Pairing minimalist moments with intense, energetic improvisation, the fifth album from Brisbane jazz lads Trichotomy exhibits the deepening progression of this 14-years-young trio. more
Alexander the Great was renowned for his relationship with his horse. Legend states that the wild beast Bucephalus was tamed by the brave Alexander to become a magnificent (and dutiful) creature, that partnered the royal in many a great battle. While no longer does a rider sit astride his horse and charge across the battlefield, the tie between man and horse has long been a treasured one. more
The courts of law seemed a decidedly drab and (dare we say it) largely un-fun place until the arrival of Elle Woods in the comedic film Legally Blonde. The movie's frivolity and sparkly pink veneer hid an inspiring message at its core that taught of the importance in staying true to one's self. more
In the 1980s, Australia’s music scene was a blend of synth pop and pub bands, accompanied by an over-use of hairspray and some blindingly shiny lycra ensembles. Amongst a neon culture emerged Nick Cave, a gothic blend of angst and musicality who became one of Australia’s most distinctive and beloved musicians. more
LadyFest Brisbane is a part of an international movement that was born in the USA in the year 2000. The non-profit community-based event is essentially a celebration of women, designed to showcase, celebrate and encourage the talents and work of the feminine gender. As a part of the event, there will be live music, exhibitions, talks, workshops and bake sales to enjoy throughout the year at various Brisbane venues. Join the Ladyfest Opening Night at Beetle Bar on Friday March 8, where you can indulge in performances by Love Like Hate, The Boys, Tiny Spiders and Emma Bosworth. more
Patrons of the arts may desire to indulge in a tipple this weekend with the arrival of La Boite’s swish pop-up bar. Constructed by design firm Wrightson Stewart, the suave drinking den was erected to coincide with the arrival of the Holding the Man production at La Boite Theatre. The bar’s interior was inspired by the set of the play, with large mirrors, theatre lights and a wall of memorabilia (in ode to the characters) installed. The VIP area is available to enjoy only by patrons who have taken up one of the limited Holding the Man VIP tickets available – these include entry to the bar, reserved seating, two complimentary drinks and a free show program. @ La Boite, March 5–9 and 15–16 more
Those adept with a pen who also harbour a passion for digital media, science, technology, engineering and maths can now find a home in QUT’s The Cube Production Residency Program. The Cube is a huge interactive display at the heart of QUT’s Science and Engineering Centre, with a purpose to create an interactive environment for learning, research and engagement. The Cube Production Residency Program is currently offering a Digital Writing Residency – an opportunity for an individual writer (or one within a team) to develop a STEM-inspired (or science, technology, engineering and mathematics in education) project for display at The Cube. The successful applicant will have access to the facilitiy, the production studio and development space and receive financial support ($35,000!) to create the project. More information on application requirements can be found online. more
A new contemporary art space is set to open in West End this weekend, showcasing the critical and innovative works of early and mid-career artists. more
Art has developed far beyond the paintbrush and these days involves all manner of things physical – from music to dance – in artistic ensembles. A contributor to the performance-art movement is Melbourne-based creator Timothy Kendall Edser, who will be showcasing his latest work at Metro Arts this weekend. more
Just like knitting has seen a peak in popularity in recent years, getting crafty is no longer just for retirees or children. A rise in the homemade continues to grow in a craze that not only helps save some money in your pocket, but can also be a lot of fun. The Joynery will commence in March – a school coaching in crafty and creative acts across a slew of subjects. more
The USA may be renowned for its steady stream of pop princesses forming fast careers and devoted fan clubs like nobody's business. But this crowd of polished performers makes the musicians who don't fall into that category stand out all the more. One of the best examples of this is the dynamic Cat Power, who will return to Brisbane next week with a gig at The Tivoli. more
If you are a Brisbane-based creator finding the industry a prickly place to enter, IMA may be able to help. The local creative juggernaut is calling for applications for its annual Fresh Cut exhibition, a savvy curation of artwork from emerging local artists. Fresh Cut has showcased up and comers since 1997 and is limited to only representing the works of artists born or living within Queensland. Those who are up to six years out of art school (and who have not yet shown at IMA) are invited to submit portfolios for consideration – this must be done by March 29. The final works chosen for Fresh Cut 2013 will be on display from August 3 to September 21. more
Two of dancing’s rising stars have combined their talents to create the theatrical marvel that is Propel. Emerging choreographers Liesel Zink and Lucas Jervies have joined forces to form a series of performances in conjunction with Expressions Dance Company. Propel is stage two of the production – a 30-minute piece in which a crew of seven dancers perform. The theatrical display sees elements of set, costume and stage design combine with modern dance to create an elaborate show of physical skill and expertise. @ Bille Brown Studio, February 28 to March 2 more
This weekend is the last chance to catch Ian Fairweather: Late Works 1953–74 at the Queensland Art Gallery. As part of this final showing, writer Rodney Hall and composer Erik Griswold will perform a poetic homage to the iconic artist in The Fairweather Project. Held in Gallery 14 at the Queensland Art Gallery from 3:00 pm this Saturday March 2, The Fairweather Project melds narration, a string quartet and koto to explore Ian’s life, work and the psychology reflected within the exhibition. more
Your daily coffee can now come with some literary appeal thanks to the launch of the Tiny Owl Napkin Story project. Launched on Valentine’s Day, the project is an ode to all things romantic. The napkins feature the work of 12 Brisbane writers, including Jack Vening, Steven Beeston, Megan McGrath and Chloe Townson, who have each created a special tale for the project. The 12 stories range within the realm of love, with tales of plenty of joy and woe to indulge in. Launched at Riverbend Books and Teahouse, the literary napkins will be available at a number of Brisbane cafes and eateries for the month of February. @ Various Locations, February 14–28 more
While the comment of LOL tends to litter most modern text (and indeed real-life) conversations, it seems rare that true laugh-out-loud moments actually occur in day-to-day life. Hopefully proving that hilarity isn’t just for the technological realm, the Brisbane Comedy Festival returns to town next week, running February 26 until March 24. more
Australia’s leading short-film festival for the past 22 years, FLiCKERFEST returns to the Judith Wright Centre this week. The final program features the 100 most creative and cutting-edge short films from Australia and abroad, a curation that has been whittled down from a record 2,300 entries. more
Some people say that there are a handful of topics that shouldn't be discussed at any dinner party if you wish it to remain polite. From religion to money and politics, taboo topics have a way of ruffling feathers and generating a heated debate that doesn't partner well with dessert. Keep your opinions instead for the educated discussions of GOMA Talks. more
Surfing and Queensland go hand in hand thanks to the lengthy stretches of sandy shores that hug the state's coastline. Bleach* Festival is a celebration of the role surfing (and the sea) plays in Queensland's identity. Everyone is welcome to attend, from the dedicated surfers and sun worshippers to the more urbanised amongst us. more
In recent years, the live music industry has suffered under government-introduced liquor-licensing laws, reducing abilities for venues to host live performances. In an effort to protect small gigs around the nation, SLAM was created – an entirely volunteer-run party that stands for Save Live Australia’s Music. In 2010, SLAM held a rally through Melbourne in protest of these stern laws and, ever since, hosts National SLAM Day on February 23 in its memory. As a part of the day’s festivities, bundles of small gigs will be performed throughout the country, which you can go and support. You’ll find a full list of SLAM Day’s performers in Brisbane on the website. more
