Tropfest Parramatta Park 2019

December 14, 2018December 14, 2018Leave a comment

TropFest returns bigger and better in 2019 with the announcement of a new convention that will take place before the main movie screenings. It’s come a long way since it’s first family and friends screening at Tropicana Caffe in Darlinghurst.

Entries close in a month and movies must be a maximum of 7 minutes in length and as per the guidelines include the Tropfest Signature Item (TSI) or theme.

The main category event TSI is “Candle”
The Junior category for filmakers under 15 is “Pizza”

The event will take place at Parramatta Park after the debut of a new game-changers and industry discussion which will allow budding film makers, audiences and industry experts to share ideas and discuss the future trends and direction of cinema.

The winner of 2019 will receive a Holden Equinox, $10,000 cash prize, studio time at Western Sydney University and an introduction to agents and studio executive in Los Angeles to jump start their film career.

Tropfest has been the catalyst in the success of many Australian film makers and the callibre of entries raising the bar each year.

Registrations for the pre-event, Trop Fair are now open.
https://tropfest.org.au/tropfair/

The Full Program to be announced soon.

Filmakers can enter here:
https://tropfest.org.au/enter-your-film/

writer: Joseph Lloyd

Just opened: Tayim, the Rocks

December 13, 2018January 7, 2019Leave a comment

A surgence of Mediterranean inspired venues have continued to pop up all over Sydney and now The Rocks welcomes Tayim. A redesign of its interiors within the heritage building and close to the heart of the shopping precinct, it is has lovely greenery and an outlook onto the heritage lane way.

Tayim provides an experience that blends the best of Sydney with the exotic dish romance of the Mediterranean.

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Head Chef Ran Kimelfield has created a signature selection of grilled sardine Shakshuka, summer mushroom Borekas and grilled chicken Masahan infused with the finest of our local Australian produce. Highlights of his reinterpretation through reminiscence include roasted figs he pairs with radicchio, goats’ cheese and chardonnay dressing. Another interesting must try dish is the semolina rose pudding with pistachio meringue and summer berries.

General Manager, Reuven Lim and his team has been very deliberate in the curating of wines. The selection of renowned brands from Australia, Turkey, France, Italy among others ,compliments the sober yet multidimensional savoriness of the menu. Artistic license has been given to the team who draw from their collective experiences at Sake, Gowings Bar and Grill, Cho Cho San, and Tequila Mockingbird to revitalize contemporary classics.

In deciphering the menu and proposition at this establishment, Tayim enculturates the dessert storm flavor of the Middle East with the culinary moods of an Aussie summer ocean breeze.

Tayim Restaurant Opening Times:
Mon-Fri:
Breakfast: 6:30am – 10:30am (Weekends 7am-11am)
Lunch: 2pm – 3pm (Weekends 12pm-3pm)
Dinner: 6pm – late

Joseph Lloyd, contributor

(Image credit: Esteban La Tessa)

Streets of Barangaroo: a Christmas gift guide

December 11, 2018December 11, 2018Leave a comment

Barangaroo is named after a leader of the Cammeraygal people and wife of Kenneling of the Wangal people, ancestral elders of the First peoples. The transformation from a disused container terminal on the edge of Sydney’s CBD into a spectacular 22 hectare waterfront precinct will see the streets of Barangaroo come to life in an action packed stroll. A number of special menus, events and shopping experiences themed to the festive season will be taking place.

Anason

Celebrate Christmas lunch by the water with a five-course feast at Anason in Barangaroo. Feast on a selection of Turkish mezes and sweet treats. Think pasha meze with creamy goat’s cheese and slivered pistachio; slow cooked octopus with curly peppers and heirloom tomatoes; and Ottoman donuts with pistachio ice cream.

When: Tuesday 25 December from 11.30am
Gift Ideas: $95pp for five-course (lunch)
Address: 5/23 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo
Bookings: anason.com.au

Bel and Brio

Bel & Brio Bel & Brio is a food and wine-lovers’ emporium, with a marketplace, restaurant and cellar with over 2000 wines, headed up by Jon Osbeiston. For the festive season the team has the perfect collection of gifts to please everyone; wine for the connoisseur, cookbooks for mum, candles, cosmetics, and don’t forget the Italian fine food of course. Think handmade pasta, olive oils, truffle oils, chocolates and cheeses. Bel & Brio can also create bespoke hampers with the goodies of your choosing.

Gift Ideas: 2016 Head the Brunettes Shiraz $59, Ottolenghi: The Cookbook $50, Glenmorangie Signet Single Malt Whisky $250, Staple Hamper $250, Tea-Mania Hamper $179, Indulgence Hamper $220
Website: www.belandbrio.com.au
Address: 300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo

The Barber Shop

The Barber Shop is a continuation of the classic, premium brand created by award winning barman Mike Enright. The Balvenie Shave Experience is the ultimate grooming gift this Christmas – this includes a haircut, followed by a hot and cold towel shave with a Balvenie cocktail.

Gift Ideas: Mujle Shaving Kit $250, The Balvenie Shave Experience Gift Voucher $140
Website: http://thisisthebarbershop.com/
Address: 3, 33 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo

Courses

Christmas Wreath Making with Flowers for Everyone:
Learn some handy skills directly from the experts just in time for the party season. Senior floral designers at Flowers for Everyone are here to work with you and lend a hand in creating your very own Christmas wreath. Enjoy a glass or two of prosecco as you practice your creative skills and master a beautifully bespoke design you can take home and show friends and family, just in time for the festive season. Known for their farm fresh seasonal bouquets, indoor plant arrangements and a curated selection of ready-to-go gifts.

When: 12 December, 5.00 – 6.30pm, Gift Ideas: $40 pp=
Book tickets here: https://www.facebook.com/events/2208100069449531/

Gift Ideas: Bellaberry I Love You Chocolate $11.95, Marble Pot with Succulent $39.95, Hampers from $150 – $195
Website: https://www.flowersforeveryone.com.au/contact/barangaroo-shop.shtml
Address: 6/3, Sussex St, Barangaroo

Devon cafe

A two-course set menu at Devon Barangaroo and Devon North Sydney is available the whole month of December. Feast on a selection of entrées including prawns with a tom yum mayo; chargrilled sourdough with olive oil and Christmas baked ham with beetroot and apple relish. Mains include a choice of roasted pork belly, pasta or the breakfast with sakumas.

Mon-Fi 7am-4:30pm, Sat-Sun 9am-4:30pm, public holidays 8am-3:30pm Bookings: devoncafe.com.au

Gift Ideas: $50pp for a two-course menu, bookings are essential, minimum of eight people.
Address: Shop 19, 200 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo

Whisky Making with Shirt Bar

Ever wanted to make your own whisky? Well this Masterclass is a must for you. With your very own blending kit, create a whisky just the way you like it! With the choice of 5 single malts of distinct flavour profiles (floral, fruity, creamy, citrus, & smokey), and under the guidance of a master blender, be tutored by the pros in the craftsmanship of blending your own perfect whisky. Shirt Bar Shirt Bar successfully pairs perfect-fitting business shirts with coffee and dark spirits. Design your ideal shirt from scratch with a whisky or wine in hand for the ultimate tailor-made experience.

When: 17 December, 6.30 – 9.30pm, Gift Ideas: $65 pp (includes a cocktail on arrival, tasting of grain whisky & the 5 distinct single malts, and creating your own personalised whisky)
Book tickets here: https://www.facebook.com/events/224447418305685/

Gift Ideas: Cudworth Cufflinks $70, Ganton Floral Shirt $150, Bowtie $65, The Bespoke Corner Tailors Pocket Square $50
Website: https://shirtbar.com.au/
Address: 7, 100 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo

Christmas Cocktails with Untied

Let the Untied cocktail experts show you how to shake, stir and whip up drool worthy drinks for your Christmas lunch. Make, drink and take-home recipes for three festive drinks at this fun and interactive masterclass. Get the inside knowledge on how to make the best cocktails without specialised equipment using everyday items, and show off your new skills anywhere, anytime. Package also includes some complimentary nibbles.

When: 18 December, 5.30 – 7.00pm, Gift Ideas: $49 per person (includes 1 single shot cocktail, 2 double shot cocktails and shared plates of nibbles). Book tickets here: https://www.facebook.com/events/296946597619019/

The Butcher’s Block, Barangaroo

Several set menus have been created for Christmas. Enjoy a four-course menu designed by the team, starting with house drinks on arrival and wood fired flatbread with white bean hummus and chilli oil. Entrées can include crispy Queensland calamari with black garlic aioli and lime; duck parfait with pancetta jam, house pickles and grilled sourdough; and seared khiramasa kingfish with charred witlof, pomelo lime and jalapeno dressing. Mains provide choice with the classic wagyu beef burger; panko chicken; pork ribs; pan roasted ocean trout or the BBQ swordfish loin. Dessert brings with it a traditional Christmas pudding that will give your nan a run for her money.

Gift Ideas: $102pp
Address: 2/100 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo
Bookings: http://butchersblockgroup.com.au/contact-us.html
Website: http://butchersblockgroup.com.au/

BELANCÉ BELANCÉ

A luxury men’s tailor and retail concept, combining the best international men’s lifestyle brands and a world-renowned made-to-measure service.

Gift Ideas: Baxter of California Water Pomade $32, Tommy Rough Tie $129, Von Routte Lyon Sneakers $240, Bang & Olufsen Portable Speakers $379 Website: https://www.belancetailoring.com/suits/
Address: Shop 1/3 Sussex Street, Barangaroo

Collector Store

Collector Store Collector Store combines fashion and home. Think Herbivore Botanicals for your bathroom routine, a Binchotan charcoal eye mask, cheese boards, tote bags, P.E. Nation activewear and more.

Gift Ideas: Herbivore Botanicals Jasmine Toner $60, Binchotan Charcoal Eye Mask $40, Redecker Dry Massage Brush $15, Hunter Lab Pinot Grape Skin Bath Soak $54, P.E. Nation Forecourt Crop Top $129, Becksondergaard Lauren Bag $279.95
Website: https://www.collectorstore.com.au/
Address: Shop 13/T2, Shipwright Walk, Barangaroo

Born by Tapavino

Born by Tapavino presents a Spanish feast and banquet set menu featuring marinated olives, croquettes del dia and Serrano jamon with spiced cherries, goats curd and mint; to seared scallops, sweet corn puree and fennel.

Gift Ideas: $80pp
Address: 9/23 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo
Bookings: bookings@borntapavino.com.au
Website: https://www.tapavinobarangaroo.com/

Title Store

TITLE store is Australia’s largest independent retail collection of music, books and film, all under the one roof.

Gift Ideas: The School of Life: how to think about exercise $20, The School of Life: how to stay sane $20, Van Morrison – Astral Weeks (vinyl) $50, Joni Mitchell – Ladies of the Canyon (vinyl) $45, Audio- Technica Headphones $150
Website: https://www.titlemusicfilmbooks.com/
Address: 400 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo

Somedays

Somedays stocks a balanced list of Scandinavian, European, American and local fashion and accessories. Offering a unique and personal shopping experience, by presenting handpicked wearables that are not only stylish and of high quality, but which are at the forefront of international design and innovation.

Gift Ideas: 19-69 Purple Haze EDP $259, State of Escape Neoprene Tote Bag $229, Reliquia Hope Necklace $170
Website: https://somedays.com.au/
Address: 14, 200 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo

12 Micron

A festive three-course menu overlooking the harbour that starts with a glass of champagne on arrival before digging into polenta chips with whipped cheddar, bush tomato and marinated olives. First course explores the sea with choices from kingfish with native limes, wasabi and apple; oysters with finger lime dressing; king prawns with lemon aspen and sea herbs; or lobster with crab consume, fennel and daikon. Enjoy some heartier dishes of rotisserie pork with caramelised apple, muntries and cider jus; roast wagyu with onions and pepper berry jus; or barramundi with fennel, citrus and native fruikake. Finish on a sweet note with a Christmas pudding, white chocolate and rosella, some mince pies and eggnog, and mini coconut roughs.

When: Monday 25 December, 12pm or 2.30pm sittings
Gift Ideas: $155pp
Address: Tower 1, level 2, 100 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo
Website: 12micron.com.au/

Peter’s of Kensington

Peter’s of Kensington stocks the biggest brands in homewares, kitchenware, dinnerware and more in a boutique setting.

Gift Ideas: S’well water bottle $47, Christian Lacroix Butterfly Parade Dessert Plate $78, E+M Mechanical Graphic Pencil $79, Viski Flask $50, Ted Baker Accessory Box $79, Redd Leather Watch Box $129
Website: https://www.petersofkensington.com.au/
Address: 6, 100 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo

Oh! Boo

Oh! Boo Chocolates Oh! Boo Chocolates creates artisanal hand-painted chocolates using chocolate from Peru and Venezuela. The range includes pralines (their signature creations), rocher, brittle, nougat and fruits. For Christmas indulge all the chocolate lovers with an Oh! Boo Chocolates hamper.

Gift Ideas: Chocoholic small hamper $45, Chocoholic large hamper $60 Website: https://ohboo.com.au/
Address: 1, 33 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo

Opique Boutique

Optique Boutique is a sleek destination for designer frames and sunglasses sourced from around the world.

Gift Ideas: Celine Cat Eye Sunglasses $629, Kirk & Kirk Glasses $469 Website: http://optiquebarangaroo.com.au/
Address: 6, 300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo

David Jones

David Jones’ boutique department store. There’s no need to venture into the city for Christmas shopping when all your gifts can be found just around the corner from the office. From make-up gift packs, clutches, and hampers, to perfumes, shoes and designer clothes, all are available at David Jones Barangaroo.

Gift Ideas: MAC Christmas Gift Pack $89, Foreo Luna 2 Face Cleanser $279, Acqua Di Parma Perfume $110, Marc Jacobs Backpack $289, Mimco Clutch $99.95, Just Add Cheese Hamper $69.95
Website: https://www.davidjones.com/stores/barangaroo
Address: 20/300 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo

And there you have it, our gift guide and dining guide this festive season at one of the city’s premiere destinations.

Joseph Lloyd, Freelance Writer
Photo Credits: The Streets of Barangaroo, Oh Boo Chocolates, Optique, Ryan Linnegar, The Butchers Block Group

The Star Wars Exhibition – School holiday program

December 8, 2018December 8, 2018Leave a comment

School holidays and gift ideas just got a whole lot easier with this cult following exhibit we came across recently! The exhibition has been well received since opening in November and there’s a series of activities that have been unveiled just in time for the upcoming school holiday season.

THE EXHIBITION:
STAR WARS Identities is designed for visitors of all ages and uses technology and expertise in the fields of neuropsychology, psychology, and biochemistry, interwoven with a collection of over 200 original artefacts, costumes, and props from the Lucasfilm archives, to lead Star Wars fans on a personal Identity Quest.

Guests can create heir own unique Star Wars character as they progress through a series of interactive stations, finally meeting their Star Wars alter ego upon completion of the exhibit.

Developed and produced by X3 Productions in collaboration with Lucasfilm Ltd and the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, the exhibition has been secured exclusively for Sydney by the NSW Government via its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, in partnership with the Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences (MAAS).

SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS:
The next generation of Jedi knights can be entertained these school holidays with a series of fun activities from making their own androids to creating top motion films with the characters they create. This special limited edition series runs from the 17 December 2018 through to 24 January 2019:

• littleBits Droid Inventor: Ever wanted to build your very own R2-D2 or C-3PO? This workshop will introduce kids to innovative design tool littleBits, with easily snap together working lights, switches and buzzers to build their own droids. Kids will also learn about Artificial Intelligence, and what it really means to be a robot. 17 Dec 2018, 7, 17, 24 Jan 2019 @ 10am -4pm (Ages 7 – 8).

• Star Wars Special Effects: Create your own signature sound effect for a special power of your own! In this workshop, recreate classic special effects using creative cloud and other technologies, and learn how certain sounds are crucial to the identities of their favourite characters. 18 Dec 2018, 3, 10, 14 Jan 2019 @ 10am – 4pm (Ages 11 – 13).

• Craft Wars: Let your inner craft-maker travel to a galaxy far, far away and let their imaginations go wild. Armed with thermoplastics, cutter printers, articulated joints and mechanisms, participants will create their own Star Wars identity from scratch in this exciting workshop. 19 Dec 2018, 3, 7, 16, 21 Jan 2019 @ 10am -4pm(Ages 8 – 10).

• Cosplay Design Principles: What’s a great character without their own signature item? From lightsabers to personalised emblems, this workshop will guide kids through designing and crafting their own personalized props based on the Star Wars universe. Using thermoplastics and heat guns, participants can take their newly- created designs home with them. 8, 22 Jan 2019 @ 10am -4pm (Ages 10 – 12).

• Stop Motion Extravaganza: This one-day workshop will guide kids through storyboarding their own film, then bringing it to life using paper, clay, and Star Wars Lego. Learning stop-motion animation techniques popularized by the Wallace and Gromit film series. The skills they gain will be transferrable to any stop animation software, and clay characters can be taken home. 11, 15, 22 Jan 2019 @ 10am -4pm (Ages 7 – 9).

An action packed season of self discovery and creation awaits at Powerhouse, but beware, as Yoda says, “Once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny! May the force be with all of you this holiday season!

Joseph Lloyd
Photo Credits: LucasFilms

TICKETS:
What: STAR WARS Identities: The Exhibition
When: Now open until 10 June 2019
Where: Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo NSW 2007
Price:  $23 Child, $32 Concession, $36 Adult and $95 Family
(includes general admission)
Website: https://ma.as/starwarsidentities

Food, fun and frivolity: the taste of Tasmania reveals full program

December 5, 2018December 6, 2018Leave a comment

Commemorating 30 years, The Taste of Tasmania unveiled its largest ever program of stallholders and free entertainment including live music, circus and street entertainment, activities for children and the whole family as well as reserved seating for those wanting a guaranteed prime position in the heart of Hobart’s stunning waterfront!

Taste of Tasmania Director Brooke Webb said “The Taste of Tasmania program is an adventure for the all the senses. From a full culinary program where foodies can enjoy exclusive experiences and get hands on with Tasmania’s leading chefs and culinary influences, to the largest selection of stallholders ever seen at The Taste all proudly showcasing Tasmanian’s best dishes, to a huge program of entertainment and activities for the family and our New Year’s Eve Speakeasy Ball, there is something for everybody at this Year’s Taste.”

This year, The Taste of Tasmania launches a new concept space known as ‘greener grass.’ Greener grass is a new concept that develops small business through incubation and innovation whilst creating opportunities for emerging businesses to grow and develop. Greener grass is a dynamic space where businesses have shorter stay tenure’s and can showcase for 3 days, 4 days or 7 days depending on their resources.

Running from Friday 28 December 2018 – Thursday 3 January 2019, all culinary offerings are proudly 100% Tasmanian, with 112 stallholders, an increase of 35 stall holders from 2017 showcasing delicacies from all over the state. Seafood, cheese, berries, cool-climate wines, craft beers and ciders, gin, whisky and much more will be on offer from established and emerging producers eager to present their wares.

Just some of the standout stallholders at The Taste this year include:

LONG-STANDING FESTIVAL FAVOURITES
Bream Creek Vineyard – Have had a stall every year at The Taste for the last 30 years. Fred Peacock the owner and vigneron is a widely respected member of the Tasmanian wine industry, and known for the care with which he treats his vines. Bream Creek Vineyard are rated by James Halliday as a 5 star Australian wine producer. Bream Creek have a 5 star rating from James Halliday and were recently awarded “Best White Wine of Show’ and “Best Chardonnay up to 12.9%” at the AWC International Wine competition.

Festival Mushrooms – Have also had a stall at every single Taste. A Taste of Tasmania Icon, be sure not to miss their deservedly popular lightly tempura battered and fried Tasmanian mushrooms, served with delicious sauces.

Strawberry Avenue – Started 29 years ago as Strawberry Avenue, this stallholder has since been at The Taste as ‘The Creperie’. This year for the 30th birthday, owner and manager, Ursula Luetke-Steinhorst will revert the company back to its original name and revisit some strawberry avenue classics.

Home Hill – Have been at the Taste since 1997. Home Hill took a well-deserved break in 2014 and in 2018 return to The Taste (with several International awards under their belt) to come and celebrate the 30th birthday of The Taste.

Mures – Celebrating 29 years Mures is a Hobart institution; their fish and chips are supplied by their own fishing fleet.

HIGHLIGHTS:
Fat Pig Deli – Gourmet farmer stars Matthew Evans and Sadie Chrestman will be serving farm fresh deli style platters in The Atrium.

Gillespie Ginger Beer and Blue Eye Oysters: Home-made ginger beer producers team up with Blue eye oysters to create a 5 meter oyster bar like you’ve never seen before.

Porky Duck: First timers at the Taste Festival and exclusive providers of Tasmanian grown ducks (from Strelley fields), their menu features crispy duck, duck waffles, duck rolls, dipping duck (master stock) accompanied by home-made Sauerkraut and delicious flavoured Kefir creams.

Big Bessie – Owner and ex Gordon Ramsey Pastry chef Alastair Wise will be bring inventive sundaes made from soft serve, local ingredients and imagination to The Taste. Try the Amy Winehouse, Breaking Bad or the Fat Elvis, which involves bacon marmalade and French toast ‘gravel’!

NEWCOMERS
Karjalanpiirakka – Karjalanpiirakka is a Finnish pie made with crispy rye crust filled with rice, and originates from the eastern part of Finland called Karelia. Offered this year for the first time at the Taste of Tasmania, these Karjalanpiirakka are handmade by Nanna Bayer, a local ceramicist. This is nannas first food stall, and the pies will be accompanied by a special Finnish birch leaf detox drink.

Iraqi kubba – Run by Nagham Al-Knani and her daughters, Iraqi kubba is a beef filled potato and rice dumpling, fried and served with traditional Iraqi salad and sauces. Nagham has lived in Hobart for over 10 years but this will be her first stall at The Taste.

Pikelets and Dreamz – This is owner Gilly’s first year at The Taste managing her own stall, but Gilly grew-up at The Taste making blueberry pancakes for her families business Huon Choice berries who were at the first ever taste of Tasmania and throughout the first festival. This year Gilly is partnering with Angus and Ewen from The Spirit People and together they will be making pikelets with “hyper-local” produce.

Circle of Life: Premiering at The Taste ahead of its official opening in February, 2019, Circle of Life is the next offering from The Pilgrim group offering specialised coffee and delicious fresh donuts.

Afghani Bolani – A family business started during a trial market stall program run by the Migrant Resource Centre. The first solo stall that sells potato and leek, stuffed and fried flat-bread. A traditional Afghani street food.

FESTIVAL FAVOURITES

Lost Pippin and the Lamb Baa – Come along and enjoy estate grown prime lamb and own farmed grains with house made Pear and apple ciders and freshly made salad pairings.

Waji – He’s back! Waji serves huge and very popular platters groaning with Tassie seafood prepared in a variety of cooking styles and flavours.

Bertas Creamery and Milkbar – Berta’s Creamery & Milkbar with Valhalla has been showcasing Tasmania’s popular Valhalla Ice Cream at The Taste of Tasmania since 2011. Don’t miss these super popular ice-creams in specialty cones, served from 3 stall fronts on Castray.

Josef Chromy – Started at The Taste festival in 2006 and for 12 years have been showcasing their diverse variety of sparkling, red & white wines. This year, Josef Chromy are festival supporters of The Taste and can be found in the ‘The Atrium by Josef Chromy’.

Valle Nella Bocca – The team from Hobart’s much loved Italian Pantry teams up with local farmer and chef, Will Chapman and Lawrenny Distillery to make handmade filled pasta’s and anti-pasto platters inspired by the premium distilled products of Lawrenny estate.

DRINKS

Seven Sheds – In a Taste exclusive Seven Sheds will be releasing their Platypus 400 milestone brew, their 400th brew in 10+ years, made from locally grown hemp seeds.

Paradise Island x Brian Wine – Pick up a refreshing summer drink like no other, Beer wine, which is 51% beer blended with wine. A unique paring many won’t be able to pass up!

Spirit People – Well known for creating delicious bespoke cocktails at a range of events, Spirit People are releasing their first production of distilled products at The Taste, including schnapps made from Jerusalem artichokes!!

Winsome Spirits – Brian was a scientist at the CSIRO but now his ultimate goal is to create a series of unique absinthe’s that are based on the five rivers of the Greek underworld. Two absinthes made from herbs in his lower Longley garden and Tasmanian saffron will be available to try at The Taste.

Rukkus Fried Chicken – A local ethical fried chicken restaurant, this year Rukkus are adding a house made strawberry soda to their menu as they make their premiere at The Taste festival.

Tassie Can Bar: Showcasing all the small-batch, craft brews available across the state of Tasmania (and one cider!). Everything comes in a can, proudly brought to The Taste by T-bone brewing company.

EXOTIC AND RARE FARE
palawa kipli – palawa kipli will be serving up Aboriginal inspired street food. One of their dishes (paruwi) will include crickets from local edible insect supplier Rebel Foods.

Paradise Island – Catch Paradise Island serving up a Caribbean themed menu using fermented and foraged foods and handmade fresh tortillas, fresh reggae beats blasting on the decks and wine on tap. A new business from a local team including Adam James from Rough Rice, Tassie’s fermenting guru.

Tassie Small Fruits – Supporting over 10 local growers with their stall, Small Tassie Fruits will offer up many varieties of small fruits people may never have seen including golden raspberries, gooseberries, tayberries and black currants, red currants and white currants (which are quite rare)

Provenance coffee – Travelling to The Taste from Launceston, make sure to stop by Provenance Coffee for one of their nitro brewed iced single origin roasted coffee, on tap.

Lauds – Lauds offer up plant based, dairy and lactose free cheeses. Lauds are also showcasing their range of dairy and lactose free cheeses in a variety of dishes. Think Mac ‘n’ cheese sticks, Tasmanian truffle and plant based cheese toastie. Foodies can also buy platters of their plant based cheeses.

For the best seat in the house The Taste of Tasmania offer reserved seating for visitors wanting a guaranteed seat amongst the action. With three, four hour long, sessions on offer each day, reserved seating costs $25 and is located in a prime waterfront location.

This year the Children’s and Families program takes place throughout the entire Taste Festival site and is humming with free activities for all the family. Move to the rhythm of the beat in cultural dance and drumming workshops, get physical with circus and acrobats, little ones create with art play and there’s fantasy face painting for all ages. For the active ones try your hand at cricket, tennis or soccer or jump into a Zorb ball, take part in bike and board demos and test your skills on the skate ramp.

There’s no need to run away with the circus, kids can just head to The Circus Drop Zone and learn circus skills daily. For something more hands off, kids can sit back and enjoy the acrobatic storytelling of Hazel Suitcase Circus or laugh out loud and be bewildered at The Little Big Adventure Stage with short snappy performances for the whole family.

For the trendsetters, Unicorn Manes will be providing free out of this world haircuts and styles for those young and young at heart, there’s no better way to end the year or begin the next then with a totally new do!

As the sun begins to set, settle in with the family for The Taste’s FREE twilight cinema. In honour of the Taste’s 30th birthday the twilight cinema will be showing some great classics from the 80s. Travel Back to the Future with Marty McFly and Doc Brown, escape to a fantastical world in The NeverEnding Story, phone home with E.T. wax on wax off with The Karate Kid, enjoy detention in The Breakfast Club or let Wesley and princess buttercup tell you a tale of love and adventure in The Princess Bride.

Every night of the Festival a headline performance from some of Australia’s best party bands play main-stage including: four times ARIA nominated powerhouse Mojo Juju, acclaimed indigenous vocalist Emma Donovan with rhythm combo The PutBacks, blazing funk-party band S.O.T, 10 piece latin explosion Son del Sur, the raucous New Orleans inspired Jazz Party and the most exciting new RnB artist in Australia, Kaiit.

In addition, there will be three special, never-to-be-repeated performances when The Taste present 1988, a wonder-band that fulfils all those 80’s hair, fashion and smash hit fantasies. Made especially as a love letter to 30 years of Taste, this glorious over-the-top tribute show, promises to surf the biggest FM radio waves that 1988 served up.

The program of free circus and street performances is set to dazzle minds and astound with a lineup of incredible artists set to rock The Taste. Gag hags will love Australia’s favourite comedic daredevil Ernesto The Magnifico whose addiction to danger will have them in stitches. For those with nerves of steel catch some of the hair raising shows by Extreme Bicycle Stunts or contortionist and sideshow extraordinaire Samora Squid and be amazed by one of the world’s elite street performers Shep Huntly.

Test out dance moves with the steam powered mobile nightclub-slash/time machine Gramophone Man playing all the best pre-WWII Shellac or witness the singing gentleman-adventurer and one man band extraordinaire ‘Uptown Brown’ and his “Goodtimes Gyratorscope”, a musical machine which permits an athletic fellow to play multiple instruments at once.

As night descends on the Waterfront, wander the streets trading secrets or jokes with the live comedic installation Talking Lamposts; catch some fire and flag twirling accompanied by the ancient Japanese rhythms of the Taiko Drum ensemble; or revel in wonder at the internationally-acclaimed dancer and 2014’s Miss Burlesque Australia, Zelia Rose, who returns to Australia after three hugely successful back-to-back American tours with headlining burlesque legend Dita Von Teese.

For an unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience make sure not to miss The Taste’s New Year’s Eve Speakeasy Ball – a special, once-in-a-lifetime event to celebrate the 30th birthday. As the Festival enters its thirties, revisit the world of the roaring twenties – an era iconic for its high-octane entertainment, carefree fun and wild parties – right in the heart of Hobart! The Speakeasy Ball is proud to present a line-up of dazzling performances, from top Aussie musicians, giant brass bands and bold burlesque!

The awe-inspiring night features a stellar ten-piece band, led by ARIA-winning composer and pianist, Barney McAll, with an incredible array of guest singers including: Tex Perkins (The Cruel Sea), Ella Hooper (Killing Heidi), Monique Brumby, Mojo Juju and Loretta Miller (Jazz Party).

The Taste of Tasmania is the not-to-be-missed summer event, where the culture of gourmet food and beverages converge with awe-inspiring activities, markets, movies, and music in one of Australia’s most breathtaking regions.

Joseph Lloyd
Photo Credit: Taste of Tasmania

Entry to The Taste of Tasmania is FREE, with premium events (including New Year’s Eve) being ticketed.

WHAT: The Taste of Tasmania
WHERE & WHEN: Friday 28 December 2018 – Thursday 3 January 2019
Princes Wharf, Hobart, TAS, 7000

Website: www.thetasteoftasmania.com.au Facebook: facebook.com/thetasteoftasmania Instagram: instagram.com/thetasteoftasmania

booking.com – Christmas in the Shire

December 4, 2018December 4, 2018Leave a comment

Research conducted by Booking.com reveals half of Australians feel they’re missing out on a magical Christmas by living in Australia. More than a third saying we don’t have the same level of decorations ( ie. lights, tree and mistletoe) compared to other countries, which they feel creates a genuine Christmas atmosphere.

So, Booking.com is bringing the ultimate Christmas experience to you at North Cronulla Beach – a destination site representing the epitome of what an Australian summer Christmas is!

Featuring a life-size ‘White Christmas Snow Globe’ with all the Christmas trimmings, including snow and a real Santa Claus inside, experience Cronulla Beach in a whole new way this festive season.

A white christmas is something out of the movies for us down under while the other side of the world rugs up fighting the cold, we’re soaking in those scorching rays!

Sleigh bells ring, are you listening? On the beach, sand is glistening, thanks to Booking.com Sydney we’ll be walking in a Winter wonderland!

Joseph Lloyd, Freelance Writer
Photo Credit: booking.com

Date: Friday, 14 December
Time: 9am – 12pm
Where: North Cronulla Beach
Cost: Free of Charge

Mov’in Bed Cinema

November 30, 2018November 30, 2018Leave a comment

Mov’in Bed Outdoor Cinema has been set up in EQ Moore Park, just beside the Globe Theatre. It’s a great venue for a unique night out to watch a film under the stars.

There’s 150 giant blow up beds, complete with a doona, pillows, bedside table for your drinks and a schedule of 52 movies this summer.

Open today (Nov 30) until February, you can head on down and see a Hollywood Blockbuster including some new releases, classics, cartoons and even some Japanese Anime.

The cinema opens at 7, with films starting at 8:30pm as it gets dark. Come early and enjoy some food and a beverage. There’s a licensed bar and you can buy champagne, beer and soft drinks as well as your favourite movie snacks like popcorn, chips, chocolate and ice cream!

Book a ticket for yourself, a gift card for a friend and it certainly makes for a perfect date night or Christmas present.

Access the website for more details:

https://movinbed.com

Thanks to BBR Agency for the invitation to the launch.

The Shambala Fields of Lost Paradise

November 29, 2018November 29, 2018Leave a comment

Lost Paradise, the mind-blowing immersive festival experience held over New Year’s in the enchanted hinterland of Glenworth Valley, has announced its incredible three-day (29 December-1 January) Shambhala Fields programme line-up for 2018.

With an ever-growing desire for a place for festivalgoers to nourish their mind, body and soul, Lost Paradise’s family-friendly Shambhala Fields programme curated by experienced yogi and doula Catriona Byrne, has doubled in size, and this year indugenous and cultural tent is a dedicated and for the very first time, a women’s only sanctuary. The stream-side oasis will showcase some of the most experienced and qualified teachers from around the world encouraging guests to guests to learn, unwind, and reconnect.

YOGA & MEDITATION TENT:
Designed by award winning bamboo architects, Lucid will be the calming centre of Shambala Fields. The space will feature highly regarded and respected international master yogis such as Mark Whitwell – conducting special sessions on how The New Feminine is a collaboration between men and women – and Simon Borg Olivier, who has been teaching for 35 years with masterclasses on spinal freedom, energy gathering, and accessing your unconscious. Renowned local yogis will also lead the program including Truth Robinson’s ‘Secrets of the San Bao’,the resounding heart workshop with Aimee Pedersen and Matt Omo which combines the practices of yoga and sound healing, and Hatha Yoga with Eliza Giles. With benefits ranging from muscle relaxation, increased oxygen levels, and curing stress-related illnesses, guests can also take part in laughter yoga with Jeevi Ramtel aka the Laughing Chef for one of the funniest types of exercise at the festival.

TALKS TENT:

The dedicated talks tent is a new area that will immerse guests in new ideas and conversations, challenging thought and inspiration, from neuroscience, and medicinal mushrooms, to urban farming, mental health, drug awareness, and inspiring stories from everyday people who have overcome the odds and made social change.

Dr. Kaushik Ram, a pioneer of research into the nervous system and who leads ground-breaking talks in Australia and across the globe (including TedX), will present his ‘Forbidden Intelligence’ talk, combining cutting edge neuroscience with the ancient intelligence of intuition. His session will challenge guests by blindfolding them and inviting them to trust their primitive instincts and unlock their natural abilities. Entomologist Tanya Latty will present a talk on how social insects such as bees and ants could help town

planners solve bottlenecks in city infrastructure and urban renewal.

There will also be a green panel talk, ‘Lost Paradise’s War on Waste’, opening up the conversation around waste and inspiring guests to be conscious of their footprint on the environment. Festival goers can ask

questions from a panel of experts including Jo Taranto and Corina Seeto from Good for the Hood (featured on ABC TV’s War on Waste), environmental scientists from ‘Green Music’, the ‘EARTH warriors’, and respected elder Phil Bligh who will speak on the topic of sustainability from an indigenous perspective.

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WORKSHOPS TENT:
The workshops tent will feature a range of intensive and enlightening activities that will engage the senses and give festival goers an opportunity to try something new – from belly dancing with Eve White, to drumming workshops with Soul Drummer, sound healing sessions by the Sydney Sufi ensemble, and hoola hooping. For those looking to get creative there will be drawing classes, live art and yoga sessions, cookery classes, spell crafting and forest bathing.

BOARDI INDIGENOUS AND CULTURAL TENT:

BOARDI, meaning ‘placing one’s feet in the earth in a meaningful way’ was the name chosen by the Darkinjung elders for the Indigenous space at Lost Paradise. The space is curated by respected elders Phil Bligh and Dave Beaumont with Shambhala curator Catriona Byrne, and is the spiritual centre of the festival which connects guests to the sacred land and history on which the festival is set. The BOARDI space will have ongoing activities all day, recreating an authentic community atmosphere with talks and and cultural workshops local aboriginal elders. They will be breaking down perceptions of the ‘one dimensional Aboriginal person’ and tackling issues of sustainability, mental health, and disconnection from community and environment from
an Indigenous perspective. Darkinjung members will host a very special indigenous Opening Ceremony. The rest of the festival ceases running at this time as a mark of respect, and guests are invited to walk ceremoniously from Shambhala Fields to the main stage for the welcoming. Lost Paradise are proud to work alongside the Darkinjung people, and over the past five years have been building and expanding on a joint vision of sharing culture in an authentic way.

HEALING ARTS SPACE AND THE RED TENT:
The healing arts space will feature creative practices promoting healing, wellness and personal change – massage, body work, psychic, tarot readings, witchcraft, reiki, sound and crystal healing and astrology readings. The red tent will be a first for Lost Paradise, a female sanctuary with a programme run by Jane Hardwick Collins from the School of Shamanic Woman Craft will include women’s circles, Shamanic drum journeys, wisdom of the cycles tutorials, craft activities, and holding space for women who are on their cycle.

HEALTH FOOD:
The hugely popular Holy Cow Chai Tent will be making its debut this year at Lost Paradise with its carnival-themed chill space specialising in edible sweet pleasures and breakfast bowls, alongside their iconic brewed Chai, coffee, super lattes and iced drinks. Also for the first time, will be the Sacred Cacao Dome, a geometric dome tent dedicated to cacao elixirs and ceremonies, guided meditation, a cacao party with curated music with different vibrations and beta waves to harmonise and balance guests. The organic cacao bar also provides delicious treats.

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Joseph Lloyd, Contributor
Photo Credits: Gabe Tiano, Jordan Munns, Nathan Bonnici, Tye Winer,

For all ticket and camping details and to purchase tickets visit: www.lostparadise.com.au
Second release 3-day tickets: $349 + bf
Second release 4-day tickets: $399 + bf
All tickets include a general camping spot.

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New Year’s Eve at The Ternary

November 29, 2018November 29, 2018Leave a comment

Limited places are still available for The Ternary in the Novotel Darling Harbour at their annual New Year’s Eve celebrations.

This year they’ve divided the spaces with two spectacular events.

A Masquerade Spectacular – for adults only. Cocktail & Black attire is essential with your evening beginning at 7.30pm with your choice of Champagne or Cocktail on arrival with free flowing drinks continuing for five hours. Dance the night away with a line up of bands and DJ’s. Located within the Cockle Bay vantage points this New Year’s Eve, The Ternary will have prime views of the hourly free flame fireworks which run until midnight. An indulgent seafood buffet of prawns, lobster and scallops and selection of interactive food stations of international cuisine will also be served.

Secure your ticket: $319

https://www.theternary.com.au/en/play/new-years-eve.html

A Family Buffet is being hosted in the Barossa private function room which features an outdoor terrace area. The two hour session from 8pm to 10pm presents a selection of Ternary signature dishes from the buffet and free flowing drinks. Guests are welcome to kick on after the service, with a pop up being made available in the function space for paid bar service.

Tickets for Children 4-12 years – $35
Young Adults 12-17 – $60

Adults 18 and over – $189

https://www.theternary.com.au/nye-seafood-buffet-,play_viewItem_911-en.html

A quick guide to Sydney Festival

November 28, 2018November 28, 20181 Comment

Navigating through the Sydney Festival Program can be complicated, so the team have scoured through every page across every date and made a quick and easy list for you by event type.

THEATRE & OPERA

Jan 23-27 (Roslyn Packer Theatre), Beware of Pity, Sydney Festival; Schaubühne Berlin presents its first work with Complicité (UK) director Simon McBurney. This bold, technically adventurous and sexually charged staging of Austrian Stefan Zweig’s 1939 novel is a masterful and newly prescient portrait of a Europe stumbling toward chaos.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/beware-of-pity

Jan 9-18 (Roslyn Packer Theatre), HOME, Sydney Festival; a large-scale performance work by multi-award-winning theatre-maker Geoff Sobelle, combining theatre, choreography, illusion, live music, and audience interaction in a magical meditation on the meaning of home. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/home

Jan 11-Feb 2 (Sydney Town Hall), Counting and Cracking, Sydney Festival; sixteen actors play four generations of a Sri Lankan family in this world premiere about Australia as a land of refuge, staged in Sydney Town Hall and served with a communal meal.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/counting-and-cracking

Jan 10-13 (Carriageworks), Daughter, Sydney Festival; this Australian premiere is a provocative one-man monologue confronting toxic masculinity performed by award-winning Canadian performer Adam Lazarus. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/daughter

Jan 16-20 (Carriageworks), The Chat, Sydney Festival; devised and performed by ex-offenders, this is a dark and comic exploration into the realities of the criminal justice system created by theatre maker and former parole officer JR Brennan.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/the-chat

Jan 23-26 (Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House), Man With The Iron Neck, Sydney Festival; a powerful new work by leading physical theatre company Legs on the Wall and written by Ursula Yovich about a family embracing life after trauma and addressing the issue of suicide amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders youths.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/man-with-the-iron-neck

Jan 16-20 (Carriageworks), Deer Woman, Sydney Festival; a solo theatre performance about one woman’s vengeance for her sister in a country where 1,600 Indigenous women and girls are currently recognized as being missing or murdered, performed by Canadian First Nations actor and activist Cherish Violet Blood. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/deer-woman

Jan 9-11 (Carriageworks), La Passion de Simone, Sydney Festival; a new interpretation of the story of French Holocaust philosopher and activist Simone Weil performed by the Sydney Chamber Opera in a deeply spiritual contemporary opera.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/la-passion-de-simone

Jan 18-23 (Carriageworks), The Weekend, Sydney Festival; a one-woman play by Henrietta Baird following a family’s search for a new beginning.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/the-weekend

Jan 12-20 (Upstairs, Belvoir St Theatre), Old Stock: A Refugee Love Story, Sydney Festival; inspired by the real-life stories of two Romanian Jews seeking refuge in Canada in 1908, this is a dark, funny and high-energy hybrid of music and theatre starring acclaimed musician Ben Caplan. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/old-stock-a-refugee-love-story

Jan 23-27 (Upstairs, Belvoir St Theatre), The Iliad – Out Loud, Sydney Festival; actor William Zappa brings Homer’s epic Iliad to life in this new nine hour adaptation performed by four actors and featuring a live score of percussion and oud.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/the-iliad-out-loud

Jan 9-19 (Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House), A Ghost in My Suitcase, Sydney Festival; A family theatre show by Barking Gecko, about ghosts, grief and a secret family gift, adapted from Gabrielle Wang’s award-winning children’s novel. Twelve-year-old Celeste visits China to scatter her mother’s ashes, where she reunites with her gutsy grandma and is thrust into the thrilling world of ghost-hunting.

Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/a-ghost-in-my-suitcase

Jan 7-19 (SBW Stables Theatre) & Jan 22-25 (Raffertys Theatre, Riverside Theatres), Since Ali Died, Sydney Festival; spoken word poet Omar Musa unleashes a suite of politically-charged and deeply personal storytelling, rap and song inspired by the passing of his hero, boxing legend Muhammad Ali.
Links: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/since-ali-died-parramatta and https://sydneyfestival.org.au/since-ali-died-sydney

Jan 25-Feb 5 (Sydney Opera House, Joan Sutherland Theatre), Wozzeck, Sydney Festival; William Kentridge, one of the greatest visual artists of our time, directs Alban Berg’s opera about a hapless soldier driven mad by army life and his faithless lover.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/wozzeck

Jan 16-20 (Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House), In The Heights, Sydney Festival; the return of the Tony Award-winning musical written by Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda which is set in Manhattan’s vibrant, close-knit Hispanic-American neighbourhood.

Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/in-the-heights

Jan 24-26 (Carriageworks), Yellamundie National First Peoples Playwriting Festival, Sydney Festival; a showcase for new and distinct voices in Australian theatre, Yellamundie is a biennial celebration of national and international First Peoples playwriting. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/yellamundie

CIRCUS, CABARET & DANCE

Jan 10-20 (Riverside Theatre), Shànghǎi MiMi, Sydney Festival; this world premiere cabaret inspired by 1930s Shanghai is directed by the award-winning Moira Finucane and includes thrilling performances from an international cast of dancers, acrobats, aerialists and a live band playing long-lost vintage Chinese jazz and blues.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/shanghai-mimi

Jan 8-27 (Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent, Festival Garden), Pigalle, Sydney Festival; Marcia Hines leads an international cast of performers in this world premiere disco-burlesque-cabaret set in an old Parisian nightclub with a soundtrack of ‘70s classics.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/pigalle

Jan 23-27 (Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent, Festival Garden), Le Gateau Chocolat: ICONS, Sydney Festival; cabaret sensation Le Gateau Chocolat performs a joyous and moving tribute to the musical icons that shaped his life.

Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/le-gateau-chocolat-icons

Jan 17 & 18 (Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent Festival Garden), Paul Capsis with Jethro Woodward & The Fitzroy Youth Orchestra, Sydney Festival; Paul Capsis, accompanied by a high-octane rock band, lights up rock music’s dark side, interpreting songs by artists such as Patti Smith, Lana Del Rey and Led Zeppelin. Link:

https://sydneyfestival.org.au/paul-capsis-with-jethro-woodward-and-the-fitzroy-youth-orchestra

Jan 11-13 (Prince Alfred Square, Parramatta), Circus Comes to Town, Sydney Festival; a weekend of circus fun including Mallakhambindia performances, Heliosphere, Flying Trapeze workshops and Aerialize affordable circus skills workshops.
Link: http://www.sydneyfestival.org.au/circus-comes-to-town

Jan 10-13 (Lennox Theatre, Riverside Theatres), Rock Bang (Circus Oz), Sydney Festival; Australia’s leading circus troupe joins forces with art-rock comedy duo Otto & Astrid in an electric new show combining acrobatics, laughter and head-banging live music.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/rock-bang

Jan 11-13 (Lennox Theatre, Riverside Theatres), Splash Test Dummies, Sydney Festival; an hour of aquatic adventures from the family circus trio including juggling, synchronised swimming on unicycles, human balancing acts and water skiing through the theatre.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/splash-test-dummies

DANCE

Jan 11-20 (QT Sydney), Biladurang, Sydney Festival; A dark, sexy and intimate solo work by Wiradjuri dancer and choreographer Joel Bray, loosely echoing the story of the Biladurang – the platypus.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/biladurang

Jan 23-27 (Carriageworks), One Infinity, Sydney Festival; this cross-cultural music and dance performance is a collaboration between choreographer Gideon Obarzanek, recorder virtuoso Genevieve Lacey, Chinese guqin master Wang Peng, composer Max de Wardener, Beijing Dance Theatre and contemporary dance troupe Dancenorth, where the audience become performers.

Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/one-infinity

Jan 9-13 (Carriageworks), Dust, Sydney Festival; a new work by contemporary dance company Dancenorth questions personal, cultural and political inheritance, featuring live violin from Canada’s Jessica Moss (Thee Silver Mt Zion) and an architecturally designed set by award-winning Liminal Spaces.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/dust

Jan 19 (City Recital Hall), The Nutcracker and I, Sydney Festival; Tchaikovsky’s classic tale is reimagined by renowned pianist Alexandra Dariescu in a contemporary multimedia performance merging piano, ballet and digital animations.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/the-nutcracker-and-i

MUSIC

Jan 25 (Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House), Spinifex Gum, Sydney Festival; Felix Riebl and Ollie McGill of The Cat Empire join Marliya from Gondwana Choirs, a choir of young Indigenous women, for musical snapshots of life in the Pilbara, with special guests Briggs, Emma Donovan and Peter Garrett.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/spinifex-gum

Jan 15 & 16 (Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent, Festival Garden), Orquesta Akokán, Sydney Festival; this big band mambo collective comprised of Cuba’s finest musicians brings the party direct from Havana, celebrating music of the 1940s and 50s.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/orquesta-akokan

Jan 15 & 16 (Carriageworks), Neneh Cherry, Sydney Festival; Swedish rebel icon of trip hop and feminist pop brings her albums Broken Politics and Blank Project to Sydney.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/neneh-cherry

Jan 18 (Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent, Festival Garden), Nakhane, Sydney Festival; South Africa’s Nakhane sings sultry synth-pop with emotive, fragile vocals and a charismatic presence.

Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/nakhane

Jan 24 (City Recital Hall), Lucibela, Sydney Festival; Cape Verdean singer Lucibela performs Portuguese-folk-influenced sounds of the West African islands in this Australian Exclusive. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/lucibela

Jan 19 (Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent, Festival Garden), Les Filles De Illighadad, Sydney Festival; Niger’s only women-led band play the haunting desert blues of traditional Tuareg guitar folk. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/les-filles-de-illighadad

Jan 10-13 (Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent, Festival Garden), Camille O’Sullivan: Where Are We Now?, Sydney Festival; in an Australian premiere, singer and storyteller-in-song Camille O’Sullivan interprets songs of her late heroes David Bowie and Leonard Cohen. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/camille-osullivan

Jan 20 (Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent, Festival Garden), Julia Holter, Sydney Festival; art-pop composer Julia Holter brings her distinctive sound to Sydney, holding influences from a range of genres together with her electronic harpsichord and delicate vocals.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/julia-holter

Jan 22 (Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent, Festival Garden), Mulatu Astatke & the Black Jesus Experience, Sydney Festival; the father of Ethio-jazz performs his blend of African and Western-inspired jazz, backed by Melbourne ensemble band Black Jesus Experience.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/mulatu-astatke

Jan 17 (Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent, Festival Garden), Jonathan Bree, Sydney Festival; New Zealand indie pop royalty Jonathan Bree delivers a sultry and self-effacing masterclass in clever pop songwriting.

Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/jonathan-bree

Jan 12 (Carriageworks), Ben Frost: Widening Gyre, Sydney Festival; experimental Australian composer Ben Frost uses 2017’s critically acclaimed The Centre Cannot Hold as a departure point into Widening Gyre, a new kaleidoscopic multi-sound environment performed in the round. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/ben-frost

Jan 11, 12 & 13 (Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre), Mary Lattimore, Sydney Festival; performing in the Harry Seidler-designed Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, harpist Mary Lattimore plucks arpeggios and otherworldly loops played through speakers submerged in the pool.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/events/mary-lattimore

Jan 12 (Harry and Penelope Seidler House), Elena Kats-Chernin, Sydney Festival; renowned Australian composer and pianist Elena Kats-Cherrin performs works from her ARIA number one albums as well as live improvisations responding to the Harry and Penelope Seidler House.

Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/events/elena-kats-chernin

Jan 23-25 (Seidler Penthouse), Lori Goldston, Sydney Festival; Seattle cellist Lori Goldston plays songs, improvisations and compositions that restlessly explore the far reaches of the instrument’s voice. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/events/lori-goldston

Jan 18-20 (Julian Rose House and Rose Seidler House), Chuck Johnson/ Laurence Pike, Sydney Festival; a double-bill featuring two acclaimed artists Laurence Pike and Chuck Johnson.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/events/laurence-pike-chuck-johnson

9-27 January (Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent, Festival Garden), Dollar Bin Darlings, Sydney Festival; Sydney’s fabulous DJing duo spin fruity disco records found in bargain bins from Wednesdays to Saturdays in the Festival Garden.Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/dollar-bin-darlings

Jan 12 (City Recital Hall), Bridge of Dreams, Sydney Festival; an Indian-Australian jazz collaboration featuring Hindustani singer Shubha Mudgal, jazz saxophonist Sandy Evans and the 17-piece jazz super-collective Sirens Big Band, who showcase Sydney’s leading female and trans musicians. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/bridge-of-dreams

Jan 12 & 13 (Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre), Suppression Dam, Sydney Festival; three celebrated art music ensembles – Ensemble Offspring, International Contemporary Ensemble and Ensemble Adapter – combine in a world exclusive. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/suppression-dam

INSTALLATIONS

Jan 9-27 (World Square), Fly Me To The Moon, Sydney Festival; marking the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, Sydney Festival is inviting everyone to collectively cycle 384,400 kilometres to the moon. Participants can pedal on World Square’s Lunar Velocipede; get involved in organised rides; or donate the kilometres from their daily travel or gym sessions.

Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/fly-me-to-the-moon

Jan 9-27 (Barangaroo South), Apollo 11, Sydney Festival; 11 artworks and participatory experiences commemorating the 1969 space flight that first landed people on the moon.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/apollo-11

Jan 9-27 (Barangaroo Reserve), ALWAYS, Sydney Festival; Barangaroo headland will host a large scale outdoor sculpture by local Bangarra artist in residence Jacob Nash, featuring the declaration ‘ALWAYS’: always was, always will be. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/always

Jan 25 (Barangaroo Reserve), The Vigil, Sydney Festival; a vigil will be held overnight to reflect on the impact of colonisation in Australia, the significance of the day before the First Fleet arrived, and what happened after, with musical performances and stories of Country from current and future community Elders. Link: https://2019.sydneyfestival.org.au/events/the-vigil

VISUAL ART

Jan 11-March 3 (Cement Fondu), The Ropes: Amrita Hepi, Sydney Festival; artist, dancer and choreographer Amrita Hepi’s newly commissioned video installation explores the history of skipping with aspects of blak experience. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/the-ropes-amrita-hepi

Jan 10-12 (Art Gallery of NSW), Masters of Modern Sound, Sydney Festival; an after-dark experience in art, space and sound, with leading Australian and international composers, musicians, sound designers, and performers. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/masters-of-modern-sound

Jan 19-March 24 (4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art), Xiao Lu: Impossible Dialogue, Sydney Festival; the first retrospective of this leading contemporary Chinese artist, anchored in her landmark 1989 performance work Dialogue, in which the artist fired two bullets at her own art installation.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/xiao-lu-impossible-dialogue

Jan 14-23 (Museum of Contemporary Art), Article 14.1, Sydney Festival; A 10 day durational performance by Australian artist Phuong Ngo, who relives the momentous journey of his parents’ immigration by boat from Vietnam in 1981. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/article-141

Nov 23-March 3 (Carriageworks), Nick Cave: Until, Sydney Festival; American artist Nick Cave’s largest and most thought-provoking installation, speaking to the urgent issues of gun violence and race in America. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/nick-cave-until

Jan 18-March 31 (Artspace), Just not Australian, Sydney Festival; leading local artists from different generations and media, including Soda_Jerk and Abdul Abdullah, explore the origins and implications of Australian identity. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/just-not-australian

Jan 20 & Jan 23-27 (T5 Camouflage Fuel Tank, Georges Heights), T5 Tank Sound Project, Sydney Festival; four new site-specific artworks by renowned Sydney-based sound artists Chris Caines and Gail Priest, and experimental, multi-disciplinary artists David Haines and Joyce Hinterding, premiere at a massive decommissioned military fuel tank hidden in Mosman. Includes a live performance on the 20 January. Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/t5-tank-sound-project

Jan 21-28 (Museum of Contemporary Art), Blood Money Currency Exchange Terminal, Sydney Festival; a provocative, participatory installation that reinvents the national currency as a celebration of Aboriginal history.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/blood-money-currency-exchange-terminal

Jan 5-Feb 23 (UNSW Galleries), The Beehive, Sydney Festival; an innovative video installation by artist Zanny Begg and creative producer Philippa Bateman addressing the mystery 1975 disappearance of heiress and anti-development campaigner Juanita Neilsen.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/the-beehive

PARRAMATTA & WESTERN SYDNEY

Jan 9-2 Feb (Blacktown Showground Precinct), Blak Box, Sydney Festival; the voices of Elders and future leaders from Blacktown’s Indigenous community feature in Four Winds, a surround-sound ‘deep listening’ experience curated by Daniel Browning.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/blak-box

Jan 19 (The Crescent Parramatta Park), Sydney Symphony Under the Stars, Sydney Festival; the Sydney Symphony Orchestra performs a selection of iconic film music and well-known classical favourites by Rossini, Strauss, Tchaikovsky and more.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/sydney-symphony-under-the-stars

Jan 11-13 (Prince Alfred Square, Parramatta), Circus Comes to Town, Sydney Festival; a weekend of circus fun beginning with an opening parade. The weekend will include performances from five of India’s best Mallakhamb artists presenting the ancient sport rarely seen outside of India; the Heliosphere, a giant moon-like sphere, flying 20 metres in the air with a talented aerialist performing twists and turns; Flying Trapeze and affordable circus skill workshops from Aerialize.
Link: http://www.sydneyfestival.org.au/circus-comes-to-town

Jan 11-13 (Lennox Theatre, Riverside Theatres), Splash Test Dummies, Sydney Festival; an aquatic adventure from the family circus trio – including juggling, synchronized swimming on unicycles, human balancing acts and water skiing through the theatre.
Link: https://sydneyfestival.org.au/splash-test-dummies

Joseph Lloyd, Contributor

More information on www.sydneyfestival.org.au

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