Category: SYDNEY

The winners, grinners and who’s who of the 2018 Helpmann Awards in Sydney

Updated: 16/11/2022

On the set of this year’s production of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert, the 2018 Helpmann Awards Act II took place, celebrating the best talent Australia has to offer in the performance space. Hosted by Glenn A. Baker Am, Sydney Dance Company’s own Rafael Bonachela, TV host David Campbell and soprano Jacqueline Dark – and more – 23 awards were presented for the categories of comedy, cabaret, contemporary music, musicals, opera, classical music, theatre and ballet, dance and physical theatre. These Awards complement the 20 Awards announced yesterday at the Helpmann Awards Act I, of course. The Helpmann Awards were established in 2001 by Live Performance Australia and this year, president Andrew Kay AM, said, “We are proud to present the 18th Annual Helpmann Awards across two nights this year. The breadth and diversity of winners, nominees and performances at tonight’s and yesterday’s events shines a spotlight on Australia’s world class creative and artistic talent. Congratulations to all 2018 Helpmann Award nominees and winners!” It’s a dazzling time for anyone involved in stage production and the night of nights for those whose talents are to be admired and adored. The show closed with the biggest line up of Australia’s leading vocalists from the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s concert production of Funny Girl. Divas and funny girls themselves Trevor Ashley (Hairspray), Michaela Banas (Upper Middle Bogan), Natalie Bassingthwaighte (The X Factor), Casey Donovan (Australian Idol), Virginia Gay (First Tuesday Book Club), Verity Hunt-Ballard (Mary Poppins) Dami Im (Eurovision), Maggie McKenna (Muriel’s Wedding), Zahra Newman (Book of Mormon) and West end and Broadway star Caroline O’Connor had the audience standing in their seats and cheering for more. The Helpmann Awards 2018 will broadcast: ABC… Read More

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

Tags: helpmann 2018, helpmann awards, helpmann awards sydney, helpmann awards winners

The Stables in Paddington is stylish eating off the beaten track

by James Banham

Posted: 18/07/2018

If there’s one thing you notice about the Sydney restaurant scene, it’s that people are hesitant to break away from the hot-spots of diners; and, to be honest, it makes sense. Until you discover The Stables in Paddington; a new restaurant just off the main the main drag of Paddington that unashamedly does its own thing in its own space, offering something diners have been crying for. Mood lit, funky styled and expertly catered for, The Stables in Paddington has all the hallmarks of a well-established restaurant in the centre of the city, despite only having been open a few weeks. The building itself houses a lot of history in an “if the walls could talk” kind of way. Having been established since the 1800s, the venue has housed stables (obviously), a hay loft, a tanner’s residence and ironworks over the years, adding to the unique pieces of Australian heritage that make the venue as enjoyable as it is. Executive chef Thomas Gripton’s menu plays along with the rustic nature of the interior and the charm-to-life element of the whole thing, working with locally-sourced and expertly executed morsels. Thanks in large part to his enduring relationships with local providores and artisans, the chef’s take on butter-poached lobster with herb jus, avruga caviar, dill and kombu, slow-cooked pork jowl with garlic yoghurt, celery ribbons, celery leaf oil and crisped black rice as well as nori to miso braised eggplant with parmesan, shallots, dill and aromatics make for one ‘bowl-you-over’ experience. Couple all that menu fancy with a wine range… Read More

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: best places to eat sydney, paddington restaurants, stables, stables paddington, stables restaurant, sydney restaurants, where is stables paddington

Infinite Cycle is the spin class studio you’ve been screaming for in Sydney

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Everyone knows Soul Cycle, right? Let’s just put that out there. But, what you mightn’t know about in the world of spin and definitely need to, is its Australian competition that offers something a little more unique: Infinite Cycle. HQ’d in Waterloo, NSW and branching out all over the place at a rapid pace, Infinite Cycle is the wholly Australian and completely different offering to spin addicts with the same cult vibe we all know and love. For the die-hard, it has what you need; for the adventurous it has what you crave and for the new; well, it’s one helluva challenge lined-up ahead of you. Infinite Cycle takes the concepts that run throughout all spin operations around Sydney and Australia at the likes of Virgin Active Health Clubs and Cycology, and adds something new in the form of completely unstable, core-engaging, Real Ryder bikes that completely offset the centre of gravity and are sure to have you doing Ariana Grande proud with your own physical embodiment of ‘side-to-side’. It’s an insane workout that does the quads, hamstrings, obliques, lats and most of all – and most likely the reason you’re so into it – the glutes (your bum!). Founded by Alan Sacharowitz and Dani Carr, Infinite Cycle brings a healthy dose of innovation to the cardio exercise space. The bikes are exclusive in Australia to Infinite Cycle and offer riders the chance to learn to turn, tilt and lean as they ride as they sync-up with the large scenic screens ahead of them and the pumping tunes around… Read More

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, HEALTH & FITNESS, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: infinite cycle, infinite cycle waterloo, spin class, spin class sydney, the f infinite cycle

Something a little different: Opera Australia will perform Westside Story on Sydney Harbour in 2019

by James Banham

Posted: 15/07/2018

For years, Opera Australia has stunned the local and international opera and creative-loving audiences with what they can do atop a pontoon in the middle of Sydney Harbour for the annual Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour. But in 2019, there is something a little different in-store… In 2019, Opera Australia will perform Westside Story on the renowned floating stage with the iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge completing the inner urban feel of the unique production. Taking one of the most iconic works of the 20th century out of the theatre and onto Opera Australia’s now famous outdoor stage, will see years of planning finally come to fruition says OA’s Artistic Director Lyndon Terracini. “I’ve always loved West Side Story, it’s one of the greatest pieces ever written, and I’ve been wanting to include it in the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour repertoire since we started the program seven years ago. “The setting is perfect, with the city skyline in the background, you won’t get a better stage backdrop in the world, and I’ve said from the start, if a piece is right, then we’ll do it, we don’t want to be bound by preconceptions,” said Terracini. And the good news is for fans of the classic tale, West Side Story will continue the tradition of the great outdoor spectacles that have come before it, with the world’s finest singers, musicians, dancers and creative teams set to bring the vision to life. It all starts on 22 March – 21 April 2019. Check the Opera Australia… Read More

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

Tags: handa opera sydney harbour, opera australia, westside story

Draw naked people and drink wine in Sydney this July

by James Banham

Posted: 12/07/2018

When you learn to draw, it’s one thing to draw apples and oranges; another entirely to draw a human body. It doesn’t matter who you ask, though, it’s the thing that defines the skill of an artist. Throw in some wine and you have one super healthy exercise for the mind. This month, the Watson’s Bay Boutique Hotel will hold life drawing classes with merlot, where the hour-long drawing class will welcome both new and experienced artists seeking to hone their skills in drawing the human figure. The beachfront hotel’s edgy class will be hosted by artist Rachel Carroll, the northern beaches-born talent with 20 years’ experience in creating her own works and teaching others. Rachel will help students understand the human form and finesse their drawing technique. It’s a perfect exercise for those who want to open their eyes and improve their drawing, encouraging you to draw what you see, not what you think you should be seeing. Each $40.00 ticket will includes a glass of wine to help the creative juices flow plus all artistic equipment. See more at the WBBH Hotel website.

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: art classes, art classes sydney, life drawing, life drawing sydney, watsons bay boutique hotel, wbbh

World Fries Day is on 13 July and Chargrill Charlie’s is where to go

by James Banham

Posted: 10/07/2018

It’s World Fries Day this 13 July, so if carbs are your thing, then your time is now. To celebrate, Chargrill Charlie’s will be giving away free small bags of fries from 12 – 4pm across all ten of their shops around Sydney. Without needing to make a purchase, you’ll be free to claim your free bag of carbs all in good faith as we gather to pay homage to the humble chip. The World Fries Day give-away will be available at all Chargrill Charlie’s stores including; Mosman, Neutral Bay, Willoughby, Wahroonga, Lane Cove, Woollahra, St. Ives, Mona Vale, Rose Bay and Annandale.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: chargrill charlies, chips, world fries day

Raclette is back on the menu at Delisse Cafe for Bastille Day

by James Banham

Updated: 15/07/2018

For the French Bastille Day on 14 July, Delisse cafe in Sydney is serving-up raclette all month-long. It’s time to pay them a visit. The oozy, gooey, melty cheese poured so effortlessly over bread and topped with cured meat, pickles and whatever else you like is apparently a staple of the French winter diet and it’s easy to see why. From the warm carbs to the warm cheese a sandwich jammed with raclette has to offer, winter at Delisse cafe is just another reason to celebrate all the good things about France in one bite. With four cafes around Sydney, there’s no excuse.

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: delisse, delisse cafe, raclette

Bellucci Cucina Sydney has nestled amongst the skyscrapers and called it home

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Above Australia Square’s Ryan’s Bar, tucked away in a corner is Bellucci Cucina Sydney, the city’s answer to the cry out for a quality Italian menu that doesn’t involve the words ‘Jamie’ or ‘Oliver’. They haven’t been open long, but God damn, they know what they’re doing ?? Bellucci can be found just above Ryan’s Bar at Australia Square. Get the pasta! ?? #bellucci #pasta #wednesday #humpday #australiasquare A post shared by T H E F (@the_f_au) on Jul 4, 2018 at 1:37am PDT Having just inherited the chef, Teofilo Nobrega, from Potts Point’s Fratelli Paradiso, Bellucci does carbs and it does them damn well. It’s the reason owner George Nahas, wanted to have him on-board. Couple an established menu with quality wine – and friendly staff who know how to talk about and suggest it – and it’s easy to see why the few-month-old establishment is already making waves. The rotunda is unassuming and still so new, there is more to come for the modestly styled, but big-flavoured terrace venue. With wine-lined walls and a kitchen that is capable of catering to a modest few hundreds of sparsely spread out diners, Bellucci offers a comfortable and approachable Italian eatery without the fanfare. Bellucci does the works from pastries and breakfast dishes, stretching into afternoon aperitivi, wood-fired pizzas and its signature pastas, catering to everyone at any time of day. The stand out dish? You must try the pappardelle of ragu di agnelo, fermented chilli, rosemary and salt. Bellucci is open breakfast and lunch Mon-Fri; dinner Wed-Fri. Level 5, Terrace… Read More

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

Tags: bellucci, bellucci cucina, bellucci sydney. bellucci italian, italian food, italian restaurants, italian sydney

There’s something exciting happening for winter at the Sydney Harbour Marriott

by James Banham

Posted: 06/07/2018

If cider and winter are your thing, then listen-up. The Sydney Harbour Marriott is turning out a laneway mulled cider orchard like no other this July. It’s all about the award-winning Three Bottle Man bar, in partnership with Square Keg, that will transform part of Bulletin Place laneway with a rustic pop-up cider bar, barrels, mulled cider stations, wooden touches. lush greenery a-plenty, and much more. It’s going to be offering the chance to explore cider as the drink of versatility this winter, right from the orchard in the centre of Sydney. For almost a week, the al fresco pop up experience will be a unique and exciting ‘cider done three ways’ showcase of some of Australia’s favourite ciders like Treehouse Cider, Fixation, and more. In addition to traditional cider, the orchard will feature expertly crafted bespoke cider cocktails by Aaron Gaulke from the award-winning Three Bottle Man, specialty mulled cider from Treehouse, and delicious cider-inspired food and desserts crafted by Michelin Star-experienced French chef, Raphael Squrek. It’ll be an urban adventure of ciderrific proportions, worthy of a visit between 19 – 24 July. See more at the Marriott website here.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: cider festival, cider winter, marriott hotel sydney, pop up orchard, sydney harbour marriott

Celebrate Christmas in July at the Sheraton on the Park, Sydney

by James Banham

Updated: 08/07/2018

Back again this month, Sheraton on the Park is gearing to once again invite Sydney to the city’s finest Christmas in July dining celebration. A celebration of all things ‘food’, ‘drink’ and ‘togetherness’ wrapped-up with a cute Christmas bow, the Christmas in July festivities at the Sheraton are made for anything from intimate gatherings to something with the whole family. From 1 – 31 July 2018, the hotel’s award-winning international, seafood buffet restaurant will be embracing the festive feeling with an enhanced menu incorporating a live station of succulent roast turkey, maple and clove glazed ham and roast beef with trimmings. And the merriment continues all weekend, albeit with something different to offer like a whole mouth-watering suckling pig and garlic and rosemary infused roast lamb. For those with a sweet tooth, there is always a fully stocked number of classic delights thanks to an endless selection of bespoke sweet options including blackberry cheesecake, salted chocolate caramel tart and pear and berry yule log. At $79 per person for lunch and $89 per person for dinner, it’s an obvious choice to keep warm this winter. Lunch 12:00PM – 2:30PM Monday – Friday From $79 per person Saturday – Sunday From $89 per person Dinner 6:00PM – 10:30PM* Monday – Thursday From $89 per person Friday – Sunday From $99 per person

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: christmas in july, christmas july, sheraton on the park sydney, sheraton sydney christmas in july

ARTS & CULTURE

Good news for the London Museum revamp

06/09/2024

By James Banham

In a bold move to enrich London’s cultural landscape, the City of London Corporation and the Mayor of London have pledged an additional £50 million towards the creation of the new London Museum. So if history and the arts are your thing, then get excited! Nestled within the historic Smithfield markets, this ambitious project, designed by Stanton Williams and Asif Khan, is set to become one of Europe’s most significant cultural infrastructure projects, preserving the iconic market buildings for future generations. With a generous contribution of £25 million each from the City of London Corporation and the Mayor, the funding boosts the museum’s overall project budget to £437 million. Accompanying this, the museum is on a mission to raise an additional £30 million, with nearly half already secured through private donations and philanthropic efforts. The transformation of the Victorian General Market and Poultry Market into world-class spaces for art and learning is well underway. Slated to open in 2026, the General Market will showcase the museum’s permanent galleries, bringing to life more of its renowned collection than ever before. By 2028, the Poultry Market will house a cutting-edge learning centre, temporary exhibition spaces, and a publicly accessible collections store, inviting visitors to explore behind the scenes of the museum’s vast collection. Sharon Ament, Director of the London Museum, expressed her excitement about the project: “Thousands of Londoners are helping to shape this fantastic new museum which will not only explore our city’s rich history but the people and places that make it such a vibrant… Read More

Sydney Contemporary announces MA Art Prize winner as First Nations artist Alfred Lowe

05/09/2024

By James Banham

The eighth edition of Sydney Contemporary opens its doors today at Carriageworks, promising an exhilarating display of artistic prowess that spans the globe.

Sydney Dance Company brings ‘momenta’ dance to Melbourne

05/09/2024

By James Banham

Sydney Dance Company is set to captivate Melbourne audiences with the debut of Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela’s latest creation, ‘momenta’, at the Arts Centre Melbourne from 8-12 October. This full-length dance work, which has already garnered critical acclaim in Sydney, is a celebration of the profound beauty and fragility of shared humanity. Through the dynamic and evocative language of contemporary dance, ‘momenta’ delves into the ephemeral nature of human connections and encounters. Bonachela’s choreography is renowned for its intricate rhythmic patterns and inventive partnering, and ‘momenta’ is no exception. The 17 dancers of Sydney Dance Company transcend their physical boundaries, showcasing a breathtaking blend of grace, power, and vulnerability. Each movement is designed to resonate through space, creating a visceral experience for audiences as they are drawn into a world where raw emotion seamlessly blends with exquisite technique. The performance is elevated by the evocative electronic soundscapes of composer Nick Wales, who weaves in elements from P?teris Vasks, adding layers of depth to the narrative. Elizabeth Gadsby’s immersive set design and Damien Cooper’s striking lighting further enhance the atmosphere, capturing the essence of fleeting moments suspended between past and future. These elements converge to create a space where individual trajectories collide and intertwine, echoing the transient nature of life itself. Rafael Bonachela expressed his excitement about bringing ‘momenta’ to Melbourne, stating, “We’re thrilled to present momenta in Melbourne for the first time. momenta is a testament to the ephemeral yet profound connections that weave through all of our lives. From the most tender exchanges to… Read More

Listen to Beethoven live in Sydney

02/09/2024

By James Banham

In a celebration of musical revolution and historical milestones, the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall will play host to a landmark event on 26 October 2024—an extraordinary concert commemorating the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. This monumental piece, renowned for its powerful ‘Ode to Joy’ choral finale, redefined the symphonic form by integrating human voices, and has since become a resounding anthem for equality, freedom, and unity across the globe. Presented for one inspirational concert only, “Ode to Joy – Beethoven & Smyth” promises an evening steeped in musical brilliance and historical significance. Under the baton of the inimitable Elizabeth Scott, the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs’ 400-strong Festival Chorus, alongside special guest soloists Bronwyn Douglass, Helen Sherman, Bradley Daley, and Michael Honeyman, will bring this masterpiece to life. Adding another layer of youthful exuberance to the performance, the Sydney Youth Orchestra will join forces in this magnificent collaboration. Not content with merely celebrating Beethoven’s legacy, the program also shines a spotlight on another trailblazing composer, Dame Ethel Smyth. Known for her fervent activism and defiance of societal norms, Smyth’s contributions to music and the suffragette movement remain inspiring. Her grand Mass in D, hailed as a masterpiece upon its premiere in 1893, will be performed, echoing the sentiments of George Bernard Shaw, who praised her work for dispelling the notion that women could not accomplish great feats in art. Smyth, a formidable figure in the male-dominated world of classical music, used her platform to champion equality. Her anthem, “The March of the Women,” composed during… Read More

Bridgerton candlelight concert comes to Sydney

02/09/2024

By James Banham

Sydney is about to be swept off its feet as Netflix, Shondaland, and Fever join forces to present the exclusive Bridgerton Candlelight Concert. This enchanting event is set to transform St Stephen’s Uniting Church into a Regency-era wonderland on October 24th, 2024, with performances at 6:30pm and 8:30pm. Imagine stepping into a world lit by thousands of flickering candles, where the air is filled with the familiar tunes of Bridgerton hits performed by a local string quartet. This multi-sensory musical experience promises to be a night to remember, featuring an eclectic setlist that includes Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy,” Ariana Grande’s “thank u, next,” and “Give Me Everything” by Pitbull, Afrojack, Ne-Yo, and Nayer, among others. With Bridgerton’s three seasons captivating audiences globally, this Candlelight Concert is a chance for Sydney-siders to immerse themselves in the magic of the series in a truly unique setting. To secure your spot at this highly anticipated event, sign up for the waitlist on Fever’s app or website. Doing so grants you exclusive pre-sale access to tickets, up to 24 hours before they become available to the public. Fever’s Candlelight Concert series is renowned for democratizing access to classical music, offering a fresh twist that appeals to a broad audience. Each concert is a celebration of music, performed in iconic venues worldwide, and this Bridgerton special will be no different, with limited tickets available for this fashionable event of the season. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this dazzling evening. Tickets for the Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on… Read More