FOOD & DRINK

A place to eat in Coogee: Marra Bar & Grill

22/04/2024

As the leaves turn and we welcome the cooler, more reflective seasons of autumn and winter, the Coogee Bay Hotel proudly unveils its latest culinary delights at the renowned Marra Bar & Grill. This eagerly anticipated menu refresh aligns perfectly with the launch of the “Quintessentially Coogee” campaign, a heartfelt initiative designed to reward patrons and cement the hotel’s deep-rooted allegiance to its local community. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Coogee and boasting unparalleled views of its iconic beach, Marra Bar & Grill has long stood as a beacon of exceptional dining. This season’s offerings bring to the table an enriched palette of flavors, starting with perfectly seared Scallops atop a rustic blend of crushed peas and potato scallops – a true homage to autumn’s bounty. The curated Charcuterie Board, with its fine selection of Ortiz anchovies, delicately shaved jamón, and De Palma salami, along with marinated olives and pickles, provides the perfect shareable feast for those crisp coastal evenings. Continuing with the theme of comforting classics, the menu features the heartwarming Bangers & Mash—pork & fennel sausages served over a bed of silky colcannon and finished with a mustard jus. The oven-roasted half chicken, accompanied by kipfler potatoes seasoned with thyme and parmesan, captures the essence of home-cooked warmth. For those seeking a more refined touch to the traditional pub fare, the Wagyu Burger offers a gourmet twist, and the zesty Chicken Wings, served with a cooling ranch dressing, promise to tantalize the taste buds. Seafood lovers are not forgotten, with the Casarecce… Read More

Go to Adrian Richardson’s new Italian joint, Pasta Bambino

22/04/2024

By James Banham

Affordable Gourmet Pasta and Classic Cocktails at Bouvier Bar In a heartwarming homage to his Italian roots and an answer to the current economic squeeze, celebrated chef Adrian Richardson unveils ‘Pasta Bambino’, a winter pop-up nestled within the cozy confines of Bouvier Bar, on Melbourne’s iconic Lygon Street. Offering an escape into the warmth of Italian cuisine, this pop-up is poised to serve up an array of classic Italian pasta dishes, alongside handcrafted cocktails and wine, all priced to please. Since its opening in 2017, Bouvier Bar has become a staple in Brunswick East, known for its classic cocktails and unmatched hospitality. Adrian Richardson, the culinary force behind La Luna Bistro and now Pasta Bambino, aims to stir the pot in the current dining scene with affordable, yet gourmet, pasta offerings reflective of his Italian heritage. Drawing from childhood memories of making pasta from scratch with his Italian grandparents, Adrian’s approach with Pasta Bambino is simple yet profound. “Some of my fondest food memories are helping my Italian grandparents in the kitchen,” Richardson recounts, tying his culinary endeavors back to his foundational experiences with food. The pop-up restaurant’s menu sings a ballad of traditional Italian comfort food, with the promise of changing offerings to keep the palette intrigued. Patrons can look forward to starting their meals with tasty smaller plates like crumbed and fried mozzarella and an antipasto board brimming with Mediterranean delights. Main dishes feature a variety of handmade and locally sourced gourmet pasta such as casarecce bolognese and fresh ricotta gnocchi, not to… Read More

ST. ALi coffee in Melbourne has a new shop

20/04/2024

By James Banham

ST. ALi, the revered Melbourne coffee institution, is thrilled to announce the opening of its latest venture on Bali’s shores. This April, coffee aficionados and culinary enthusiasts will be welcomed at the brand new ST. ALi cafe located on the ground floor of the avant-garde FURTHER HOTEL in the lively and promising district of Pererenan. This expansion marks a significant milestone, promising to infuse Bali’s blossoming coffee scene with ST. ALi’s celebrated blend of premium coffee and gastronomic flair. “Expanding into Bali presents an exhilarating opportunity for us to introduce the ST. ALi philosophy to a wider audience. Pererenan’s evolving culinary landscape and its rich, immersive culture provide the ideal setting for our brand to flourish,” proclaimed Lachlan Ward, CEO of ST. ALi. FURTHER HOTEL has quickly made its mark since its establishment in 2023, earning accolades for its innovative hotel concept that seamlessly integrates with the community ethos of Bali’s southwest coastline. This collaboration between ST. ALi and FURTHER HOTEL is set to enrich the guest experience significantly, marrying the hotel’s novel approach with ST. ALi’s expertise in coffee and cuisine. “Partnering with ST. ALi to bring the essence of Melbourne’s coffee culture to Pererenan is a fulfillment of a long-held aspiration,” expressed Simon Digby, Co-Founder of FURTHER HOTEL. “Facing some of Bali’s most sought-after surf spots, we anticipate ST. ALi will become a morning hub for surfers eager for their coffee fix.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by ST ALi INDONESIA (@stali.id) In line with this partnership, ST. ALi Bali,… Read More

Discover the home of Australian whisky at Starward’s new distillery and bar precinct

16/04/2024

By Danielle Kirk

After winning 24 Double Gold medals in 2 years, Starward goes even bigger with its recent unveiling of a brand-new distillery tour and bar experience.

Adelaide Hills wineries worth a visit

12/04/2024

By James Banham

Renowned for its cool climate, this picturesque locale offers an ideal terroir for producing some of the most exquisite wines known to connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.

Tag: opera australia sydney

Opera Australia’s 2023 program – and the end of an era

Madame Butterfly Sydney Opera Australia geisha

by James Banham

Posted: 02/09/2022

Next year in 2023, Opera Australia will hit another one of its many milestones, though with a bitter-sweet undertone. Artistic Director Lyndon Terracini, the man behind the sumptuous programming and incredible progress of the company will see out his final season before moving onto other things. Though his last season will definitely not leave us wanting! In a clear indication of Opera Australia’s standing on the global stage, some of the biggest names in opera will be performing for the Company in 2023. The world’s leading tenor, Jonas Kaufmann, in demand sopranos Ermonela Jaho, Lise Lindstrom, Jessica Pratt and Amber Wagner, along with globally renowned Wagner interpreter Stefan Vinke, legendary bass Ferruccio Furlanetto and audience favourite Michael Fabiano, to name just a few, will all make very welcome returns to Australia in 2023. The season for 2023 will – as per usual – include a phenomenal line-up of productions with world-class singers from every corner of the globe. Think Chen Shi-Zheng’s amazing production of the world’s first digital Ring Cycle in Brisbane, with the cast from the original 2020 season largely intact; OA’s co-production of The Tales of Hoffmann will finally make it to the stage after being postponed in 2021 and everyone’s favourite, Alex Ollè’s Madama Butterfly. Karah Son will reprise the starring role of Cio Cio San that she performed to much acclaim for OA in the Joan Sutherland Theatre in 2019. Ultimately, 2023 is shaping up to be a year of celebration of Australian talent with many homegrown performers singing alongside their international counterparts, many in break-out roles. Among those… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, OPERA

Tags: Madame Butterfly Sydney, opera, opera australia, opera australia sydney, Sydney opera season, What opera to see Sydney

Phantom opera sydney harbour: Dazzling new Phantom of the Opera on Sydney Harbour

by Emi Berry

Updated: 19/11/2022

It’s Phantom of the Opera, but not as you know it. Commencing Friday 25 March until 24 April 2022, the longest-running show in musical history can be experienced under the stars on Sydney Harbour, with iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge creating a stunning backdrop for this popular production. Not only is this a new version of Phantom, but it’s also the first fully-staged outdoor production of this popular opera, with fireworks every night. The themed pop-up bars and restaurants will make this an unforgettable evening for all. About Phantom of the Opera on the harbour Having played for 35 years on the West End of London, and 34 on Broadway in New York, this inspired interpretation of Gaston Leroux’s novel remains one of the world’s favourite musicals. The story of a mysterious masked man who lives beneath the Paris Opera House, and the beautiful young singer who becomes his obsession and muse, seduces generation after generation and continues to enchant long-time devotees. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s score — immortalised in one of the highest-selling cast albums of all time — is studded with melodies famous the world over: from the haunting beauty of ‘The Music of the Night’ and ‘All I Ask of You’, to the splendour of ‘Masquerade’, and the crashing chords of the title song. Two of Australia’s most in-demand theatrical talents, director Simon Phillips and designer Gabriela Tylesova, bring a whole new level of spectacle to the show’s defining moments — the mirror, the journey to the Phantom’s lair, the… Read More

Category: OPERA, SYDNEY

Tags: opera australia, opera australia sydney, opera on the harbour, phantom of the opera

Superstars in Sydney for Opera Australia’s ‘The Marriage of Figaro’

by James Banham

Posted: 23/01/2022

It was in 2019 when Melbourne-born superstar soprano Stacey Alleaume took to the stage in Opera Australia’s The Marriage of Figaro as Susanna alongside Paolo Bordogna, tenor. It’s now in 2022 that the illustrious Australian opera company is bringing back the legendary tale – with Stacey in the role she performed all-too-well – that brought us its renowned overture from 27 January to 18 February 2022 at the Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House. With three vocal talents that comprise some of the world’s finest singers, the production this summer won’t be one to miss. A regular on the stage of Milan’s Teatro alla Scala and opera houses around Europe, impressive Italian baritone Mario Cassi will debut as the Count, a role he has perfected in Liege and Dresden. Stellar Russian soprano Ekaterina Morozova will debut as the Countess, a role she performed at the Bolshoi in late 2021, and rising star Venetian bass-baritone Tommaso Barea debuts, as Figaro himself, opposite celebrated Australian soprano Stacey Alleaume as clever servant Susanna. Based on a play that was initially banned for its anti-aristocratic undertones, this sharp cat-and-mouse comedy that heroes the underclass will delight and entertain audiences as it has done since its 1786 debut in Vienna. The Marriage of Figaro is a lovable tale that has brought us such recognisable tunes as the one above and the beautiful, floaty Sull’Aria, sung by two characters Countess Almaviva who dictates to Susanna (Stacey Alleaume) the invitation to a tryst addressed to the countess’ husband in a plot to expose his… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, OPERA, SYDNEY

Tags: figaro, Marriage of Figaro Opera, opera australia sydney, Superstars in Sydney for Opera Australias The Marriage of Figaro, sydney opera, THE F Marriage of Figaro, The Marriage of Figaro

Opera Australia is hosting a New Years Opera Gala on Cockatoo Island

by James Banham

Updated: 15/10/2021

Can’t believe we’re here again, already in 2021, but we are and now is the time to plan what you’re doing for New Years Eve 2021. Naturally, if you’re in Sydney, you’ll be by the harbour, watching the epic fireworks every year, so why not do it in operatic style? Opera Australia has added another outdoor spectacular to its program, recently announcing the inaugural New Year’s Eve Opera Gala on Cockatoo Island. The event will present some of the country’s finest performers for a two-hour concert of opera classics under the stars, hosted by the irreverent Jonathan Biggins. Tahu Matheson will conduct a full orchestra and an all-star cast of singers including Stacey Alleaume, Natalie Aroyan, Chanyang Choi, Diego Torre and Luke Gabbedy. Tickets include pre-booked ferry transfers and a ticket to the performance with the option of adding a 3-course pre-performance dinner, interval drinks and the post-show midnight party to their booking. Alternatively more casual food and beverage options will also be available. But if something a little more classic is in your sights, then Opera Australia’s annual NYE festivities at the Sydney Opera House will include a lavish production of Puccini’s La Bohème in the Joan Sutherland Theatre. Italian maestro Lorenzo Passerini conducts the Opera Australia Orchestra and a cast of exceptional singers as they perform the much-loved bohemian tale of four friends navigating their way through their shared experiences of ecstasy, jealousy and loss. With interval timed to coincide with the 9pm fireworks and the opera finishing in time for the midnight… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, OPERA, SYDNEY

Tags: new years eve sydney, Opera Australia is hosting a New Years Opera Gala on Cockatoo Island, Opera Australia New Years, opera australia sydney, what to do new years eve

Joyce El-Khoury has joined Opera Australia in 2019 for La Boheme

by James Banham

Updated: 11/01/2019

Maria Callas is back! Well… not really, but, she may as well be if any of the articles out there about Canadian-Lebanese soprano, Joyce El-Khoury are anything to go by; she’s one of the most exciting new additions to Opera Australia this spring-summer season of 2019. Opening the season with Puccini’s classic La Boheme, El-Khoury will pick-up the role of Mimi, the innocent little bird who’s swept-up into the drama of the Bohemians in the thick of winter. Joyce headlines the cast of this season’s production, which has fast-proved to be an international explosion of some of the world’s finest singers. In addition to her debut to the Australian opera scene, Latvian soprano Maija Kovalevska will partner with El-Khoury on the role of Mimi, while Italian and Mexican tenors Ivan Magri and Diego Torre will shine in their portrayals of Rodolfo, the poet and male lead. With experience at The Met (NYC), Handa Opera (Sydney Harbour), Royal Opera House Covent Garden (London), The Bolshoi and Teatro Colon (Buenoa Aires) between them all, this production’s cast will leave large shoes to fill. Read more about how Diego Torre did something not many others can. This season’s production comes off the back of last season’s which culminated in a magical production of La Boheme at the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour. Complete with snow and actual cars, the production was one for the memory books, only surely to be met in quality and transcendentalism with the addition of these stunning new international singers. See more and get your tickets… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, OPERA, SYDNEY

Tags: la boheme, la boheme opera australia, opera, opera australia, opera australia joyce el khoury, opera australia sydney

ARTS & CULTURE

Lauren Brincat When Do I Breathe 2024. Performer Jasmin Lancaster. Photographer Zan Wimberley. Courtesy of the artist

Public performance in Randwick Sydney by artist Lauren Brincat

22/04/2024

By James Banham

This week, the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct will experience an exceptional infusion of art and community spirit through a public performance by the celebrated multidisciplinary artist Lauren Brincat. Scheduled for one-night only, on Wednesday, 24 April 2024, Brincat’s performance marks the launch of the new Laneway Art Program. This initiative, commissioned by the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct and supported by Transport for NSW’s Safer Cities program, seeks to enhance perceptions of safety for women, girls, and gender diverse people navigating the streets and laneways of the Precinct. Brincat, along with Rochelle Haley, another leading Australian artist, has been entrusted with the mission to improve night-time connectivity and comfort within the precinct through performance-based and site-specific artwork. Both artists have engaged directly with health workers in the area to shape their projects, aiming to make the public spaces more welcoming and to strengthen the sense of community, safety, and inclusiveness across the site. The artwork, titled When do I breathe?, is an ambitious collaboration with sound artist Evelyn Ida Morris, UNSW Choral Director Sonia Maddock, and choreographer Charmene Yap. It invites the public to actively participate in shaping new paths across the precinct, offering a unique experience that encompasses three activation sites within the UNSW Kensington and the hospital precinct. The performance, beginning at 5:00 pm on the UNSW Scientia Lawn, is a reflection on the interconnectedness of local communities, especially those separated by differing work shifts and daily rhythms. Aiming to reclaim public space through collective action, When do I breathe? presents an… Read More

Good news for National Gallery London: Eva Gonzalès piece acquired

22/04/2024

By THE F

On the occasion of the artist’s 177th birthday on Friday 19th April, the National Gallery has acquired La Psyché (The Full-length Mirror), about 1869-70, by Eva Gonzalès (1849-1883) thanks to three generous legacy gifts from Mrs Martha Doris Bailey, Miss Gillian Cleaver, and Ms Sheila Mary Holmes, and the National Gallery Trust. This is the first acquisition by the Gallery of a work by Gonzalès and the second acquisition of its Bicentenary year. La Psyché has not been seen in public for over seventy years and joins only one other painting by her in a UK public collection, The Donkey Ride, about 1880?2, at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. Gonzalès is the 20th female artist represented in the National Gallery Collection, marking a significant addition. The story of Gonzalès’s reputation, during and after her life, reflects some of the reasons why women artists are not well represented in the National Gallery. These include being offered fewer opportunities in life and the lack of interest shown, consciously or not, in works by women artists by collectors of the era and onwards, from whose acquisitions the National Gallery’s own collection was assembled. During her lifetime Gonzalès was an established artist who exhibited multiple times to acclaim at the official Paris Salon. She was the only official pupil of Edouard Manet (1832-83), with whom she studied from 1869. Gonzalès likely painted La Psyché around the same time that Manet was painting his portrait of her, Eva Gonzalès (1870). That work, in the Gallery collection, was the focal point of the recent exhibition, Discover Manet & Eva… Read More

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Shooshfest: Australia’s first ever silent short film competition

17/04/2024

By James Banham

Australia’s Shooshfest, an inaugural silent short film competition, invites diverse creators to innovate in storytelling sans speech. Promising an immersive experience, it will connect with audiences, honour silent film and catalyse cinematic culture.

For excellent Flamenco, look to Sadler’s Wells

17/04/2024

By James Banham

Step into a world where tradition meets innovation, where old blends seamlessly with new to create something entirely original and electrifying. At Sadler’s Wells, the iconic Paco Peña, accompanied by his talented Paco Peña Dance Company, presents Solera – a captivating production that breathes new life into the timeless art of flamenco. As the evening unfolds, prepare to be mesmerised by a fusion of exceptional music, dance, and passion that transcends boundaries and embodies the essence of human emotions in all their raw beauty. The show opens with a symphony of everyday sounds that seamlessly transform into a vibrant celebration of the human spirit. Take away the traditional red Flamenco dress and imagine you’re in a studio with friends who are just chilling and decide to have a dance. They chat in-between sets, sip water, play on their phones – all normal every day stuff – that plays an insightful and very real backdrop to the magic unfolding in the foreground. From the rhythmic beats of percussionist Julio Alcocer to the exquisite melodies woven by guitars and voices, every moment is a testament to the skill and artistry of the performers. Directed with precision by Jude Kelly CBE, Solera masterfully transitions from the mundane to the magical, immersing the audience in a world of colour, light, and drama that is nothing short of spellbinding. In the second act, the stage comes alive with a spectacle of performance, accentuated by striking costumes and evocative lighting that elevate the talents of the company to new heights. Dancers… Read More

4 reasons to get excited for ‘Frontiers: Choreographers of Canada’s at Sadler’s Wells

11/04/2024

By James Banham

This exceptional triple bill showcases the extraordinary talents of three distinguished Canadian choreographers: Crystal Pite, Emma Portner, and James Kudelka, promising an unforgettable journey through the world of contemporary ballet.