Category: SYDNEY

Opera Australia orchestrates a new era with Matthieu Arama as Concertmaster

Mathieu Arama musician violin

In a move that marks a significant milestone in its illustrious history, Opera Australia has announced the appointment of the renowned French violinist Matthieu Arama as the new Concertmaster of the Opera Australia Orchestra (OAO). This announcement follows an exhaustive global search, culminating in Mr. Arama’s selection, a testament to his extraordinary talent and leadership abilities. Set to join the OAO in August of this year, Arama brings with him a wealth of experience as the current Concertmaster of the Opéra National de Bordeaux, coupled with an impressive track record of performances with some of the world’s most distinguished conductors. View this post on Instagram A post shared by matthieu arama (@matthieu_arama) Arama’s role will be pivotal in steering the OAO towards achieving artistic brilliance across its broad annual repertoire, which spans over 250 opera, ballet, musical theatre, and concert performances for Opera Australia and The Australian Ballet. His recent engagements as Guest Concertmaster for Opera Australia on iconic productions such as La Traviata and Swan Lake, alongside The Australian Ballet, and a solo recital featuring opera and ballet excerpts, underscore his extraordinary versatility and musicianship. The enthusiasm within the OAO is palpable, with Acting Concertmaster Huy-Nguen Bui expressing excitement over welcoming Arama to the helm. “The OAO is excited to welcome an exceptional violinist and musician as our new Concertmaster. We look forward to reaching the highest levels of music-making through Mr. Arama’s artistic leadership,” said Bui. This sentiment is echoed by Opera Australia’s CEO Fiona Allan, Artistic Director Jo Davies, The Australian Ballet’s… Read More

A place to eat in Coogee: Marra Bar & Grill

Coogee Bay Hotel Sydney

As the leaves turn and we welcome the cooler, more reflective seasons of autumn and winter, the Coogee Bay Hotel proudly unveils its latest culinary delights at the renowned Marra Bar & Grill. This eagerly anticipated menu refresh aligns perfectly with the launch of the “Quintessentially Coogee” campaign, a heartfelt initiative designed to reward patrons and cement the hotel’s deep-rooted allegiance to its local community. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Coogee and boasting unparalleled views of its iconic beach, Marra Bar & Grill has long stood as a beacon of exceptional dining. This season’s offerings bring to the table an enriched palette of flavors, starting with perfectly seared Scallops atop a rustic blend of crushed peas and potato scallops – a true homage to autumn’s bounty. The curated Charcuterie Board, with its fine selection of Ortiz anchovies, delicately shaved jamón, and De Palma salami, along with marinated olives and pickles, provides the perfect shareable feast for those crisp coastal evenings. Continuing with the theme of comforting classics, the menu features the heartwarming Bangers & Mash—pork & fennel sausages served over a bed of silky colcannon and finished with a mustard jus. The oven-roasted half chicken, accompanied by kipfler potatoes seasoned with thyme and parmesan, captures the essence of home-cooked warmth. For those seeking a more refined touch to the traditional pub fare, the Wagyu Burger offers a gourmet twist, and the zesty Chicken Wings, served with a cooling ranch dressing, promise to tantalize the taste buds. Seafood lovers are not forgotten, with the Casarecce… Read More

Public performance in Randwick Sydney by artist Lauren Brincat

Lauren Brincat When Do I Breathe 2024. Performer Jasmin Lancaster. Photographer Zan Wimberley. Courtesy of the artist

This week, the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct will experience an exceptional infusion of art and community spirit through a public performance by the celebrated multidisciplinary artist Lauren Brincat. Scheduled for one-night only, on Wednesday, 24 April 2024, Brincat’s performance marks the launch of the new Laneway Art Program. This initiative, commissioned by the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct and supported by Transport for NSW’s Safer Cities program, seeks to enhance perceptions of safety for women, girls, and gender diverse people navigating the streets and laneways of the Precinct. Brincat, along with Rochelle Haley, another leading Australian artist, has been entrusted with the mission to improve night-time connectivity and comfort within the precinct through performance-based and site-specific artwork. Both artists have engaged directly with health workers in the area to shape their projects, aiming to make the public spaces more welcoming and to strengthen the sense of community, safety, and inclusiveness across the site. The artwork, titled When do I breathe?, is an ambitious collaboration with sound artist Evelyn Ida Morris, UNSW Choral Director Sonia Maddock, and choreographer Charmene Yap. It invites the public to actively participate in shaping new paths across the precinct, offering a unique experience that encompasses three activation sites within the UNSW Kensington and the hospital precinct. The performance, beginning at 5:00 pm on the UNSW Scientia Lawn, is a reflection on the interconnectedness of local communities, especially those separated by differing work shifts and daily rhythms. Aiming to reclaim public space through collective action, When do I breathe? presents an… Read More

New market in Sydney: Maroubra Beach Markets

JessicaNashPhotography WentworthPointMarkets089

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Maroubra Beach, a new wave of excitement is set to sweep through Sydney’s east as the vibrant Maroubra Beach Markets make their debut on Sunday 5 May 2024. Boasting a stunning backdrop of sun-kissed sands and azure waters, these monthly markets at Broadarrow Reserve promise an indulgent mix of more than 100 stalls brimming with high-quality offerings, ranging from fresh produce to artisanal delights, fashion statements, homeware treasures, botanical wonders, creative crafts, blooming flora, and captivating art pieces. Market enthusiasts can tantalize their taste buds at the onsite dining areas, savoring delectable treats from a diverse array of hot food vendors. For those with a passion for sustainable shopping, a dedicated section showcasing vintage and recycled goods awaits, providing a treasure trove of eco-friendly finds to explore and cherish. Initiated by the Randwick City Council in collaboration with esteemed market provider Cambridge Markets, these seaside markets aim to foster community spirit and invigorate the local economy. Randwick Mayor Philipa Veitch lauds the markets as a vibrant addition that not only brings the residents together but also beckons visitors from afar to immerse in the coastal charm of Maroubra Beach. Mayor Veitch expresses, “The Maroubra Beach markets will not only enliven our outdoor spaces but also create a recurring event for our community to eagerly anticipate each month, enticing Sydneysiders to discover the beauty of our beachside suburb.” Director of Cambridge Markets, Madelienne Andersen, echoes the sentiment, hailing the beachside location as the perfect setting for a monthly celebration of… Read More

What’s on at this year’s Pyrmont Festival in Sydney

Pyrmonth Festival Sydney Tim Pascoe

Prepare your palates for an extraordinary journey of flavours, as Pyrmont Festival makes its grand return to Sydney this May 2024. Celebrating its 12th year, the festival promises an even grander array of delectable food, exquisite wines, craft beers and gin tastings, coupled with vibrant live entertainment. Over two family-friendly days, on 18-19 May, experience the pinnacle of NSW’s rich culinary heritage set against the picturesque backdrop of Sydney Harbour at Pirrama Park. Alex Gibbs, the Pyrmont Festival Director, highlighted, “This year, we have welcomed an impressive lineup of winemakers, brewers, and distillers from across NSW, featuring producers from regions such as Orange, Mudgee, Murrumbateman, and the Hunter Valley. Local businesses will shine throughout the festival, including an Aburi and Oyster Bar in Pirrama Park. We’ve created an event that’s welcoming for families and perfect for a first date. Everyone is welcome.” Anticipate a sensory explosion with over 20 wineries, breweries, and distilleries showcasing their finest alongside gourmet food trucks and stands offering a smorgasbord of cuisines. Elbourne Wines, Tulloch Wines, and Hungerford Hill are just a few of the renowned names attendees can look forward to, along with the first-ever Canberra District winery to participate, McKellar Ridge Wines. For those with a penchant for spirits, the festival does not disappoint, featuring distilleries like Finders Distillery and Scylla Distilling Co., plus craft beers by White Bay Beer Co. Culinary delights will range from dynamic Asian street food at The Star’s Fat Noodle stand, created by chef Luke Nguyen, to a variety of cuisines provided by… Read More

Mexican in Sydney at Sydney’s Lansdowne Hotel

Mexican food

Sydney’s culinary scene is about to get hotter with The Happy Mexican making its much-anticipated debut at the iconic Lansdowne Hotel. Known for bringing the authentic taste of Mexico to Melbourne, The Happy Mexican is ready to sprinkle some of that magic in Sydney. And what better way to start than with a bang? In an unprecedented move, they’re giving away 500 free tacos and tequila shots in April to celebrate their grand opening. Yes, you heard it right – a free taco and tequila fiesta, and everyone’s invited! View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Lansdowne Hotel (@thelansdowne) Since opening its doors in the 1920s, The Lansdowne has become a staple of Sydney nightlife, cherished for its historic charm and rock and roll spirit. Now, it’s adding a fresh twist by swapping its usual beers for margaritas, courtesy of The Happy Mexican. Beginning April 10th, Sydneysiders can pop into the newly revitalized space to indulge in mouth-watering free tacos that promise to make their taste buds dance, paired of course with that essential shot of tequila to kick start the fiesta vibes. But the generosity doesn’t end there. The Happy Mexican will continue the fiesta throughout April with a $2 taco happy hour from 5-6 pm every evening, starting on the 3rd. The menu boasts an array of tantalizing flavors, from juicy roasted chicken breast and zesty marinated pork, to crispy beer-battered fish, and their signature blockbuster, slow-cooked beef birria tacos. And for those seeking something a little different, they’ve got… Read More

There’s a new high tea at El Primo Sanchez in Sydney

High tea El Primo tequila

High tea, traditionally an elegant affair reserved for the afternoons, often conjures images of fine china, delicate pastries, and an air of sophistication that feels a step removed from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Historically, it was seen as a somewhat staid and elderly pursuit, reminiscent of cosy gatherings with grandparents, not unlike how Whiskey on the Rocks has been pegged as a drink for the older generation, and Cosmopolitans have started to seem a touch passé. Yet, in an era where blending tradition with contemporary sensibilities is more en vogue than ever, an innovative transformation is afoot. Breaking away from the conventional, Jose Cuervo, in partnership with Abbie Chatfield — a figure renowned for her challenge against puritanical norms — is pioneering the introduction of High TeaQuila. This refreshing twist on the classic high tea experience is set to redefine social gatherings. Set against the vibrant backdrop of El Primo Sanchez, High TeaQuila presents an opportunity to trade the customary tea pots for tequila cocktails, shedding the rigidity of yesteryear for a more laid-back vibe. With Jose Cuervo’s storied legacy as the most ancient tequila brand globally, this event marks a significant departure from its traditional roots, inviting attendees to loosen up and immerse themselves in this novel concept. Those keen to be part of this revolutionary blend of tradition and modernity can secure their spot by booking tickets on TryBooking. The event, open to the public, unfolds over the weekend of the 20th and 21st of April, at El Primo Sanchez,… Read More