Category: CITIES

Virgin Australia’s Mardi Gras flights

Virgin Mardi Gras airway

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Updated: 03/03/2024

More than 500 travellers, including legendary drag performers and renowned celebrities, celebrated high in the skies onboard Virgin Australia and United Airlines’ dedicated Pride Flight services. These special flights took off from San Francisco, Melbourne, and Brisbane, landing in Sydney just in time for Australia’s premier LGBTQIA+ celebration. Upon arrival, festivities continued as passengers were greeted by Tinder Glambassador Danni Issues and later joined the vibrant Landing Party at The Beresford, featuring performances that included a Virgin Australia dance troupe and a soul-stirring ballad by Hugh Sheridan. In a generous show of support for the LGBTQIA+ community, Virgin Australia announced that $30 from every Pride Flight ticket sold would be donated to Minus18, a charity devoted to supporting LGBTQIA+ youth. Similarly, United Airlines committed to a $125K USD donation to The Trevor Foundation as part of their annual contribution to LGBTQIA+ causes. The flights themselves were a spectacle of celebration and inclusivity. Virgin Australia’s Pride Flight from Melbourne to Sydney, numbered VA1978 in homage to the year Sydney hosted its inaugural Mardi Gras Parade, along with the Brisbane to Sydney VA2017 flight – commemorating the year same-sex marriage was legalised in Australia – included pre-flight departure parties complete with drag performances, celebrity appearances, mid-air entertainment, and endless refreshments. The San Francisco to Sydney Pride Flight, a codeshare flight VA8005 with United Airlines, offered an international bridge to the festivities. Passengers on these flights were entertained by iconic figures such as RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under star Maxi Shield and the beloved Melbourne drag duo The… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

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G Flip and Uber Pool for Mardi Gras

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Updated: 03/03/2024

Get ready to ride with pride this Mardi Gras parade day, because Aussie singer, drummer, and queer icon G Flip is riding around festivities exclusively via Uber Pool on March 2nd, and you could be in with a chance of sharing a ride with them. To celebrate Mardi Gras, Uber has teamed up with global superstar G Flip, giving Sydneysiders the chance to share a ride with them to the festival. Fresh off setting the record for the most entries in the Hottest 100 ever, G Flip is ready to start the Mardi Gras party by giving a few lucky riders the Uber Pool ride of a lifetime as they head out to parades, parties, and other festival events. For one day only, G Flip will be riding around Sydney in the queerest Uber vehicle, decked out with rainbow good vibes and offering everything you need for the perfect Mardi Gras pre-game. Share a karaoke classic with the Aussie singer-songwriter as you share the journey and impress them with your renditions of their iconic hits as you get pumped for the night ahead. To be in with a chance to ride with G Flip, just register your interest here and tell us why you’d love to be part of G Flip’s pride ride. G Flip said: “I’m so stoked to be back in Australia for Mardi Gras! It’s one of my favourite days of the year. I’m going to be hopping in a few Uber Pool rides on the day of the parade, so stay… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

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Da Vinci’s Codex Atlanticus arrives in Australia

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Updated: 29/02/2024

In a historic moment, THE LUME Melbourne is set to host an unprecedented event, welcoming original pages from Leonardo da Vinci’s priceless Codex Atlanticus to Australian shores for the first time. As these invaluable pages touch down on March 9, they will be on display to the public from March 16, coinciding with the grand opening of the immersive experience “Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius” presented by Webuild. This monumental occasion signifies a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for visitors to step into the life and world of Leonardo, featuring these irreplaceable original pages from the Codex Atlanticus, meticulously penned by the master himself. THE LUME Melbourne’s newest experience promises to be the most ambitious and immersive yet, transcending generations and offering captivating elements for all ages. Among its highlights, visitors can marvel at to-scale machine inventions brought to life by Italian artisans from the pages of Leonardo’s codices, behold the only exact 360º replica of Mona Lisa in the world, immerse themselves in a brand new multi-sensory gallery spanning 3000 sqm, engage with cutting-edge AI and VR interactive technologies breathing life into the master’s iconic work, savor a Renaissance-themed culinary experience in Caffé Medici, and much more. As visitors traverse through the streets of Florence, the canals of Venice, the history of Rome, the grandeur of Milan, and culminate their journey in Amboise, France – mirroring Leonardo’s own travels – they will gain a profound understanding of the inspirations, innovations, and enduring impact of the maestro. The Codex Atlanticus stands as an unedited look… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, MELBOURNE, SYDNEY

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Mardi Gras Debutante Ball in Sydney

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Updated: 03/03/2024

On Thursday, Kinselas Hotel in Darlinghurst set the stage for a momentous occasion as it hosted the inaugural Mardi Gras Debutante Ball by Johnnie Walker. This event marked the first steps of Mardi Gras first-timers as they ventured to join their community for the iconic celebration. Eight first-timers from the LGBTQIA+ community had the opportunity to share their stories and win tickets to attend the Debutante Ball, making it an unforgettable experience for them. As they walked the Gold Carpet, these individuals debuted proudly, warmly welcomed by festival custodians, the community, and the trailblazers who have paved the way for them. The evening unfolded at the iconic Darlinghurst venue, where the Mardi Gras Debutante Ball became a fabulous celebration of all queer identities, truly honoring the progress, strength, and diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. The highlight of the Ball was none other than Natalie Bassingthwaighte, who made her debut for her first Mardi Gras since openly identifying as queer last year. Her presence added an extra layer of significance to the event, symbolizing the ongoing journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and pride within the community. The Mardi Gras Debutante Ball by Johnnie Walker exemplified the spirit of inclusivity and acceptance, serving as a testament to the progress made and the unity embraced within the LGBTQIA+ community. It was a night of joy, empowerment, and celebration, representing the collective strides towards a more diverse and welcoming society. As the festivities unfolded, it became clear that this groundbreaking event has redefined the traditional concept of the Debutante Ball,… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

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And Juliet musical comes to Sydney

Lorinda May Merrypor plays Juliet in JULIET pic Eugene Hyland 3

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Posted: 26/02/2024

The theatrical world is abuzz as the smash hit musical & JULIET prepares to captivate Sydney audiences, with preview performances igniting the stage from 27 February. This critically acclaimed production has already taken Melbourne, Singapore, and Perth by storm — eliciting praise such as “heart-blowing, transformative & irresistible” (The Australian) and being hailed as “triumphant” with a “uniformly brilliant” cast (News.com.au). Heralded for a performance that could only be described as “jaw-droppingly good” by ABC Radio Melbourne, Lorinda May Merrypor shines in the iconic role of Juliet. Joined by Rob Mills – Australian music veteran as the whimsical Shakespeare – and an ensemble of stellar talent including music theatre icon Amy Lehpamer, chart-topping Casey Donovan, and the versatile Hayden Tee, & JULIET’s Australian production promises an unrivaled theatrical experience. The jubilant legacy of & JULIET is set to expand as tickets fly off the virtual shelves of Ticketmaster, with shows slated through to 2 June. As the narrative saunters into Sydney’s vibrant cultural scene, Lorinda May Merrypor shares her enthusiasm: “It is such a joy to share the story of & JULIET with even more people in Sydney. We cannot wait to be back on the stage, singing and dancing with everyone each night!” Reinventing the narrative of one of literature’s most tragic heroines, & JULIET offers an alternative tale where Juliet’s poignant end is merely the beginning of a riveting journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The musical’s heart pulsates through a soundtrack of Max Martin’s pop anthems, earning it nine Tony Award® nominations, including… Read More

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

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What to expect at Biennale of Sydney

Sydney Biennale dancer

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Posted: 26/02/2024

The vibrant city is set to host the 24th edition of the Biennale of Sydney, aptly titled “Ten Thousand Suns,” from 9 March to 10 June 2024. As a free public event, it shines as a beacon of contemporary artistic expression and is the largest of its kind in Australia. Art enthusiasts will be drawn to venues like the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Artspace, the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, the Sydney Opera House, and the revitalized White Bay Power Station to experience this cultural phenomenon. Led by artistic directors Cosmin Costina? and Inti Guerrero, “Ten Thousand Suns” invites celebration into its core, weaving joy with the threads of collective resistance and unity against historical injustices. Taking inspiration from First Nations technology, Queer resilience, and global carnival traditions, the festival delves into the current climate emergency while steadfastly rejecting a dystopian vision of the future. This year, marking the Biennale’s 50th anniversary, the program challenges the western narrative of an apocalyptic end and chooses to embrace a future filled with collaborative joy and shared success. The festival will feature 96 artists and collectives hailing from over 50 countries, each bringing a personal touch rooted in diverse communities and artistic vernaculars. Many of the artworks act as commentaries on global issues while honoring the power of personal and collective stories. One featured commission is Yankunytjatjara artist Kaylene Whiskey’s ‘Kaylene TV,’ a testament to her joyous and unique vision, displayed on a grand scale. The Fondation… Read More

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

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Uni of Melbourne’s got new Cultural Precinct Program

Melb Uni

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Posted: 26/02/2024

Melbourne’s cultural scene is about to be enhanced with a fresh and engaging program of public shows announced by the University of Melbourne Arts and Culture (UMAC). Set on the bustling Parkville campus, both students and the wider community are in for a treat as they will have the opportunity to partake in a year-long schedule of inspiring performances and exhibitions. UMAC, an initiative under the University of Melbourne, has been established to reinforce the institution’s commitment to the performing arts. Its mission is to offer a diverse range of arts experiences that will not only enrich student life but also engage with the wider public throughout the year. According to Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Michael Wesley, this expansion reflects the University’s enduring support and celebration of the performing arts, creating a platform to showcase both local and international talents right within the campus grounds. The new Arts & Cultural Building, home to the Union and Guild Theatres, is at the heart of this precinct, accompanied by the beautifully renovated Building 189 and the open-air Amphitheatre. The precinct’s advantageous location near the No. 1 Swanston Street tram stop and Lygon Street, together with its award-winning design, positions it as a marquee destination for performance and art lovers in Melbourne. With Virginia Lovett at the helm as the Performing Arts Director, UMAC promises to deliver major contemporary works and activate the cultural spaces situated in CBD North. Patrons can look forward to an annual program that promises to be as rich in variety as it is in… Read More

Category: CITIES, ARTS & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

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What’s new at The Rover Sydney

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Updated: 26/02/2024

In a move that promises to delight patrons old and new, Liquid and Larder has ushered in a wave of exhilarating updates to Surry Hills’ favoured local haunt, The Rover. Pivoting to better serve the community’s tastes, The Rover will now usher guests through both floors of its enticing space, from Monday to Saturday between 4pm-12am. The traditional separation of the vibrant cocktail bar downstairs and the seafood-centric restaurant above has dissolved, and instead one finds a cohesive venue offering both drinks and dishes on each level in a seamless experience of world-class cocktails and a reimagined bistro menu. The hospitality maestros behind established dining institutions such as Alfie’s, Bistecca, and The Gidley, have been the brain behind The Rover for over a decade. Although it has transformed from its original incarnation as The Wild Rover, the establishment retains its essential character—a testament to Liquid and Larder’s commitment to the ambience of a cherished and spirited neighbourhood spot. Owner James Brady expresses a heartfelt vision behind the venue’s refreshed approach, “The Rover has always served as a snug and vibrant backdrop for both casual and intimate gatherings, much like visiting a cherished friend’s home. By combining and expanding the food and drink offerings, we’re responding to our guests’ desires and readying ourselves to welcome more members from our community through our doors every evening.” Noteworthy among the myriad of enhancements is the Rover’s homage to beef lovers, the iconic Gidley burger, which will be made available outside of the CBD for the very first time,… Read More

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

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Angelica Kauffman is at the Royal Academy of Art London

Self portrait of Sir Joshua Reynolds

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Updated: 26/02/2024

In March 2024, the Royal Academy of Arts is set to unveil a remarkable tribute to Angelica Kauffman, one of the most distinguished artists of the 18th century and a founding member of the Academy itself. The exhibition aims to celebrate the rich tapestry of Kauffman’s life and works, guiding the visitor through the journey of her prolific career—from her early recognition as a child prodigy to becoming one of Europe’s most sought-after painters. Kauffman’s oeuvre is a testament to her versatility, with a portfolio that boasts history paintings, portraits, and her remarkable self-portraits. Each of the over 30 artworks on display, including many that have never graced the UK before, offers a glimpse into her journey across Europe and her ultimate rise to fame. These pieces collectively narrate a story of exceptional talent, determination, and how Kauffman carved out a space for herself in a predominantly male industry during the 18th century. As attendees navigate through the four distinct sections of the exhibit, they will encounter Kauffman’s self-portraits that artfully placed her identity under her own control—a bold statement for a woman of her time. The exhibition will also delve into her training in Rome, her celebrated arrival in London where she was “Angelicamad,” and her poignant works that often depicted female protagonists. Further exploring her relationship with the Royal Academy, the show will shed light on her influence amidst the gender constraints of her era, highlighted by Zoffany’s portrayal of Kauffman and Moser in “The Academicians of the Royal Academy.” By featuring her… Read More

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

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