Category: CITIES

West Side Story on Sydney Harbour

Opera Australia West Side Story HOSH fireworks

by

Posted: 23/01/2024

Get ready for an electrifying, larger-than-life experience as Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour brings back the iconic musical, West Side Story, to its spectacular stage in 2024. This highly anticipated production will showcase the greatest score ever written and promises to be a musical masterpiece like no other. Opera Australia (OA) has recently announced the two talented Australian performers who will take on the lead roles of Tony and Maria in this limited 4-week season. Making her professional theatrical debut as Maria is the award-winning First Nations soprano, Nina Korbe. Joining her as Tony is the Canberra-born tenor, Billy Bourchier, fresh from his acclaimed performances in OA’s Miss Saigon. Jo Davies, Opera Australia’s Artistic Director, expressed her excitement about the casting, stating, “We are so excited to have these two fabulous Australian talents lead this production, audiences are going to be thrilled by their talent and energy on stage.” The full cast, which will be announced soon, promises to be a diverse range of extraordinary talents from both the opera and musical theatre worlds. The production of West Side Story on Sydney Harbour premiered in 2019 to outstanding acclaim and remains the most successful of all Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour productions. This year, audiences will once again be treated to nightly fireworks, a live orchestra, and a breathtaking performance on Australia’s largest outdoor stage, boasting sweeping city and harbor views. Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour has truly become a quintessential cultural experience in Sydney. Nina Korbe, a proud Koa, Kuku Yalanji, and Wakka Wakka… Read More

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

Tags: , , ,

Midsumma Festival 2024 at Gasworks Arts Park

Midsumma cabaret

by

Posted: 20/01/2024

Gasworks Arts Park in Melbourne is gearing up for an extraordinary summer, featuring an impressive array of circus performances as part of Midsumma Festival 2024. This cherished creative hub will host two of the festival’s most anticipated shows: “Hot Summer Nights!” and “Rouge”. “Gasworks Arts Park is the place to go for live contemporary circus this Midsumma” says Tamara Jungwirth, CEO of Gasworks Arts Park. “Bring some friends to enjoy an adults-only night out of music, skill, glamour and pure athletic spectacle. Melbourne really knows how to do modern circus and this Midsumma we invite you to enjoy two cabaret shows that will put the sizzle into summer”. Midsumma Festival is an annual celebration of queer arts and cultural events, with a three-week long program that includes visual arts, theatre, cabaret, film, and live performances. Midsumma is not just an arts festival, it’s a celebration of cultural diversity and the ongoing pursuit of social equity. Gasworks’ Summer Circus package offers more fun for less. Save $20 when you book full price tickets for both “Hot Summer Nights!” and “Rouge”. Hot Summer Nights! “Hot Summer Nights!” returns this year with all new acts. The show offers a night of neon lights, incredible vocals, and mind-boggling feats of strength and skill. The show features a hand-picked cast of Australia’s top circus performers, hosted by the multi award winning cabaret star Tash York. Venue: Gasworks Arts Park, 21 Graham Street, Albert Park Vic, 3206 Date: 23 January–3 February 2024 Time: 23-27 Jan: 7pm–8pm, 30 Jan-3 Feb: 9pm-10pm, 3… Read More

Category: CITIES, LGBTIQ, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

Tags: , ,

Valentine’s Day at NOMAD Sydney and Melbourne

Screenshot 20240117 224339

by

Posted: 18/01/2024

NOMAD Group, renowned for its culinary excellence, is set to launch its biggest campaign to date, aptly named “Things We Love.” This month-long celebration will serve as a tribute to the exceptional produce and suppliers that NOMAD cherishes. With a focus on simplicity and authenticity, the campaign aims to showcase the true beauty of these beloved ingredients. Executive Chef Jacqui Challinor, the creative force behind NOMAD Group, expresses her passion for food as a love language. She shares, “We’re doing ‘Things We Love’ to celebrate all the beautiful produce and suppliers we cherish. Anchovies, figs, olive oil, ricotta, jamon… it’s a shopping list of all my favorite ingredients.” In line with NOMAD’s style, the team deliberately avoids overcomplicating dishes to allow the natural flavors to shine. This approach highlights the quality and integrity of the ingredients, crafting a dining experience that resonates with both food enthusiasts and connoisseurs. The campaign extends beyond gastronomy to the realm of mixology, with a thoughtfully curated cocktail menu designed to magnify and complement the love-themed atmosphere. Each week, four exclusive beverages will grace the menu, priced at $25. The first week introduces ‘The Don,’ a captivating cocktail featuring Gospel Straight Rye, Mac by Brookies, and Madeira Boal. Week two brings forth the beguiling ‘Rhubarb Bliss,’ artfully blending Rhubi Rhubarb Mistelle, Maidenii Sweet Vermouth, Peychaud Bitters, and Mount Majura Vineyard sparkling wine. Week three showcases the refreshing ‘Window Seat,’ a delightful fusion of Starward Twofold Whiskey, Autonomy Native Amaro, Saint Felix Bitter Citrus aperitivo, and citrus. Finally, the campaign culminates… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, SYDNEY

Tags: , , ,

Sydney Spirits Festival makes debut

Screenshot 20240117 194242

by

Posted: 18/01/2024

Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey of taste and excitement at the inaugural Sydney Spirits Festival! From May 10th to 12th, 2024, the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Sydney Cove will host the largest and most diverse gathering of its kind in Australia. With a remarkable array of 148 brands spanning whisk(e)y, gin, rum, vodka, tequila, and much more, this event is set to unleash your inner spirit and introduce you to a world of flavours. Indulge in Rare Finds and Exotic Tastes Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing adventure as the festival brings together rare and award-winning spirits from around the globe. From German and Japanese gin to American peanut butter whisky, Greek vermouth, Brazilian cachaça, and Australian gold medal-winning negronis, there’s something to excite every palate. This is your chance to discover unique flavours and fall in love with new favorites that will leave a lasting impression. Meet the Stars of the Spirits World The Sydney Spirits Festival is not just about the drinks, but also about the incredible personalities behind them. Prepare to rub shoulders with renowned figures in the spirits industry who will be making special appearances throughout the event. Tasmanian Bill Lark, Australia’s “Godfather of Whisky,” will be offering samples and signing bottles at stand 7. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet Gee David from Buffalo Trace Distillery, an American bourbon expert pouring samples of their world-famous bourbon. And make sure to visit Mikey Enright of Hickson House, who will showcase his award-winning gin and whisky. Ester Spirits,… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: , , ,

Cambridge Markets back at Watson’s Bay

Screenshot 20240116 181313 1

by

Updated: 17/01/2024

One of Sydney’s most highly anticipated events is back! Cambridge Markets is thrilled to announce the return of the annual Watsons Bay Summer Market on Sunday, February 4th, from 10am to 4pm. Held at Robertson Park, this market promises to be an extraordinary experience for visitors of all ages. With its 7th year running, the Watsons Bay Summer Market has become one of the largest market events on Sydney’s calendar, attracting more than 10,000 enthusiastic attendees throughout the day. Nestled along the stunning Sydney harbour foreshore, this market offers a vibrant and picturesque setting for a day of shopping, entertainment, and delicious food. This year’s event will feature over 150 stalls, showcasing a diverse range of products from food and fashion to art and crafts. Whether you’re in search of unique jewelry, stunning photography, eco-friendly homewares, or delightful pet treats, you’ll find it all at the Watsons Bay Summer Market. Food lovers will be delighted by the wide variety of international cuisines available. Indulge in mouthwatering Thai, Vietnamese, American, French, Italian, Chinese, and Turkish delicacies, among many others. The market is truly a culinary adventure that caters to every taste bud. Rebecca Starr, the Director of Cambridge Markets, expressed her excitement about this year’s event and the exceptional selection of stallholders. “The Watsons Bay market is always a favorite for Cambridge Markets, and the summer market is a great day out,” said Starr. “We strive to curate a diverse blend of retailers, chefs, producers, artists, and craftspeople, ensuring there is something for everyone at the… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, SYDNEY

Tags: , ,

Johnny’s Green Room rooftop in Melbourne

JGR Jan2024 AriannaLeggiero 379 scaled

by

Updated: 17/01/2024

Johnny’s Green Room has recently reopened its doors, unveiling a stunning transformation that exudes Tuscan terrace vibes. This beloved rooftop watering hole, located at the corner of Lygon and Faraday Streets, has undergone a complete makeover under the guidance of award-winning designer Dion Hall. With a semi-retractable roof, patrons can now enjoy the captivating atmosphere of Johnny’s Green Room throughout the year. The venue’s new design showcases upgraded bar and kitchen facilities, as well as new bathrooms and furniture. The seating capacity has also been expanded to accommodate up to 260 guests. Drawing inspiration from the warmth and allure of Italian nuances, the venue boasts a palette of warm tones and incorporates materials such as Douglas Fir timber, terracotta tiles, tiled mosaic elements, and milled zinc. The result is a space that seamlessly blends timeless elegance with a vibrant and inviting ambiance. In addition to the physical transformation, Johnny’s Green Room has also undergone a brand refresh, masterfully executed by local branding studio Projects of Imagination. The iconic Johnny’s wolf symbol has been reimagined as a more nostalgic icon, while a secondary logo has been introduced to complement the original. The bar staff will sport custom-designed white waiter jackets, adding a touch of classic Italian style to the venue. When it comes to the culinary offerings, Johnny’s Green Room has enlisted the expertise of renowned chef and author Karen Martini as the Culinary Director. With a focus on pizza and a refreshed take on Mediterranean flavors, the menu features a delightful selection of Italian-style share… Read More

Category: CITIES, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

Tags: ,

Where to celebrate Chinese NY

Chinese food

by

Updated: 17/01/2024

Spice Temple is not just honouring, but wholly immersing itself in the Chinese tradition of welcoming propitious times with special feasts containing dishes of good omen, exclusively curated for the forthcoming Lunar New Year celebrations. The restaurant’s Executive Chef for Sydney and Melbourne locations, Andy Evans, along with Melbourne’s Head Chef Maggie Chan, have put together exceptional banquet menus in celebration of the Year of the Dragon, which begins on Saturday, 10th February, with traditional festivities continuing for up to 16 days. These specially crafted Lunar New Year banquet menus, priced at $149 per person, are on offer from Monday 5th February to Sunday 18th February, for both lunch and dinner services at Spice Temple in Sydney and Melbourne. As Chef Andy explains, “We have included some of our most special dishes reserved for celebratory occasions, and have also developed completely new dishes that feature ingredients known to bring prosperity, happiness, peace, love, and other aspects of good fortune.” In the Sydney location, the Chinese New Year banquet menu highlights purse-shaped pipis symbolising fortune, tea eggs for fertility, noodles for longevity, and red ingredients such as baby tomatoes for prosperity. The Melbourne menu, on the other hand, features golden bao buns and abalone representing wealth and power, along with classic dishes usually consumed during Lunar New Year feasts, such as the raw fish Yu Sheng salad, colloquially known as ‘Prosperity Toss’, which stands for good luck in the coming year. “Diners are encouraged to toss the shredded ingredients of the salad high into the air;… Read More

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

Tags: , , ,

New Mardi Gras ball for 2024 in Sydney

Johnnie Walker pride debutante

by

Updated: 03/03/2024

In an extraordinary move resonating with its longstanding dedication to progress, Johnnie Walker is championing the strength and diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community by hosting a Debutante Ball for First Timers at the 2024 Sydney Mardi Gras. This groundbreaking event aims to redefine the traditional concept of the ‘Debutante Ball,’ presenting a grand space full of pomp and ceremony at the iconic Darlinghurst venue, Kinselas, providing an inclusive space for all queer identities. First Timers at Mardi Gras will have the chance to participate alongside trailblazers of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Debutante Ball, making their debut into thousands from their community. This unique initiative is designed to inspire those who have, until now, been unable to attend the renowned festival. Prospective Debutantes are simply required to share their personal journey and reasons for choosing to attend their first Mardi Gras this year. The event will be enriched with the presence of Australian singer and actress Natalie Bassingthwaighte, who will set the stage ablaze with her top hits, while also sharing her own story as a proud new member of the queer community. Natalie stated, “Being able to attend my first Mardi Gras, surrounded with so much love, joy and acceptance is special to me, and what’s even more special is knowing that I get to share this memorable experience with other First Timers of diverse queer identities.” In attendance will also be LGBTQIA+ community trailblazers and Mardi Gras custodians, including original first-timer Robyn Kennedy who graced the first-ever Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

Tags: , , , ,

The Cut: A Gastronomic Battle for a Cause

Chefs people

by

Posted: 16/01/2024

Four Chefs, One Night, One Winner, and You Choose. Gear up for a culinary showdown like no other as Mecca Coffee and The Ironclad Co. present an unmissable event, The Cut, for all Sydney food lovers. Witness the spectacle as four of Sydney’s emerging chefs, each with a dish to stake their claim, vie for your vote on the night of the 1st of February, 2024. Hosted by the renowned food aficionado, Myffy Rigby, The Cut is more than just a culinary competition. It is a non-profit initiative designed to build community spirit, foster a platform for young chefs to display their talent, and support Two Good Co., a social enterprise that empowers women with lived experiences of homelessness, domestic violence, and complex trauma. Imagine a duel of wits, skills, and culinary creativity, with each chef crafting a dish using Mecca Coffee and The Ironclad Co. cast iron cookware to bring their inventive recipes to life. You, our esteemed guests, will be the judges, bestowing the honor of victory on one deserving chef. Our participating chefs – Toby Stansfield from Lola’s Bondi, Jack Fitzhenry from The Wedge, Jen Shaw from Two Good Co, and Cathy Tran from Kiln – have been chosen for their shared values of innovation, creativity, and empowerment. Join us at 5:30 pm at Mecca, 26 Bourke Road Alexandria. For just $180, indulge in a cocktail or a glass of bubbles on arrival, sample a 5-course meal, enjoy a carafe of wine, and take home a goodie bag valued at over $50…. Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: ,

New Magic Flute at Sydney Opera House

Opera Magic Flute

by

Updated: 17/01/2024

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

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

Tags: , , , ,

Copyright © 2024 · All Rights Reserved · THE F

About · Terms of Use · Cookies · Privacy · Instagram · Facebook ·