Another pop-up bar has opened in Sydney and this time it can be found on the top level of the Bellevue Hotel. The Mumm Spring Carnival Bar is just a little bit exclusive, and has a selection of vintage G.H Mumm bubbles to sip on, as well as the usual selection of wines and beers. This is the place to head after or during the Spring Carnival races with your best fascinator or bow tie and a group of horse (or racing fashion) enthusiasts. There might even be a celeb or two to mingle with. The pop-up bar is doing all the key spring racing day events including the Caulfield Cup, Cox Plate and Derby Day, a ladies day, a boy's night out (Cox Plate Preview Dinner), a Damien Pignolet dinner and, of course, the ultimate Melbourne Cup day. These ticketed events will serve up French cuisine from the kitchen of chef Pignolet matched with the finest champagne. One such event will be the Mumm Champagne Dinner ($190 per head, 1 November). The menu for this night will be oysters Rockefekker and Damien's marinated salmon, lobster boudin with seared scallops, sauce vin blanc with sorrel, ballontine of free range chicken and quail and Swissb brown mushroom farce, with potato and celeriac galette and spinach and pear puree, sauce Duc de Duxelle. To wrap things up there will be Provencale Blancmanger with seasonal berries and rose petals. All courses are matched with different vintage glasses of Mumm. If the canapes, including freshly shucked oysters, from the pop-up's launch are anything to go by, diners will be in for a real treat. Styled by Michelle Leslie, the bar is an intimate space, with a walled outdoor sundeck decorated with vintage G.H. Mumm posters. Astroturf will be found beneath your well-heeled feet outdoors, bringing a real racing vibe to the mix. Bottles of the sponsored Mumm champagne (unfortunately empty, yes we checked) act as bling around the bar and there are fancy pants private dining rooms complete with leather sofas and tonnes of flowers. You'll also find the bottles being used as lamps. The space can be booked for functions and group bookings from 17 October to 6 November, and it'll be worth frocking up for. The Mumm Spring Carnival Bar pop-up is a good place to surround yourself with luxury champagne, good looking glamazons and air that has a Spring Carnival bite to it. Enjoy. Event details can be viewed here.
Far from a paparazzi, photographer Robert Rosen was considered an "astute observer" of celebrities in Australia in the 1970s–90s. He spent decades documenting parties, concerts, fashion events and nightclubs across London, Europe and Australia. Through his networks, he was able to capture intimate portraits of the rich and famous, many of which have appeared in local and international publications throughout the past 40 years. His spontaneous photographs capture the likes of David Bowie, Andy Warhol, Cate Blanchett, Bob Hawke, Paul McCartney, Boy George and Dame Edna Everage — to name a few. And from August, you'll be able to see Rosen's social photography on full display in Robert Rosen: Glitterati, premiering at the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney. Image: Paul & Linda McCartney, Abbey Rd Studios, London, 1982. Photograph: Robert Rosen
Although by date it's officially spring, Mother Nature has continued to mix it up with both clear skies and dreary ones, making it hard to believe we're at the beginning of October and a whole month into spring. It's difficult these days to predict the true turn of the seasons, but in the lead up to balmy summer nights The Beresford will be screening classic Italian arthouse films throughout the month of October. Classic films like La Dolce Vita and Life is Beautiful appear on the line-up, as do some American flicks set in or inspired by Italy, like The Talented Mr Ripley and The Last Kiss. To accompany the screenings, the Italian trattoria at The Beresford will serve up a $15 food menu to match what's on show every Monday night until the end of October. For your chance to win one of ten double passes for dinner and a movie at The Beresford Italian Film Nights, just make sure you're subscribed to Concrete Playground then email your name through to us at hello@concreteplayground.com.au https://youtube.com/watch?v=0Y9aKqawdUQ
Another year, another Archibald Prize forced to adapt to these pandemic-afflicted times. After the 2020 award was delayed due to COVID-19, this year's gong was handed out as normal — but now the Art Gallery of NSW exhibition that always follows has been impacted by Greater Sydney's current lockdown. So, the folks at AGNSW have released a virtual version of the popular showcase, which means both at-home Sydneysiders and folks around the rest of the country can view 2021's top portraits from their couch. The 360-degree experience lets you tour the exhibition at your own pace, and see its works as they appear within the gallery space. You can learn more about the pieces along the way as well, thanks to clickable hotspots that provide information about each artwork. Every year for the past century, the Archibald Prize has recognised exceptional works of portraiture by Australian artists. In 2021, from a field of 52 finalists, the coveted award has gone to Melbourne-based artist Peter Wegner for Portrait of Guy Warren at 100. A unanimous decision by this year's judges, Wegner's portrait of the centenarian and fellow artist obviously won the gong in a fitting year. "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." Wegner's win came after an equal number of works from both male and female artists made the finalists list for the first time in Archibald history — all of which you can now scope out from home, alongside entries and winners for the Wynne and Sir John Sulman prizes, too. Across the three prizes, 2144 entries were received this year, which is the second-highest number ever after 2020. And, the three prizes received the highest-ever number of entries from Indigenous artists. If you don't agree with the judges, you can also cast your own vote for the People's Choice Award before 5pm on Sunday, August 29. [caption id="attachment_814784" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Archibald Prize 2021. Peter Wegner, 'Portrait of Guy Warren at 100'. Oil on canvas, 120.5 x 151.5 cm. © the artist. Photo: AGNSW, Felicity Jenkins. Sitter: Guy Warren.[/caption] Top image: Archibald Prize 2021 finalist. Kirsty Neilson, 'Making noise'. Oil on linen, 50.1 x 60.1 cm, © the artist. Photo: AGNSW, Felicity Jenkins.
If you, like us, long to spend every evening in the cinema but also need to preserve your doubloons to pay rent, this is the competition for you. To celebrate the release of Suburbicon, we're giving away 104 double passes to an early screening of the film. Suburbicon, just to pique your interest, is a film about dirty deeds happening in idyllic 1950s suburban America. In true Clooney style, it's not heavy, but more a dark comedy (that would be the influence of the Coen brothers, with whom he co-wrote the film). Matt Damon and Julianne Moore play a family who get in over their heads with with mob and are forced to navigate their way through some comically dark situations. They're supported by Josh Brolin and Oscar Isaac, all set against a vintage backdrop. Even though it's a little heretic to put George Clooney (silver fox and everyone's favourite Nespresso advocate – sorry Penelope Cruz) behind a camera, instead of dancing in front of it, the man has directing chops. And a double pass (for you and a lucky date) will let you watch his latest offering before the rest of Australia at the EVENT cinema on George Street at 6.30pm on October 25. Truly, a very swanky way to spend a Wednesday night. To enter, see details below. Suburbicon is out in Australian cinemas from Thursday, October 26. [competition]640995[/competition]
Break out the 'feel old yet?' memes, because everyone's favourite Surry Hills tequila den, Tio's Cerveceria, is turning ten years old on December 12. To celebrate that nice round milestone, the crew from Tio's will be treating patrons with their most valuable source of currency: free margaritas. Kicking off from Tuesday, November 30 up until Friday, December 10, the bar will be giving away $1000 worth of margaritas to the tequila- and mezcal-loving hordes of Sydney. You just need to keep an eye on Tio's Instagram for a chance to enter, then turn up and claim the alcoholic spoils of victory. A birthday party to mark the decade in the trade will be going down at the bar on Sunday, December 12, with margs for $10, Grifter tins for $5 and a lineup of DJs. So grab your drinking buddies to reminisce on those hazy nights where you've woken up flecked with popcorn kernels (and move any of your early commitments on the following day). Find Tio's at 4/14 Foster St, Surry Hills. It's open from 5pm–12am, Wednesday to Sunday. All images: Nikki To.
One of the best known and most important figures in Australian history is Woollarawarre Bennelong, a senior Eora man who was captured by Governor Phillip in 1789, but then escaped, later becoming an interlocutor between Indigenous Australians and European settlers. His curiosity, diplomacy and humour were legendary, and played a major role in ensuring his community survived the trauma of invasion. Now Stephen Page, Bangarra's artistic director, has put Bennelong's story into an epic new dance piece that's about to tour the nation. Expect to be immersed in powerful soundscapes, stunning design and extraordinary movement. Bennelong will premiere at the Sydney Opera House on Thursday, June 29 and run for a month, before heading to Canberra, Brisbane and Melbourne. Check out the trailer below. Image: Vishal Pandey.
The second law of thermodynamics, entropy, states that all energy is eventually equalised. Molecules disintegrate as matter is neutralised; like ice cubes melting in a glass of water which in time will be room temperature. It sounds like a pretty self-evident law, but for centuries western culture has aspired to ideals of monumental permanence and art that survives untarnished and unchanged. Rejecting orthodox sculptural materials that are valued for their strength and durability, like stone and bronze, Tim Silver's art is one of transience and eternal incompletion. His cast and carved forms - made of malleable media like crayon, watercolour pigment, chocolate, dirt or sand are forever in a state of transformation, either evolving from of devolving back to nothingness. Marking new experiments with dried herbs and spices, his Coming around again series comprises photographs of small sculptures made from ground nutmeg, ginger, turmeric or cinnamon. They are recognisable forms like light bulbs, cassettes, sunglasses and other cheap, mass-produced goods, and as they sit on a shoreline the tide comes in and gently but relentlessly wears them away. In the main gallery room we meet Rory, a small boy made of powder blue watercolour pigment who is looking up at the ceiling, frozen in a candid moment. But as small drops of water are dispersed from above at random, his matter is disintegrating, his features are wearing away, and a powder blue puddle is slowly forming at his feet. The processes of decay and degeneration are not something to be overcome here, they are foregrounded as the very essence of Silver's art, and of all things.
Snapping a few selfies over Christmas, and then sharing them with the world? Aren't we all. In this selfie-taking, uploading, sharing and Instagram-filling age, the days of only being able to spy your own image in a mirror or reflective surface are long gone. But, what if you could see it on a cookie, cupcake or even on top of your iced coffee? That's what New York's Selfee promises — and they can place your likeness on cold beverages and other baked goods as well. They've been holding pop-up events for the past six months, and are currently running a crowdfunding campaign to open their own store. At the time of writing, they've raised $23,516 towards their $30,000 goal with six days remaining. https://www.instagram.com/p/BOQBxEVAIgu/?taken-by=selff.ee How does it work, you're probably wondering? Flavourless, FDA-certified edible inks hold the key to feasting on food boasting your own picture — or another snap of your choosing. So does a quick printing method that happens as you watch, which gives it an advantage over existing methods of decorating food with your own image (such as cake transfers that have topped bakery fare for years — or online photo-printed marshmallow ordering service Boomf, which is co-owned by James Middleton, the brother of the Duchess of Cambridge). The New York shop will produce selfie-adorned cold-brew iced coffee, iced green tea, cupcakes, cookies, marshmallows and milkshakes, while an online store will ship cookies across America. Add it to your must-try list if you're heading to the US any time soon, or keep your fingers crossed that something similar pops up in Australia. (If you're heading to Asia, Selfie Coffee has proven popular in Singapore)> For more information about Selfee, visit their website.
Every year for the past century, the Archibald Prize has recognised exceptional works of portraiture by Australian artists. In 2021, from a field of 52 finalists, the coveted award has gone to Melbourne-based artist Peter Wegner for Portrait of Guy Warren at 100. A unanimous decision by this year's judges, Wegner's portrait of the centenarian and fellow artist obviously won the gong in a fitting year. "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." Wegner's win came after an equal number of works from both male and female artists made the finalists list for the first time in Archibald history — and plenty of these pieces are now on display at the Art Gallery of NSW. Until Sunday, September 26, Sydneysiders can head to the gallery to scope out the best portraits from this year's entrants, as well as entries and winners for the Wynne and Sir John Sulman prizes, too. Yolŋu painter and printmaker Nyapanyapa Yunupiŋu took out the former this year, with the Wynne Prize awarding the best landscape painting of Australian scenery or figure sculpture. The artist won for Garak – night sky, a piece represents Djulpan, the Seven Sisters star clusters that are also known as Pleiades. [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 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. 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. Top image: Winner Archibald Prize 2021. Peter Wegner, Portrait of Guy Warren at 100. © the artist. Photo: AGNSW, Jenni Carter.
Sydney's rambunctious leotard-loving lads, Bluejuice, are calling it a day. The beloved pop/rock/dance/errrthang ratbags Jake Stone, Stavros Yiannoukas, Jamie Cibej and James Hauptmann have announced their final national tour and an upcoming greatest hits tour to wrap everything up by the end of 2014. "After 13 years of broken bones, broken hearts, sore heads, passive aggression, regular aggression, several arrests, questionable skin infections, and a busload of infuriated tour managers, Bluejuice are announcing they are calling it quits at the end of 2014," says today's press release. Abercrombie-going Purple Sneakers alumni are shedding many a tear today. Since 2001, the beloved Sydney outfit have had one heck of a ride, keeping the chin of Australian music up with three celebrated albums (Problems, Head of the Hawk and Company) on the shelf and still holding the position of most played track on triple j ever ('Vitriol'). https://youtube.com/watch?v=ldBhDmvWFXE Bluejuice have decided to part ways to test the waters in other projects, with the sad intention of giving those leotards a rest. Before they take their final bows, the team will release a big ol' greatest hits album — a retrospective ride dubbed Retrospectable, with all your favourite mid-2000s sticky-floored party go-tos, best bits from their three albums, extra rare content and new single 'I'll Go Crazy', produced by Dann Hume (Sticky Fingers/Alpine). Bluejuice will kick it on their final national tour this September/October. Starting at Adelaide's Uni Bar, the pair will meander through the capitals and rural centres before finishing up where it all started — Sydney (at the Metro Theatre, where many a drunken Bluejuice escapade has roamed before). In one of the most emotionally-charged press releases we've ever seen, Bluejuice's legacy is laid down. "They shall leave behind a body of work of which they are all very proud, and they look to the future with a mix of hope and fear of starvation, not unlike the chick at the end of Children Of Men." Top notch. Bluejuice — Retrospectable: The Farewell Tour (with special guests to be announced) Tickets on sale August 9 THU 25 SEPT — Uni Bar, Adelaide. Tickets via Oztix. FRI 26 SEPT — Capitol, Perth. Tickets via Oztix. SAT 27 SEPT — Red Earth Arts Festival, Karratha. Tickets via REAF. THU 02 OCT — Hi-Fi, Brisbane. Tickets via Oztix. FRI O3 OCT — Coolangatta Hotel, Coolangatta. Tickets via Oztix. SAT 04 OCT — Great Northern Hotel, Byron Bay. Tickets via Oztix. FRI 10 OCT — Hi-Fi, Melbourne. Tickets via Oztix. SAT 11 OCT — Hi-Fi, Melbourne. (Under 18's only Matinee show 12-3pm) Tickets via Oztix. SAT 11 OCT — Village Green Hotel, Mulgrave. Tickets via Ticketmaster and Village Green Hotel. SUN 12 OCT — Barwon Club, Geelong. Tickets via Oztix. FRI 17 OCT — Waves, Wollongong. Tickets via Moshtix. SAT 18 OCT — ANU Bar, Canberra. Tickets via Ticketek. THU 23 OCT — Bar on the Hill, Newcastle. Tickets via BigTix. FRI 24 OCT — Metro Theatre, Sydney. (LIC/ALL AGES)? Tickets via Ticketek.
The realisation that eventually comes to everyone underscores Once My Mother, one that dawned slowly upon filmmaker Sophia Turkiewicz. She grew up listening to stories her mother, Helen, would tell of her life, but could only see as far as the intersection with her involvement. More immediate family history weighed upon Sophia, driving a desire for distance as she grew from a girl into a woman. Unforgiving about time spent in an orphanage, she also demonstrated an unwillingness to look past the emotional scars of her upbringing. It follows that Once My Mother takes a universal process — that of discovering the real personality of our parents, of understanding the true impact of their past not just upon their lives but our own, and of showing compassion for any missteps along the way — and relates it to the audience in the only way possible: as a personal journey. Turkiewicz's documentary is dedicated to dissecting Helen's resilience through decades marked by difficulties of destruction, discrimination and displacement; however, it is also shaped by a daughter's burgeoning awakening to things only age and experience could help her appreciate. Many laudatory words are directed towards Helen in the film's narration, written by and told from Sophia's perspective as a letter from the latter to the former but actually voiced by another. The extolling of virtues is justified by the accounts of Helen's epic ordeals in Poland and Siberia during the Second World War, then in Africa in the aftermath, and finally in Australia in an attempt to establish a new life as a single mother. The language remains lyrical and love-fuelled, sensitive and sentimental, even if the revelation that it is uttered by someone else (Jen Vuletic) somewhat skews the sense of intimacy. Of course, the spoken component is just one part of the documentary, with the visual complement impressive in its detailed assemblage. Starting with Helen in an aged care centre, then going back to the beginning, Sophia combines archival footage and photographs with contemporary-shot interviews and visits. The most fulfilling and fortunate element comes from work filmed many years ago, in the fledgling days of her career and with the flame of inquiry into her maternal genesis just beginning to spark, of earlier chats with Helen. Turkiewicz's career has spanned a significant slice of Australian film and television since the early 1980s, most notably the AFI-winning feature Silver City. It is fitting that it similarly took stock of familiar circumstances, albeit in fictionalised form. Here, she confronts the true tale with obvious emotion, but also insight and information. Once My Mother is a time capsule of a unique bond, and a testament to the impact of tenacity, both resonant and relatable. https://youtube.com/watch?v=-fos7dm2inE
He's a hip-hop and fashion trailblazer. His latest album Chromakopia dropped in 2024. He's also heading to Australia again in 2025. That'd be Tyler, The Creator — and he's coming with friends, with the genre-bending rapper boasting Lil Yachty and Paris Texas in support. Tyler, The Creator last headed this way on a headline tour in 2022, and played Splendour in the Grass as well. On his latest trip, he has a three-night date with Sydney, playing Qudos Bank Arena across Tuesday, August 26–Thursday, August 28. Luis 'Panch' PerezThe Chromakopia tour follows his 2024 Coachella headlining set, on a bill that also included Lana Del Rey, Doja Cat, No Doubt and plenty more. Before 2022 — which marked Tyler's first set of headline shows down under in over eight years — the last time that the star graced Australian shores was for a series of festival appearances over New Years 2020–21, hitting up the likes of Beyond the Valley and Field Day. [caption id="attachment_823369" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Demxx via Flickr[/caption] Top images: Raph_PH via Flickr.
Six Hunter Valley winemakers will take to the road this month for New Generation's Caravan of Courage tour. The whistle stop trip will engage wine lovers in a series of pop-up bars and dinners held all along the east coast of Australia, from Melbourne to Noosa. The events will be hosted by the six winemakers themselves, a rogue crew of thrill-seeking, bus-dwelling winos. There is no doubt that they know their stuff when it comes to wine, though. Hailing from the famed Hunter wine region, each winemaker promises event-goers the very best of their product, straight out of their big green bus accomodations. The Caravan of Courage will be making stops in Sydney on May 11 and Brisbane on May 17, each held at a secret inner-city location. To win tickets for you and a friend, just make sure you are subscribed to Concrete Playground then email your city preference to hello@concreteplayground.com.au
As always, it's a rough time for those involved in local, independent theatre. The intimate, upstairs theatre at the Tap Gallery in Darlinghurst will be closed from November 5 until further notice. What started as a complaint about fire safety in July, then turned into a council problem. The theatre space never actually received approval to open and now owners need to lodge a development application as well as provide disability access. "We are all terribly upset, but our duty of care towards our patrons and their guests requires that we close the space while we assess our options," reads a statement on the venue's website. "Meantime, our good friends at Sydney City Council are working with us to investigate and resolve a way forward." The venue has been home to a few very successful shows recently, and the news comes as a shock to those in the industry. Audiences were packed into the 50-seat space just a few months ago for Lobby Hero and Penelope. The theatre had further shows lined up including Playing Rock Hudson which was due to open on November 6. All upcoming productions have since been cancelled. "We had heard the rumours, but had been assured by the venue that they would not be closed," the show's artistic director told SMH. "I think Sydney needs to take a look at its independent scene. In terms of venues, there are very few legitimate options for independent artists." At least there's one silver lining: if you're an indie theatre producer looking for a rehearsal space, Tap is offering discount rates. The theatre is available for hire for $25 per house or $200 per day. Hopefully, there will be somewhere to actually put on the show once you're done. Via SMH.
There's plenty of food at Bondi Feast, but it's not the main course. The Rock Surfers Theatre Company's annual festival serves up offbeat performances, comedy and writerly projects from some of our favourite creative Sydneysiders, all backed up by a rotating cast of food vendors in the Bondi Pavilion's Festival Bar. With tickets to shows starting at $10, consider it a tapas of ideas, hilarity, provocation and feels. The shows here have fronted up ready to compete for our very limited attention spans on title alone. There's My Struggle: The Life and Times of an Individ (in a World Full of Hipsters), This Is My Box, Awkward Conversations with Animals I've Fucked, Jack Kerouac's Rules for Spontaneous Prose, Destroyer of Worlds and Josipa Draisma is Jean Claude Van Damme. The synopsis for (Melbourne Fringe Festival and Green Room Award winner) Tim Spencer's Sweet Sweet Merch reads simply, "Shock hot super cool amazing unbelievable award winning prizes escalation fireworks blow by blow action responsive titivating nudity live girls progressive mind bending altering adulterating celebrity scandal high quality mindfulness organic all natural beatific excellence quality service customer care highlights moisturising elevating prosthetic cyborg money back guarantee*". What more could you ask for? But there's a lot of substance to these dishes. With acts pulled together by festival director and regular indie theatre conduit Phil Spencer, Bondi Feast is a showcase of the east coast's best fringe or up-and-coming performers and writers. "Bondi Feast 2014 is packed full of action with guided meditations, dance classes, open auditions, 24 hour playwright parties, scratch nights, hot soup and bags of new works," says Spencer. Included on the bill is Eddie Sharp (Erotic Fan Fiction), Genevieve Fricker (TV's The Roast), Vanessa Bates (Every Second), Jessica Bellamy (Shabbat Dinner), Caleb Lewis (Death in Bownegabbie), Daniel Townes and Hannah Malarski (Bushpig). For the duration of the fest, the Bondi Pav will kitted out as a North American roadside diner, featuring designer Gemma O'Nions' "bespoke truckie cab shrines". A different food truck or local business takes over the kitchen each night (in previous years that's included the Bucket List, Veggie Patch, Misschu, Bondi Harvest and the Beach Burrito Co), while Batlow's hot spiced apple cider provides the support you need to step out onto that blustery balcony with the killer beach views. Bondi Feast 2014 is on from July 8-26 at the Bondi Pavilion. Thanks to the Rock Surfers, we have one double festival pass to give away (that's valid for all shows in the 'Big Theatre' throughout the festival). To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address.
It's a hundred years since the Mexican Revolution. Moustaches, cries of "land and freedom!" and 'sombrero' as a synonym for 'big hat' all flow from that revolutionary era. The Mexico it created is complex, layered and huge. Just like Mexico's movies, which — thanks to this year's Hola Mexico Film Festival — are again being brought to Sydney. Star of the festival this year is director Carlos Carrera, whose horrific and powerful Backyard highlights the almost daily murders of women in the border city Juarez. He is touring his new film On Childhood, but will also be doing a Q&A after his blockbuster Catholic expose The Crime of Father Amaro, starring Y Tu Mama Tambien's Gael Garcia Bernal. Bernal also features as one of the ten directors of the centennial Revolucion, while documentary A Day Less is a startlingly frank, sad and funny portrait of an aging couple in Acapulco and their bleak year between annual family visits. Presumed Guilty follows corruption in the Mexican justice system — a film that unwittingly helped to remedy the injustices it covered. And if you want a fiesta to boot, the opening night will accompany Diego Luna's Abel with flamenco from Los Tres Monos and yummy botanas by Guzman y Gomez. Hola Mexico will run until November 14 at the Dendy Opera Quays and Dendy Newtown. Image from Revolucion
UPDATE Thursday, June 29: Ocean Alley have now been announced as the replacement for Lewis Capaldi. Find the full 2023 Splendour in the Grass lineup and set times at the festival website. Splendour in the Grass is just weeks away from its 2023 festival, and two new artists have just been added to the lineup, with one more major announcement still set to come. Danny Brown and Thelma Plum have both joined the bill as replacements for Slowthai and Rainbow Kitten Surprise. Plus, Splendour has confirmed that a replacement for Lewis Capaldi is coming, after the Scottish singer-songwriter advised that he would be taking a break from touring to focus on his health. Eccentric US rapper Danny Brown will join the lineup as an Australian exclusive, playing his first Australian show in over five years. He'll head up the Mix Up Stage on the Friday night, bringing his catalogue of experimental rap hits including his highly acclaimed recent collaborative project SCARING THE HOES with Jpegmafia (who you can catch at this year's Listen Out). Thelma Plum also joins the lineup of musicians that'll will arrive at North Byron Parklands from Friday, July 21–Sunday, July 23, alongside the likes of Lizzo, Flume, Mumford & Sons and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs — the latter of which were slated to headline 2022's Splendour in the Grass lineup, but cancelled in the leadup. Plum was a highlight of the festival back in 2019, and was also scheduled to play at the 2020 edition before it was cancelled due to the pandemic. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YgxQlS2054 Along with the new acts, the annual winter event has also just unveiled its set times and maps, so you can start planning your weekend and prepare for set clashes if you've nabbed tickets. The schedule reveals an hour-long gap on the Amphitheatre stage between Ruel and J Balvin where festivalgoers can expect Capaldi's replacement to pop up. Just last week, Splendour added a heap of new talent to the weekend, including powerhouse Russian punk group Pussy Riot and a heap of names for its Forum, Science Tent, Comedy Club and Forum Live Podcasts programs. These additions included a talk with Pussy Riot's Nadya Tolokonnikova, everyone's favourite ex-AFL player-turned-sports newsreader Tony Armstrong, The Betoota Advocate, Dr Karl, Brooke Boney, and comedians such as Deadloch star Nina Oyama and Michael Hing. [caption id="attachment_907565" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Stephen Booth[/caption] SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS 2023 MUSIC LINEUP: Danny Brown (Australian exclusive) Thelma Plum Ocean Alley Joining Lizzo Flume (Australian exclusive: ten years of Flume) Mumford & Sons (Australian exclusive) Yeah Yeah Yeahs Hilltop Hoods J Balvin Sam Fender Idles Little Simz Tove Lo 100 Gecs (Australian exclusive) Arlo Parks Ball Park Music Iann Dior King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard 070 Shake Pussy Riot Pnau Ruel Loyle Carner Benee Marlon Williams Hooligan Hefs Peach PRC Palace Dune Rats Tkay Maidza Noah Cyrus Skegss Sudan Archives Cub Sport Meg Mac X Club. Claire Rosinkranz Jack River The Smith Street Band Lastlings Jeremy Zucker Young Franco Sly Withers MAY-A The Vanns Telenova Vallis Alps Jamesjamesjames Kaycyy RVG Teenage Dads Balming Tiger Automatic Harvey Sutherland Gali Del Water Gap Royel Otis Shag Rock Big Wett Mia Wray Memphis LK Gold Fang Milku Sumner Forest Claudette Full Flower Moon Band William Crighton Hellcat Speedracer Triple J Unearthed Winners Mix Up DJs: Tseba Crybaby Latifa Tee Foura Caucasianopportunities Luen Mowgli DJ Macaroni Crescendoll Splendour in the Grass will take over North Byron Bay Parklands from Friday, July 21–Sunday, July 23, 2023 — head to the festival website for further details and tickets.
The time-honoured Italian tradition of aperitivo has been embraced by Australians. Across the country, heaps of bars and restaurants offer aperitivo specials — but have you ever tried throwing your own aperitivo hour at home with family and friends? Classic Italian apéritif brand Aperol is here to help you do just that. It has launched a series of Aperol Spritz @ 6pm experiences, which are hosted by some of the country's top chefs, musicians and artists. With these, you can try out new recipes, partake in virtual art classes and learn how to create the perfect playlist for your (socially distant and responsibly sized) get together. Keen to pair your spritz with some snacks? Saké Restaurant & Bar has shared three of its signature recipes that'll seriously impress your mates during your aperitivo hang. Learn how to whip up kingfish sashimi, karaage chicken with yuzu mayo and salmon hand rolls via an easy to follow video. Or, you can log on for a cooking class with Fratelli Fresh's culinary director Gabor Denes, who'll demonstrate how to make the restaurant's famous lasagna, as well as pappardelle, linguini and farfalle from scratch. There's also a music mixing session with DJ Niki Dé Saint — a musician who's played at Fashion Week Sydney and Paris, Melbourne's F1 Grand Prix and Vivid — who'll also share her top playlists to set the mood for your aperitivo, and a sunset-inspired painting class with artist and photographer Danielle Cross. There are a heap of prizes up for grabs, too, including $150 vouchers for Saké Restaurant & Bar in NSW, Queensland and Victoria, and an Aperol Spritz cocktail pack — with Aperol, prosecco, Fever Tree soda water, Aperol Spritz glasses and a jigger — delivered straight to your door. The cocktail pack competition is running weekly until July 12, and to enter you need to post a pic of you and your mates having a spritz on Instagram or Facebook and tag @aperolspritzau and #SpritzAt6. You can check out all the details over here. To check out all of the Aperol Spritz @ 6pm experiences and enter the competition, head on over to the Aperol website. Remember to Drinkwise. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
The first half of Baz Luhrmann's The Great Gatsby is every bit its director, and is to be endured rather than enjoyed. Set during America's economic boom of the 1920s, the action is cartoonish, the dialogue is almost devoid of nuance and the lavish parties appear dull despite all the sparkles in the world — a regrettable triumph of impeccable style over substance. Apologists may argue this merely reflects Gatsby's time and theme: a shallow, superficial facade to reflect its characters and their unapologetic opulance, but that is too convenient. Simple regard to Luhrmann's history reminds us that exaggerated spectacle is every bit his custom, not a carefully chosen device, and his fondness for juxtaposing period drama with modern music (the soundtrack was produced by Jay-Z) proves more distracting than entertaining. Matters improve immeasurably, however, in the second half when Luhrmann begins to explore his favourite theme of forbidden love twixt star-crossed lovers. Moulin Rouge, Strictly Ballroom and Romeo & Juliet all hit their highest notes when the pagentry gave way to the intimate, and Gatsby is no exception. The stolen moments between its protagonist Jay (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Daisy (Carey Mulligan) are appropriately tender but ominous, presided over with a mix of fascination and regret by the film's narrator Nick Carraway (Tobey Maguire). To borrow from Fitzgerald, these few quiet moments are — compared to the 'rotten crowd' of the first hour — worth more than the lot of them put together. From a performance standpoint, the women definitely come out on top. Mulligan is utterly charming as Daisy, consistently allowing her character's fragility to worm its way to the surface before masking it with a disarming smile, and Isla Fisher is unrecognisable as the mistress of Daisy's husband Tom (played by Joel Edgerton in yet another impressive turn). Most captivating of all, however, is the statuesque Elizabeth Debicki, who commands the eye in every frame of film she occupies. In terms of the men, Maguire's doe-eyed exuberance is endearing enough, though at times it strays almost to the point of clowning, and Jason Clarke provides a nice cameo as Fisher's dim-witted husband. In the role of Gatsby, DiCaprio looks every bit the man whose smile "was one of those rare [ones] with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you come across four or five times in life", yet his performance feels largely wooden and unnatural. It's as if the words and accent are not his own, particularly in the first half where they seem so apart from his body as to invoke uncomfortable memories of Tom Hardy's Bane. Ultimately, it's far from the disaster indicated by some of its early reviews, particularly those that labelled it a 'two-hour music video', and there's no denying Luhrmann has a flair for engaging the senses with his extraordinary vision. That said, The Great Gatsby largely departs from the memory almost as quickly as it arrives, an impermanent and largely uncritical adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's beloved take on the infirmity of the American Dream. https://youtube.com/watch?v=ozkOhXmijtk
If crafting a successful sequel wasn't already a difficult assignment, doing so for a movie remembered for its quirkiness and surprise factor must border on the impossible. Still, when Kingsman: The Secret Service took in over $400 million worldwide, a follow-up was inevitable. And so two years later director Matthew Vaughn has returned to the world of suave secret agents with Kingsman: The Golden Circle. Let's be clear: this is a ridiculous movie in almost every respect, from the mad-cap story through to the action scenes, cameos and costuming. Everything in Kingsman: The Golden Circle is hyped-up, spun-around, slowed-down, blown-up or cut in half. Gravity is largely ignored, except when it's used as a weapon, and henchmen die with the same violent regularity as extras in Commando. There are robotic killer dogs, cannibalistic villains and Elton John ninja-kicking a bad guy in the face. As we said, it's ridiculous – but also surprisingly entertaining. Our villain this time round is none other than Academy Award winner Julianne Moore as Poppy, the world's leading and most ruthless drug tzar. Her Cambodian lair has been fashioned as an homage to 1950s Americana, complete with bowling alley, golden age cinema and a shake and burger diner in which she both conducts her business and minces her victims. She's an apron wearing Stepford Escobar who owns every second of screen time given to her. Tasked with stopping Poppy are the bespoke-suited Kingsmen in chav-turned-gent Eggsy (Taron Egerton) and his tech man Merlin (Mark Strong). Back too is Colin Firth's Galahad, suffering from a nasty bout of retrograde amnesia. They're also joined by their American counterparts The Statesmen, whose ranks include Halle Berry, Pedro Pascal, Jeff Bridges and a criminally-underused Channing Tatum. Silly and fun as it might be, there are some glaring problems with this film, most notably that it's unfathomably sexist. With the one exception of Julianne Moore's Poppy, every single woman in Kingsman: The Golden Circle exists only as a victim, a love interest or an assistant to her male counterparts. Given the movie was co-written by Jane Goldman, it's beyond comprehension why such rampant and unnecessary gender bias could exist in a movie where masculinity plays no meaningful purpose. Yes, it's about spies in sumptuous suits, but as one of the early scenes demonstrates, Eggsy's best friend and colleague Roxy looks as good if not better in the ole pin stripes and paisley, to say nothing of her abilities. Still, the film is entertaining in spite of its flaws and it thankfully retains enough shock factor to honour the original. The final scene also makes clear that the producers are prepping for part three. Love it or leave it, there's more Kingsman to come. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Nxc-3WpMbg
It's hump day, which means it's time to start thinking about the weekend (if you're not already). And, excitingly, the weekend coming up is a long one. With all states, territories and capital cities copping an absolute scorching over the past couple of weeks, we thought we'd take a look at what's on the menu for the Australia Day long weekend. Our capital is going to be bearing the brunt of the heat with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting Canberra will remain in the near-40s from Friday through Saturday, with Sunday dipping to 35 with 30 percent chance of rain. We suggest hitting the sand in the early morning before it gets too hot (and before the UV peaks). Down the coast in Melbourne, Friday is expected to be a fiery 41 — luckily this all-vegan gelateria is giving out 1000 free ice creams to make it slightly more bearable — but Saturday's only hitting a max of 26, with 40 percent chance of showers. Sunday and Monday will also hover around the mid-20s, with minimal showers predicted, so it'll be perfect weather for a hike or splash around in a body of water. There'll be no near-40 temperatures in Sydney, instead just mid-to-low 30s across the board, with little chance of rain. Our mates at BOM are predicting extremely high UV during the day on Friday and Saturday, so do cover up (with clothes, zinc or sunscreen) if you plan to head outdoors to the beach or to Yabun Festival, an all-day celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Brisbane is expected to be equally subdued, with 33 degrees predicted all weekend. If this sounds like perfect gin-drinking weather to you, you'll be happy to know that two juniper-heavy parties will, in fact, be taking place across the weekend, as well as GABS' much-hyped top 100 craft beer countdown. Across the country, Perth is expected to be dry and balmy, sitting in the mid-20s, while Darwin should expect rain and thunderstorms every day for the next week. Adelaide folk will be cranking their air-cons with 45 predicted tomorrow, before it eases off to the mid-30s for the rest of the week. Hobart will be ten degrees cooler, with mid-20s expected across the weekend. To help you plan your beach trips, we've rounded up our favourite ten spots in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Images: Lorne by Robert Blackburn; Manly by Paros Huckstepp; Currumbin via Flickr.
Whether it's a low-key fish 'n' chip picnic on the beach or splurging on a decadent platter for your anniversary, seafood is synonymous with romance (after all, everyone knows the claims about oysters being an aphrodisiac). At just 2.5-hours north of Sydney, perched on the edge of a huge protected marine park, Port Stephens is famed for its abundance of fresh seafood. The local cafes, restaurants and bars take full advantage of their proximity to the freshest catches, so when you're looking to treat your special someone to a romantic escape from the city, consider Port Stephens. With the Hunter Valley region just nearby, you'll also have your pick of quality drops to pair your seafood feast with as you make eyes at each other across the table. Here are some of the must-visit restaurants, cafes and bars on your weekend away. Unattached? These spots are just as suitable for a group getaway or some much-needed quality time with your bestie. Please stay up to date with the latest NSW Government health advice regarding COVID-19.
If you've ever dined in the Darling Harbour eatery ABODE you'll be familiar with its dining approach of accessible sophistication and sustainability. The seasonally-led kitchen is about to go all-in on the biggest culinary draw card of the season: for just one winter evening on Saturday, July 29, ABODE is levelling up its usual offering of Australian produce with a luxe Truffle Dinner. ABODE has joined forces with certified biodynamic and organic Elvesgate Truffle Farm to curate a five-course dinner showcasing that subterranean black gold: the black truffle. Each course of the meal will be designed around, star or be inspired by the luxurious culinary gems (black truffle is quite literally valued in the hundreds of dollars per kilogram). You'll also meet a member of the family behind Elvesgate Truffle Farm, who'll be imparting knowledge of the food as well as the farm. These truffles will star in dishes featuring duck breast, house-made bread, beef fillet, chocolate and more. Your $140 ticket includes a welcome drink and five courses of food, and for an extra $50pp you can get matching Gartelmann Wines from the Hunter Valley region to wash it down. Truly a gastronomical delight, no? For key details on the Truffle Dinner and to secure your ticket, visit the website, or visit the ABODE website for more information.
It's a dream everyone has shared since 1993 — or, since you first saw Jurassic Park. Who hasn't wished that they could see dinosaurs up close at a theme park (albeit without having to evacuate an island afterwards)? Yep, author Michael Crichton and filmmaker Steven Spielberg have a lot to answer for. Or, we can thank them for not only letting us live out this fantasy on the page and screen, but inspiring other dino-themed attractions to pop up. Sure, America's Moab Giants Dinosaur Park doesn't offer living, breathing versions of the prehistoric creatures; however it does let you wander around 60 acres of desert and view more than 100 life-sized renderings. Opening back in September 2015 but finishing their final exhibit just last month, the Utah establishment is just what dinosaur fans have hoped for — as long as they've hoped to see these giant critters in dry, rocky surroundings, that is. When you're not literally following in their footsteps along a half-mile-long trail, you can get a 3D glimpse of what the area looked like when dinos roamed the earth, add two extra dimensions courtesy of virtual reality to explore the world of ancient sea beasts, pretend you're in a paleontologists' camp and even try to dig up some fossils. Sounds like the closest you're probably getting to visiting Jurassic Park, doesn't it? Aka, it sounds pretty dino-tastic. Think of it as your ideal dinosaur-oriented getaway, in case the Gold Coast's rumoured next theme park doesn't ever come to fruition — or, an overseas alternative to the Australian Age of Dinosaurs in Winton in central outback Queensland. Via AWOL.
We can't think of a more fitting way to ring in silly season than by sipping champagne with your friends in front of the glorious Sydney Harbour. And thanks to our friends at Moët & Chandon, you could win a double pass to a sparkling drinking destination that's popping up at Bennelong Lawn. On Thursday, December 2, you and a pal could be immersed in the shimmering world of Moët & Chandon inside a custom designed 500-square-metre sculpture for Effervescence Sydney. Set against the lush backdrop of the Royal Botanic Gardens, this exclusive evening inside a glittering installation will take you far beyond your typical harbourside drinks. The prize includes a Moët Mini on arrival followed by live DJ sets, roving canapés including a bump of caviar and Moët & Chandon champagne throughout the evening to help you toast to a summer of togetherness. Plus, there'll be a glittering custom-built chandelier, a bubbling champagne tower and unparalleled views of Sydney Harbour — all for free. To nab this exclusive double pass valued at $200, tell us in 25 words or less what you'll be raising your glass to this summer and why. Moët & Chandon's Effervescence Sydney will take place from Wednesday, December 1–Sunday, December 4. To enter the competition, fill out your details below. [competition]833301[/competition]
It was the decade that gave us Magic Eye pictures, the Macarena, Pokemon and Tamagotchi, too. We're talking, of course, about the 90s. The decade might've come to an end exactly 20 years ago now, but it's easy to get nostalgic about — especially in a hectic year where we're all thinking about how simple life once was. The easiest way to indulge that nostalgia? You can pop on a flannelette shirt or some Hypercolour if you like, or you can head back in time via your viewing choices. Press play on one of the big hits of the decade, and you'll be transported back to a period when a group of mates sat on an orange coffee shop couch, and when the Dude also abided. To help plan out your ultimate retro watch list, we've teamed up with streaming service Binge to highlight five beloved TV shows and movies that'll take you back to the 90s faster than a DeLorean — including via a 14-day free trial for new customers.
If you died a little death of burger-induced happiness at August's Barrio Cellar x Pub Life Kitchen Burger Pop-Up, it might be time to resurrect your satisfied self and head over to Camperdown's Deus Ex Machina. The two burger champs are coming together once again for a summer burger residency at the motorcycle brand's multi-purpose space, and it opens this Friday, November 27. The residency will see inner-west Sydneysiders full and fed right through to January. This time, however, the two Sydney legends won't be pitted against each other in a battle of hamburger juice and mustard — they'll be teaming up to create the ultimate burger joint. If you're not familiar with the two halves of this delicious equation, get acquainted. Pub Life Kitchen have earned their stripes in burgery, serving seriously excellent creations inside Ultimo's tiny Lord Wolseley Hotel, and have been known to put everything from Dorito fried chicken to chilli jam doughnuts on their buns. Barrio Cellar, while probably known more for their tacos and tequila, have been flipping some pretty excellent burgers in the CBD since June. Just look at this. A photo posted by Barrio Cellar (@barriocellar) on Sep 17, 2015 at 5:22pm PDT Deus Ex Machina is located at 98-104 Parramatta Road, Camperdown. For more information on the pop-up, visit Pub Life Kitchen's Facebook page. Via Good Food.
It's a scenario that every Australian can relate to: it's summer, the temperature has reached scorching levels and you can hear the sounds of someone splashing around in a cool, refreshing pool. Alas, those noises aren't emanating from your own pool, because you don't have one — and you don't know your neighbours well enough to just pop by for a dip. And, maybe your local swimming spot is too far away, you don't live near the beach or the nearest public pool is closed for the day. Add all of the above together, and you're stuck trying to cool down in the bath or under the fan. Enter Swimply, a service that's operational in nearly 20 American states, just launched in Toronto in Canada, and is set to head to Australia by summer, according to Lonely Planet. Like every other service that's popped up in today's sharing economy, it's all about renting out something that one person has and doesn't use all of the time, to another person that has a short-term need. In this case, it lets folks with pools lease out their backyard swimming spots when they're not in use, and lets folks without pools find a place for a splash. If you fall into the latter category, you can look for a spot by the day or for a weekend. If you're after a pool with specific facilities and inclusions — such as a changing area, lounge chairs, wifi, a shady spot to sit under and heated waters — you can do that too. Prices aren't particularly cheap, hovering around the US$40 mark for a day, but if you're planning a dip with your pals and can split the cost, it's much more affordable. Add Swimply to the list of Airbnb-like ventures popping up — services that let you stay in architecturally significant houses, the homes of friends of friends, camping grounds, and caravans and campervans; rent out your spare room to refugees; find a music studio; and take care of your luggage needs overseas. This one sounds particularly enticing, however, especially as the warmer weather starts to hit. For further details, visit Swimply's website and Facebook page.
Snow season is nearly here and, as usual, Thredbo is planning an avalanche of live music to keep you moving between runs. Hitting the slopes this year are Hot Dub Time Machine, First Base (Flight Facilities' Hugo Gruzman and Client Liaison's Tom Tilley), Violent Soho, Rudimental, The Smith Street Band, CC Disco, Tigerlily, Joy Ride, 19-Twenty and loads more. Here's the lowdown on who's playing where. The major event is, of course, Snow Tunes, the Southern Hemisphere's biggest snow music festival, happening at Lake Jindabyne Friday, August 31 to Saturday, September 1. Violent Soho is in headline spot, followed by Rudimental (UK), 4B (US), Ducky (US), The Smith Street Band and stacks of others. If you're heading to Thredbo to celebrate season launch, then you're in for a massive June long weekend party, complete with Heineken Saturday, a free concert in Thredbo Village starring Hot Dub Time Machine, Young Franco and Souseme DJs. And plan for a return on Saturday, August 25 when Tigerlily will be powering another free show, supported by Kinder Music and Michelle Owen. You'll have three chances to catch First Base, who'll be hosting a trio of Vintage Apres Soirees presented by Canadian Club. CC Disco will join them on June 30, Touch Sensitive on August 4 and Joy Ride on September 8. Meanwhile, at Thredbo Alpine Hotel, Corona Sunsets will get behind a series of (heated) poolside sessions, featuring 19-Twenty (July 14), North East Party House (July 21) and Running Touch (August 18). Don't forget your swimmers. If you're into soul-funk, then step into The Schuss Bar on select Sundays to catch Canberra's H-Cee Family, who'll be appearing on July 1 and 29, August 19 and September 16, while monthly Fireball Full Moon Parties are slated for June 28, July 27, August 26 and September 24. There's also a bunch of one-off events and festivals, including General Pants Sn'O' Week (June 25–29), Thredbo x Tinder Uni Week (July 22–27), RedBull Music Festival (July 28) and Rainbow Mountain Heaps Gay Snow Week (August 29–September 2). THREDBO SNOW SEASON 2018 FULL MUSIC LINE-UP Hot Dub Time Machine Hugo Gruzman (Flight Facilities) Tom Tilley (triple j/Client Liaison) Violent Soho Rudimental (UK) 4B (US) Ducky (US) The Smith Street Band CC Disco 19 Twenty North East Party House Touch Sensitive Running Touch Tigerlily Joy Ride Young Franco Souseme DJs Kinder Music Michelle Owen Magnifik Slippery Trout DJs Yeah Sure DJs Siwa DJ Butcher Lex Deluxe Wolfwolf Nes No Talk Dan De Caires Charlie O'Brien Rich Penny Oh Glam DJ Dick Dollar General Pants DJs Barney Cools DJs Dom Dolla Indian Summer Torren Foot Sweat It Out DJs 4B Amastro Aviva Bec Sandridge Confidence Man Crooked Colours DJ Sabio Hockey Dad Kayex Losty Luude Mallrat Meg Mac Midas Gold Miss Blanks Nyxen One Day Apart Pacific Avenue Set Mo Slumberjack Thandi Phoenix Thundamentals Tired Lion Yahtzel Live H-Cee Family
When it comes to fashion, staying ahead of the pack can be a mighty tough feat. But if you're keen to kick monochromic minimalism to the curb, while giving a little back to your global community, we've found just the bold West African label to help you do it. YEVU, which means 'foreigner' in the local Ewe language, is a socially responsible clothing line bringing the wild traditional wax prints of Ghana to Aussie shores. Linking local African tailors with style-conscious global customers, founder Anna Robertson is creating serious change for Ghanaian seamstresses living on the poverty line. You can read more about the company's social impact here. After launching its sell-out debut range in October 2013, the company has gone from strength to strength, hosting pop-ups around the country, selling out eye-catching pieces and garnering a cult following along the way. Now, YEVU returns to Sydney, hosting a ten-day pop-up filled with its new summer range, limited-edition prints, archival pieces and samples — just in time to stock up for summer. From December 6–16, the store will also be filled with plenty of foliage, thanks to Leaf Supply — and, yes, every plant on display in the store will be available to buy. So both you and your house can acquire some fancy new accessories. The YEVU Pop-Up is open from 10am–7pm, Monday–Saturday and 11am–5pm, Sunday.
After launching a pint-size spinoff specialising in build-your-own bowls back in August, swish Japanese joint Sake is already launching a second iteration of Saké Jr. Opening this week in Grosvenor Place in the CBD, the "fast-casual" eatery will offer rice, noodle, salad and bao bun-based bowls, along with breakfast options, 'grab and go' items, smoothies, coffee, kombucha and beer. Open 7.30am to 8pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 6pm on weekends, Saké Jr sells itself on a healthy menu that is "honest, sustainable, affordable and convenient — and absolutely packed with flavour". Charging full steam ahead, this is their third Sake Jr to open this year, with the first two already open at Westfield Sydney and in Melbourne. For example, workers blazing through the CBD at breakfast time grab an acai, seasonal fruit or berry and yuzu muesli bowl, and wash it down with a cold-pressed juice or smoothie. Later in the day, you can make your own lunch. Just choose a base (like mix greens, udon noodle sticks or brown rice), decide on a protein (be it grilled chicken, popcorn shrimp, wagyu beef or tofu and shiitake), chuck in some veggies (such as wakame seaweed, steamed edamame, charred corn with garlic shots or crispy Brussels sprouts) and your choice of sauce and garnish. Voila! Further beverage options include nut milk, craft beer, house wine on tap, and sake (of course) by the glass. And if you're not sold on the idea, why not try it for free? To mark their grand opening, the first 500 people through the door after 11am today (Thursday, November 4), will receive a complimentary bowl. If you miss it though, they're planning on rolling out 100 of these joints nationally over the next five years — so you might get your chance to nab another free bowl pretty soon. Sake Jr is located at Grosvenor Place, 225 George Street, The Rocks. For more information visit sakejr.com.au.
Over the past few years, Gelatissimo has whipped up a number of creative flavours, including frosé sorbet, ginger beer gelato, Weet-Bix and fairy bread varieties, hot cross bun gelato and even gelato for dogs. For its latest offering, the Australian dessert chain is taking inspiration from an extremely popular drink: bubble tea. Yes, bubble tea is now a thing you can eat, not just drink, thanks to Gelatissimo. Launching this Friday, July 24, the brown sugar bubble milk tea flavour is made from a combination of organic assam tea and black tea, which are infused in creamy gelato and mixed with a swirl of brown sugar syrup. As it wouldn't really be a bubble tea without pearls, each cup or cone comes topped with chewy brown sugar tapioca pearls. If you order a takeaway tub, pearls come packed separately. Prefer sipping on your bubble tea rather than scooping it? Gelatissimo is also whizzing the limited-edition flavour into gelato shakes. As Victoria is in lockdown and NSW residents have been advised against non-essential travel, Gelatissimo is bringing the gelato to you and offering delivery through UberEats, DoorDash and Deliveroo. Gelatissimo's brown sugar bubble milk gelato flavour is available from all 43 stores nationwide for a limited time.
Get your wish, This That fans: come November, the coastal festival will return for the first time since early 2022 with another impressive lineup. US singer, songwriter and producer Porter Robinson leads the just-dropped roster of talent for the two-city touring event, which hits up Brisbane and Newcastle, joined by Australian favourites Gang of Youths. Queenslanders, you're heading to Sandstone Point Hotel on Saturday, November 4 to dance to 'Goodbye to a World' and 'Let Me Down Easy'. Music lovers of New South Wales, make a date with Wickham Park in Newcastle on Saturday, November 11. Also on the first This That 2023 lineup announcement: Peking Duk, Hockey Dad, Alex Lahey, Slumberjack, Set Mo and The Presets doing a DJ set, plus Lola Scott, Trophy Eyes, Dear Seattle, Chillinit, Hooligan Hefs, Jesswar, Sophiya, Godlands, Kinder, Alice Ivy and more. This That has traditionally taken place in spring, but that time of year wasn't happy for the fest, or for Newcastle and Brisbane folks planning to dance their way through the music festival, in 2022. The event had to pull the plug on its October and November dates "due to a combination of issues", organisers advised; however, it always promised that it'd be back in 2023. Some of this year's acts were also on last year's cancelled lineup, such as The Presets, Winston Surfshirt, Chillinit, Hockey Dad and Jesswar. This That 2023 will take place across three stages: the This stage, complete with fireworks; the That stage, the go-to for DJs and rappers; and the Other stage, which is about art, immersion and sensory installations. THIS THAT NOVEMBER 2023 DATES: Saturday, November 4 Sandstone Point Hotel, Sandstone Point, Queensland Saturday, November 11: Wickham Park, Newcastle, New South Wales THIS THAT NOVEMBER 2023 LINEUP: Porter Robinson Gang Of Youths Alex Lahey Alice Ivy Chillinit Dear Seattle Eliza & The Delusionals Godlands Hockey Dad Hooligan Hefs Jesswar Kinder Kita Alexander Lola Scott Peking Duk The Presets [DJ set] Set Mo Slumberjack [Live] Sophiya Trophy Eyes Winston Surfshirt + Triple J Unearthed winner Newcastle only: Made On Sunday DJs Ned Bennett Who Is Arcadia Daydreaming Soundsystem Queensland only: Rory Tolsher Sammy G Jess Toasty This That will return in November 2023, playing Sandstone Point in Queensland and Newcastle in New South Wales. For more information, and for pre-sale tickets from 8am on Tuesday, August 1 and general sales from 8am on Thursday, August 3, head to the festival's website. Images: Mitch Lowe / Jordan Munns / Zagexma via Wikimedia Commons.
Art plus bar. This almost universal gallery opening deal is a pretty tasty mix already. But the MCA adds extras to this time-honoured tradition with its now SMAC-winning series ARTBAR. They’re evenings of strange and interesting things at play among the art, recurring monthly and curated by a rotating cast of local artists. This month, it's the Primavera artists' turn. Come and see Jacqueline Ball, Jackson Eaton, Heath Franco, Thomas Jeppe, Jess Johnson, Juz Kitson, Kusum Normoyle and curator Robert Cook take on the gallery space. There'll be installations; video works; music performances by Steele Bonus, Roman Wafers, Horse Magyver and Standish Carlyon; and a stairwell soundscape. Not to mention that Primavera Edition also features artists as DJs all night long.
Western Sydney is set to score an ambitious new academic precinct, with NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announcing plans for a second University of Sydney campus to be built in Westmead. Part of the University's promise to invest a cool $500 million towards the region's future, the new campus is expected to host over 6000 students by 2030, and potentially up to 25,000 by the year 2050. According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the campus would be located on the site of Cumberland Hospital, and right near Westmead Hospital. As such, the new campus would have a focus on research and health. The university's Vice-Chancellor and Principal Dr Michael Spence AC said in a statement that the Westmead campus will focus on "the opportunities and challenges posed by disruptive changes at the intersection of technology and the human experience", which means things like advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and data would be some of the main topics studied. The University of Sydney has the Berejiklian Government's support, so it will now enter into a two-year negotiation period with Health Infrastructure NSW and UrbanGrowth NSW Development Corporation. A master plan should be released after that. The new campus is part of a huge push to boost Sydney's Western infrastructure and services to allow it to act like Sydney's 'second CBD'. As part of the State Government's $1 billion Westmead Hospital Redevelopment, plans for the site also include a research-led education facility backing the Westmead Health and Education Precinct, affordable housing options and public services including a new school. The new uni will join join Western Sydney University, which had campuses in Bankstown, Parramatta and Campbelltown, among others. Other significant plans for the area include a second Sydney airport to be built at Badgerys Creek by 2026, major improvements to transport infrastructure (like the Parramatta Light Rail and the Sydney Metro West project, which includes a high-speed underground tunnel linking the two CBDs) and the $2 billion mixed-use redevelopment they're calling Parramatta Square.
Already on Saturday, August 14, the New South Wales Government has reported 466 new cases of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, and announced the introduction of stricter new stay-at-home rules for Greater Sydney. That's not the end of the day's news, with the entire state now set to enter lockdown from 5pm today — for at least a week in regional NSW, with a current end date of 12.01am on Sunday, August 22 given for areas outside of Greater Sydney. "To protect the people of NSW from the evolving COVID-19 outbreak, new restrictions will be introduced for all of regional NSW," said NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and NSW Health in a statement. "Following updated health advice from NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant, stay-at-home orders will apply to all people who live in regional NSW. This means the whole of New South Wales will be under stay at home restrictions from 5pm today." Following the press conference today, I received health advice concerning multiple regional NSW areas. As such, from 5pm tonight, all of regional NSW will go into a seven-day lockdown. This means the whole state is in strict lockdown. pic.twitter.com/urND0bYfkT — Gladys Berejiklian (@GladysB) August 14, 2021 The Greater Sydney, Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour regions have already been in lockdown since the end of June, and several regional areas in NSW are also under stay-at-home conditions presently — including in Byron Bay and Northern Rivers, Armidale, Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens, Singleton, Dungog, Muswellbrook, Cessnock, Dubbo, Tamworth, Bogan, Bourke, Brewarrina, Coonamble, Gilgandra, Narromine, Walgett and Warren. Any regional areas that are currently in lockdown but were due to have stay-at-home rules lift during the next week will now remain locked down until Sunday, August 22, while Greater Sydney's lockdown will continue until at least Saturday, August 28 as outlined at the end of July. Under the newly announced rules for regional NSW, everyone is required to remain at home unless they have a reasonable excuse to leave, just like in Greater Sydney. Work is a permitted reason to head out of your house, but only if it is not practicable to do your job from home. Also, no visitors from outside your household are allowed to come to your home, including family and friends — other than for very select reasons. So, regional NSW residents can only have one person over at one time, and only to fulfil carers' responsibilities, for care or assistance, or compassionate reasons, the latter of which covers people who are in a relationship but don't live together. Also coming into effect: the closure of all hospitality venues other than for takeaways, and the closure of retail premises except for a small list that sell essentials. Supermarkets and grocery stores, other shops that mainly sell food or drinks to consume at home, chemists and pharmacies, kiosks, and places that primarily sell office supplies, pet supplies, newspapers, magazines and stationery, alcohol, maternity and baby supplies, and medical or pharmaceutical supplies can remain open, as can places that sell hardware, building and landscaping supplies, and timber, garden and plant items. Vehicle hire places, mobile phone repairs shops, service stations, banks, post offices, laundromats and dry cleaners can also stay open. ⚠️ STAY-AT-HOME ORDERS FOR REGIONAL NSW FROM 5PM TODAY ⚠️ To protect the people of NSW from the evolving COVID-19 outbreak, new restrictions will be introduced for all of regional NSW, effective from 5pm tonight until 12.01am Sunday 22 August 2021. pic.twitter.com/Y68KKV0wVf — NSW Health (@NSWHealth) August 14, 2021 Anyone who leaves their home must carry a mask with them at all times, too — and they must be worn in most situations. So, that means masking up in all indoor venues outside of your own home, while working outdoors, in outdoor markets and at outdoor shopping strips, and while lining up outside to pick up products like coffee and food. As has been the case since the beginning of the pandemic, NSW residents are also asked to continue to frequently check NSW Health's long list of locations and venues that positive coronavirus cases have visited. If you've been to anywhere listed on the specific dates and times, you'll need to get tested immediately and follow NSW Health's self-isolation instructions. In terms of symptoms, you should be looking out for coughs, fever, sore or scratchy throat, shortness of breath, or loss of smell or taste — and getting tested at a clinic if you have any. Regional areas of New South Wales will go into lockdown from 5pm today, Saturday, August 14 until at least 12.01am on Sunday, August 22. Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour remain in lockdown until at least 12.01am on Saturday, August 28, with new lockdown rules coming into effect in these specific areas from 12.01am on Monday, August 16. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in NSW, head to the NSW Health website.
With over 1300 genre-defying events, the 2024 Adelaide Fringe lineup is absolutely stacked, to say the least. For the bon vivants, we're sharing six ways to combine a love of food and drink with the irreverent and cheeky laughs we've come to expect from Fringe. Whether you're watching celebrated chef Adam Liaw cook up a storm on stage, sampling local wines while overlooking the Adelaide Hills, whipping up your own cocktails or giggling through a comedian-guided wine tasting, you're sure to find a food-fuelled Fringe adventure you'll enjoy. THE COOK UP WITH ADAM LIAW One of the festival's biggest headliners is beloved Aussie chef and presenter Adam Liaw. The Fringe ambassador will take the stage at Woodville Town Hall for a live edition of his SBS series The Cook Up on Thursday, February 29 and Friday, March 1. Past guests on the show have included everyone from notable chefs Ben Shewry and Hayden Quinn to media personalities Linda Marigliano and Osher Günsberg, musician Jimmy Barnes and Paralympian Ellie Cole, so expect some surprise guests in Liaw's makeshift kitchen. With culinary tips, tall tales from his extensive travels and unconventional recipes, you'll walk away inspired for your next dinner party. HIGH TEA HIGH TEASE One can always expect some rowdy fun at Fringe, and Jazida Productions has you covered with its series of themed High Tea High Tease events. Enjoy two hours of nibbles and tipples, burlesque, games and trivia at rooftop bar Nineteen Ten from 1pm on three consecutive Sundays in March. There's a theme for everyone, so you can pick your poison. Sunday, March 3 is Alice in Wonderland; Sunday, March 10 is Rocky Horror; and Sunday, March 17 is Under the Sea. LITTLE & LOCAL Discover some underrated gems of Adelaide's drinks scene with returning Fringe event Little & Local. On Saturday, February 24, local producers and musos will set up at charming Greenock restaurant El Estanco. The South American-inspired eatery will be slinging street food, pizza and other snacks throughout the al fresco space while guests explore the various wine, beer and gin purveyors and enjoy live tunes. For only $35, a full-priced ticket includes a tasting at each stall and a glass to take home. [caption id="attachment_931905" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jonny Pappas, Backlit Media[/caption] GATHERING EXPERIENCE Can you really say you went to Adelaide if you didn't visit a winery? Get some sightseeing done while you're at Fringe at The Lane Vineyard. From Friday, February 16 to Friday, March 15, you can book in for a one-hour wine tasting paired with amuse-bouches. Only 30 minutes from central Adelaide, the sprawling winery offers sweeping views across the Adelaide Hills, so it is well worth a short escape from the city. [caption id="attachment_932696" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Meaghan Coles[/caption] CLASSIC CRAFT COCKTAIL EXPERIENCE If your kindred spirit is more gin than wine, try creating your own boozy concoctions at a cocktail-making class hosted by the South Aussie craft gin distillery, Prohibition Liquor Co. Drop into the airy new cocktail bar, Next Door, on Saturday, February 24 or Saturday, March 9, to learn how to make signature cocktails while snacking on an antipasto platter. As well as two drinks and bites, a $65 ticket includes $15 off any bottle purchases made on the day. IN POUR TASTE: A COMEDY WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE Combine the libations and laughs for a quintessential Adelaide Fringe event. In Pour Taste: A Comedy Wine Tasting Experience is back in 2024 after selling out last year and winning an Adelaide Fringe Weekly Award. Comedians Sweeney Preston and Ethan Cavanagh will take you through five wine tastings as they dive deep into the things you've always wanted to know about wine but never wanted to embarrass yourself enough to ask. This event will sell out, so book in while you can. Image: Nick Robertson Book your FringeTIX now at the Adelaide Fringe website.
When Andrew Haigh surveys the world, he sees its small, quiet stories. Peering deeply at everyday life, the British filmmaker finds tales that couldn't be more commonplace — and, as a result, are often simply overlooked. In queer romance Weekend, he spots two men meeting for the first time, connecting and spending three unforgettable nights together. In melancholic drama 45 Years, he gazes at long-married retirees taking stock of a past gone too quickly. And in Lean on Pete, he trains his soulful stare not only at a struggling teenager, but at the horse that the boy loves unconditionally. That said, it's not just Haigh's willingness to tell these tales that makes his filmography stand out. It's how the writer-director explores these stories that's just as important, with his pictures overflowing with empathy. Haigh couldn't look more kindly, warmly and thoughtfully at the characters in his movies, especially Lean on Pete's 15-year-old protagonist Charley (Charlie Plummer). The lanky boy is someone that the world doesn't see, just like his beloved steed, whose winning days are long behind him. In patient moments that show the unspoken bond between teen and animal, in detailed wide shots that place them both within harsh surroundings, and in rare close-ups that make plain the pain in both of their eyes, Haigh notices, cares and feels for them both. Lean on Pete isn't really Charley's horse. He belongs to trainer Del Montgomery (Steve Buscemi), but when Charley stumbles upon them at the local racetrack, the boy finds a kindred spirit in the ageing sprinter. As a respite from his desolate home life — where the dad he idolises (Travis Fimmel) is more interested in his job and girlfriend (Amy Seimetz) and regularly leaves the teenager alone in their ramshackle house — Charley begins to work for Del. While the boy doesn't shy away from hard tasks, it's Pete that keeps him coming back. Jockey Bonnie (Chloë Sevigny) tells him that "horses aren't pets", but that's not what Charley sees in Pete. Rather, he sees his first real friend. With the film based on Willy Vlautin's novel of the same name, Charley and Pete aren't Haigh's original creations, however that's part of the point of Lean on Pete. Its protagonist is every person who's found more kindness on four legs than on two, every soul that's been cast adrift by society, and every child living in less-than-ideal conditions. And, when Charley's father ends up in hospital, the boy's already difficult life becomes even more so. When he takes off in Del's trailer with Pete in tow, hoping to find his estranged aunt, there's even more heartbreak in store. The second of this year's stellar films about young men, desolate plains and caring animals (after fellow festival favourite The Rider), Lean on Pete is an exquisitely tender and affecting picture. Haigh's handling of loneliness, isolation and tragedy is raw yet delicate yet devastatingly authentic, in a movie that's always sensitive yet never sentimental. Scene by scene, it builds a compassionate portrait of life in the margins in America's midwest that dares to look where others don't. Assisted by lingering and visually striking observational shots by cinematographer Magnus Nordenhof Jønck (Hold the Dark), the film crucially doesn't avert its gaze when the going gets tough. Of course, with Plummer to focus on, why would Haigh look away? Last seen being kidnapped in All the Money in the World, the young actor carries Charley's woes with few words but with a world of hurt evident in his every move — and with just as much love beaming from his face when Pete is by his side. It's another great internalised performance under Haigh's direction, and a portrayal that does what only the best can. Not only does Plummer feel like he's walked across America's heartland and straight into this film, but he makes it seem like he's not even acting. Haigh might see Charley, but his lead actor lives and breathes him. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdJonibBDx4
Brad Pitt almost unrecognisable as Henry Spencer from Eraserhead. Ryan Gosling as The Invisible Man. Viola Davis as Nurse Ratched from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. If this has you intrigued, you're going to love the video exhibition that the New York Times Magazine has put together, directed by Alex Prager. In part an homage to the greatest villains from film and a showcase of some of the most talented actors we see on our screens today, each vignette is a carefully crafted moment exploring the darker side of these wicked characters. No actor speaks in the vignettes, but repetitive, spine-tingling music plays, reflected in the sinister, depraved look in each character's eyes. The camera creeps up Kirsten Dunst's body as she holds a green apple close to her lips; Glenn Close is a mysterious, almost ghostly version of Theda Bara, the silent film star. If you're a budding movie director, this could well serve as inspiration for your next horror short... See the exhibition, A Touch of Evil, here and the mood board that inspired it.
It takes just over 50 seconds for the Cat Person trailer to get Margot (Emilia Jones, CODA) uttering nine glaringly accurate words: "this is the worst life decision I've ever made". She's talking about dating Robert (Nicholas Braun, Succession), a regular at the cinema where the 20-year-old college student works — and she's speaking a line that everyone read in 2017, in the viral short story to end all viral short stories from the past decade. Six years back, when the December issue of The New Yorker arrived, Kristen Roupenian's tale of a nightmare relationship instantly went viral. That's where the world first met Margot and Robert, and stepped into this wild story. Cat Person was then printed as a book, and of course Hollywood came calling as well. The movie that's resulted debuted at the Sundance Film Festival earlier in 2023, has locked in an October 26 release in Australia and also just dropped its trailer. There are bad dates, and then there's this bad date, as Jones and Braun bring to the screen in the film's first sneak peek. "Listen, concession stand girl, why don't you give me your number?" Robert asks while Margot is slinging popcorn. From there, a flurry of texts springs, then terrible kissing, then massive discrepancies that become evident the more time that the pair spend together IRL. And, when Margot decides to break things off, in comes a change in his behaviour. As Cat Person sinks its claws into modern dating, the role that technology now plays and the gender divide, Susanna Fogel (the director of The Spy Who Dumped Me and one of Booksmart's writers) helms, Michelle Ashford (Operation Mincemeat) and adapts Roupenian's text. Featuring on-screen alongside Jones and Braun: Geraldine Viswanathan (Miracle Workers), Isabella Rossellini (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On), Hope Davis (Asteroid City), Fred Melamed (Barry), Liza Koshy (Transformers: Rise of the Beasts) and Michael Gandolfini (Beau Is Afraid). "Like the short story that stirred so much controversy, Cat Person will call upon you to reflect on romantic encounters you've had in the past, and to question the role (or multiple roles) you may have played," said Fogel about the film. "We've all been the victim in some narratives and the villain in others, and I hope you'll walk out of this film with a strong opinion, ready to debate." Check out the trailer for Cat Person below: Cat Person will release on October 26, 2023 Down Under.
Leading stylist and Dyson Global Ambassador, Peter Thomsen has been working out of his luxury salon Chelsea Haircutters for over 25 years. Located on the stunning South Coast of NSW, Chelsea Haircutters is an ideal salon to book into when you have a fancy event to attend south of Sydney. Thomsen specialises in blonde and balayage, so you can trust him with any of your complex colouring needs. But it's not just colouring that Thomsen is known for. If you want a style service that'll turn heads at a special event, Thomsen will ensure you leave the salon with a gorgeous look created with the help of innovative Dyson tools.
The island of Lombok is Bali's equally magical (but considerably less crowded) neighbour. Here, you get long white sand beaches, deep forests hiding waterfalls and small villages filled with friendly locals. Yes, Bali has all this too. But Lombok is significantly quieter and cheaper. Experienced travellers come here for all the luxury trimmings at beachside or mountaintop villas but at a fraction of the price. Read on to find our favourite places to stay in Lombok, all of which can be booked through Concrete Playground Trips. HOTEL TUGU LOMBOK This luxury Lombok hotel is full of character. One of the dining rooms sits under an enormous wooden pavilion filled with locally made furniture. The bar is located within a traditional hut decorated with a smattering of artworks and sculptures. And the uniquely designed rooms include features like private rooftops, lotus ponds, outdoor baths, plunge pools and more. Add the private beach and spa facilities and you're left with the total wellness package. Plus, it's only a short boat ride away from the famous Gili Islands — so your day trips are sorted. BOOK IT NOW. KU VILLAS This small resort has a few different accommodation types, ranging from individual rooms and suites (with or without a plunge pool) to larger villas with private gardens and larger pools. Modern simplicity is also key when it comes to design and amenities — expect large open rooms with classic wooden furniture and crisp white linens. The in-house spa and small restaurant both make spending entire days by the pool all too easy. We're so impressed with KU Villas that we've teamed up with them to bring our readers one massive island holiday deal. Guests will get a three-night stay, an hour-long massage, a personal chauffeur, a $200 food and beverage voucher for the nearby SIWA Clubhouse and daily breakfast for only $455 — an absolute bargain by anyone's standards. BOOK IT NOW. SELONG SELO RESORT AND RESIDENCES These villas and studios feel more like luxury homes than travel accommodations. Guests have their own modern kitchens, living rooms and bedrooms as well as private balconies with barbecues and private plunge pools. And the views — well, they are just serene. Whether you're sitting in your room or dining by the main pool and restaurant, you'll have uninterrupted sea views framed by wide-open plains and dramatic mountains. Plus, with the option to book a seven-bedroom villa, Selong Selo Resort and Residence is great for large groups of travellers. BOOK IT NOW. RINJANI BEACH ECO RESORT This rustic eco-resort has all the essentials required for having a super comfortable holiday on a tropical island — but it's the location and long list of adventure experiences that make it one of the best places to stay in Lombok. The resort's team will organise snorkelling and diving trips and hikes up to the Rinjani volcano where you'll see large emerald-green lakes and hidden waterfalls. What else is on the menu? Day trips to the nearby Gili Islands, massages at the spa and the opportunity to watch turtles hatch on the beach. Head here to immerse yourself in nature. BOOK IT NOW. JEEVA BELOLAM BEACH CAMP Now, this is the ultimate glamping destination. The off-the-grid recycled wood and alang alang beachfront lodges combine elements of Robinson Crusoe with East Indonesia aesthetics to create a boutique beach camp experience. When staying here, you'll feel totally removed from the outside world. Jeeva Beloam's 11 rooms lie within a 55-hectare nature forest preserve, facing the Timor Sea from a sand dune above a quiet 250-metre-long white sand beach. This Lombok paradise is made for true escapism. BOOK IT NOW. HARMONY VILLAS LOMBOK Is minimalism your vibe? If so, you've got to check out these beautifully designed villas in Kuta, Lombok. On the property, you'll find just five boutique villas (painted stark white inside and out) set around a luxurious lagoon-style swimming pool. It's gorgeous and calming — especially thanks to its adults-only policy. You won't find little kids running around this joint, disturbing your relaxing holiday. BOOK IT NOW. NOVOTEL LOMBOK RESORT AND VILLAS This is a stellar middle-of-the-budget resort on Lombok. You're not spending a heap of money, but you still get to stay right on the beach — free from crowds — getting all the top luxury resort inclusions. You've got large air-conditioned rooms by the water, free daily activities, three outdoor pools and a great restaurant and bar. Tick, tick, tick. It has it all. BOOK IT NOW. THE OBEROI BEACH RESORT This beachside resort is made for chilling out. Spend your days jumping from the pool to the beach and then to the bar — all before starting the rotation again. Sure, you can go on one of its snorkelling trips or have a private dinner on the shore, but you've got to take your time just hanging at the property too. That's especially true of you book the enormous luxury villa that has its own pool and private courtyard. BOOK IT NOW. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Top image: Selong Selo Resort and Residence
It's official: Pad Thai has replaced pizza as Sydneysiders go-to dish of choice. As our culinary tastes reorient to the East, Concrete Playground explores some of Sydney's best Thai eateries, from the stalwarts to the style-setters and everything in between. 1. Senyai Regent Place has just given birth to its very own lan-caar bo-rancor (old Thai shop), Senyai. A laneway eatery resembling what one might expect to find in Bangkok's steamy back streets. Inside, the walls are scattered with colourful decorative plates, framed Thai pop stars and royal family, and cabinets full of vintage Thai paraphernalia. In the faux outside area you'll find a metal fence strewn with graffiti and posters. Yep, it feels just like the real deal. Start with a serve of miang kham ($6) — betel leaves topped with diced lime, red chilli, dehydrated prawns, nuts, red onion, and coconut sauce. Next try the po pia jaan ($12) — crispy prawn pancakes covered in layers of super-fine deep-fried rice paper, with an almost spongy inner texture. Let your Thai eating journey begin ... 486 Kent St, Regent Place; 02 9283 8686; www.senyai.com.au 2. Chat Thai Chat Thai is the worst kept secret amongst us Thai people living in Sydney. With a focus on Thai street food and dishes that are meant to be for Thai palates only, Chat Thai was meant to be a Thai person's Thai restaurant. But when you do the mainstay favorites pretty well, and at very, very reasonable prices, it's inevitable that the cat will get out of the bag. Located across from the Capitol Theatre, the open desert kitchen welcomes you in, with the bare brick walls covered with crayon artwork by a famous Thai comedian. If you’ve arrived during the dinner rush hour expect to be waiting at least 45 minutes or longer for a table; try and get in early and they might be able to offer you dishes still made from the lunch menu as well. 20 Campbell St, Haymarket; 02 9211 1808; www.chatthai.com.au 3. Spice I Am Spice I Am? It almost sounds like a challenge, or at least a state of mind. If there's anything to assist you reaching that state, it's red-hot Thai food. Where are you going to find it? At Spice I Am in Darlinghurst. And it's not just the food that's hot. This place is all style: exposed brick walls, another wall of expertly arranged clay pots, and a black and gold leaf bar. Drawing from north-eastern Thai cuisine, head chef Sujet Saenkham has concocted dishes away from the stir-fry stereotype. 296-300 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst; 02 9332 2445; www.spiceiam.com 4. Thai Pothong A Newtown institution since the '90s, Thai Pothong has gone from a cosy diner to a cavernous 350-seater restaurant with a quirky gift shop attached (anyone fancy a miniature model of the Predator?). Now offering dedicated gluten free and vegan menus, this inner-west stalwart only goes from strength to strength and continues to impress with its speedy service, group dining and authentic Thai cuisine. 294 King Street, Newtown; 02 9550 6277; www.thaipothong.com.au 5. Tapioca It's a far cry from the sandstone walls of Sailors Thai Canteen in the Rocks and the inner-city buzz of Sailors Thai Potts Point, but chefs Pacharin Jantrakool and Krongthong Akkachitto are still weaving their magic. Only this time they're doing it north of the bridge in Cremorne. On any given night Tapioca's smart, airy diner is filled with families, couples and canoodlers all clamouring for northern Thai favourites like the miang kum (betel leaves with smoked trout and roasted coconut). 318A Military Rd, Cremorne; 02 9908 1588; www.tapioca.net.au 6. Sailors Thai The doyenne of the Thai dining scene, Sailors Thai ushered in a wave of stylish Thai diners the likes of which Sydney hadn't seen prior and spawned a generation of talented chefs. Go back to where Sydney's love affair with classy Thai dining started at this heritage listed building in The Rocks where Thai favourites like Gang ped yang (red duck curry) continue to delight the palate. Want something casual? You'll find Sailors Canteen downstairs, renowned amongst other things for making communal dining de rigueur. 106 George Street, The Rocks; 02 9251 2466; www.sailorsthai.com.au 7. @Bangkok Stumble into @Bangkok late on a Friday or Saturday night and you might mistake it for a karaoke bar. You wouldn't be entirely wrong either. Late in the week this Capitol Square restaurant, launched six years ago to cater for the city's growing Thai community, doubles as a karaoke bar and pays homage to Thailand's favourite pastime. Sweet, sour, salty and spicy, you'll find your favourite Thai dishes alongside some lesser known but equally delectable offerings. Shop G 11, Capitol Square, 730-742 George Street, Sydney; 02 9211 5232; www.atbangkok.com.au 8. Longrain If Sailors Thai brought style to Thai dining, Longrain made it achingly hip. Set in a 100 year old converted warehouse with a sleek basement bar, the vibe is contemporary and upmarket. Head chef Martin Boetz has created a modern menu which reflects Longrain's inner city locale to a tee. Cocktails are sharp and zesty, like the lemongrass martini, whilst dishes like the crisp caramelised pork hock with chilli vinegar once sampled, are rarely forgotten. 85 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills; 02 9280 2888; www.longrain.com.au 9. Alphabet Street The folks who brought Thai fusion diner Rambutan to the Oxford Street strip — Oriana De Luca and Joe Natale — have headed south to work their charms on The Shire. Just like Rambutan, at Alphabet Street offer gorgeous cocktails like the spicy, kaffir lime-flavoured Thai Bloody Mary and a menu that straddles the staples and fusion dishes with ease. All set in a white-washed, industrial-chic venue with Cronulla Beach crowing distance away. 5/8 Kingsway, Cronulla; 02 9544 0756; www.alphabetst.net Photo credit: he needs food. 10. House You can't go past a north-eastern Thai diner that promises a dessert called Better than Sex, can you? A slice of a fried bread covered in sugar and caramel and covered with coconut ice cream, we're not sure how Better than Sex fits into House's Isaan-style cuisine but it definitely offsets the spicy heat of the menu. With the culinary backing of Spice I Am's head chef and co-owner, Sujet Saenkhan, this is one Thai experience not to be missed. 202 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills; 02 9280 0364; www.spiceiam.com/house-surry-hills
International travel is still a long way off, but there is one trip you can indulge in without going anywhere at all: a staycation. Sydney's ever-changing metropolis always has something new to offer, and a string of old favourites too, whether you're a Monday-to-Friday commuter or a once-a-year visitor to the CBD. In the past few months alone, our city has opened new bars, restaurants and cafes, unveiled new art exhibitions and even launched a live music festival by St Mary's Cathedral. Plus, some of our beloved venues are still going strong. So, when you're treating yourself to a night in a hotel in the city, here's how we think you should pack-out your weekend. [caption id="attachment_801679" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alick Tipoti, 'Adhikuyam' (2008) as part of 'MCA Collection: Perspectives on place', image courtesy and copyright the artist. Photo: Anna Kucera[/caption] FRIDAY First things, first. Clock off early and heading straight to award-winning cocktail bar Maybe Sammy. The Rocks bar currently sits at number 11 on The World's 50 Best Bars list. Time your arrival for its daily aperitivo when mini martinis are just $5.50 a pop from 4.30–5.30pm. Choose from shaken and stirred numbers like the Mini Sammy (Ketel One, St Germain Elderflower liqueur and cranberry shrub) or the Mini Frank (Tanqueray, vermouth, blue curaçao and cacao), plus mini negronis and Irish coffees. Once happy hour wraps up, head around the corner to the Museum of Contemporary Art, which is open late every Friday until the end of March. MCA Late allows visitors to kick on after dark and peruse the stunning gallery from 5–9pm — be sure not to miss its latest exhibition MCA Collection: Perspectives on place. For more live music, head to Sydney's favourite late-night haunt Frankie's, where DJs take the stage every Friday night. Chair-dance into the night with a slice of the bar's famous pizza in hand before checking into Darling Harbour's Crowne Plaza Sydney. The modern, well-appointed rooms include marble finishes and incredibly comfy king-sized beds — and it has a heated rooftop pool, all for $236.55 a night. [caption id="attachment_801332" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maclay Heriot[/caption] SATURDAY Start your Saturday morning getting to know one of Sydney's most impressive sites like never before. The Sydney Opera House runs one-hour architecture tours every Saturday and Sunday morning from 10am. Tickets are $42 and you'll get to discover more about the history and construction of our city's most iconic building from its mid-1950s beginnings to today. Book ahead to secure a spot. For lunch, make tracks to the CBD's newest pasta shop Fabbrica. Its outdoor high tables are a hot commodity come lunchtime, when the joint serves up an ever-rotating menu of baked pastas and sandwiches from midday until sold out (Mon–Sat). Previous faves have included an eggplant parmigiana with basil pesto and stracciatella. Pair it with a glass of natural wine, or take home one of the shop's ready-made pasta packs for Monday night's dinner. After taking full advantage of that heated rooftop pool back at your hotel, head out for an early feed at Vini Divini Wine Lab. It's offering an extensive range of wines by the glass or bottle, with a focus on European drops — not just from France and Italy but also from Turkey, Armenia and Georgia. The food menu focuses on Mediterranean-style small plates; expect beetroot-marinated artichokes, beef carpaccio and pickled herring, along with cheese and salumi plates. To see out Saturday night with a show, we suggest snapping up tickets to the new concert series, Sunset Piazza. The pop-up stage has turned Cathedral Square into an outdoor cultural hub, with regular shows spanning cabaret, hip hop, comedy and opera. Saturday shows start at 8pm and all gigs are ticketed, but only $25 a pop. See the full lineup over here. [caption id="attachment_801076" align="alignnone" width="1920"] City of Sydney[/caption] SUNDAY Make your first port of call Sydney's new bakery Picco Leo, a sister venue to the also-new Restaurant Leo. Headed by Karl Firla (of Oscillate Wildly fame) and Federico Zanellato (Lumi Bar and Dining), the Angel Place cafe is turning out top-notch cuppas using The Little Marionette beans alongside next-level pastries. Pick up a freshly baked truffle croissant, anchovy and sage scroll or boysenberry daAnynish for brunch. Next, walk off those buns on a tour of the city's art-filled laneways. Start with Ever Sun, created by artist Rochelle Haley, which was originally displayed at Carriageworks in October 2020. You'll find the colourful artwork suspended over Wilmot Street near Event Cinemas George Street. To explore further, join one of City of Sydney's free art-filled walking tours. Before heading home, it's time for one last feast. Haymarket yum cha institution Marigold has exactly what you need: trolleys of barbecued pork buns, steamed rice rolls and siu mai. This well-oiled machine is open for yum cha until 3pm on Sundays. Order the classic mango pancakes to finish and enjoy endless pours of oolong tea to wash it all down. For more CBD inspiration, visit whatson.sydney/rediscover or head to sydney.com. Top image: Maybe Sammy; Trent van der Jagt
If things fall through with the whole politics schtick, President Obama has a future in stand-up. The lovable leader let the gags loose at the Annual White House Correspondents' Association Dinner over the weekend, beginning his address with a video spoof in which Steven Spielberg announced plans for a follow-up to Lincoln titled Obama. The president then pretended to be Daniel Day-Lewis reflecting on the difficulties of personifying Obama, beginning with the challenges of affixing oversized fake ears — "I don't know how he walks around with these things." The lolocoaster continued as the ultimate Renaissance man cracked jokes about his past as a "strapping young Muslim socialist", suggested the opposition should funnel funds into bribing him to drop out of the presidential race rather than spend money on negative advertising ("Michelle would have taken it. You think I'm joking") and even busted a move to DJ Khaled's 'All I Do Is Win'. Why can't Julia spend more time wining and dining the likes of Psy, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Kevin Spacey? Via BBC News.
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney's cosy whiskey bar Grain is joining forces with Belvedere this Vivid Sydney to transform into a blue, glowing wonderland called Light the Night. Just a minute's walk from Circular Quay, it's the ideal spot to escape the crowds for a warming, top-shelf tipple in front of a fire. Plus, Grain's bartenders have created a bunch of new Vivid-inspired cocktails to serve up during the month-long celebration, including The Ghost of Mary, a transparent twist on the bloody mary made with Belvedere, house-made tomato consommé and frozen cherry tomatoes instead of ice cubes. Meanwhile, the hotel's restaurant Mode Kitchen & Bar will be dishing up a three-course Vivid-inspired menu. Settle in to sample head chef Francesco Mannelli's favourite and most-comforting winter creations. Think wood-baked rounds of Italian cheese and Rangers Valley wagyu cheek. Topping off your feast will be a majestic 'glowing' pavlova and free parking (for Mode guests) from Monday to Thursday between 5:30-10pm. If you're keen to stay over — and lose yourself in the Four Seasons' Sydney Harbour panoramas — then check into one of the luxe harbour view rooms or suites. The hotel is offering a ten percent discount on stays of two nights or longer during Vivid Sydney. Four Seasons Hotel Sydney's Light the Night experience and restaurant and accommodation specials will run for the duration of Vivid Sydney, from May 25 to June 16. For more information and to make a booking, head to the website. Images: Alana Dimou
Here's what just might be the tastiest food challenge there is: hunting down Frankenstein's monster-style dessert mashups and tasting them all. Gelato Messina's various ice cream flavours and special treats often fall into this category, frequently turning another beloved dish into gelato. So do plenty of Lune Croissanterie's pastries. Often Krispy Kreme's doughnuts make the cut as well. Actually, right now you can grab a Krispy Kreme doughnut that owed a huge debt to another dessert: the Maxibon doughnut. After proving a hit in 2018, this collaboration with Peters Ice Cream is back for a limited — and tasty — time. And yes, it's a Maxibon in doughnut form. Back when Krispy Kreme joined forces with Reese's for a peanut butter-heavy doughnut earlier in 2023, there were multiple versions available. With the Maxibon doughnut, there's just one. You will still need to be able to eat nuts, though, because this one comes with a hazelnut and vanilla biscuit crumb. So, what makes up a Maxibon doughnut? A Krispy Kreme doughnut filled with Maxibon vanilla kreme, then covered in that crumb over chocolate, plus a chocolate Maxibon bikkie on top. You'll find the Maxibon doughnut on offer from Tuesday, August 1 at Krispy Kreme, 7-Eleven and selected Woolworths stores for a limited time. Trying to pick between ice cream and fried pastries just got a bit easier. We're betting that when Maxibons were first whipped up as a blend between a biscuit and everyone's favourite cold and creamy dessert, no one anticipated this happening as well. Krispy Kreme's Maxibon doughnut is available from Krispy Kreme, 7-Eleven and selected Woolworths stores for a limited time.
Last month felt particular steamy and uncomfortable (even for Australian summer) and it was — January was Australia's hottest month ever recorded. The Bureau of Meteorology this morning released its monthly climate summary, reporting that, for the first time ever in Australia, the mean temperature for a month exceeded 30 degrees. NSW, ACT, Victoria and the NT all had their hottest Januarys ever recorded, while other states had unusually hot weather and very little rain. If you're currently sitting at your desk — after running through rain in Sydney, waking up to 14 degrees in Melbourne or commuting in low-20s in Brisbane — and thinking, it didn't seem that bad, here's a quick summary of some of the weather we endured last month. The year kicked off with a country-wide heatwave, with the mercury hitting the 30s in every capital city and Canberra sweltering through four days of 40-degrees. By mid-January, the heatwave was causing record-breaking high temperatures across the country — including 48.9 in SA and high-40s across Victoria's North — with Sydney's west copping dangerously high levels of ozone gas. And, just last week, Melbourne survived its hottest day in ten years. Here's how hot our country looked at one point: https://twitter.com/BOM_au/status/1084218154782478337 Phew. We're sure you're happy to see the back of January. According to the BOM's senior climatologist Dr Andrew Watkins, the unprecedented heat was due to a "a persistent high pressure system in the Tasman sea which was blocking any cold fronts and cooler air from impacting the south of the country." Dr Watkins also said in a statement that Australia looks to continue getting hotter, too. "The warming trend which has seen Australian temperatures increase by more than 1 degree in the last 100 years also contributed to the unusually warm conditions." Unfortunately for our farmers, last month was also extremely dry. In NSW, where 100 percent of the state has been in drought, the northeast experienced one of the driest Januarys on record, while most of Victoria and Brisbane received less than 20 percent of their average January rainfall. Tasmania had its driest Jan on record and SA, which experienced some of the highest temperatures, also had very little-to-no rain — the Bureau's Adelaide city site recorded no rainfall for the month for the first time since 1957. So far, it looks like February is going to be less spicy. But if you'd rather not risk it, it might be time to book a trip to the northern hemisphere. Image: Visit Victoria.
