Category: SYDNEY

The Rocks’ Laneway Cinema in Sydney

Posted: 16/02/2024

The iconic Laneway Cinema at The Rocks has just released its last round of FREE tickets for March, marking your final chance to secure a spot at this unforgettable outdoor cinematic experience before it relaunches in October. Movie Nights under the Stars Every Wednesday night in March, Playfair Street in The Rocks will come alive with the magic of timeless classics screened under the stars. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the nostalgia of blockbuster hits while enjoying the enchanting open-air atmosphere. Movie Schedule: Supporting a Pawsitive Cause In addition to the captivating movie lineup, don’t forget to grab a bag of $2 popcorn knowing that the proceeds will support the RSPCA in their mission to help furry friends in need. Your movie night indulgence will contribute to a meaningful cause, adding an extra layer of warmth to the experience. Culinary Delights Await Why not turn your visit to the Laneway Cinema into a memorable night out? Whether it’s a romantic evening with your significant other or a fun gathering with friends, there are delectable dining options just steps away from the cinema. Indulge in mouthwatering pizzas and pastas at Caminetto, savor delicious tacos at El Camino, or enjoy refreshing drinks at Tap Rooms. These culinary delights are the perfect complement to your movie night under the stars. Don’t Miss Out – Register Now! Seize this final opportunity to secure your seats by registering for free tickets HERE. Hurry, as spots are limited and expected to fill up quickly. Embrace the enchantment of outdoor… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, SYDNEY

Tags: Laneway, Laneway cinema, outdoor cinema, Outdoor cinema Sydney, sydney

See West Side Story in Sydney

Opera Australia West Side Story HOSH fireworks

by James Banham

Posted: 12/02/2024

Get ready for an electrifying and larger-than-life experience as the smash-hit musical, West Side Story, returns to the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour stage for a strictly limited 4-week season from March 22. This annual highlight of Sydney’s cultural calendar promises an unforgettable night out, combining breathtaking performances with stunning views and entertainment. An Unforgettable Experience Audiences will be treated to the greatest score ever written for musical theatre, dynamic dance numbers, and captivating voices that resonate through the open air. The brilliant cast of West Side Story on Sydney Harbour is set to deliver an unforgettable performance, making this event one of Sydney’s most spectacular nights out. Each performance will culminate with a nightly fireworks display, adding a touch of magic to an already extraordinary experience. Moreover, the venue offers a variety of pop-up bars and eateries across the site, ranging from fine dining to casual bites, ensuring that there’s something for every taste. Indulgence and Luxury For those seeking a touch of luxury, the stunning HSBC Platinum Club will offer a fine-dining dinner menu before each performance, with drinks available before the show and during the interval. Nestled among the treetops, this exclusive setting provides truly spectacular views overlooking Sydney Harbour, promising an unmissable and indulgent experience. Additionally, ticketholders will have access to the Qantas Garden Bar, Feel New Sydney Terrace, Southern Terrace, and Northern Cantina, each offering a more casual atmosphere with a mix of dinner, drinks, and snacks. This allows audiences to tailor their evening to perfection, creating their own ideal… Read More

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

Tags: opera, opera australia, sydney, sydney opera house, the f sydney, west side story

National Margarita Day at El Camino Cantina

by THE F

Updated: 12/02/2024

Get ready for a legendary fiesta as El Camino Cantina and Bar Patrón, two iconic brands known for their passion for all things tequila and margarita, gear up to celebrate National Margarita Day on February 22nd. A Legendary Rita Lineup at El Camino Cantina El Camino Cantina’s love for margaritas goes beyond just one day, as they’re turning up the heat for National Margarita Day with an entire week of celebration from February 19th to 25th. Guests are invited to sip on a different turbocharged flavor every day of the week, showcasing an ever-rotating lineup of crave-worthy flavors. Each margarita is available on the rocks and frozen, or even as a Cadillac margarita adorned with their signature float of Grand Marnier. For the true tequila fanatics, tasting paddles are also available, serving up four lip-smacking Rita flavors at once. The ultimate margarita extravaganza experience is available across the 11 El Camino Cantina locations around the country, including in New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria. The Rocks (Sydney), Manly (Sydney), Southbank (Melbourne), and Surfers Paradise (Queensland) locations even have live DJs spinning, keeping the fiesta rocking all night long in the quintessential El Cam style. Margarita Specials All Day at Bar Patrón For those seeking an upscale and sophisticated National Margarita Day experience, Bar Patrón establishes itself once again as the irreplaceable destination. On February 22nd, Bar Patrón invites guests to embark on a tantalizing journey into the world of Patrón Tequila. Indulge in a highly exclusive and bespoke selection of margarita cocktails crafted by expert… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: el camino cantina sydney, El Camino Sydney, margaritas sydney, sydney cocktails, Sydney margarita

Mardi Gras-inspired yum cha extravaganza

Beresford Absolut Colourful brunch Mardi Gras 8

by James Banham

Updated: 25/03/2024

Get ready to indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience as The Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre introduces ‘Mardi Cha’, a delightful twist on their monthly yum cha event, set to infuse the spirit of Mardi Gras into every delectable bite. This exciting food event is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional way to celebrate Mardi Gras and kick off March with style. Mardi Cha Details: Embrace the Fusion of Mardi Gras and Yum Cha Imagine the vibrant collision of Mardi Gras and Yum Cha, resulting in the creation of “Mardi Cha”! Hosted by the charismatic Jackie Daniels and her friends, this event promises to be the ultimate precursor to one of Sydney’s most anticipated nights of the year. The Lucky Prawn will be transformed into a Mardi Gras-inspired hub, offering an elevated yum cha experience that embodies the festive spirit of Mardi Gras. Join Jackie and her friends from 11 am to 4 pm for a culinary journey like no other. The Perfect Recovery Plan For those looking to recover or simply extend the celebrations into Sunday, fear not! Jackie Daniels will return with a more subdued Mardi Cha experience on Sunday. Indulge in $12 Bloody Mary’s and unwind to the tunes of a vinyl DJ playing from 4 pm until late. It’s the ideal setting to replenish your spirits and revel in the laid-back ambiance, providing the perfect antidote to the post-Mardi Gras festivities. If this sounds like your cup of tea (or perhaps a refreshing cocktail), Mardi Cha at The Bob… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

Tags: Dumplings, gay sydney, Mardi Gras dumplings, mardi gras sydney, Sydney blog, sydney food, Sydney Mardi Gras guide, Sydney Pride

Les Femmes new music in Sydney

by James Banham

Updated: 08/02/2024

Prepare to be swept away by the magnetic allure of Les Femmes – an all-female musical ensemble comprising former ‘The Voice’ contestants, exuding sophistication, charm, and pure entertainment. This vibrant trio is not just a musical act; it’s an immersive experience paying tribute to the legendary male artists who have left an indelible mark on the world of music. Les Femmes will be gracing the stage at Cardea Bar in Sydney throughout February and March, promising an unforgettable evening of live music, delectable dining, and innovative cocktails. Get ready to indulge in an evening of revelry and musical magic while immersing yourself in the opulent, elegant, and old-world charm that Cardea is renowned for. Details:

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

Tags: Cardea, Les Femmes, Singers Sydney, sydney, Sydney blog, Sydney blogger, Sydney music

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide: fun, flirty and functional

by Danielle Kirk

Updated: 08/02/2024

The most un-hallowed (but definitely most Hallmarked) day is almost upon us… Valentine’s Day! Wondering what to get your special someone and drawing blanks? We’ve got you covered! FUN GIFTS Aussie winemakers Doom Juice have teamed up with flower artists Acid Flwrs to create the mother of all fancy shiraz bottles, Acid Doom. Only 66 have been produced and this collectors item is only available until sold out for $99. Missed out? You can score their ~lovely~ bundle for the same price. Collect experiences not things and take your boo to the movies. Laneway Cinema in The Rocks is screening romcom hit 50 First Dates for FREE at 7pm on Feb 14th, and Mov’in Bed, Barangaroo’s first beach cinema, is hosting special Valentine’s Day romantic movie screenings all month, tickets are available from $12. You know what’s fun? Making pink gin cocktails, or just straight up enjoying a pink gin spritz on the balcony. We’re loving Malfy Gin Rosa. Make it yours for $74.99 (or less if you’re a Dan’s Member!) FLIRTY GIFTS Sassy cookies taste good mentally and in your mouth! Sweet Mickie do a range of cookies that ship Australia-wide featuring sweet, or sexy, messages starting from $34.95. This may not be a family friendly website but we can’t give you specific recs, to each their own and all that BUT Love Honey stocks a wide range of adult toys, gadgets and goodies to set the spicy mood. Games are really having a moment, so why not design your own or find an… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, GIFT GUIDE, MELBOURNE, SYDNEY

Tags: gift guide, the f sydney, Valentines Day, valentines day gift guide

Best roti in Sydney at Kafe Kooks

by James Banham

Updated: 22/04/2024

Stepping into Kafe Kooks is like stepping into an electric embrace of Asian culture, right in the bustling heart of Ultimo, Sydney. This café, with its bold and eclectic charm, has done more than just capture the attention of food enthusiasts; it has redefined the café culture by spinning a traditional Asian staple – the humble Roti – into culinary gold. Since swinging open its doors in June 2021, Kafe Kooks has become the go-to destination for not just robust coffee or a mean cocktail, but a dining experience that’s both alluringly innovative and comfortably all-day. The magic lies in their Asian-inspired menu, a homage to the song “Kooks” by David Bowie, that celebrates the spirit of individuality and authenticity through every dish. Andrew Ray, the visionary owner and a renowned Roti aficionado, alongside the culinary finesse of Head Chef Victor Thapa and the deft hands of Roti Master Surish Rajandran, have conjured a breath-taking array of dishes where Roti is not a mere side player but the star. Picture this: a Roti Canai that perfectly pairs with chicken and potato curry gravy, the zesty kick of sambal sauce, and the hearty Sarang Burung – a nod to Penang’s vibrant street food scene. Or for the avant-garde palate, their trailblazing ‘Avocado Roti Coin’, a twist on the beloved classic that promises to intrigue and satisfy. Whether it’s falling for “The Curry Collection” with its voluptuous curries companioned by aromatic roti, or finding delight in a space that offers a warm welcome not just to you… Read More

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

Tags: Kafe Kooks, Roti Sydney

Reuben Kaye for one night only at Sydney Opera House

Reuben Kaye Sydney Opera House Joan Sutherland Theatre performers 2

by James Banham

Updated: 05/02/2024

Prepare yourselves for an evening of uproarious laughter and spectacular vocals as the dazzling Reuben Kaye graces the Joan Sutherland Theatre once more with “Opera Up Late” – an unparalleled fusion of opera and comedy that promises more than just a night at the theatre. Hailed as the diamond at the heart of last year’s WorldPride festival, this comical genius will captivate you on Friday, 1st March, for a one-night extravaganza that guarantees to annihilate the conventional boundaries of classical and cabaret. Picture the scene: the clock strikes 10:45 pm, and a murmur of anticipation ripples through the hallowed hallways of the Sydney Opera House. The stage ignites with a spectacle of colour and the air thrums with iconic operatic melodies, reborn with a refreshingly irreverent twist. With Reuben Kaye at the helm, this event draws together the creme de la creme of Australian talent, including operatic tenor Benjamin Rasheed and the effervescent Georgina Hopson, to name but a few. Reuben Kaye is an unparalleled mastery of satire, combined with a vocal prowess that defies expectation, crafts an experience that is at once breathtaking and wildly unorthodox. This is not your grandmother’s night at the opera. It’s an invitation to partake in something revolutionary, a chance to witness the extraordinary, a rendezvous with the sublime and the ridiculous. Those familiar with Kaye will recognise his inimitable style: vivid, audacious, and endlessly entertaining. “Carmen at eight years old was just the overture,” Kaye quips with signature flair. Prepare for the crescendo as he delivers what could… Read More

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

Tags: Reuben Kaye, sydney opera house

Adam Lambert headlining Sydney Mardi Gras

by THE F

Updated: 03/03/2024

As the countdown to the 2024 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras draws to a fervent pace, a seismic announcement has set the community abuzz: Grammy-nominated artist Adam Lambert is poised to headline the extravagance. This revelation has sent ripples of excitement through the vibrant center of Sydney, promising an event that will etch itself into the annals of LGBTQIA+ celebration. Adam Lambert, a vocal powerhouse whose career has continually intersected with activism and advocacy for the community, leads a constellation of over 150 artists announced for the Festival’s centerpiece events. The anticipation reaches a zenith with the potentials of the undisputedly magnetic international superstar taking the stage. Mardi Gras 2024 is engineered to surpass all former precedents, boasting a diverse array of talent that includes legends like CeCe Peniston, revered for anthems like “Finally,” and the captivating Slayyyter, set to deliver an Australian-exclusive performance at the Bondi Beach Party. Echoing Lambert’s unparalleled influence in the music industry, a plethora of adored Australian acts like Cub Sport and MAY-A will grace various stages, enveloping the Festival in an eclectic blanket of musical and performance artistry. With such a cornucopia of stars lined up, Sydney’s Mardi Gras stands as a beacon of not only inclusive celebration but also an exhibition of phenomenal talent and LGBTQIA+ excellence. This year contends to be a riveting display of culture and pride, where the Hordern Pavilion is to transform into a warehouse haven of contemporary and Chicago house vibes, thanks to the charisma of Adam Lambert and the likes of… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY

Tags: Adam Lambert, mardi gras, Sydney Mardi Gras Adam Lambert

Tips to not be a dickhead at the beach

by THE F

Posted: 04/02/2024

As the sun graces the Australian skyline, our pristine coasts beckon with their shimmering waves and golden sands. However, beneath the allure of our renowned beaches, a pressing concern emerges: the quintessential beach etiquette—or rather, the lack thereof. A groundbreaking survey by Preply has shed light on this issue, providing invaluable insight into the behaviours that are marring the experiences of many a beach-goer and, consequently, how these faux pas can be mitigated. The results are in, and Australians have spoken: 55% are irked by the presence of pets, 48% frown upon swimming outside designated zones, and 46% would rather not witness public displays of affection at the beach. Unsurprisingly, Bondi Beach garners the notoriety for less-than-commendable conduct, a sentiment echoingly closely followed by beautiful yet bustling beaches in Surfers Paradise and St Kilda. Yet, how do we navigate these choppy waters of beach manners? It’s simpler than you might think. Preply’s study suggests that ignoring undesirable behaviour is the go-to for 55%, whilst a forthright 24% opt for a polite reminder of the common courtesies. A mere 8% take to social media as their platform of choice for etiquette enforcement. Our beloved sandy stretches are not just for recreation but are ecosystems demanding respect. Feeding seagulls, littering, failing to adhere to safety norms—such as designated surf and swim zones—are all actions acclaimed for their absence. Cultivating an environment of respect and safety is the collective responsibility of all beach-goers, ensuring every trip to these terrestrial paradises is nothing short of spectacular. In the campaign… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, SYDNEY

Tags: Australian beach guide, Beach etiquette, What to do at beach

ARTS & CULTURE

breakdance head spin pexels pixabay 159273

Experience break dancing like never before this MAy

24/04/2024

By James Banham

Get ready to experience the ultimate celebration of hip hop culture, innovation, and artistry at Breakin’ Convention 2024. An international festival of Hip Hop dance theatre, it’ll be taking over Sadler’s Wells in Islington this coming May Bank Holiday. Enthusiastically helmed by the visionary UK hip hop maker and Breakin’ Convention Artistic Director Jonzi D, this festival has become a beacon for fans and creators of hip hop from around the globe. The excitement is palpable as we gear up for two days packed with jaw-dropping performances, interactive workshops, and live music that promise to electrify the Sadler’s Wells venues on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 May. With an extraordinary lineup featuring international sensations like Femme Fatale (USA), Sons of Wind (France), and Jinjo crew (South Korea), alongside groundbreaking UK acts such as TRAPLORD, Boy Blue, and When Time Was New, this festival is set to showcase the dynamic and diverse world of hip hop dance theatre. Attendees of all ages can look forward to a vast array of activities including spectacular dance performances, bespoke graffiti workshops, freestyle sessions, and even live DJs sessions that guarantee to keep the energy high and the spirit of hip hop alive throughout the entire building. Not to mention, the festival coincides with the historic moment of breaking becoming an official Olympic sport at the Paris Olympics, adding an extra layer of exhilaration to the festivities. Beyond the performances, Breakin’ Convention 2024 invites audiences to engage directly with the hip hop community through unique events such as the Tiny… Read More

Opera Australia orchestrates a new era with Matthieu Arama as Concertmaster

24/04/2024

By James Banham

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

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

Public performance in Randwick Sydney by artist Lauren Brincat

22/04/2024

By James Banham

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

Good news for National Gallery London: Eva Gonzalès piece acquired

22/04/2024

By James Banham

On the occasion of the artist’s 177th birthday on Friday 19th April, the National Gallery has acquired La Psyché (The Full-length Mirror), about 1869-70, by Eva Gonzalès (1849-1883) thanks to three generous legacy gifts from Mrs Martha Doris Bailey, Miss Gillian Cleaver, and Ms Sheila Mary Holmes, and the National Gallery Trust. This is the first acquisition by the Gallery of a work by Gonzalès and the second acquisition of its Bicentenary year. La Psyché has not been seen in public for over seventy years and joins only one other painting by her in a UK public collection, The Donkey Ride, about 1880?2, at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. Gonzalès is the 20th female artist represented in the National Gallery Collection, marking a significant addition. The story of Gonzalès’s reputation, during and after her life, reflects some of the reasons why women artists are not well represented in the National Gallery. These include being offered fewer opportunities in life and the lack of interest shown, consciously or not, in works by women artists by collectors of the era and onwards, from whose acquisitions the National Gallery’s own collection was assembled. During her lifetime Gonzalès was an established artist who exhibited multiple times to acclaim at the official Paris Salon. She was the only official pupil of Edouard Manet (1832-83), with whom she studied from 1869. Gonzalès likely painted La Psyché around the same time that Manet was painting his portrait of her, Eva Gonzalès (1870). That work, in the Gallery collection, was the focal point of the recent exhibition, Discover Manet & Eva… Read More

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Shooshfest: Australia’s first ever silent short film competition

17/04/2024

By James Banham

Australia’s Shooshfest, an inaugural silent short film competition, invites diverse creators to innovate in storytelling sans speech. Promising an immersive experience, it will connect with audiences, honour silent film and catalyse cinematic culture.