TRAVEL

Colosseum Rome 11 Gladiator Icons Airbnb Credit Christopher Anderson

Face your Gladiator II destiny with strength and honor at the Colosseum

17/11/2024

Step into the annals of history and embrace your inner warrior with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become a gladiator at the Roman Colosseum. This unique experience invites you to channel the strength and honour of ancient warriors as you step into the iconic arena known for epic battles and legendary tales. For the first time in nearly 2,000 years, the Colosseum is offering modern-day adventurers the chance to don historically accurate gladiator armour and partake in thrilling challenges that test both skill and courage. As you enter the sacred grounds, you’ll follow in the footsteps of victorious fighters, your destiny shaped by your prowess in battle. The experience begins at sunset, as a patron leads you into the candlelit Colosseum, a sight few have witnessed in modern times. Descend into the hypogeum, the underground chambers where gladiators once prepared for combat. Here, you’ll suit up in armour that reflects your chosen gladiator style—be it murmillo, thraex, provocator, retiarius, or contrarete. Choose your path wisely, for your fate in battle depends on it. As you traverse the torch-lit passages, imagine the footsteps of Maximus and countless other warriors echoing through history. Witness seasoned gladiators clash in a symphony of swords and shields, and prepare yourself for the challenge that awaits. Fuel your body with a selection of modest victuals—grapes, pomegranates, almonds, and walnuts—ensuring you’re battle-ready. Engage in combat training under the watchful eye of a summa rudis, your fate determined by your performance in the arena. Will you rise to the occasion and taste the sweetness… Read More

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Why Egypt should be on top of your travel list

17/11/2024

By James Banham

Embarking on a journey to Egypt is like stepping into a living history book, where ancient wonders and vibrant culture intertwine seamlessly. At the heart of this enchanting destination lies the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a must-visit for any traveller seeking to delve deep into the country’s rich heritage. Situated on the illustrious Giza Plateau, the GEM stands proudly near the iconic Pyramids of Giza, offering breathtaking views and a unique cultural experience. As one of the largest and most modern museums in the world, it promises an immersive exploration of Egypt’s past. Currently in its soft opening phase, visitors have the rare chance to explore its extensive artifact galleries and exhibition halls, with the highly anticipated King Tutankhamun galleries soon to follow. Beyond the museum, the Giza Plateau itself is a treasure trove of history. Be sure to visit the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids, where you can marvel at the engineering feats that have stood the test of time. For a more comprehensive experience, consider a camel ride across the desert sands at sunset, offering an unparalleled vantage point of these ancient structures. No trip to Egypt would be complete without wandering through the bustling streets of Cairo. Dive into the vibrant bazaars of Khan el-Khalili, where the aroma of spices wafts through the air and artisans display their intricate crafts. Explore the historic heart of Islamic Cairo, home to stunning mosques and ancient streets that echo with stories of the past. For a touch of tranquillity, take a day trip to the… Read More

Why Crete is the digital detox destination you need

13/10/2024

By James Banham

As summer’s vibrant energy gracefully transitions into the calm embrace of Autumn, Seaside A Lifestyle Resort in Crete extends an invitation to travellers seeking the serenity of quiet travel and a much-needed digital detox. Nestled amidst the tranquil and unspoiled beauty of Crete, this resort promises an all-inclusive oasis of calm, ideal for those looking to reconnect with themselves amidst eye-catching landscapes. Autumn heralds a season of new beginnings and resets. The fast pace of daily life often leaves little room for the self-care we truly require. At Seaside A Lifestyle Resort, guests are welcomed to cocoon in comfort, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquillity. This sanctuary is perfect for experiencing the growing trend of wellness travel, particularly among those enamoured with the ‘wellness retreat aesthetic’, which has seen a significant rise in popularity. Here are a few compelling reasons to visit this luxurious resort in Crete, where you can create lifelong memories, experience heartfelt hospitality, and immerse yourself in relaxation and wellbeing, all while enjoying the resort’s dramatic views: Quiet Experiences From sunrise to sunset, Seaside A Lifestyle Resort offers visitors a serene escape where life slows down to a peaceful rhythm. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual connection, a path to self-love, or simply a break from the stresses of daily life, the resort provides a space that fosters peace and tranquillity. Begin your day with a journey to oneness at the resort’s Yoga Shala, a place designed to deepen the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Here, silence is cherished, allowing you to… Read More

New study unveils Britain’s 30 most beautiful buildings

05/10/2024

By James Banham

In a nation steeped in history and architectural grandeur, a recent survey has unveiled a definitive list of Britain’s 30 most beautiful buildings, capturing the hearts and imaginations of residents and tourists alike.

10 best pumpkin patches to visit in the UK this October

05/10/2024

By James Banham

As autumn paints the UK countryside in hues of gold and orange, the allure of pumpkin patches becomes irresistible for both families and avid Instagrammers. This October, capture the essence of the season by visiting some of the most photogenic pumpkin patches across the UK. From scenic landscapes to vibrant festivals, these locations not only offer the perfect backdrop for your autumn snaps but also provide a range of activities that ensure a day filled with fun and memorable experiences. 1. Cotswold Farm Park, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Leading the list with stunning countryside views, Cotswold Farm Park is a haven for those looking to capture the beauty of autumn. With 51,000 Instagram followers and 11,300 hashtags, its popularity is well-deserved. Beyond pumpkin picking, you can meet rare breed animals and explore interactive exhibits. The tractor rides and locally sourced dishes at the café add layers of charm to your visit, making it a quintessential day out. 2. Tulleys Farm, Crawley, West Sussex Tulleys Farm, a favorite with 42,300 Instagram mentions, offers a unique night-time experience with its ‘Pumpkin Nights’. The twinkling lights and live music provide an enchanting setting, perfect for photos. This venue is also famous for its Shocktober Fest, blending pumpkin picking with a thrilling twist, ensuring your Instagram feed will be as exciting as it is beautiful. 3. Garsons Farm, Esher, Surrey With its lush green backdrops and a score of 27,400 Instagram points, Garsons Farm is a dream for nature-filled photography. As a pick-your-own paradise, it allows you to harvest everything from… Read More

Tag: opera australia

First time opera; first time opera singer – Rebecca Gulinello tell us about La Boheme in Sydney

The cafe in La Boheme by Opera Australia

by James Banham

Updated: 10/03/2023

Whether you’re an opera aficionado, or after a new experience for the first time, there’s one thing you can be sure of – you’re not alone! People from all walks of life with all kinds of musical tastes gather on a nightly basis at the world famous Sydney Opera House – which is turning 50 this year! – to see operas by the world-renowned Opera Australia company, which this season is putting on La Boheme and giving even its singers a unique first experience! New singer Rebecca Gulinello is making one of her preliminary performances in the production, taking to the stage after she only took to her first stage performance this January! We got to speak with the highly talented, new singer about her performance as Mimi in La Boheme. Here’s how it went. How excited are you to be playing Mimi this season? To be taking on this role for me is a great responsibility because this stage is my home base. Sydney Opera House is iconic and one of the most coveted stages any singer in the world wants the privilege of being able to sing on. It is where other greats have sung before me and all my incredible colleagues in the company currently perform. To believe in my own greatness and to trust in my voice, my hard work and efforts towards this debut has been the most challenging. The mindset of a singer is also similar to that of a professional athlete. You must maintain a sense of rigour, routine, mental… Read More

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

Tags: Best operas, La Boheme Australia, La Boheme opera, opera, opera australia, Rebecca Gulinello opera, Rebecca Gulinello singer

Opera Australia’s singer shine bright in new Adriana Lecouvreur

Opera Adriana Lecouvreur woman lying in purple water

by James Banham

Updated: 12/02/2023

From 20 Feb to 7 March, Opera Australia will put on the ultimate story of love, drama and costumery with a hint of espionage, that is Adriana Lecouvreur. Played this season by Opera Australia favourite, Ermonela Jaho, the role demands the finest talent in both singing and acting, and Albanian soprano’s renowned musical and storytelling skills make her perfect to return to Sydney to reprise the part. Michael Fabiano will return also, after his last performance with the Company in 2019, to make his role debut as the romantic lead, Maurizio. Coming from the cast of Tosca at the Metropolitan Opera, Fabiano will first perform his debut Australian solo recital at Melbourne City Recital Hall on February 12. See more info on that here. The production this year is a new reimagining by director Rosetta Cucchi, which will bring to life Cilèa’s operatic incarnation of the true story of Adrienne Lecouvreur is one of many adaptations of her fascinating life across a variety of artforms. Cucchi’s vision of this high-tension love triangle drama, including a stunning silks performance, will have audiences intrigued by Adriana’s scandalous tale until the final curtain falls. Book tickets at the Opera Australia website

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

Tags: Best Sydney operas, opera australia, sydney opera, What to see Sydney, What's On Sydney

Opera Australia’s chorus is getting their own run

by James Banham

Updated: 19/01/2023

From 4 February to 10 March this year, Opera Australia’s chorus will take centre stage, hogging the limelight for the first time in – ever! It’s an exciting time for any chorister, new or established, as they take to the centre stage of the Sydney Opera House’s Joan Sutherland Theatre in a new work sensibly named Chorus! The Opera Australia Chorus are the nation’s only full-time opera chorus and one of the busiest and most celebrated in the world, often praised by international singers and conductors as one of the finest choruses they’ve had the opportunity to work with. In addition to the operas that form OA’s 2023 summer season, the Chorus will present this one-hour concert production exploring musical terrain spanning five languages and three centuries of music. Iconic choral pieces from popular operas such as Madama Butterfly, Il Trovatore and Rigoletto, as well as lesser-known gems, will delight both the opera aficionado and those new to the artform. Chorus! will guide audiences on a journey through time exploring humanity and conflict and a return to nature and celebration of unity. Raw sets, costumes and lighting designs all place the focus on the mesmerising force of these voices and reflect the underpinned theme of togetherness, which is the essence of the Chorus itself. For more info and tickets, head to the Opera Australia website

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

Tags: opera australia, Opera best shows, sydney opera, sydney opera house, the f opera, the f sydney, What opera to see, What's on opera

Opera For All: free in Melbourne this February

by James Banham

Posted: 19/01/2023

If you’re looking for something of the musical variety to kill an hour this February in central Melbourne, consider Opera Australia’s first Opera For All! They have announced a stellar line-up of four brilliant singers to perform in the free BMW Opera for All concert in Fed Square on Saturday 4 February between 4pm-5pm. Annual concerts take place in Munich, and the series has also been staged in Berlin, London, and Moscow and now Melbourne’s joined the list, living up the city’s European heritage, feel and reputation as culturally iconographic. Singing some of opera’s most famous arias, the cast will comprise soprano Sophie Salvesani, direct from her mainstage opera debut in the recent acclaimed production of Don Giovanni; Melbourne-born and three time Green Room Award-winning mezzo-soprano Dimity Shepherd; Korean tenor Simon Kim, known for his concert performances with Opera Australia and internationally; and acclaimed baritone Luke Gabbedy whose recent role debut in La Traviata received high praise. The free, summer afternoon, open-air concert will feature opera’s biggest hits from Verdi to Puccini for an hour of thrilling high notes and soaring harmonies; it is the perfect way to dip your toe into opera for the first time or revisit some of opera’s best. For a flavour of what it might be like, checkl out our previous coverage on Opera Australia’s outdoor spectacles they host annually. 4pm-5pm, 4 February 2023 Tickets are free with no registration required | Fed Square, Melbourne opera.org.au/events/bmw-opera-for-all

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, FEATURES, MELBOURNE, OPERA

Tags: free opera, Melbourne open air opera, melbourne opera, opera australia

Don Giovanni is back on stage with Opera Australia

by James Banham

Posted: 20/12/2022

Putting an opera on is no easy feat. But it’s possible with a cast of thousands and some of the most talented singers the world – genuinely – has to offer. Opera Australia’s latest instalment of Don Giovanni is a mashing together of singers from every corner of the globe, coming together to celebrate their art and put on a show Opera Australia has been acclaimed internationally too many times to count. Ukrainian baritone Andrei Kymach will deliver his first performance in Australia as the malevolent anti-hero Don Giovanni. Kymach is no stranger to the torment of this malicious character, having performed the role with the Welsh National Opera earlier this year. Celebrated French-Israeli bass Yuri Kissin will also make his Australian debut in the role of Leporello, having sung this role in Maribor among many other performances in opera houses and festivals across the globe. Opera Australia Young Artist Sophie Salvesani will make her official mainstage opera debut for the Company in the role of Donna Anna, after stepping in last minute earlier this year as Violetta in La Traviata. Salvesani will share the role with OA Chorus member Celeste Lazarenko making her mainstage leading principal role debut. Another Chorus member, soprano Bronwyn Douglass, will make her mainstage debut in the role of Donna Elvira, sharing with Jane Ede who received a fantastic reception in this role in 2020. Reprising the role of Don Ottavio is Spanish tenor Juan De Dios Mateos who, in the 2020 production, “impressed with his striking, clarion clear tenor voice”… Read More

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

Tags: Don Giovanni, Don Giovanni is back on stage with Opera Australia, opera australia, sydney opera

Opera’s now free to all thanks to Opera Australia

by James Banham

Updated: 06/12/2022

From Europe to Australia, Opera Australia is teaming up with BMW for Opera for All. It’s been staged in Munich, Berlin, London and Moscow, and this year leading opera companies like Opera Australia is presenting world-class opera to the public for free. The Australian premiere of this global initiative will include a one-hour open-air concert that will take place on 4 February 2023 at Federation Square in Melbourne and include the most popular arias in opera. The performance will feature four of Australia’s finest opera singers accompanied by Orchestra Victoria. Think of it as a different incarnation of the renowned Opera in the Domain in Sydney or Opera in the Bowl in Melbourne; a massive outdoor opera spectacle open to all! Whether you’re new to opera or an old hat; been wanting to hear the music in real life for a first or keen to try something new, this event is an excellent way to dip your toe in. With some of the world’s most famous pieces of music and vocal work to go along with them, you’ll be hard done by to find something that doesn’t appeal to you! If you need a glimpse, take a look at some of our opera content, or listen to one of my favourites of all time: BMW Opera for AllSaturday 4 February 2023, 4:00 – 5:00pmFederation Square, Cnr Swanston Street & Flinders Street, MelbourneVisit opera.org.au for further event information.

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

Tags: Best opera Australia, opera australia, opera guide, Opera in Melbourne, the f opera, What opera to see

Opera like you’ve never seen it: a grungy Carmen is coming to Sydney

Carmen on Cockatoo Island Summer 678x449 1

by James Banham

Posted: 11/11/2022

Do away with the dresses and bring out the elbow grease; Carmen is back in Sydney. Normally the saucy southern Spaniard, bringing her heat from the ramparts of Seville to the stage of Sydney is dress-adorned and flaunting what she’s got the enjoyment of fellow cast and audiences – this this time ’round we’re looking at something different. Think Carmen with an Amy Winehouse beehive and all the animal prints your heart can desire. Oh, and motor bikes. It’s something new for Opera Australia, which over the past half a decade and maybe longer has erred on the side of reimagined traditional and minimalistically chic in its stage productions, costumery and on-stage – or pontoon in the case of the annual Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour! And it’s a welcome change. Under the direction of the acclaimed Liesel Badorrek, a cast of brilliant singers and musicians, 12 contemporary dancers and three motorbike riders have begun weaving together the story of Carmen, who Liesel says is the ultimate femme fatale. “This is Carmen as you’ve never seen it before. For me it is a story about misfits, fringe dwellers and outsiders and nothing says that like rock ‘n’ roll. “Sydney’s Cockatoo Island is an industrial and gritty place so we have taken that aesthetic to the next level with the sets and costumes to create a thrilling set. You will feel like you’ve entered our world of Carmen as soon as you step off the ferry, it really is going to be a unique experience,” said director Liesel Badorrek. Incorporating such… Read More

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

Tags: Best opera Australia, Carmen opera Sydney, Cheap opera, Cockatoo Island Sydney, opera australia, Opera Cockatoo Island, sydney opera, sydney opera house

Attila is finally on in Sydney after a long Covid wait

by James Banham

Posted: 26/10/2022

If you’re living in Sydney, then rejoice; Opera Australia’s finally putting on Attila by Verdi. It’s the Opera Australia company’s first co-production with the prestigious Teatro alla Scala in Milan, after the COVID pandemic suspended its hugely successful 2020 premiere after only two performances and its 2021 run days before opening. “We had magnificent feedback when Attila opened in 2020 and we’ve received requests to reschedule it ever since, so I’m ecstatic that we are able to present it again in the Sydney Opera House with most of the original cast and enable more people to experience such a marvellous production,” says OA Artistic Director Lyndon Terracini. And with a cast comprising Taras Berezhansky as Attila, Natalie Aroyan as Odabella, Diego Torre as Foresto, Mario Cassi as Ezio, Virgilio Marino as Uldino and Richard Anderson as Pope Leo I; you know it’ll be a quality production. What is Attila about? In a nutshell, telling the story of the King of the Huns’ invasion of Italy, this revenge opera will feature a world-class cast including renowned bass Taras Berezhansky who will reprise his role as the barbarous Attila. For more info and to book tickets for the show in Sydney, go to the Opera Australia website

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

Tags: Attila is finally on in Sydney after a long Covid wait, opera australia, opera sydney, sydney opera, the f opera

New opera by Opera Australia to see on Cockatoo Island Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 09/09/2022

Opera Australia is putting on another open air event outside of the world of Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour, this time on Cockatoo Island. Launching in November 2022 with a gritty new production of Bizet’s much-loved Carmen, giving visitors a thrilling opportunity to experience world-class opera under the stars with stunning harbour views. Celebrated director Liesel Badorrek and set and costume designer Mark Thompson have created an edgy and immersive production of Carmen, featuring motorbike stunts and nightly fireworks that are sure to give audiences a thrill. This unique Sydney summer experience is an all-inclusive night out, with customised dining offerings and pop-up bars onsite at one of the most spectacular locations in the city. See the production from 25 November – 18 December 2022. Tickets from $79 at Eastern Apron and Bolt Wharf, Cockatoo Island

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

Tags: carmen, carmen opera, New opera by Opera Australia to see on Cockatoo Island Sydney, opera australia

Opera Australia’s 2023 program – and the end of an era

Madame Butterfly Sydney Opera Australia geisha

by James Banham

Posted: 02/09/2022

Next year in 2023, Opera Australia will hit another one of its many milestones, though with a bitter-sweet undertone. Artistic Director Lyndon Terracini, the man behind the sumptuous programming and incredible progress of the company will see out his final season before moving onto other things. Though his last season will definitely not leave us wanting! In a clear indication of Opera Australia’s standing on the global stage, some of the biggest names in opera will be performing for the Company in 2023. The world’s leading tenor, Jonas Kaufmann, in demand sopranos Ermonela Jaho, Lise Lindstrom, Jessica Pratt and Amber Wagner, along with globally renowned Wagner interpreter Stefan Vinke, legendary bass Ferruccio Furlanetto and audience favourite Michael Fabiano, to name just a few, will all make very welcome returns to Australia in 2023. The season for 2023 will – as per usual – include a phenomenal line-up of productions with world-class singers from every corner of the globe. Think Chen Shi-Zheng’s amazing production of the world’s first digital Ring Cycle in Brisbane, with the cast from the original 2020 season largely intact; OA’s co-production of The Tales of Hoffmann will finally make it to the stage after being postponed in 2021 and everyone’s favourite, Alex Ollè’s Madama Butterfly. Karah Son will reprise the starring role of Cio Cio San that she performed to much acclaim for OA in the Joan Sutherland Theatre in 2019. Ultimately, 2023 is shaping up to be a year of celebration of Australian talent with many homegrown performers singing alongside their international counterparts, many in break-out roles. Among those… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, OPERA

Tags: Madame Butterfly Sydney, opera, opera australia, opera australia sydney, Sydney opera season, What opera to see Sydney

ARTS & CULTURE

NGV Architecture Commission 2024: Home Truth by Breathe

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In a bold reimagining of Australian home design, Home Truth by Breathe has been announced as the winner of the NGV Architecture Commission for 2024. This captivating installation takes the form of a labyrinthine house-within-a-house, challenging the notion of ever-expanding home sizes in Australia. At the heart of this design is a powerful message: rethink how we build to create more sustainable, higher-quality, and community-orientated living spaces. Home Truth invites visitors to step into a space that questions the ethical and ecological ramifications of the sprawling, oversized homes that have become prevalent across the nation. An external frame mirrors the silhouette of the average Australian home, which, at 236 square metres, ranks as the largest globally. Nestled within this silhouette is a serene timber structure, representing a smaller, more sustainable living footprint. This juxtaposition of scales is not just an architectural statement but a call to action. By contrasting these two structures, Home Truth shines a light on how smaller, more considered homes could help reduce suburban sprawl, mitigate environmental impacts, and enhance community wellbeing. It is a thought-provoking invitation for audiences to consider alternative, sustainable housing models that could lead to positive lifestyle changes. Visitors entering through the expansive garage door of the larger house find themselves navigating a maze of rooms and corridors, eventually arriving at the intimate timber retreat. This wooden haven offers a space for meditation and reflection, presenting a tangible vision of a more sustainable housing future. Constructed from framing pine and Saveboard, Home Truth uses materials emblematic of current… Read More

LOEWE PRECO SS25 SUNA FUJITA CERAMICS RGB CROPPED 4X5 3 5

Suna Fujita, LOEWE & Melbourne Art Fair to exhibit works

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In an exciting fusion of art and fashion, Melbourne Art Fair has announced a groundbreaking partnership with LOEWE, the esteemed luxury fashion brand renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship since 1846. This collaboration brings to life an exquisite preview of Jonathan Anderson’s renewed partnership with the Kyoto-based ceramist duo, Suna Fujita, marking a world-first exhibition in Australasia. The LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection made its debut with an intimate showcase at LOEWE’s Melbourne Collins Street store, offering an exclusive viewing experience of twenty whimsical ceramic pieces. These delicate works, celebrated for their intricate hand-painted scenes featuring ocean creatures and cosmic animals, seamlessly blend artistry with everyday function, transforming accessories and ready-to-wear items into enchanting works of art. Fair Director Melissa Loughnan expressed her enthusiasm for this creative union, stating, “This partnership is a reflection of Melbourne Art Fair and LOEWE’s shared commitment to supporting living artists and creatives, and an exciting precursor to the 18th edition of the Fair, which promises to be one of our most dynamic and anticipated showcases yet.” The collaboration not only highlights the playful essence of Suna Fujita’s ceramics but also underscores the vibrant art scene that Melbourne Art Fair champions. Launching today, the LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection is available both in stores and online at loewe.com, continuing until 29th December 2024. This artistic venture paves the way for the 18th edition of Melbourne Art Fair, set to take place from 20-23 February 2025 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fair will present a remarkable assembly of… Read More

Labyrinth in Concert comes to London’s Royal Festival Hall

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Prepare to be whisked away to the mystical realm of Goblin City with a legendary twist, as “Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert” makes its grand debut at London’s Royal Festival Hall. On Friday, 28th November 2025, fans of this beloved musical fantasy film will experience a spectacular fusion of cinema and live music that promises to be nothing short of magical. For the first time ever, Jim Henson’s original masterpiece, starring the one and only David Bowie, will come alive on stage with a captivating live band performance. Audiences will be treated to the enchanting melodies of Bowie’s original vocals, accompanied by the band in perfect harmony, all set against the backdrop of the movie projected on a large HD cinema screen. It’s a chance to relive the unforgettable music and adventure that has captured hearts for nearly 40 years since the film’s release in 1986. Produced by Black Ink Presents, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, this unique concert experience is set to enthral long-time fans and newcomers alike. Known for breathing new life into iconic films with live orchestras and bands, Black Ink Presents has previously dazzled audiences with events like Batman, Ghostbusters, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. CEO John Kinsner shares his excitement, stating, “I have always been a huge fan of the groundbreaking collaboration of Jim Henson, George Lucas, David Bowie, and Trevor Jones on this film, and bringing it to fans in a live concert screening experience is a dream come true. Getting to hear Bowie’s vocals with a live… Read More

Why rush to National Art School postgrad show

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Step into the vibrant world of the arts at the National Art School (NAS) as it proudly unveils the 2024 Postgrad Show, a spectacular showcase of over 400 works by Australia’s next generation of emerging artists. Open to the public until 17 November 2024, this annual exhibition has firmly established itself as a pivotal event in Sydney’s cultural calendar, attracting gallerists, collectors, and art enthusiasts eager to discover fresh talent. The Postgrad Show serves as a launchpad for these budding artists, featuring the final bodies of work by the Master of Fine Art (MFA) graduates. This year’s exhibition offers an eclectic mix of mediums including painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, collage, 3D printing, performance, photography, drawing, and ceramics. Each piece is a testament to the diverse themes being explored—ranging from natural and digital ecosystems to identity, the Anthropocene, philosophy, and personal narratives. Ceramics take centre stage with artists like Benjamin Akuila, who delves into themes of construction, authenticity, and plasticity, informed by his Tongan heritage. His work offers a compelling exploration of queer and diasporic identity through hybrid cultural narratives. Meanwhile, Chrystie Longworth uses ceramic forms to navigate femininity, identity, and domesticity, drawing inspiration from historical subversive messages crafted by women in textiles. Her work, with its tactile terracotta and pigment surfaces, invites viewers to experience a subtle play of light and texture. From the drawing studios, Quan Zhu Ma marries traditional Chinese philosophy with contemporary practices, using innovative materials like heated charcoal and ash. His work reimagines traditional ink art, creating a fusion that resonates… Read More

Christmas music treat in Sydney: Handel’s Messiah returns

11/11/2024

By James Banham

This December, the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs are set to enchant audiences once again with their much-loved Messiah concerts, a cherished Sydney Christmas tradition that has spanned over a century.