Category: FEATURES

New Magic Flute at Sydney Opera House

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Get ready to be enthralled as Opera Australia unveils an exciting new production of Mozart’s classic, The Magic Flute, at the iconic Joan Sutherland Theatre in Sydney Opera House. Mark your calendars for this legendary performance, running from 1st February to 16th March 2024. Award-winning director Kate Gaul makes her directorial debut with Opera Australia, conjuring a fantastical world that promises a delightful and enchanting adventure suitable for all ages. The production will feature Australia’s leading opera and musical theatre artists. It’s an exciting opportunity to witness the talent of Australia’s best, including the OA soprano Stacey Alleaume and musical theatre star Ben Mingay, who will be making their OA debut. An absolute highlight is Australian-Mauritian soprano Stacey Alleaume, who will captivate audiences with her mainstage role debut as Pamina. Mingay, in his OA debut as Papageno, complements Alleaume’s spellbinding performance. For the first time, these two accomplished singing talents will perform together, making it a spectacle not to be missed! After more than two decades performing in leading opera houses across Europe and North America, Australian tenor Michael Smallwood returns home to make his debut at the Joan Sutherland Theatre. Smallwood will reprise his role as Tamino, which he performed to great acclaim for Aalto Theater Essen in 2023. The all-star Australian cast will also feature OA favourites Giuseppina Grech, David Parkin, Jane Ede, Ruth Strutt, Jennifer Black, Kanen Breen, Gregory Brown, and Nathan Lay. We’re equally excited to welcome back Indyana Schneider, making her principal role debut for the Company as Second Lady…. Read More

Summer facial hair survival guide

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As the mercury rises across Australia, and the long-awaited summer makes its grand entrance, most of us look forward to basking under the warm sunshine. Yet, this season of joy can also pose challenges for those sporting facial hair, resulting in discomfort and irritation. We present to you the ultimate ‘Summer Facial Hair Survival Guide,’ packed with expert tips to keep your facial hair looking its best during these warmer months. Veteran American Crew All-Star and distinguished barber, Gary McKenzie, with over 35 years of experience, brings you his pro tips to maintain a healthy, well-groomed beard and moustache, even in the sweltering heat. 1) Clean Facial Hair is Half the Battle Facial hair can act like a sponge in the summer, absorbing sweat, dirt and oils. Neglecting this build-up can lead to skin irritation, ingrown hairs and acne. Regular use of a good cleanser, such as the American Crew Beard Foam Cleanser, is crucial to keep your facial hair fresh and clean. Get your hands on it at The Iconic. 2) Beware of Dehydration Frequent swimming in oceans or pools during the Aussie summer can damage your facial hair as salt water and chlorine dry out your skin and hair follicles. Moisturising your skin and conditioning your beard or moustache is essential to avoid that crunchy texture. The American Crew Beard Serum offers an easy solution to hydrate your facial hair and moisturise the skin beneath. Grab yours from Adore Beauty. 3) Prioritise Sun Protection Sun protection is paramount not only for your facial… Read More

New year guide to grooming

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With the New Year well and truly upon us, now is the perfect time to level up your grooming routine and achieve the best hair ever in 2024. Whether you’re aiming for a fresh look or want to improve the health of your hair, investing in self-care will leave you looking and feeling your best. Are you interested in a men’s haircare and styling guide for the New Year? If so, we have expert advice from Mark Rabone, an American Crew All-Star, AMBA Hall-of-Fame inductee and barber with over 30 years of experience at Esq. Male Grooming. Mark understands the biggest concerns men have regarding their hair. Leveraging his extensive expertise, he shares the top 4 concerns his clients have, along with his favourite American Crew products to address them, so you can look and feel your best in 2024. As many men experience hair loss and thinning, one of the most common hair goals in the New Year is to get thicker and healthier hair. Using the right shampoo and conditioner is key to reducing hair loss and stimulating regrowth. The Fortifying Shampoo from American Crew helps to remove build-up and refreshes the scalp for fuller, thicker, and stronger hair. When used daily with the Daily Moisturizing Conditioner, which restores and protects hair follicles, your hair will feel soft and healthy in no time. You can get the Fortifying Shampoo from Adore Beauty for RRP $26.95 and the Daily Moisturizing Conditioner for RRP $25.95. Beards will continue to be a trend in 2024, but… Read More

Why Tasmania this 2024

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Exceptional news for Tasmania! Making an appearance in the coveted ’52 Best Places to Visit in 2024′ list published by The New York Times, Tasmania shines bright in the global travel scene. Compiled by discerning travel editors and experts, this list serves as the gold standard in travel destinations, eagerly awaited by explorers worldwide, looking for their next great adventure. This year, the spotlight falls on Tasmania, admired for its rich indigenous culture, natural splendours, and elevated dining experiences. Several Tasmanian operators have been earmarked for offering unique experiences that contribute to the rich Tasmanian tapestry. As Nora Walsh, a contributor to The New York Times suggests, adventure awaits around every corner in Tasmania. From the Tasmanian Walking Company’s guided walks across rugged Bruny Island to the immersive indigenous experiences offered by local Palawa community members. Foodies will be delighted to forage for native ingredients with Palawa Kipli, an Indigenous-owned company, culminating in a tantalising tasting menu. Sarah Clark, CEO, Tourism Tasmania, says, “Being included in The New York Times Best Places to Visit list is an honour, and we are excited to showcase our unique experiences. Tasmania has been a favourite among Australian travellers, and now, we are thrilled to charm international visitors as well.” Tasmania has something for everyone – stunning natural beauty, world-class gastronomy, a vibrant creative community, and a rich cultural heritage. Above all, its warm hospitality stands out, making it a must-visit destination. Tasmania’s recognition in this prestigious list positions it alongside the likes of Brisbane, Grenada in The Caribbean,… Read More

Highlights of SailGP in Sydney 2024

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Get ready for heart-stopping action on the water as SailGP, the world’s most exciting race on-water, returns to Sydney for a record fifth time on the weekend of February 24th and 25th, 2024. Sydney Harbour, with its stunning backdrop, will set the stage for this exhilarating eighth event of the global championship. SailGP takes spectators on a thrilling journey as ten nations battle it out, showcasing their skills and speed on the water. The championship visits iconic cities worldwide, including San Francisco, New York, Auckland, and Los Angeles, making it a must-see event for sailing enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. But SailGP is not just about the racing; it offers an unforgettable experience for fans. With various ticketing options, you can choose from a range of on-water and on-land fan experiences. Here’s what you can look forward to: Last season, thousands of fans flocked to Sydney Harbour to witness the intensity and thrill of SailGP racing. This year, even more spectators from across Australia and around the world are expected to support Tom Slingsby’s green and gold team as they defend their title against nine rival nations. The Aussies are aiming for a fourth consecutive victory, and the home crowd’s support will undoubtedly provide an incredible boost for the team. Tom Slingsby, driver and CEO of the Australian team, expressed his excitement for the home event, highlighting the incredible experience of racing in front of a home crowd. He invites all Australians to rally behind the team and be part of this iconic event. It’s an… Read More

Celebrate Lunar New Year in Style at the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Mahjong Club

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To welcome the Year of The Wood Dragon with flair, renowned Sydney chef Dan Hong and Crazy Rich Asians actor Remy Hii have teamed up for a modern take on the traditional tile game at the exclusive Johnnie Walker Blue Label Mahjong Club. On Saturday, February 17th, the iconic duo will transform Merivale’s Bridge Street landmark, Est., into a vibrant space for Sydneysiders to immerse themselves in the festive spirit of Lunar New Year. Guests will have the opportunity to try their hand at mahjong under the guidance of a local master, while indulging in a specially curated menu featuring Hong’s fusion flair and unique Johnnie Walker Blue Label-infused cocktails. In the beautifully designed blue-washed environment, combining Est.’s classic architecture with contemporary Chinese elements, Hong will delight attendees with six delectable bite-sized dishes. These include king crab and scallop potsticker dumplings, rock lobster bao with ginger and shallot, prawn toast with otoro tuna belly and finger lime, as well as a tantalizing hot and numbing wagyu skewer. Additionally, guests can savor a modern twist on longevity noodles with the chilled truffled noodle topped with caviar, and end the meal with Hong’s rendition of a Hong Kong-style warm egg tart. To complement the culinary delights and enhance the flavors of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, renowned mixologist Jonathan Liu has crafted three distinct cocktails infused with popular Asian flavors. Highball enthusiasts can enjoy the Hi-Prosperity, featuring notes of ginger, yuzu, and chrysanthemum. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in the Blue Wishes, a cocktail infused with… Read More

A year of artistic marvels: HOFA gallery’s journey in 2023

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As the curtain falls on another remarkable year, HOFA Gallery reflects on a momentous journey that unfolded throughout 2023. From captivating international art fairs to thought-provoking exhibitions, HOFA Gallery has continued to be at the forefront of promoting cutting-edge contemporary art and embracing diversity. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights from this extraordinary year. Art Miami 2023: Redefining Boundaries In December, HOFA Gallery unveiled a breathtaking exhibition at Art Miami 2023. This showcase exemplified the gallery’s unwavering commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and fostering inclusivity. Showcasing a curated collection of artworks representing the gallery’s core values and rich history, the exhibition captured the essence of innovation and creative expression. Art Talks with Joseph Klibansky: A Window into Imagination Among the captivating events at Art Miami 2023 was an exclusive interview with acclaimed Dutch artist Joseph Klibansky. In this seventh episode of Art Talks, HOFA Gallery delved into Klibansky’s fascinating world, exploring the intriguing connection between visual perception and implied meaning in his artwork. Renowned for his highly reflective sculptures and radiant monuments, Klibansky invites viewers to question their perceptions and embark on a journey of imagination. Featured Artists: A Tapestry of Creativity HOFA Gallery showcased the works of 75 talented artists from 30 different nationalities throughout the year. From contemporary paintings to sculptures, new media art to generative AI, the gallery’s diverse roster of artists captivated audiences worldwide. Artists like Zheng Lu, Li Jie, Zhuang Hong Yi, Ilhwa Kim, Lyès, and many others left an indelible mark with their thought-provoking and… Read More

Unveiling the paradox: surprising health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption

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Since time immemorial, the debate surrounding alcohol’s impact on health has raged on. But contrary to conventional wisdom, recent medical evidence spanning half a century reveals two intriguing, albeit counter-intuitive, discoveries. These findings challenge common perceptions and shed light on the complex relationship between alcohol and our well-being. For decades, skeptics have questioned whether indulging in moderate alcohol consumption can truly benefit our health. Yet, a growing body of research suggests that it might indeed hold some unexpected advantages. Studies going back half a century indicate that moderate drinking, when consumed responsibly and in moderation, may have a positive impact on certain aspects of our well-being. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), alcohol’s potential benefits extend beyond mere enjoyment. Researchers have found links between moderate alcohol intake and a reduced risk of heart disease. As paradoxical as it may seem, studies suggest that responsible alcohol consumption can have protective effects on the cardiovascular system. Furthermore, wine, in particular, has emerged as a drink with astonishing health benefits. Rich in antioxidants and other compounds, moderate wine consumption has been associated with a lower risk of certain diseases, such as age-related cognitive decline and certain types of cancer. On the other end of the spectrum, medical evidence reveals another surprising revelation. While excessive alcohol consumption is widely recognized as detrimental to health, abstaining from alcohol altogether can yield similar outcomes. Studies indicate that complete abstinence from alcohol may not necessarily confer additional health benefits compared to moderate drinking, challenging the notion that… Read More

Where Tokyo’s streets come to life

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DOPA, the retro Japanese fast-casual eatery created by The Devon Group, has recently opened its 7th store, marking its first ever location in the Eastern Suburbs. On December 8th, DOPA introduced Bondi Junction to its chemically transformative culinary experience, inspired by the chemical dopamine. The menu, expertly crafted by Executive Chef Zachary Tan and Executive Pastry Chef Markus Andrew, offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory dishes. Drawing inspiration from the streets of Tokyo, DOPA reimagines Japanese comfort food while adhering to its slow food ethos of quality, sustainability, and ethical food production. The stars of the menu are the Japanese donburis, with over twenty variations to choose from. To celebrate the grand opening of DOPA Bondi Junction, they are introducing the Bondi Don, a vegan donburi packed with flavor. This plant-based delight features a beef patty alternative, rice, tare, seaweed, sliced shallots, vegan cheese, secret sauce, and tomato sauce—a perfect choice for health-conscious Bondi consumers. Classic donburis include mouthwatering options like teriyaki chicken and karaage. For those seeking a unique twist, DOPA offers choices such as the cheeseburger wagyu, wagyu beef tongue, or glacier 51 toothfish. Dessert lovers will revel in the popular DOPA mochi daifuku, available in flavors like matcha, strawberry, and vegan mango. The signature matcha or original cheesecake tantalizes taste buds, combining the best of east and west flavors. Thirst-quenching signature drinks include DOPA’s home brewed iced tea in refreshing lychee, raspberry, and Yuzu flavors. Step inside DOPA and you’ll find its vibrant menu reflected in the sleek interior design…. Read More

Cory George joins THE YARD GYM

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With a solid 15 years of industry experience under his belt, Cory George is a revered figure in the realm of strength conditioning, fitness, and nutrition. His insightful tips and tricks have earned him a devoted fanbase, eagerly following his guidance to better health. Now, Cory faces his next thrilling challenge: taking the Aussie-based approach of THE YARD GYM to the global stage. Founded in 2020, THE YARD GYM has already achieved remarkable successes, thanks to the efforts of dynamic duo, Dan and Tiarne Bova. Their industry vision and comprehensive knowledge have crafted a future for fitness that Cory is thrilled to be an integral part of. With the world watching, this franchise-based business is poised for international expansion, guided by the expertise of Cory George, their new Head of Global Growth. So, why is Cory so convinced that this Australian approach to strength and condition training is the future of fitness? The answer lies in the cultural fabric of Australian lifestyle. Surfing, swimming, hiking, and simply enjoying the great outdoors — these have always been integral parts of daily life Down Under. This culture, therefore, naturally gravitates towards a health-conscious living, giving rise to the evolution of group training. Strength training, although vital, has often played a secondary role to High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and conditioning, but THE YARD GYM is changing this narrative. Their innovative RIG & TURF concept introduces a renewed focus on strength, encouraging their audience to embrace this oft-neglected aspect of fitness while still adhering to their beloved routines. Cory… Read More