual stroll through the twilight years of its likeable and kindly criminal. Shot in warm tones on 16mm stock, and given the nostalgic sheen of someone reflecting on fond memories, it may be a bank robber drama, a detective quest and a romance all in one — but it's first and foremost an affectionate yarn about its engaging protagonist and his dedication to remaining true to his outlaw self. In other words, The Old Man and the Gun fits snuggly into the oeuvre of writer-director David Lowery, who has amassed an impressive resume with his four movies to date. Ain't Them Bodies Saints, Pete's Dragon and A Ghost Story might seem worlds away from the filmmaker's latest effort, and from each other, but the yearning need to remain true to oneself sits at the centre of each. Lowery also excels at splashing emotion across the screen subtly but powerfully. It's there when he lingers on the twinkle in Redford's eye, and when he documents Tucker's many prison escapes by using footage from across the actor's career. And, it's evident in the film's other standout performance. Harking back to her breakout role in Badlands, Spacek once again falls for someone who's committed to doing wrong, and once again gleams, this time like her character's name. That makes The Old Man and the Gun a gorgeous and entertaining ode to not just one cinema legend, but two. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWybz4vdaFs
Can you think of a better way to spend a muggy, summer night than with an outdoor movie and quality food by the harbour? From November 21 to December 16, American Express is bringing its outdoor cinema to Sydney's inner-city coastline. The new Pyrmont spot is the newest location for the pop-up cinema, which is hosting outdoor events in 12 locations across Australia and New Zealand this year. Movies on this big screen will include just-released hits like Bad Times at the El Royale, Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper's A Star Is Born and Boy Erased, as well as classic — including Dirty Dancing, Elf and Love Actually. The event will kick off with an advanced screening of Robin Hood, too. Salt Meats Cheese will be supplying the movie bites, with a daily menu of antipasti and woodfired pizza, and drinks will be on offer from Urban Alley Brewery, Pimm's, Giesen Wines and Black Devil Cider. In addition, there will be more than 20 events across the installation, including live music performances, DJs and trivia Oh, and it's a dog-friendly space, so you don't need to leave part of your family at home. Plus if you're an Amex user you'll get 15 percent off selected tickets, plus a blanket. American Express Openair Cinemas will also pop-up in Sydney's inner west (Jan 11–Feb 17) and Bondi (dates to-be announced)
Bondi's The Royal was a stalwart on Sydney's live music scene for years. And now that new owners Merivale have settled in, it's continuing the tradition. Throughout summer, in partnership with Furphy beer, it's running a free live music series across three of its venues: the Royal, plus Coogee Pavilion and Marrickville's Vic on the Park. If you're heading to Bondi on a Saturday afternoon, drop into the Royal, grab a Furphy and settle in for a free gig. Each Saturday from 5pm will see a different artist (or artists) take to the stage — the roster includes a heavy dose of local DJ talent and a couple of live music gigs, too. On January 5, Groove City will travel up from Melbourne to perform its unapologetic funk, and, come February 2, prepare yourself for Perth rockers the Psychedelic Porn Crumpets. After appearing at the Royal, they'll be setting off on a mammoth UK tour. The rest of the See Sound program is over here. Updates will take place throughout summer, so be sure to check in regularly.
