Category: MELBOURNE

Free opera in Melbourne: Opera Australia bringing back Opera For All!

In what promises to be nothing short of spectacular, the concert is set to feature some of the most beloved arias in opera. These pieces will be brought to life by four of Opera Australia’s premier performers, supported by musicians from Orchestra Victoria and under the expert guidance of esteemed opera conductor, Brian Castles-Onion. Fiona Allan, CEO of Opera Australia, has expressed delight in BMW’s continued commitment to the Australian cultural landscape through their Opera for All concerts, stating this partnership helps bring more opera to more people. Equally thrilled is Wolfgang Buechel, CEO of BMW Group Australia, who believes this event will bring joy to the community whilst supporting the arts and culture sector. Fed Square, renowned for its capacity to hold 8,000 people and its reputation as a hub for world-class art and culture, will serve as the perfect backdrop for this event. Mark your calendars for one of the biggest free outdoor opera events in Australia in 2024: the “BMW Opera for All.” An invitation is extended to all for an evening steeped in rich cultural experience and unforgettable opera performances. The anticipation builds as the date draws near. Head to opera.org.au for more

Experience mesmerising Miss Saigon before it closes 16 December!

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Brace yourself for a truly extraordinary love story that has captivated audiences and garnered rave reviews. Don’t miss your chance to witness the breathtaking Australian production of Miss Saigon before its final performance at Her Majesty’s Theatre on Saturday, 16 December. Critics and fans alike have been swept away by this mesmerizing theatrical experience, praising its “hugely talented cast” and deeming it “as powerful and affecting as ever.” Produced by the legendary Cameron Mackintosh, this production of Boublil and Schönberg’s award-winning musical is a must-see event. Taking center stage is the internationally acclaimed performer Seann Miley Moore in the role of The Engineer, alongside the talented Abigail Adriano as Kim and Nigel Huckle as Chris. The stellar cast also features Kerrie Anne Greenland as Ellen, Nick Afoa as John, Laurence Mossman as Thuy, and Kimberley Hodgson as Gigi. Together, they bring depth and emotion to the captivating story. Prepare to be enchanted by the full 24-piece orchestra, which breathes life into the soaring musical score created by the renowned duo behind Les Misérables. From the powerful anthems like “The Heat is On in Saigon” and “Last Night of the World” to the unforgettable melodies of “The Movie in My Mind” and “The American Dream,” the music will transport you to another world. Since its premiere on the West End, Miss Saigon has garnered an impressive 70 major theatre awards, including three Tonys and two Oliviers. It has been performed in 15 different languages, captivating audiences in over 32 countries and 350 cities worldwide. Set against… Read More

Leonardo da Vinci experience Melbourne: a journey into the mind of a genius

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Dedicated to exploring the life of arguably the greatest creative genius the world has ever known, THE LUME Melbourne is thrilled to announce the opening of “Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius” in March 2024. This unparalleled experience promises to be the most ambitious, immersive, and breathtaking yet. It’s been two years since Van Gogh at THE LUME forever changed how art is experienced in Australia, presenting masterpieces such as “Starry Nights” in an accessible way that captivated audiences. Now, get ready to step inside the world’s most famous works of art as Mona Lisa and The Last Supper come to life on THE LUME’s colossal canvas at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. This ground-breaking presentation allows visitors to be immersed in the grandeur and intricacies of these masterpieces, providing an intimate encounter with the brilliance of Leonardo’s artistry not possible in traditional museum settings. Leonardo da Vinci, an artist, inventor, scientist, philosopher, and musician, transcends his era. Not only did he create masterpieces never surpassed for their beauty, technique, and anatomical accuracy, but his pioneering contributions in architecture, engineering, and even flight laid the foundations for many modern innovations, making his influence more profound and far-reaching than anyone who has followed. As with all experiences at THE LUME, this isn’t your typical stroll through an art gallery. Prepare to enter a world where the lines between art and reality blur. Engage all your senses with sights, sounds, scents, touch, and taste as you navigate through the vast 3,000m² multi-sensory gallery. The… Read More

Green Cup expands to Hawksburn Village: a new oasis for health enthusiasts

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Green Cup, renowned for its delectable acai bowls and refreshing smoothies, has recently opened its seventh store in Hawksburn Village, much to the delight of health-conscious individuals in the area. This expansion showcases Green Cup’s commitment to providing delicious and nutritious treats to communities far and wide. Situated at the heart of Hawksburn Village, the new Green Cup store promises fast service and mouthwatering delights for those on the go. “We selected Hawksburn Village as our seventh location due to its vibrant and bustling community, which perfectly aligns with our mission of making healthy treats accessible to our customers,” explains Natalie Guest, Director of Green Cup. The new store aims to bring the unique Green Cup experience to the dynamic Hawksburn Village community. Green Cup’s latest venture boasts a fresh and distinctive look, courtesy of the renowned luxury interior design firm, Hecker Guthrie. With the use of raw materials such as timber, steel, concrete, and fibreglass, the store exudes a modern and sophisticated ambiance. The juxtaposition of industrial elements with refined touches provides customers with an elevated and unforgettable experience, while still capturing the essence of the beloved Green Cup brand. Patrons can enjoy their Green Cup experience both inside and outside the establishment, with comfortable seating available for up to nine individuals in each area. Whether it’s savouring a refreshing smoothie or grabbing a quick bite, the new store offers a welcoming space for health enthusiasts to relax and indulge. Green Cup’s journey began back in 2014 when they first opened their doors in… Read More

Melbourne welcomes “Afloat Pool Club” – your go-to summer getaway

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Dive into the heart of the season at Afloat’s brand-new pool area, the “Afloat Pool Club”. Opening this week, the Pool Club promises a refreshing blend of luxury, comfort, and festivity. Featuring a spacious eight-metre-long tiled swimming pool, twin lofty palm trees, a Tulum-inspired agave bar, and a standalone taco hut, Afloat is setting the stage for an unforgettable summer season. According to Afloat’s Georgie Larkins, “The return of the swimming pool officially marks the start of our summer season. With the arrival of warm weather, we’re so excited to welcome guests back for another summer of fun by the pool. This year is particularly exciting as the area is more spacious and comes with a handful of fun new features.” The “Afloat Pool Club” is located on the west end of Afloat’s lower deck. The pool, adorned with imported Italian tiles and an infinity edge, is perfectly situated to face the mesmerising afternoon sunsets. And the fun doesn’t stop there. In line with this season’s “Viva Mexico” theme, the Pool Club features a poolside Tulum-inspired agave bar and a nearby taco hut, ensuring you’re never far from a rejuvenating sip and snack. The taco hut, equipped with a grill and hot top, will have a rotating selection of special tacos. The menu, changing weekly, might surprise you with delicacies like corn tortillas filled with grilled cactus and tender beef, crunchy crickets with avocado and tomatillo salsa, or a classic Al Pastor. Meanwhile, the agave bar will be serving up a variety of 60-odd agave… Read More

Bowery Ball at NGV: celebrating Queer Performance art, fashion and Leigh Bowery’s Legacy

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On Friday 22 March 2024, the NGV International will transform into a vibrant oasis of queer art, music, and performance. The grounds will set the stage for a show-stopping, late-night queer party, the Bowery Ball, featuring drag, burlesque, voguing, music, and performance art. The event, named in honour of Melbourne-born iconoclast Leigh Bowery, celebrates the flamboyant creativity and indomitable self-expression of Victoria’s LGBTIQA+ community. Bowery, a renowned twentieth-century performance artist, fashion designer and nightclub impresario, has left a lasting impact on the global queer culture. The Bowery Ball will showcase performances from a slew of Australia’s most gifted contemporary artists, musicians, and provocateurs. The roster includes Logie-nominated drag diva Art Simone, award-winning burlesque “supervillain” Ruby Slippers, jazz pianist virtuoso Rosie Rai, and the drag king alter-egos of Danni Ray and Keely Windred, Dazza and Keif. The Great Hall will form the beating heart of the event, treating guests to mainstage performances late into the evening from nightclub host and costumier Bettie Rosé, multi-award-winning sideshow artist Elle Diablo, and more. Meanwhile, the NGV Garden Restaurant will morph into a swanky piano bar, providing a cosy space for intimate performances and storytelling. The lineup here will include performances by NAIDOC Pride Award-winner 2Joocee, Krayola, and others throughout the evening. As the Bowery Ball coincides with the NGV Triennial, guests will also have the opportunity to take tongue-in-cheek tours of the exhibition, led by some of the night’s performers, including Granny Bingo stalwarts and drag superstars. In true homage to Bowery’s daring style, the dress code will encourage… Read More

Unleash your inner rebel at the Australian Tattoo Expo Melbourne 2023

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Get ready to dive into a world of vibrant colours, bold designs, and unbridled creativity as the Australian Tattoo Expo rolls into town! Starting from December 1-3, 2023, Melbourne will transform into a buzzing hive of artistic talent, featuring 400+ masterful tattoo artists gathered under one roof12. Daring and Diverse Tattoo Experiences Fancy leaving your ink destiny to fate? Then step right up to the Dr Pickles Tattoo Glory Hole! Much like the semi-mythical activity that lends this booth its name, you’ll slide your arm through a slot in the wall and place your faith in the skilled hands of a mystery tattoo artist. You’ll leave the expo with a fresh tattoo and a thrilling tale to regale your friends with1. And that’s not all! Celebrity tattoo artist Lauren Winzer will be in attendance, offering free walk-up flash tattoos all weekend long1. With a client list boasting Hollywood heavyweights like Post Malone, Sophie Turner, Miley Cyrus, Toni Collette, Cody Smith, and Joe Jonas, you’ll be in illustrious company! More Than Just Tattoos But the Australian Tattoo Expo isn’t just about tattoos. The event boasts a slew of exclusively curated exhibitors and entertainment options34. Fancy some dental bling? Resident exhibitor The Cheshire’s Grin will be crafting real gold grills and teeth all weekend long1. Or perhaps you’re intrigued by body modification? Professional body piercers will be on-site, ready to enhance your body art with a new addition1. If getting tattooed isn’t your thing, fret not. Flux Entertainment will light up the main stage with breathtaking fire… Read More

A fresh taste of Vietnam at St. Cloud Eating House

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This month, the renowned St. Cloud Eating House in Hawthorn East breathes new life into its culinary offering. The restaurant, located at 644 Burwood Road, is set to tantalise tastebuds with an explosion of Vietnamese flavours, thanks to celebrated chef Jerry Mai. Since its inception in 2015, St. Cloud Eating House, under the stewardship of hospitality veteran James Klapanis, has maintained its commitment to serving ferociously fresh Vietnamese cuisine to the denizens of Melbourne. The exciting and vibrant menu revamp is spearheaded by none other than the remarkable Jerry Mai, known for her culinary masterpieces at Pho Nom, Annam, and Bia Hoi Beer Hall. Mai’s flair for Vietnamese cuisine is widely acclaimed, and she now brings her unique touch to the St. Cloud Eating House. The restaurant’s new culinary journey is further bolstered by the recent collaboration between Klapanis and Angie Giannakodakis, stalwarts of the Melbourne hospitality scene. This partnership brings a renewed focus on generosity – striving to put the hospitality back in hospitality, as Giannakodakis puts it. St. Cloud’s refreshed food ethos is all about sharing and savouring every bite. Jerry Mai has expertly curated a menu that balances familiar Vietnamese flavours with unexpected new elements. Diners can expect a tantalising array of small plates, from grilled scallops with wild onion butter and nuoc mam to sticky lamb ribs with tamarind caramel. A highlight includes an irresistible beef cheek green curry— a testament to Mai’s Thai culinary influences. For those with a sweet tooth, the restaurant offers a duo of indulgent desserts —… Read More

Experience the New Era of Luxury at Hotel Sorrento

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Beginning December 2023, a new chapter unfolds in the rich history of the iconic Hotel Sorrento. Unveiling its most significant transformation yet, the hotel is set to amaze with a host of luxurious features, making it the must-visit destination on the Mornington Peninsula. The third-generation family business, run by the Pitt family, has always been a welcoming beacon for visitors, and this expansion is no different. After more than 150 years of service, Hotel Sorrento will soon feature a breathtaking 30-metre pool, terrace, thirteen brand new luxury accommodation suites, a day spa, and wellness facilities. This development is the realisation of the Pitt family’s vision, marking a crucial milestone in the hotel’s illustrious journey. Designed by Six Degrees Architecture and landscaped by Jack Merlo, the new additions to the hotel draw inspiration from the ocean and peninsula landscape, honouring the building’s natural and architectural beauty. The result? A guest experience reminiscent of a Mediterranean holiday, a mere 90-minute drive from Melbourne. Starting at $550 per night, the 13 new Sunset Suites are a testament to luxury. Inspired by the hotel’s natural surroundings, the suites integrate raw materials like limestone, travertine, and timber. Expansive windows in each suite afford stunning views of the landscape, immersing guests in tranquillity and nature. The suites feature custom-designed Jardan furniture and Hunter Lab amenities, creating a warm, welcoming space for guests. Relax and unwind in outdoor marble baths, the perfect way to end a busy day. The new suites beautifully complement the recently refurbished rooms, all boasting Jardan furniture and… Read More