Category: CITIES

Antenna Documentary Film Festival full 2024 line-up

Updated: 17/01/2024

9-19 February 2024 | Sydney Antenna, Australia’s premier international non-fiction film festival, today unwraps its complete program for 2024. The event boasts a lineup of 52 of the most compelling, thought-provoking documentaries from around the globe, set to transform Sydney into a haven for documentary enthusiasts from 9–19 February 2024. Festival Director Dudi Rokach expressed, “I am supremely proud of this lineup as a whole. Each documentary is imaginative, cinematic, and provocative, exemplifying the boundless potential of documentary cinema in the hands of a skillful filmmaker.” Kicking off the festival is the Australian Premiere of Tribeca Film Festival winner The Gullspång Miracle. It’s a consistently unexpected and amusing film that follows two devout sisters who purchase an apartment after witnessing a divine sign, only to realise that the seller bears a striking resemblance to their other sister, who committed suicide some thirty years prior. What begins as a story of familial reunion morphs into a drama that’s stranger than fiction. In an exhilarating new partnership with the Sydney Opera House, Antenna will close the festival with the Australian Premiere of Ryuichi Sakamoto | Optus, a concert film that encapsulates Sakamoto’s final performance. A celebration of an artist’s life in its purest form, this film serves as the definitive farewell to the beloved maestro. Fresh from TIFF and IDFA, Antenna will host the Australian Premiere of The World is Family by the renowned documentary filmmaker Anand Patwardhan, who will be a special guest at the festival. Anand’s insights into social and political life have garnered him… Read More

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY, TECH & GADGETS

Tags: Antenna Documentary Film Festival, film festival, Sydney fi;m festival

Experience luxury dining and entertainment at SORA

by James Banham

Updated: 17/01/2024

Embrace the new era of dining and entertainment in Adelaide with SORA, the city’s premier rooftop bar and restaurant. Set to redefine the Pirie Street skyline, SORA, translating to “sky” in Japanese, signifies more than just a venue. This elevated space caters to the discerning palate, marrying expertly crafted culinary delights with unparalleled entertainment, all against the backdrop of panoramic city views. With a capacity of up to 400 patrons, SORA seamlessly transitions between a restaurant and bar experience. At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Adam Liston, whose menu mirrors a fusion of Asian and Western influences. SORA promises an indulgent array of individual and shared dishes, each highlighting fresh, seasonal produce, offered in an ambiance that exudes sophistication while maintaining a relaxed refinement. But SORA’s allure doesn’t stop at its culinary offerings. The multi-level destination also features bars, a dance floor and exclusive VIP areas for top-tier members, ensuring a transformative dining and entertainment experience for all. So mark your calendars: on the 17th of January, SORA officially opens its doors, inviting you to experience the zenith of Adelaide’s upscale dining scene. View this post on Instagram A post shared by SORA (@soraonpirie)

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

Tags: Adelaide restaurant, Sora, Sora Adelaide

Queen & Collins: Redefining CBD Dining Experiences

by THE F

Posted: 11/01/2024

The GPT Group, one of Australia’s leading property groups, has unveiled the final phase of its audacious redevelopment project at the illustrious Queen & Collins tower. The crown jewel of this project is a premium dining precinct encapsulated within the iconic gothic façade. Queen & Collins has evolved to shatter the conventional mould of CBD dining hubs, providing an architecturally designed space that intertwines the site’s rich history with a modern celebration of culinary diversity. This dynamic precinct serves a broad customer demographic, including business executives, local residents, and tourists. Each corner of Queen & Collins is meticulously crafted to reflect the vibrancy of Melbourne’s famed laneways. It thrives as a lively community hub, imbued with character and texture, set to make its mark as a distinctive destination for gatherings this social season. Fine Dining and Artisanal Cafes Reine & La Rue, the French bistro nestled within the historic Grand Cathedral Room, brings a touch of old-world New York opulence. Managed by the renowned NOMAD group, the bistro has quickly achieved ‘icon’ status, winning Good Food’s 2023 Best New Restaurant of the Year. The grandeur of its vaulted ceilings, granite columns, and stained-glass windows pairs elegantly with a menu that leaves patrons wanting more. Rustica, the artisanal café and bakery, offers a more laid-back dining option. It’s the perfect retreat from the city’s hustle, marking the café’s fourth location in the CBD. Exciting New Additions This December, food lovers can look forward to the launch of the subterranean bar, Purple Pit, by culinary maestro Maurice… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

Tags: melbourne restaurants, QUeen and COllins, Queen retaurant

Highlights of SailGP in Sydney 2024

by James Banham

Updated: 17/01/2024

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

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, SYDNEY

Tags: Sailing, sydney harbour, Sydney to Hobart, yacht

Sadler’s Wells new national youth initiative

by James Banham

Updated: 17/01/2024

It’s time to celebrate the extraordinary talent of young dancers across England as Sadler’s Wells unveils the next cohort of the National Youth Dance Company (NYDC). With 32 dancers aged between 16 and 24, hailing from 21 different towns, cities, and villages, this truly nationwide company is set to take the dance world by storm. Led by Guest Artistic Director Oona Doherty, they will be working on an exciting new piece called Wall, which is set to premiere at Leeds Playhouse on Saturday, April 13th, before embarking on a national tour. Wall is an exploration of Britain through the eyes and voices of young people from around the country. It delves into their thoughts, highlighting both the good and the bad, the old and the new. Through repetitive movements of resistance, stamina, and will, the dancers showcase their strength and beauty, embodying the greatness of Britain. The production promises to be a visual and auditory feast, with music by Turner Prize-winning artist Mark Leckey, lighting design by John Gunning of Malaprop Theatre, and costume design by Ryan Dawson Laight, who has an extensive background in theater and dance. Award-winning photographer and video maker Luca Truffarelli adds his talents as the audio, photo, and video collaborator, while NYDC alumna Nya Bardouille serves as Assistant to the choreographer. After its premiere at Leeds Playhouse, Wall will embark on a captivating journey to Wakefield, Falmouth, Ipswich, Latitude Festival, Leicester, and London, with a highly anticipated performance at Sadler’s Wells Theatre on Saturday, July 13th. This is an unmissable… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, DANCE, LONDON

Tags: contemporary dance, London dance, Sadlers wells

Frozen margs, Ritacolada at El Camino

by James Banham

Updated: 17/01/2024

Tex Mex wild child El Camino Cantina is at it again, bringing the biggest and most audacious Margaritas to Australia. This time, they have launched a new limited-edition frozen drinks range: the Ritacolada! ?? For five weeks only, from January 8th until February 11th, experience the refreshing fusion of El Camino’s legendary frozen Ritas and the tropical coconut notes of the Pina Colada. Say goodbye to choosing between these classic cocktails because now you can have the best of both worlds in one glass! ??? Giles Adolphus, El Camino Cantina Food & Beverage Director, said, “We’re also serving up some exciting new taco and wing flavors to pair with our Ritacolada range, creating a trifecta of bold, new Tex-Mex menu items for the remaining weeks of summer.” So get ready to indulge in a Tex-Mex feast like no other! ?? The Ritacolada range features nine fantastic flavors, each more delicious than the last. From Loco Berry (Blueberry and Coconut) to Strawberry Bash (Strawberry Coconut), there’s something for everyone to enjoy. ?? You can find this mouthwatering line-up at all El Camino Cantina locations across the country. Whether you’re in Sydney, Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast, or Melbourne, you’re just a sip away from paradise. The Rocks, Surfers Paradise, South Bank, and Fitzroy offer all nine flavors, while other venues rotate between them, ensuring you always have a delightful selection to choose from. ??? To make this summer even cooler, El Camino Cantina is also introducing five new taco and wing flavors, available on… Read More

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

Tags: best mexican sydney, El Camino, mexican food, Sydney Mexican restaurants

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

by THE F

Posted: 10/01/2024

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

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

Tags: Chinese New Year, johnnie walker, lunar new year, Mahjong

Last chance to see WICKED in Sydney

Sheridan Adams in WICKED CREDIT Jeff Busby scaled

by James Banham

Updated: 17/01/2024

The clock is ticking, and time is running out for Sydneysiders to catch the sensational musical extravaganza, WICKED, at the Sydney Lyric Theatre. After an incredible six-month run, the final performance is scheduled for February 4th. But fear not, as the show will soon hit the stage again in Melbourne, commencing performances at the Regent Theatre on March 3rd. Since its arrival in Sydney last August, WICKED has enthralled audiences with its spellbinding performances, leaving them captivated and craving more. With packed houses, glowing reviews from critics, and a flurry of positive buzz on social media, this musical has truly become “Broadway’s Biggest Blockbuster.” “Ingenious and beautiful: WICKED dazzles,” raved the Sydney Morning Herald. The Australian Financial Review applauded the cast’s “exquisite comic timing” and called the production “impressive” and “magical.” AustralianStage.com.au hailed it as “triumphant” and described it as a “dazzling, spectacular production.” Limelight praised the show for its “razzle-dazzle spectacle” and “uplifting girl-power.” Even Studio 10 couldn’t contain their excitement, declaring WICKED as “absolutely incredible” and “extraordinary.” Producer John Frost expressed his delight at the overwhelming response from Sydney audiences and critics alike. He said, “I’m delighted that Sydney has embraced WICKED. The reaction has been overwhelming, and our Australian cast has received universal praise. For 20 years, WICKED has cast its spell over audiences worldwide, and it’s become one of the most beloved musicals ever, especially here in Australia. So, Sydneysiders, grab your tickets now as there are only four more weeks before we move to Melbourne.” Since its premiere on Broadway… Read More

Category: CITIES, ARTS & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: wicked, Wicked Sydney

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

by James Banham

Updated: 17/01/2024

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

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

Candide is back at Victorian Opera

by James Banham

Updated: 17/01/2024

A spectacular journey through a world turned upside down

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

Tags: melbourne opera, opera, victorian opera

ARTS & CULTURE

A Cinderella Royal Opera Affair at the Sydney Opera House

28/11/2024

By James Banham

Get ready to dust off your glass slippers and prepare for a royal night out as Opera Australia rolls out the red carpet for the Australian premiere of Cinderella (Cendrillon), opening at the Sydney Opera House this summer. And here’s the twist—this isn’t just another fairy tale outing. Think dazzling voices, high-fashion-meets-18th-century costumes, and, the pièce de résistance, an all-Australian, mostly female-powered superstar cast. All Hail the All-Australian Cast Leading the charge is mezzo soprano Emily Edmonds in her debut as leading lady, stepping into Cinderella’s much-coveted shoes. It’s her big moment, and honestly, we couldn’t have picked a better royal-to-be. Playing Prince Charming in the iconic ‘pants role’ is Margaret Plummer, making her return home from a sparkling international career. She’ll share the spotlight with fellow powerhouse Sian Sharp, an Opera Australia principal singer who knows how to bring the charm. And in a role that’s truly otherworldly, the Fairy Godmother will be brought to life by beloved soprano Emma Matthews—just what you need for some magical, operatic sparkle. Of course, no Cinderella story is complete without a wicked stepmother and, less-than-ideal stepsisters. Angela Hogan and Dominica Matthews will channel their inner villainess with all the outrageousness you could hope for, while Ashlyn Tymms takes her Opera Australia principal role debut alongside Jennifer Black and Jane Ede as the hilariously dreadful stepsisters. Throw in Richard Anderson as Cinderella’s father, Shane Lowrencev as the King, and Iain Henderson and Virgilio Marino as the Dean of Faculty, and you’ve got yourself an ensemble fit for a… Read More

Yayoi Kasuma makes more history at NGV Melbourne

22/11/2024

By James Banham

This summer, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) in Melbourne invites you to lose yourself in the extraordinary universe of Yayoi Kusama.

Why rush to see The Great Mughals at V&A: a celebration of opulence, art and culture

22/11/2024

By James Banham

Today, the Victoria and Albert Museum opens the doors to a landmark exhibition, The Great Mughals: Art, Architecture and Opulence. For the first time in a major show, the monumental artistic achievements of the Mughal Empire’s ‘Golden Age’ (c. 1560–1660) take centre stage, showcasing the splendour, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange that defined one of the world’s greatest empires. The Glory of the Mughals The Mughal dynasty, rooted in Central Asia, was founded in 1526 by Babur, a Timurid prince who carved out an empire stretching from modern-day Afghanistan to the edges of southern India, and from Gujarat to the borders of present-day Bangladesh. At its zenith, the empire was known for its staggering wealth, progressive governance, and artistic innovation. Focused on the reigns of three of the dynasty’s most celebrated emperors—Akbar (r. 1556–1605), Jahangir (r. 1605–1627), and Shah Jahan (r. 1628–1658)—the exhibition illuminates a period when the Mughal court transformed into a cultural powerhouse. These were the rulers who commissioned masterpieces like the Taj Mahal and fostered an artistic legacy that blended Persian, Indian, and European influences. Unveiling the Court’s Creative Mastery At the heart of the exhibition are over 200 objects, breathtaking in both their beauty and their historical value. Visitors can expect to marvel at exquisite paintings, intricately illustrated manuscripts, luxurious textiles, vibrantly hued carpets, and dazzling objects crafted from mother of pearl, jade, rock crystal, and precious metals. Many of these treasures have been hidden from public view for decades, making this a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the artistry of… Read More

A Golden Adventure awaits at the Australian Museum with new Machu Picchu Exhibition

21/11/2024

By Danielle Kirk

Sydney, prepare yourselves for a cultural gold rush. From November 23, the Australian Museum is rolling out its latest blockbuster, Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru. This dazzling exhibition is your passport to ancient Peru, featuring 134 priceless treasures from the land of the Incas and 14,000 years of history. Think glittering jewels, royal tomb artefacts, and a VR journey to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It’s more than a history lesson—it’s a time machine with all the bells, whistles, and human sacrifice relics you could dream of. Following the success of the Ramses Exhibition at the Australian Museum (fun fact, it became the highest grossing exhibition in the State’s history, selling over 500,000 tickets!), Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru is created in partnership with Peru’s Museo Larco, Museo de Sito Manuel Chavez Ballon, and Neon Global, taking you on a journey through five ancient Peruvian empires, spanning over 3,000 years of rich history. Parts of the collection have only been shown in four other cities around the world, in fact, some of the artefacts have never left Peru before, and now we’re lucky to set sights on them in Sydney. Expect to see the most opulent Andean gold collection to ever leave Peru, intricate ceremonial masks, and objects that whisper secrets of long-lost rituals. For the tech-savvy explorers, the Machu Picchu and the Spirit of the Condor VR experience will transport you above the clouds for a bird’s-eye tour of the legendary citadel. Guided by the… Read More

NGV Architecture Commission 2024: Home Truth by Breathe

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In a bold reimagining of Australian home design, Home Truth by Breathe has been announced as the winner of the NGV Architecture Commission for 2024. This captivating installation takes the form of a labyrinthine house-within-a-house, challenging the notion of ever-expanding home sizes in Australia. At the heart of this design is a powerful message: rethink how we build to create more sustainable, higher-quality, and community-orientated living spaces. Home Truth invites visitors to step into a space that questions the ethical and ecological ramifications of the sprawling, oversized homes that have become prevalent across the nation. An external frame mirrors the silhouette of the average Australian home, which, at 236 square metres, ranks as the largest globally. Nestled within this silhouette is a serene timber structure, representing a smaller, more sustainable living footprint. This juxtaposition of scales is not just an architectural statement but a call to action. By contrasting these two structures, Home Truth shines a light on how smaller, more considered homes could help reduce suburban sprawl, mitigate environmental impacts, and enhance community wellbeing. It is a thought-provoking invitation for audiences to consider alternative, sustainable housing models that could lead to positive lifestyle changes. Visitors entering through the expansive garage door of the larger house find themselves navigating a maze of rooms and corridors, eventually arriving at the intimate timber retreat. This wooden haven offers a space for meditation and reflection, presenting a tangible vision of a more sustainable housing future. Constructed from framing pine and Saveboard, Home Truth uses materials emblematic of current… Read More