Category: ARTS & CULTURE

Your trip to Turkey: Ephesus Experience Museum is a journey through time

Ephesus museum

Nestled within the sacred grounds of Selçuk, Turkey, the Ephesus Experience Museum transports you back in time to the thriving city of Ephesus. Designed by the renowned ATELIER BRÜCKNER, the museum curates an immersive experience that transcends the conventional museum visit, encapsulating the sights, sounds, and even smells of Ephesus of antiquity. Sprawled across a significant 2400 square metres, the museum is designed to cater to a staggering 2200 visitors per day, offering an enticing mix of history, culture, and tradition. Its striking architecture represents an astounding visual spectacle, further enhanced by state-of-the-art audiovisual technology. Here, history unfolds in three distinct chapters, each narrated by a storyteller and complimented by a harmonious soundscape and large-scale 360-degree projections. As you step into the first room, you embark on an odyssey that takes you back to the origins of the city. The prophecies of the Oracle of Delphi, the foundation of the city by Athenian prince Androclos, and the influence of the city’s patron goddess, Artemis, are brought to life. In the second room, you are transported to the city at the height of its glory. From the Arcadian Way to the terraced houses, you bear witness to the city’s rise under Roman rule and the advent of Christianity, with St Paul’s teachings and the construction of the Basilica of St John. The final room is a vivid tribute to Artemis. Providing an immersive, multisensory experience, it majestically brings the goddess to life through intricate light and sound effects, coupled with life-size representations and monolithic screens. The… Read More

New York City Ballet takes a grand leap into Sadler’s Wells debut

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A wave of excitement is set to ripple through the heart of London as the celebrated New York City Ballet (NYCB) prepares to make its much-anticipated Sadler’s Wells debut in March 2024. This grand event will feature the UK premieres of works by an array of esteemed choreographers, including Kyle Abraham, Justin Peck, Pam Tanowitz, and a classic piece by the legendary George Balanchine. The NYCB, a titan of the dance world, is renowned for its contemporary style, speed, and musicality. Currently basking in the glow of its 75th anniversary, the company was founded in 1948 by the visionary choreographer George Balanchine and arts patron Lincoln Kirstein. This marks a triumphant return to London, a city they haven’t graced with their presence since 2008. Justin Peck’s masterpiece, Rotunda, is set to dazzle audiences with its unique blend of movement and music. A commissioned score from American composer Nico Muhly provides a rich backdrop to the performance of an ensemble of 12 dancers. As NYCB’s Resident Choreographer and Artistic Advisor, Peck has created more than 20 works for NYCB, with recent projects outside of NYCB including Illinois, a new stage adaptation of Sufjan Stevens’ album, and the choreography for Steven Spielberg’s film adaptation of West Side Story in 2022. Balanchine’s Duo Concertant, a riveting performance for two dancers and two onstage musicians, is set to the music of Igor Stravinsky. This piece was initially created for NYCB’s legendary Stravinsky Festival in 1972. Balanchine, widely regarded as one of the most influential choreographers of the 20th century,… Read More

All about Miss Saigon in Melbourne – see it now

9. The Australian production of Miss Saigon Photo by Daniel Boud

Melbourne theatre-goers are in for an absolute treat as Cameron Mackintosh’s latest production of the award-winning musical, Miss Saigon, graces the stage of Her Majesty’s Theatre for a fleeting 7-week stint. The return of this heart-wrenching tale comes after a resoundingly successful Sydney season, and a 16-year hiatus since Miss Saigon last enthralled Melbourne audiences on the very same stage. Boasting a resplendent full 24-piece orchestra and an exceptional cast of 42 representing the length and breadth of the Asia-Pacific, this is a revival that is bound to take your breath away. Leading the standout Australian ensemble with aplomb is the internationally acclaimed Seann Miley Moore, who brings an electrifying performance in the role of The Engineer. Fresh-faced talent Abigail Adriano and Nigel Huckle as Chris make a formidable pair and, together with a supporting cast that includes the likes of Kerrie Anne Greenland, Nick Afoa, and Kimberley Hodgson, infuse new life into this timeless classic. Miss Saigon is a tale of love, loss, and resilience in the backdrop of war, and is set to a captivating score by Boublil and Schönberg that includes classics such as ‘The Heat is On in Saigon’ and ‘The American Dream.’ Since its premiere, this epic production has garnered an impressive 70 major theatre awards and has been performed in 15 languages across 350 cities worldwide. The reception to this rendition has been nothing short of ecstatic, with The Daily Telegraph calling it “thrilling,” and The Daily Mail dubbing it “the greatest musical of all time.” Don’t miss out… Read More

What to see at London’s Sadler’s Wells: INK by Dimitris Papaioannou

Stage dance INK

Buckle up for an extraordinary visual journey as Greek director, choreographer, and visual artist Dimitris Papaioannou makes a triumphant return to Sadler’s Wells Theatre. From Wednesday 28 February to Saturday 2 March 2024, be prepared to be mesmerised by the UK premiere of INK. Following the immense success of his sold-out and Olivier-nominated productions, The Great Tamer and Transverse Orientation, Papaioannou once again pushes the boundaries of hyper-visual dance theatre in this captivating new production. Papaioannou is renowned for his mastery in creating breathtaking visual spectacles, and INK is no exception. Set in an enigmatic water world, this spellbinding performance transforms a duet into a duel, driven by mythical primal forces. It’s a gripping battle between old and young, father and son, civilization and wasteland, stewardship and inheritance, and even eroticism and torture. Joining Papaioannou on stage is the talented dancer and collaborator Šuka Horn. With science fiction and horror as its filters, INK will immerse you in a world filled with hundreds of liters of water, a golden wheat field, and even an octopus. In 2018, Papaioannou became the first choreographer to create a new evening-length work for Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch since the legendary Pina Bausch’s passing in 2009. He also gained international acclaim for conceiving and directing the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. Rooted in painting and visual art, Papaioannou’s productions blur the lines between theatre, experimental choreography, and live performance. Expressing his excitement about INK’s UK premiere at Sadler’s Wells, Dimitris Papaioannou said, “I’m thrilled… Read More

Luna Park Sydney Unveils Dream Circus: A Mesmerizing Immersive Experience

Dream Circus

Prepare to be awestruck and captivated as Luna Park Sydney, the iconic amusement park, embarks on an ambitious transformation. The $15 million reimagination project kicks off with the unveiling of Sydney’s Immersive Big Top, home to the spectacular Dream Circus launching on December 22nd, 2023. This grand multi-generational spectacle is set to mesmerise over 50,000 people throughout the summer. Luna Park’s Dream Circus is not your ordinary circus experience. It is a world-first immersive attraction that will take guests on a narrative journey, introduce them to lovable characters, and immerse them in a sensory spectacle like never before. Created by a team of specialist creatives and technicians in Sydney, including the talented Artists in Motion, TDC, and Auditoria, this unique experience promises to leave visitors spellbound. The venue for this extraordinary adventure is Sydney’s Immersive Big Top, a state-of-the-art 3,000sqm multi-purpose entertainment space equipped with cutting-edge technology. With Barco projection technology, spatially mapped audio systems, hologram technology, motion-activated LED screens, and the latest in lighting technology, the Immersive Big Top offers a 360-degree visual and audio immersion across its vast surface area of more than 3,500sqm. But the excitement doesn’t end there. Luna Park’s Immersive Big Top will also serve as a state-of-the-art training facility for future technologists in Sydney. The advanced environment will provide a unique skill development opportunity, offering a vocational pathway into the rapidly growing immersive experience industry. “We are proud to create one of the most technically advanced environments in the country,” says John Hughes, CEO of Luna Park Sydney. “The… Read More

Celebrate the National Gallery bicentenary this year

People gathered around front door of National Gallery Trafalgar Square

As the National Gallery prepares to celebrate its bicentenary, art enthusiasts across the UK are set to be treated to an extraordinary range of exhibitions, events, and interactive experiences. Titled “National Treasures,” the commemorative programme will see twelve of the National Gallery’s most cherished paintings journey to museums and galleries in each region of England, and each nation of the UK. The programme, generously supported by the Garfield Weston Foundation and other donors, promises to engage local communities in a celebration of art and heritage. Digital content will also be readily available on Bloomberg Connects, ensuring that these treasures can be appreciated by a global audience. From Turner’s “The Fighting Temeraire” centring a major exhibition at the Laing Art Gallery in Newcastle, to Monet’s “The Water Lily Pond” inspiring a contemporary commission at York Art Gallery, each masterpiece will serve as a catalyst for exploration and learning. The projects vary widely in theme and approach; the Leicester Museum and Gallery, for instance, will utilise Renoir’s “Umbrellas” to create a digital installation that will transport viewers to the bustling streets of 1880s Paris. The programme also seeks to engage young audiences, as evidenced by Brighton Museum and Art Gallery’s innovative project. Utilising Rembrandt’s “Self Portrait,” local 13–16-year-olds will be invited to contemplate their future selves, culminating in a compelling photography display. Meanwhile, the Ikon Gallery in Birmingham will showcase a contemporary response to Artemisia Gentileschi’s “Self Portrait as St Catherine of Alexandria,” demonstrating the ongoing influence of these historical works. In an exciting addition to the… Read More

Opera Australia Unveils Majestic 2024 Season

Samantha Clarke as Violetta in Opera Australias 2024 production of La Traviata at the Sydney Opera House

Opera Australia, the nation’s flagship opera company, has revealed a truly captivating programme for its 2024 season. The line-up is a sublime blend of timeless classics and avant-garde performances, poised to offer an opera experience like never before. The season opens grandly with the timeless spectacle of La Traviata, transported into a breathtaking realm with cutting-edge digital staging. This seamless fusion of traditional opera with modern innovation is a testament to Opera Australia’s commitment to bringing opera into the 21st century. The company continues to charm the audience with Puccini’s poignant ‘La Bohème,’ a beloved classic that has been captivating audiences worldwide for more than a century. Mozart’s evergreen masterpiece ‘The Magic Flute’ also makes a glorious return, immersing audiences in a fantastical world filled with enchanting music and whimsical charm. In a bold move, Opera Australia introduces a groundbreaking contemporary piece to the stage. This daring inclusion showcases the company’s continual endeavour to push the boundaries of opera, creating a diverse portfolio that caters to all tastes. Opera Australia’s 2024 season promises a thrilling journey, filled with exquisite performances and daring new productions. It is, without a doubt, a must-attend event for opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Secure your tickets now and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring world of Opera Australia. More info at the Discover 2024 page Image: Samantha Clarke as Violetta in Opera Australia’s 2024 production of La Traviata at the Sydney Opera HousePhoto Credit: Georges Antoni

What to see at Sydney Opera House: the harp played right

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Step into the ethereal world of Mary Lattimore, the acclaimed American harpist and composer, as she prepares to grace the iconic Sydney Opera House with her mesmerising debut performance on December 4. Lattimore, a virtuoso of the 47-string Lyon & Healy harp, has been enchanting global audiences for over a decade with her captivating narratives set to music. Her sonic tales, woven with emotional resonance and vivid imagery, are set to come alive in the intimate setting of the Utzon Room. Not just a solo act, this special performance will also feature the talents of guitarist Paul Sukeena, adding another layer of intrigue to an already spellbinding evening. Lattimore’s latest solo album, “Goodbye, Hotel Arkada” (2023), is a testament to her evolving musical journey. This expansive soundscape incorporates not just the harp, but also guitar, keyboard, Theremin, and more. The album features collaborations with Lol Tolhurst of The Cure, Meg Baird, and Rachel Goswell from Slowdive, further broadening its auditory horizons. Beyond her solo work, Lattimore is a sought-after session musician, having collaborated with a diverse range of indie rock and experimental musicians, including Thurston Moore, Sharon Van Etten, Jarvis Cocker, Kurt Vile, and Jeff Zeigler. Her 2020 album, “Silver Ladders,” created in collaboration with Slowdive’s Neil Halstead, saw her ambient harp paired with richly textured arrangements. Ever since embarking on her solo career in 2012, Lattimore has been crafting intricate stories through her music, inviting listeners to embark on an immersive journey with her. This intimate connection between artist and audience is so captivating… Read More

Captivating Artistry: Exploring History and Culture with Vincent Namatjira’s ‘Desert Songs’

Namatjira Art Yavuz

Yavuz Gallery, a prominent figure in the contemporary art scene in the Asia Pacific, is excited to announce the major debut exhibition Desert Songs by Western Aranda artist Vincent Namatjira OAM. The exhibition will run from the 5th to the 28th of October, 2023, at the Yavuz Gallery, located in Surry Hills, Sydney. This significant event coincides with the upcoming monograph published by Thames and Hudson, as well as a substantial survey, Australia in colour, which will be presented at the Art Gallery of South Australia in 2023 and the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, in 2024. To commemorate the launch of the exhibition, Yavuz Gallery will host a complimentary artist talk featuring Vincent Namatjira in an engaging conversation with Alexie Glass-Kantor, the Executive Director of Artspace, on Saturday, 7th October at 2pm. Desert Songs will comprise thirteen new paintings, providing a profound look into the themes of leadership, power, and legacy. The exhibition allows Namatjira to delve into his own deeply personal histories through portraits of influential figures who have shaped his life and journey in art, music, and politics. Namatjira’s bold and unashamedly political paintings challenge viewers to contemplate what it means to be Indigenous in Australia, or indeed, the world. The Yavuz Gallery presentation will also showcase celebrated works by Namatjira, including Vincent and Vincent, Charles on Country, and Desert Songs (Albert Namatjira). Born in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, and currently residing in Indulkana on A?angu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands, South Australia, Namatjira is an astute observer of national and international politics…. Read More

Ludovico Einaudi: Classical Brilliance Echoing in the Sydney Opera House

Ludovico Einaudi

Italian maestro Ludovico Einaudi, renowned globally for his signature blend of neo-classical, pop, ambient, and experimental music, is set to grace the stage of the Sydney Opera House from 2 – 5 February. The Concert Hall, now boasting revitalised sonic surroundings, will hear the exquisite notes of Einaudi’s piano, a decade after he made his Australian debut on the same stage. Audiences can expect an immersive experience as Einaudi, the world’s most streamed classical music artist, presents music from his 2022 album, ‘Underwater’, alongside timeless classics from his extensive 40-year career. The performances will feature Einaudi’s distinguished blend of piano, violin, viola, cello, electronics, and percussion, weaving a rich tapestry of sound that is an exploration of genre and form. The composer’s affinity with the Sydney Opera House is palpable, with Einaudi stating, “It is my great pleasure to return to the Sydney Opera House for four concerts. It is one of my favourite iconic places where I love to perform. Its last passionate and warm audience response still resonates in my heart.” Einaudi’s extraordinary career, spanning multi-million-selling albums; critically acclaimed film and television scores including the Oscar and Golden Globe-winning films, The Intouchables, Nomadland and The Father; and a haunting iceberg performance in the Arctic Ocean for Greenpeace, testifies to his versatility as a composer. His recent success on TikTok, where his 2013 track ‘Experience’ gained over 15 billion views and inspired 7 million video creations, has introduced a new generation to his moving compositions. Sydney Opera House Head of Contemporary Music, Ben Marshall,… Read More