Category: CITIES

There’s a chilli festival coming to Cronulla, NSW this August

Posted: 21/07/2018

For those Shire-goers and locals, get excited – there’s a chilli festival coming your way. Cronulla’s beachside hangout is rolling out fiery little peppers this August, making their way in to delicious dishes, zingy cocktails and an almighty chilli-eating competition every Sunday for those with a stomach of steel. Northies in Cronulla will launch their wicked-hot specials menu including Jalapeno Poppers, a scorching hot Chilli-Burger, Angry Wings or the Chilli-Roulette pizza. Complementing each dish is the ‘Death Wagon’ – a cart stocked with 30 of the hottest sauces in the world. Diners are warned to approach the Death Wagon with caution…pitchers of water will be on hand to cool down fiery tasting sessions. They’ve even created two special cocktails for the month-long event, the Blue Chilli Margarita or a good old fashioned Bloody Mary with a twist – you choose the Scoville rating (the measurement of how spicy the chilli is). Northies is also serving up Young Henry’s tinnies with a Cayenne-salt rim adding a kick to the popular Newtowner, and for a dainty way to spice up spirits, bar staff can top traditional cocktails with fiery Chilli Fairy Floss. See more of what’s on at their website.

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: chilli festival, northies

The winners, grinners and who’s who of the 2018 Helpmann Awards in Sydney

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

On the set of this year’s production of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert, the 2018 Helpmann Awards Act II took place, celebrating the best talent Australia has to offer in the performance space. Hosted by Glenn A. Baker Am, Sydney Dance Company’s own Rafael Bonachela, TV host David Campbell and soprano Jacqueline Dark – and more – 23 awards were presented for the categories of comedy, cabaret, contemporary music, musicals, opera, classical music, theatre and ballet, dance and physical theatre. These Awards complement the 20 Awards announced yesterday at the Helpmann Awards Act I, of course. The Helpmann Awards were established in 2001 by Live Performance Australia and this year, president Andrew Kay AM, said, “We are proud to present the 18th Annual Helpmann Awards across two nights this year. The breadth and diversity of winners, nominees and performances at tonight’s and yesterday’s events shines a spotlight on Australia’s world class creative and artistic talent. Congratulations to all 2018 Helpmann Award nominees and winners!” It’s a dazzling time for anyone involved in stage production and the night of nights for those whose talents are to be admired and adored. The show closed with the biggest line up of Australia’s leading vocalists from the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s concert production of Funny Girl. Divas and funny girls themselves Trevor Ashley (Hairspray), Michaela Banas (Upper Middle Bogan), Natalie Bassingthwaighte (The X Factor), Casey Donovan (Australian Idol), Virginia Gay (First Tuesday Book Club), Verity Hunt-Ballard (Mary Poppins) Dami Im (Eurovision), Maggie McKenna (Muriel’s Wedding), Zahra Newman (Book of Mormon) and West end and Broadway star Caroline O’Connor had the audience standing in their seats and cheering for more. The Helpmann Awards 2018 will broadcast: ABC… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY, THEATRE

Tags: helpmann 2018, helpmann awards, helpmann awards sydney, helpmann awards winners

The Stables in Paddington is stylish eating off the beaten track

by James Banham

Posted: 18/07/2018

If there’s one thing you notice about the Sydney restaurant scene, it’s that people are hesitant to break away from the hot-spots of diners; and, to be honest, it makes sense. Until you discover The Stables in Paddington; a new restaurant just off the main the main drag of Paddington that unashamedly does its own thing in its own space, offering something diners have been crying for. Mood lit, funky styled and expertly catered for, The Stables in Paddington has all the hallmarks of a well-established restaurant in the centre of the city, despite only having been open a few weeks. The building itself houses a lot of history in an “if the walls could talk” kind of way. Having been established since the 1800s, the venue has housed stables (obviously), a hay loft, a tanner’s residence and ironworks over the years, adding to the unique pieces of Australian heritage that make the venue as enjoyable as it is. Executive chef Thomas Gripton’s menu plays along with the rustic nature of the interior and the charm-to-life element of the whole thing, working with locally-sourced and expertly executed morsels. Thanks in large part to his enduring relationships with local providores and artisans, the chef’s take on butter-poached lobster with herb jus, avruga caviar, dill and kombu, slow-cooked pork jowl with garlic yoghurt, celery ribbons, celery leaf oil and crisped black rice as well as nori to miso braised eggplant with parmesan, shallots, dill and aromatics make for one ‘bowl-you-over’ experience. Couple all that menu fancy with a wine range… Read More

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: best places to eat sydney, paddington restaurants, stables, stables paddington, stables restaurant, sydney restaurants, where is stables paddington

Infinite Cycle is the spin class studio you’ve been screaming for in Sydney

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Everyone knows Soul Cycle, right? Let’s just put that out there. But, what you mightn’t know about in the world of spin and definitely need to, is its Australian competition that offers something a little more unique: Infinite Cycle. HQ’d in Waterloo, NSW and branching out all over the place at a rapid pace, Infinite Cycle is the wholly Australian and completely different offering to spin addicts with the same cult vibe we all know and love. For the die-hard, it has what you need; for the adventurous it has what you crave and for the new; well, it’s one helluva challenge lined-up ahead of you. Infinite Cycle takes the concepts that run throughout all spin operations around Sydney and Australia at the likes of Virgin Active Health Clubs and Cycology, and adds something new in the form of completely unstable, core-engaging, Real Ryder bikes that completely offset the centre of gravity and are sure to have you doing Ariana Grande proud with your own physical embodiment of ‘side-to-side’. It’s an insane workout that does the quads, hamstrings, obliques, lats and most of all – and most likely the reason you’re so into it – the glutes (your bum!). Founded by Alan Sacharowitz and Dani Carr, Infinite Cycle brings a healthy dose of innovation to the cardio exercise space. The bikes are exclusive in Australia to Infinite Cycle and offer riders the chance to learn to turn, tilt and lean as they ride as they sync-up with the large scenic screens ahead of them and the pumping tunes around… Read More

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, HEALTH & FITNESS, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: infinite cycle, infinite cycle waterloo, spin class, spin class sydney, the f infinite cycle

10 things to do this summer in London

by THE F

Updated: 16/11/2022

London really comes alive in the summer. The whole city is absolutely teeming with life and activity, which brings in people from all over the world to enjoy the vibrant buzz of the town. The streets of London are one of the best places to be during the warming months and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding how to fill your free time. So, if you’re wondering what the best of the best things to do in London this summer are, Base London have put together a top ten. Whether you’re hanging out with friends at the weekend, planning a first date or you’re just visiting with your family, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 1. Movies on the River , Tower Millennium Pier, Aldgate, Until 18 August The perfect choice for a romantic date night, you can watch a movie whilst floating down the River Thames at sunset. With amazing views and a brilliant atmosphere, this summer night time activity is not to be missed. Depending on when you decide to go, you can choose from a massive range of films including Jaws, Dirty Dancing, The Greatest Showman, The Shape of Water, Get Out and more! Just make sure you’re equipped with a pair of rubber-soled shoes so you’ll be looking dapper and feeling sure-stepped on the boat. 2. Underbelly Festival, London’s Southbank, Until 30 September This year’s Underbelly Festival is celebrating its 10th Birthday and is the biggest one yet! There are so many exciting acts to enjoy… Read More

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, LONDON

Tags: london, london guide, summer london, The F London, the f uk, what to do london, what to do summer london

Something a little different: Opera Australia will perform Westside Story on Sydney Harbour in 2019

by James Banham

Posted: 15/07/2018

For years, Opera Australia has stunned the local and international opera and creative-loving audiences with what they can do atop a pontoon in the middle of Sydney Harbour for the annual Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour. But in 2019, there is something a little different in-store… In 2019, Opera Australia will perform Westside Story on the renowned floating stage with the iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge completing the inner urban feel of the unique production. Taking one of the most iconic works of the 20th century out of the theatre and onto Opera Australia’s now famous outdoor stage, will see years of planning finally come to fruition says OA’s Artistic Director Lyndon Terracini. “I’ve always loved West Side Story, it’s one of the greatest pieces ever written, and I’ve been wanting to include it in the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour repertoire since we started the program seven years ago. “The setting is perfect, with the city skyline in the background, you won’t get a better stage backdrop in the world, and I’ve said from the start, if a piece is right, then we’ll do it, we don’t want to be bound by preconceptions,” said Terracini. And the good news is for fans of the classic tale, West Side Story will continue the tradition of the great outdoor spectacles that have come before it, with the world’s finest singers, musicians, dancers and creative teams set to bring the vision to life. It all starts on 22 March – 21 April 2019. Check the Opera Australia… Read More

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

Tags: handa opera sydney harbour, opera australia, westside story

Draw naked people and drink wine in Sydney this July

by James Banham

Posted: 12/07/2018

When you learn to draw, it’s one thing to draw apples and oranges; another entirely to draw a human body. It doesn’t matter who you ask, though, it’s the thing that defines the skill of an artist. Throw in some wine and you have one super healthy exercise for the mind. This month, the Watson’s Bay Boutique Hotel will hold life drawing classes with merlot, where the hour-long drawing class will welcome both new and experienced artists seeking to hone their skills in drawing the human figure. The beachfront hotel’s edgy class will be hosted by artist Rachel Carroll, the northern beaches-born talent with 20 years’ experience in creating her own works and teaching others. Rachel will help students understand the human form and finesse their drawing technique. It’s a perfect exercise for those who want to open their eyes and improve their drawing, encouraging you to draw what you see, not what you think you should be seeing. Each $40.00 ticket will includes a glass of wine to help the creative juices flow plus all artistic equipment. See more at the WBBH Hotel website.

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: art classes, art classes sydney, life drawing, life drawing sydney, watsons bay boutique hotel, wbbh

World Fries Day is on 13 July and Chargrill Charlie’s is where to go

by James Banham

Posted: 10/07/2018

It’s World Fries Day this 13 July, so if carbs are your thing, then your time is now. To celebrate, Chargrill Charlie’s will be giving away free small bags of fries from 12 – 4pm across all ten of their shops around Sydney. Without needing to make a purchase, you’ll be free to claim your free bag of carbs all in good faith as we gather to pay homage to the humble chip. The World Fries Day give-away will be available at all Chargrill Charlie’s stores including; Mosman, Neutral Bay, Willoughby, Wahroonga, Lane Cove, Woollahra, St. Ives, Mona Vale, Rose Bay and Annandale.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: chargrill charlies, chips, world fries day

Raclette is back on the menu at Delisse Cafe for Bastille Day

by James Banham

Updated: 15/07/2018

For the French Bastille Day on 14 July, Delisse cafe in Sydney is serving-up raclette all month-long. It’s time to pay them a visit. The oozy, gooey, melty cheese poured so effortlessly over bread and topped with cured meat, pickles and whatever else you like is apparently a staple of the French winter diet and it’s easy to see why. From the warm carbs to the warm cheese a sandwich jammed with raclette has to offer, winter at Delisse cafe is just another reason to celebrate all the good things about France in one bite. With four cafes around Sydney, there’s no excuse.

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: delisse, delisse cafe, raclette

Bellucci Cucina Sydney has nestled amongst the skyscrapers and called it home

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Above Australia Square’s Ryan’s Bar, tucked away in a corner is Bellucci Cucina Sydney, the city’s answer to the cry out for a quality Italian menu that doesn’t involve the words ‘Jamie’ or ‘Oliver’. They haven’t been open long, but God damn, they know what they’re doing ?? Bellucci can be found just above Ryan’s Bar at Australia Square. Get the pasta! ?? #bellucci #pasta #wednesday #humpday #australiasquare A post shared by T H E F (@the_f_au) on Jul 4, 2018 at 1:37am PDT Having just inherited the chef, Teofilo Nobrega, from Potts Point’s Fratelli Paradiso, Bellucci does carbs and it does them damn well. It’s the reason owner George Nahas, wanted to have him on-board. Couple an established menu with quality wine – and friendly staff who know how to talk about and suggest it – and it’s easy to see why the few-month-old establishment is already making waves. The rotunda is unassuming and still so new, there is more to come for the modestly styled, but big-flavoured terrace venue. With wine-lined walls and a kitchen that is capable of catering to a modest few hundreds of sparsely spread out diners, Bellucci offers a comfortable and approachable Italian eatery without the fanfare. Bellucci does the works from pastries and breakfast dishes, stretching into afternoon aperitivi, wood-fired pizzas and its signature pastas, catering to everyone at any time of day. The stand out dish? You must try the pappardelle of ragu di agnelo, fermented chilli, rosemary and salt. Bellucci is open breakfast and lunch Mon-Fri; dinner Wed-Fri. Level 5, Terrace… Read More

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: bellucci, bellucci cucina, bellucci sydney. bellucci italian, italian food, italian restaurants, italian sydney

ARTS & CULTURE

Opera Australia doing 500 tickets for $35

10/05/2024

By THE F

Opera Australia is rolling out the red carpet for younger audiences with its innovative Opera for Under 35s program! A fresh initiative that aims to breathe new life into the traditional art form of opera. In a bold move to attract a younger demographic, OA is offering an enticing deal of 500 tickets priced at just $35 each. This special offer marks the launch of a program dedicated to making opera more accessible and appealing to the under-35 crowd, starting with the Australian premiere of Edward Dick’s acclaimed production of Tosca. Scheduled to mesmerise audiences firstly in Melbourne at the Margaret Court Arena on May 24, followed by a season at the iconic Sydney Opera House starting June 25, Tosca is set to be a landmark event. This initiative is not merely about offering discounted tickets; it’s a comprehensive program designed to cultivate a deeper appreciation for opera among young Australians. Registrants of the program can look forward to a 15% discount on tickets to most OA performances year-round, alongside exclusive further discounts for select shows, with some tickets available at the low price of $35. Additionally, members will receive invitations to special behind-the-scenes events including meet-and-greets with artists, all at no additional cost. Jo Davies, OA’s new Artistic Director, expresses her excitement about the program, highlighting it as a strategic move to lower financial barriers and make opera accessible to all, especially during tough economic times. This approach not only preserves but also propels the art form forward by ensuring it remains relevant and… Read More

National Portrait Prize in State Library of Queensland this winter

09/05/2024

By James Banham

The National Portrait Gallery’s esteemed National Photographic Portrait Prize of 2023 is set to grace the State Library of Queensland, marking a prestigious period from May 11 until July 7, 2024. Initiated in 2007, this prize has not only celebrated but has significantly fostered the art of photographic portraiture within Australia, offering photographers both recognition and a substantial reward. This year’s exhibition features 47 finalists chosen from nearly 2,400 submissions, highlighting a diverse range of subjects including the impact of flooding in Graceville, Brisbane, and the complex transcultural identity of an Iranian migrant mother. The accolade of winning the 2023 prize was bestowed upon Shea Kirk, who through his portrait ‘Ruby (left view)’ of Emma Armstrong-Porter, managed to secure $50,000 worth of prizes, comprising $30,000 cash from the National Portrait Gallery and $20,000 in Canon equipment. Meanwhile, Renae Saxby received high commendation for her portrayal of the proud Indigenous women Cindy Rostron in ‘Bangardidjan 2022,’ earning a prestigious ColorEdge monitor valued at almost $4,000. Other notable winners include David Cossini, awarded the Art Handlers’ prize for his captivating portrait ‘Ugandan Ssebabi,’ and Bruce Agnew, whose work ‘KAHA, 2022’ captivated the public, winning the $10,000 People’s Choice Award. These accolades underline the breadth and depth of talent present in Australia’s photographic community. The exhibition, supported by the National Collecting Institutions Touring and Outreach Program, not only showcases these spectacular works but also brings to light Australia’s rich and varied cultural tapestry. Vicki McDonald AM, State Library of Queensland’s CEO, and Bree Pickering, Director of the National… Read More

New gallery in Sydney: A Secondary Eye opens

07/05/2024

By James Banham

The gallery opens with a presentation of rare Rover Thomas works including some never before seen to the public Sydney, Australia: A Secondary Eye has unveiled the new gallery space located within the arts district of Woollahra, Sydney, opening to the public from Friday 3 May 2024. Led by Jesse-Jack De Deyne, a specialist with extensive experience working in the secondary market for Australian Indigenous art and Boris Cornelissen, former Contemporary Art Specialist at Sotheby’s London and Hong Kong, A Secondary Eye was founded in 2020 with a focus on further developing the secondary market for art and collectibles in Australia. Specialising in First Nations and contemporary Australian art, A Secondary Eye has exhibited and sold works by some of the most important and sought-after artists including Emily Kame Kngwarreye, Queenie McKenzie, Paddy Bedford, John Mawurndjul, Bill Whiskey, Ronnie Tjampitjinpa, Gordon Bennett, Tony Albert, Danie Mellor, Ben Quilty, Sidney Nolan, John Olsen and Fred Williams. Over the past four years, the gallery has placed a number of highly revered artworks in collections of the National Gallery of Australia, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art and HOTA Gallery. The new gallery is positioned in the heart of Queen Street, a location traditionally associated with secondary market art dealers and once home to Rex Irwin Gallery, Sotheby’s and Christie’s. A Secondary Eye opens with a solo presentation of one of Australia’s most important and influential artists, Rover Thomas. A revered elder from the Kimberley region, Rover Thomas was the… Read More

Ballet Flamenco – Sara Baras Voces Suite Flamenca cred Santana de Yepes I

Flamenco Festival London 2024 is back

05/05/2024

By THE F

London’s acclaimed Sadler’s Wells Theatre is set to host the exhilarating Flamenco Festival 2024 from Tuesday 4th to Saturday 15th June, now in its remarkable 19th edition. The recent residency by Paco Pena gave us a taste of what to expect! This year’s festival is brimming with anticipation, featuring ten UK premieres and showcasing a constellation of flamenco’s brightest stars. With performances spanning across the iconic Sadler’s Wells Theatre and the intimate Lilian Baylis Studio, attendees are promised an immersive experience into the heart of flamenco’s vibrant tradition and its contemporary interpretations. Kicking off the festival is the critically acclaimed Rocío Molina, who returns to stun audiences with her innovative piece, Al Fondo Riela, on 4th June. Molina’s performance is a profound exploration of reflection and reality, encapsulated through the traditional flamenco trio of dance, song, and guitar. Her artistry is complemented by the expertise of guitarists Oscar Lago and Yerai Cortés, setting the stage for a festival that melds tradition with avant-garde interpretations. The festival skyrockets further with appearances by flamenco guitar virtuoso Vicente Amigo, presenting a mesmerising concert that traverses classical and nuevo flamenco realms, and the dramatic duo Patricia Guerrero and Alfonso Losa in Alter Ego, a show born from spontaneous improvisation that promises an intimate glimpse into the soul of flamenco dance. Adding to the festival’s allure, Eva Yerbabuena contemplates her illustrious 20-year career in Yerbagüena (bright dark), delivering performances that promise to be evocative and spellbinding, while the renowned Israel Fernández teams up with guitarist Diego del Morao to present… Read More

Dutch piano virtuoso returns to the Sydney Opera House

30/04/2024

By James Banham

Mark your calendars and prepare to be enveloped in the soul-stirring sounds of Joep Beving, as the maestro makes his grand return to the Opera House this July. After mesmerising audiences in previous years, Beving is back with a bang, ready to unveil the mystical realms of Hermetism across two spellbinding shows on Monday, 22 July 2024. Each performance promises an experience akin to a spiritual odyssey, underscored by Beving’s deeply introspective, neoclassical sound that has captivated millions globally. This year, the enigmatic Dutch pianist is set to elevate his musical narrations to unprecedented heights, blending his artistry with an awe-inspiring audio-visual spectacle developed alongside the innovative minds of Boris Acket, Merijn Versnel, and Roxanne Percobic. Hermetism, drawing inspiration from Beving’s 2022 album, invites you on an enchanted voyage exploring the essence of spirituality, the elusive nature of time, and the depths of the inner self. This isn’t just a concert; it’s an invitation to transcend the ordinary, led by a masterful storyteller who’s rediscovered his love for the piano and transformed it into a source of universal connection and wonder. Joep Beving’s remarkable journey from personal loss to streaming stardom is a testament to the power of music to heal, unite, and inspire. With over 200 million streams on Spotify and a place among the giants of post-classical composition, Beving’s return to the Opera House isn’t just an event; it’s a pivotal moment in the world of contemporary music. As Ben Marshall, Sydney Opera House Head of Contemporary Music, aptly puts it, “Joep describes… Read More