TRAVEL

Why Crete is the digital detox destination you need

13/10/2024

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

Sydney Harbour Bridge sunshine afternoon

New experience at Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb: Climb & unwind

29/07/2024

By James Banham

BridgeClimb Sydney stands out as a must-do adventure for both locals and tourists, offering a chance to ascend the Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of Australia’s most iconic structures. Launched in October 1998, this experience promises an adrenaline rush and breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney Harbour. With various climb options ranging from approximately $160 to $390, including special sunset climbs, participants are guided by experienced leaders who ensure safety and share fascinating stories about the bridge’s history and engineering. Designed to be manageable for participants aged eight to 100, BridgeClimb Sydney is a family-friendly activity catering to a wide range of fitness levels. Climbers are equipped with all necessary gear, including a climbing suit and harness, ensuring safety throughout the ascent. As they make their way up the bridge, climbers can expect awe-inspiring moments and opportunities to capture incredible photos of Sydney Harbour. For those looking to tick this world-class experience off their bucket list, booking directly through the official BridgeClimb website is recommended. BridgeClimb Sydney is more than just a climb; it’s an unforgettable journey providing a unique perspective on one of Australia’s greatest architectural marvels, leaving lasting memories for both local residents and visiting tourists. Now this year, they’re adding something new to their experience! BridgeClimb Sydney is taking things to new heights—literally and figuratively—with its latest offering, the “Climb & Unwind” package. In an exciting partnership with Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La Sydney, this exclusive experience marries the thrill of scaling the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge with the luxurious pampering of a high-end… Read More

Welcome to Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach

24/07/2024

By THE F

Discover the harmonious blend of comfort and adventure at Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach. Nestled along the stunning south coast of Mykonos, guests can embark on various explorations, from traditional kaiique rides to the archaeological wonders of Delos, or even charter a boat to the unspoiled waters of Rhenia. The around-the-clock concierge service is on hand to facilitate travel and dining reservations, suggest activities, and cater to special needs, aiming to ensure a hassle-free and memorable stay. Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, as part of the exclusive Myconian Collection, offers guests priority bookings at top-tier spas and restaurants, enriching their experience even further. The venue is ideal for special events, with its unique and picturesque setting promising unforgettable memories. The dedicated team is focused on tailoring experiences to align with guests’ wishes, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to exceptional service. At Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, you are encouraged to slow down, relish every moment, and craft lasting memories in an environment that feels like a true home away from home. This sense of genuine hospitality and deep connection to the island’s heart defines Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, making it a tranquil haven and a unique gem in Mykonos.

Tag: sydney bars

Where to go Negroni Week in Sydney

by James Banham

Updated: 16/09/2024

Ah, Negroni Week—Sydney’s annual love letter to the classic cocktail that’s as bitter as a missed beach day in Bondi. In 2024, this week-long celebration promises to be bigger and bolder, drawing in cocktail enthusiasts who are as passionate about their drinks as Aussies are about their footy. Originating as a tribute to the iconic mix of gin, vermouth, and Campari, Negroni Week has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, celebrated with the same enthusiasm as a BBQ on Australia Day. This year, Sydney’s top watering holes are set to shake, stir, and serve with flair, all while supporting charitable causes. Whether you’re a Negroni novice or a seasoned sipper, you’ll find the city buzzing with pop-up bars, masterclasses, and even some unexpected twists on the classic cocktail. Imagine sipping a Negroni with a view of the Opera House—now that’s a cultural experience worth toasting! As we raise our glasses to good causes and even better cocktails, it’s clear that Negroni Week is the event that keeps our spirits high and our hearts warm. Cheers to that! Here are some places to go to celebrate… love.fish Address: Wulugul Walk, 7/23 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo NSW 2000 Info: Barrel-aged negroni – an Aussie twist on the classic campari, four pillars gin & sweet vermouth, aged in a sherry barrel Sax Address: 7A/100 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW 2000 Info: The Apollo – A dark chocolate negroni that blends Shiraz Gin, Amaro Fratelli Ramazzotti, Mozart Dark Chocolate Liqueur, and Regal Rogue Bold Aged Amaro. Saisons Address: 400 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW 2000 Info: Saisons are offering a… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: Negoni Sydney, negroni week, sydney bars, sydney cocktails

The Bar at Sydney Common unveils new menu and aperitivo hour

by James Banham

Posted: 17/06/2024

The Bar at Sydney Common, located within the prestigious Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park, is set to unveil a new bar menu and aperitivo hour. Launching on Friday, June 14, the new menu will be offered within Sydney Common’s dedicated bar in the venue’s glass atrium with sweeping views over Hyde Park. The new offering will provide guests of Sydney Common the perfect moment to relax with a martini or as a leisurely stopover on the way to dinner in the dining room. As part of the new beverage program, the venue will introduce an aperitivo hour offering from Tuesday to Friday, 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with $8 mini martinis alongside $6 wines, gin & tonics, and Sydney Beer Co lagers. “Whether you’re joining us for aperitivo hour on the way home from work, or looking to extend your dining experience with a martini or glass of Champagne and some premium snacks on your way to dinner in the dining room, our new bar menu is the perfect new addition to round out the Sydney Common experience,” says head chef Jamie Robertson. The new bar menu will offer an array of small plates to complement the existing dining room offering, which highlights Jamie’s philosophy of allowing produce to shine in a simple, pared-back manner. Menu highlights include Sydney Rock Oysters with finger lime and rice vinegar; roasted artichokes with parmesan custard; fried whitebait with Sichuan salt; prawn katsu sandwich; and a cured meats platter with Wagyu bresaola, saucisson, and LP’s mortadella; alongside a selection… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, SYDNEY

Tags: New Sydney bars, sydney bars, Sydney Common, sydney restaurants

Toby’s Estate new coffee experience in Brisbane

by James Banham

Updated: 01/05/2024

Not a morning person? This Wednesday might just change your mind. In a delightfully caffeinated announcement, Toby’s Estate, the esteemed Australian speciality coffee roasters, is set to open a new flagship café in the vibrant suburb of Newstead, Brisbane. To mark this occasion, they’re brewing up an offer that’s hard to resist – FREE coffee for all! For two hours on the morning of their grand opening, coffee aficionados and sleepy commuters alike will have the opportunity to indulge in some of the finest coffee Australia has to offer, courtesy of Toby’s Estate. This isn’t just any brew; it’s crafted by Australia’s second-ranked coffee roasting champion and served by Brisbane’s top baristas. A visit to this event promises not only a delicious cup of joe but an educational experience into the art and science of specialty coffee. The catch? Be sure to arrive early to secure your spot at this caffeinated celebration. Event details: This Wednesday morning experience is poised to make your week a little brighter. But the excitement doesn’t end with free coffee. Toby’s Estate is renowned for its line-up of specialty coffee cafés both in Australia and internationally, and the Newstead café is the latest addition to this impressive portfolio. Visitors can look forward to award-winning coffees, single origins, unique blends, high-end frozen coffee, and the chance to mingle with fellow coffee enthusiasts and skilled baristas. The Toby’s Estate Brisbane flagship café will be open from 6.30am to 2pm daily, further enriching the local coffee culture with free monthly tastings. These gatherings… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, SYDNEY

Tags: cabaret, Cabaret Sydney, sydney bars

Sydney’s Coogee Bay Hotel hosts Bottomless Seaside Session – the ultimate Sunday sesh

Hands of women around a table holding cocktails

by James Banham

Posted: 14/01/2023

Because no one wants the weekend to end, Coogee Bay Hotel’s new Seaside Sessions as of January is the ultimate excuse to indulge in sumptuous eats, bottomless drinks, and breathtaking beach views. Every Sunday, the Balcony Bar transforms into a seaside paradise of live music, delicious 10-course share menu, and 90 minutes of unlimited Prosecco, Aperol Spritz, Peroni, Mimosas, and more. Plus, with its prime location perched above the hotel’s famous garden, you’ll have the best seat in the house (if not all of Coogee) to soak up the sunny vibes. It’s not a walk-in thing, though. With a predetermined menu and gastronomic experience in-wait for you, you’ll have to sign up to try the bite-sized treats; try the tender pork belly bites with refreshing pea tendrils, tart pickled apple, and rich brandy jus. For a taste of the sea, dig into the succulent blue swimmer crab with orecchiette and a kick of lemon and chilli. And for a hearty main, enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth Josper grilled beef brisket with velvety whipped sweet potato, refreshing minted zucchini, and a generous drizzle of bourbon jus. That’s just some of the offerings on this delectable menu. When: Sundays Time: 11:30am – late Where: Balcony Bar Cost: $129pp Menu: See menuBookings: coogeebayhotel.com.au/whats-on/seaside-sessions

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

Tags: Best places to drink Sydney, Coogee Bay Hotel, Sunday sesh Sydney, sydney bars, sydney pubs, Sydney's Coogee Bay Hotel hosts Bottomless Seaside Session the ultimate Sunday sesh, THE F Coogee Bay Hotel

Have a cocktail in Sydney, save a tree in the Daintree

by James Banham

Posted: 11/11/2022

It’s not often you find a bar with an interstate social purpose and manifest that benefits so much more than its own tills. Especially not in Sydney! That is until you discover Daintree Sydney, the social enterprise first cocktail bar that’s putting the benefit of the Daintree Rainforest and the greater Australian ecosystem at its core. At a time when we need it most! The unique micro-bar is a proud partner of HalfCut – an environmental movement that engages people to raise funds to protect rainforests and wildlife. HalfCut, with Daintree Sydney’s fundraising support, is currently focusing on preserving the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland, working closely with the Traditional Owners of the low land Daintree. Daintree Sydney donates half of all its profits to HalfCut. Since opening its doors in July 2022, the bar has raised more than $52,000 and counting via their HalfCut fundraising page. The cocktail list features drinks with seasonal native ingredients and where possible, fresh herbs grown by the bar. Cocktail classics with a native twist include a Gumnut Negroni, Quandong Daiquiri and a Piña Nut, Daintree Sydney’s take on the Piña Colada with coconut-wash white rum, macadamia butter and wattle seed. Alongside the cocktails is a wine and beer list that champions New South Wales producers and highlights minimal intervention and natural wines. As a further nod to Daintree Sydney’s transparent environmental pledge, the menu also points out how far each of their wines and beers have travelled as a real carbon cost. Find Daintree Sydney at 106b George Street,… Read More

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

Tags: Bars that give back, best bars sydney, cocktails bars sydney, Daintree cocktail bar Sydney, Daintree Rainforest bar Sydney, Daintree Sydney, sydney bars

Celebrate 4th of July in Sydney at Salty’s Bondi

by James Banham

Posted: 19/06/2021

With international travel still off the cards, Salty’s is celebrating 4th of July with an all-day pop-up party that combines America’s west coast vibes with a distinctly Bondi energy. Serving a generous Southern California-inspired Bottomless Package all day long, specials on White Claw Seltzer buckets and Brooklyn Lager’s Bel Air Sour straight outta the US, and a special edition American-Style Beef Burger with crispy waffle fries, the event will be a true Southern Cali celebration. The Bottomless Package will include a salty margarita on arrival, two hours of unlimited beer, wine and spirits and an all-American feast including Cheeseburger Sliders, Stuffed Potato Skins, Loaded Fries and Mini Hot Dogs. The party will feature live DJs all day, mixing Salty’s classic funk and disco tracks with American favourites, like Bruce Springsteen, Kanye West and Neil Diamond. When: Sunday 4 July, from 11am to 12am Where: Salty’s, 108 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach NSW Cost: Free entry +$99 for the Bottomless Package option Read more and get your tickets at the Salty’s website

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

Tags: Celebrate 4th of July in Sydney at Salty's Bondi, Salty's Sydney, Saltys Bondi, sydney bars

Make the most of freedom: drinks at the Argyle Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 14/11/2020

It’s summer, we’re free and you need to go out with friends. The Argyle has you covered and has turned itself into an oasis of alcohol-fuelled enjoyment to keep you ticking the whole weekend. A summery oasis in the heart of the city, it comes complete with tropical flowers and vines cascading from the ceiling and intertwined with lights, disco balls and inflatable swimming pool paraphernalia. Just to get you in the mood. Head into the Argyle every Wednesday to Saturday from 4pm to 7pm and treat yourself to two floors, six bars and safe socialising measures in place for a themed summer soiree on the calendar every Friday night. Entry is free, but bookings are recommended. Dress in theme for ultimate selfie satisfaction. For more, head to the Argyle website.

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

Tags: Argyle Sydney, Best places drinks Sydney, Freedom drinks Sydney, Make the most of freedom drinks at the Argyle Sydney, sydney bars, sydney drinks guide

Where to play with balls in Sydney this summer

by James Banham

Posted: 10/01/2020

Before you get too excited, no, this isn’t a shout out to your local sauna. Side Bar Sydney is really taking hold of the new law change in the state and throwing its first ball party in the venue this summer. It’ll all take place over the Australia Day long weekend (26 January), complete with a 3-day adults-only Ball Pit Party with 250,000+ balls, confetti cannons, DJs, cocktails and much more. Since opening in 2002, Side Bar has become an institution amongst students, travellers and young Aussies. As part of the Millett Group, it shares its reputation with the internationally recognised Wake Up! hostel brand, and is regularly the first stop on Sydney’s nightlife calendar for many solo travellers. For more, head to the Side Bar website.

Category: LIFESTYLE

Tags: Ball party Sydney, Side Bar Sydney, sydney bars, Sydney bars guide Bars in Sydney

Glebe favourite The Toxteth pub gets an upmarket refresh

by THE F

Updated: 16/11/2022

Occupying a prime position on the corner of Glebe Point Road and Ferry Road for almost a century, The Toxteth recently underwent an update. Glebe’s beloved local has long been the pub of choice for catching up with friends and family over drinks and good food with live music. In late 2018, The Toxteth, or The Tocky as it’s known by locals, was given a makeover. Retaining its rustic exposed brick walls, The Tocky has been fitted out with plush leather banquettes, leather paneling on the bar, copper fixtures, and timber finishes, all set around a soft neutral olive colour palette. The courtyard now features a retractable roof, making it a viable dining option regardless of the season. To accompany the new decor, the food and beverage menu has also undergone a new look. The Tocky’s classic rump steak and chicken schnitzel remain, however they’re now joined by new plant-based options. The vegetarian and vegan fare ranges from delightfully crispy popcorn cauliflower and Italian-inspired mushroom arancini to kelp noodle salad with salt and pepper tofu or a variety of hot bowls. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, join ‘Sienna’s Brunch Club’, a bottomless Bellini brunch. For the first time, The Toxteth is serving cocktails and mocktails. The Gins and Roses is a beautifully balanced floral option, while the Espresso Martini on tap from the Lexington Hill Collection is sure to be a millennial favourite. The range of cocktail carafes provide the perfect accompaniment to a sunny afternoon with friends, and the lychee and passion fruit… Read More

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

Tags: Best Sydney pubs, London bars, sydney bars, Sydney pub guide, THE F Toxteth, Toxteh London, Toxteth Sydney

World Class Sydney turns the city into stage for Bartender of the Year 2020

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

If your life revolves around alcohol and making cocktails (to serve, not drink), then you’d know what World Class is. It’s regarded as the world’s biggest and most influential bartending competition, instrumental in transforming fine drinking and cocktail culture around the world. This year, it comes to Sydney, where it’ll turn the city of Sydney into a vibrant hub of events, experiences and festivities as an elite group of finalists battle it out to be crowned the world’s best. None of this happens until 2020, but we spoke to one boss chick who’s taking it on herself, a bartender at Isabel, the 2019 World Class Finalist who had this to say: “World Class truly paves the way for innovation in our bars. It helps reshape and redefine what the cocktail experience is by challenging what bartenders know about technique, creativity and charisma. It’s also a great chance to delve into the minds of our peers and see what they get up to, providing a global community where we can learn from and be inspired by each other”. Meanwhile, she and a guy named Tim Philips-Johansson will be competing in a competition that runs in more than 60 countries and has supported, educated and inspired more than 300,000 bartenders through its training and advocacy programme. Actually, Tim won in 2012 and co-owns a bar in Sydney. He said: “Our bars and bartenders have long been celebrated for being the best in the business, qualified by the fact we are one of only two countries to produce… Read More

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

Tags: best sydney bars, Diageo Sydney, sydney bars, Sydney World Class, World Class Bartending

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.