Cairns Vibrance - Issue 17 - Dec 2023 & Jan 2024

ARTS : MUSIC : DANCE : EXHIBITIONS : FESTIVALS : GRANTS : FILM

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ISSUE 17 : DEC 2023 JAN 2024

VIBRANCE

SUMMER EDITION MUSIC IN SESSION : JESSE ROYAL ft dubwise THE NATURE OF NATURE : TAPESTRY OF CHAOS 1 MIA DYSON : carols in the park

Cairns Regional Council acknowledges the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji peoples who are the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters on which we work.

Cover image: (L-R) Jesse Royal, Toshi Sakamoto, Accessorise Encaustic on board 2023 by Jennifer Valmadre

Vibrance promotes the arts and cultural programs of Cairns Regional Council.

Don’t miss the hundreds of other things to do around Cairns, from dog parks and beaches to walking tracks and playgrounds.

Download the My Cairns App now to find all events delivered by Cairns Regional Council and more.

CONTACT US Cairns Regional Council Customer Service PH: 1300 692 247 www.cairns.qld.gov.au @CairnsArtsAndCulture

In This Edition In the wise words of Nelly, it’s gettin’ hot in here! There’s a lot to love about summer in the tropics, especially when getting out and about in this breathtaking region. Summer in the tropics gives us time to reset and reflect on the year that was, and this Summer Edition at 35 pages is sleek but still packs a punch in the Arts end of the year!

Pages 6 & 7 give a great overview of all the musical wishes we’ve been granted in the past 12 months, and how supportive we are of live and local music in Cairns. Pages 8 & 9 shine the spotlight squarely on Understory Film Festival and Understory High winners, while if you’ve ever wanted to ask a Festival Producer what and how they do it, page 14 is for you.

Flame.Arts is a must read for any emerging artist wanting to get involved a little more in the industry, and there’s a lovely piece on the recent Australian Watercolour Muster, our Artists At Work.

We thank you for your support and attendance in 2023, and can’t wait to see all of you, and more of you, in 2024.

The Year That Was

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Cairns Choral Society: Les Misérables

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Understory High Wrap Up

8

Cairns Pride Art Exhibition

17

Understory Film Festival

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Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF)

Our Venues

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Understory High

RADF Grant opportunities

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RADF outcomes

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Spaces for Artists

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Australian Watercolour Muster

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Around the Tanks

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EVENTS DECEMBER

Music In Session

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Flame.Arts

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Staff Interview - Amanda Belanger

14

Camilla Ker: Tapestry of Chaos

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16

Les Misérables

Jesse Royal ft Dubwise

23

Music in Session

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Marita D’Arcy: Exhibition

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Marita D’Arcy

Persona: Exhibition

25

JANUARY

Soundtracked: Exhibition

25

Compositional Utterances: Exhibition

30

Convergence: Exhibition

26

Compositional Utterances: Workshop

31

School Holiday Workshops

26

The Nature of Nature: Exhibition

31

Welcoming Cairns: Exhibition

27

Les Miserables

32

Mind of a Street Kid: Exhibition

27

I Am Here: Exhibition

32

Still Life (Good Job): Exhibition

28

The Chinese Zodiac: Exhibition

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Mia Dyson

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MAP

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VENUE INFORMATION

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Marina Prior & David Hobson Marina Prior and David Hobson

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Carols in the Park

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Tapestry of Chaos: Exhibition

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Accessorise: Exhibition

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Welcoming Cairns

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Thundamentals . The Cat Empire Horrorshow . Tex Perkins . Lior & Domini Nattali Rize . Eric Bibb . Stella Donnelly . DJ Jazzie B + DJ Dexter

Urthboy . Mat McHugh + The Beautiful Girls Los Carocoles . Joe Gaia . Paulini . Caravana Sun

Michael Franti . Regurgitator . Custard

GFlip . The Jungle Giants LT . Clint Boge . Thelma Plum . Frenzal Rhomb . Dan Sultan

Cub Sport . Katie Noonan . Coterie . Pub Choir . Katy Steele . Vince Jones

Busby Marou . Thirsty Merc . DMA’s

The Waifs . The Delta Riggs . Forest. . Bic Runga

James Reyne & Ella Hooper . Soweto Gospel Choir . Jon Stevens + Noiseworks

Boy & Bear . The Teskey Brothers Hot Potato Band . The Pad Boys . Tia Gostelow . Short Stack Grigoryan Brothers . Jesse Royal . Marina Prior & David Hobson . Danielle Davis

Vika & Linda . Aloe Blacc . Bob Evans

Hylidae . The Black Sistaz . Jeremiah Johnson . Amber Farnan . Hope D

Poetic Chaos . Dallas Woods . Loren Ryan . Eddie Skiba . Vivien Aisi VIBRANCE

Greta Stanley . The Meanies . Miss Tee . Tullara . Rob Howe . Tessa Devine . Jelly Oshen

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Cinnamon Sun . Broden Tyrell . Exotic Potion Cookies . Bobby Maguire

Lady Valiant . Teen Jesus & The Jean Teasers . WILSN

Jasmine Bradley-Cadman . Toshi Sakamoto . Lucy Gallant . Hoolia

THE YEAR THAT WAS It’s been an outstanding year for explosive good tunes, hip hop bangers, horns-in-the-air rock, tender-hearted guitar jams and riffs, reminiscent punk-rock, can’t-stay-seated world music, feelings-heavy roots-pop, and travellin’ troubadour folk music. We’ve sung along, danced ‘til our feet hurt, and woke up the next day smiling at the gig that was. We’ve come back to Tank 4 Up Late, discovered new local music at Music In Session, danced outside under the stars at Munro Martin Parklands, had our souls soar inside CPAC. Every year takes a huge amount of passion and tenacity to bring the music to the people, something we all love to do. And as 2023 comes to a close, we look back at the year that was… and get very excited about what comes next!

Thundamentals

Busby Marou

Regurgitator

Meg Mac

The Cat Empire

Dan Sultan Michael Franti

LT

VIBRANCE

The Jungle Giants

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UNDERSTORY HIGH 2023 WINNERS

Understory High was launched on Friday 6 October as the brand new subsidiary film festival exclusive to high school students at the Tanks Arts Centre.

The screening and awards event saw a diverse selection of short films that represent the creative voices and visions of our region’s young filmmakers, each film telling a unique and compelling story.

Understory High is a celebration of creativity, passion, and the boundless potential of our high school students’ filmmaking skills and talents.

Two $500 vouchers for Garricks Camera House courtesy of Essential Screen Skills were awarded to the Best Overall Filmmaker and People’s Choice Award recipients.

VIBRANCE

Each Understory High winner was submitted to the main event, with four successfully making it through as finalists.

Singularity by Shirley Vue received a Highly Commended and Imogen Loukas was acknowledged as Best Emerging Filmmaker for Taking Me Nowhere.

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Essential Screen Skills Best Overall Filmmaker: Shirley Vue (UNDERSTORY FILM FESTIVAL HIGHLY COMMENDED)

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Essential Screen Skills People’s Choice Award: Spin to Win by Ella Pearce

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Best Year 7-9 Best Narrative: The Duel by Cooper Boundy, Kobin Powell & Tyler Fehlhaber

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Best Year 7-9 Animation: The Creative Urge by Glenn Alberts

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Best Year 10 Narrative: Achievement Unlocked by Kara Zulkarnain (UNDERSTORY FILM FESTIVAL FINALIST)

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Best Year 10 Non-narrative: A Date With Nature by Alexis Laine-Geldens & Charlotte Farrell

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Best Year 10 Animation: Insta-transform by Sharan Singh

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Best Year 11-12 Narrative: Spin To Win Ella Pearce (also People’s Choice)

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Best Year 11-12 Non-narrative: Taking Me Nowhere by Imogen Loukas (UNDERSTORY FILM FESTIVAL BEST EMERGING FILMMAKER)

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Best Year 11-12 Animation: Searching by Niamh Hinton (UNDERSTORY FILM FESTIVAL FINALIST)

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2023 WINNERS BEST FILM HIGHLY COMMENDED

BEST EMERGING FILMMAKER BEST EXPERIMENTAL FILM BEST ANIMATION

BEST DOCUMENTARY BEST MUSIC VIDEO BEST NON-NARRATIVE

Zombies Vs The Mens Shed by Travis Bain Singularity by Shirley Vue Taking Me Nowhere by Imogen Loukas The White Face or Blak Art by Jack Wilkie Jans Shorty and the 3 Snakes

by Xavier Barker and Karin Calley Tree of Life by Vino Flower 1962 – The Pad Boys by Slim Deal Frames of Japan by Jason Macalpine

BEST NARRATIVE

Infinitely by Joel Devereux

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

Kogei by Jason Macalpine

Understory Film Festival is proudly supported by Screen Queensland and the Queensland Government, and the Regional Arts Development Fund, a partnership between the Queensland Government and Cairns Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

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The People’s Choice award was not finalised at the time of print.

It will be announced on our website cairns.qld.gov.au/understory

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OUR MAJOR VENUES PRESENTING THE ARTS

TANKS ARTS CENTRE 46 Collins Avenue, Edge Hill

The Tanks, nestled amongst lush rainforest at the base of Mount Whitfield, is surrounded by the Cairns Botanic Gardens just four kilometres north of the heart of Cairns city. The centre was originally the World War II Royal Australian Navy Fuel Installation depot. Three of the original five tanks have been repurposed into an acclaimed live music venue and unique arts centre.

OPENING HOURS Tank 5 Live Music: Generally Thursday - Saturday nights (tickets required)

This carefully restored heritagelisted venue presents a vibrant program of shared arts experiences suitable to a diverse audience with maximum engagement in mind throughout the year.

OPENING HOURS Free Entry.

Tuesday to Saturday: 10.00am - 4.00pm Monday and Sunday: Closed

tanksartscentre.com

Tank 4 Gallery: Free Entry.

Monday to Friday: 9.00am - 4.30pm Weekends and public holidays: 10.00am - 2.00pm Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre: Monday to Friday 8.30am - 4.00pm Weekends and public holidays: 9.30am - 2.00pm

@TanksArtsCentre

COURT HOUSE GALLERY 38 Abbott Street, Cairns City cairns.qld.gov.au/thecourthouse

The dynamic program of performances, events and exhibitions at Court House Gallery is experimental in nature, topical and relevant to community and culture of our Far Northern region.

@TheCourtHouseGallery

CAIRNS PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) is an award-winning, world class theatre and performance space in the heart of Cairns. With multiple performance spaces, the versatility of the venue enables the creation of a vibrant entertainment program including theatre, dance, concerts, contemporary circus, opera, film, and comedy.

OPENING HOURS The foyer opens one hour before the show start time.

Situated in the same precinct as CPAC, Munro Martin Parklands is the number one outdoor event space in Cairns. Come for a day-time stroll amongst the flowering vines, birds and butterflies, explore the fairy light covered trees at night or experience world-class performers on stage under a tropical night sky.

OPENING HOURS Free Entry.

6.00am - 8.30pm, seven days a week except on ticketed event days.

Hot food and cold drinks are available from Florence Social in the foyer.

9-11 Florence St, Cairns City cairnsperformingartscentre.com.au @CairnsPerformingArts

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MUNRO MARTIN PARKLANDS

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Corner Florence and Sheridan streets, Cairns City cairnsperformingartscentre.com.au @mmpcairns

If you enjoyed the Court House Gallery’s Out On The Lawn series, the summer version – inside in the cool chambers of the Court Room - is for you.

VENUE HIGHLIGHT

All rise… the Music is now In Session.

Music In Session’s free live music at the Court House Gallery is the perfect spot to wind down with colleagues and friends, with a dynamic program combining art and music.

Gather your crew, pull up a chair or wander around the gallery and relax into Music In Session’s artsy vibes.

Round it off with a drink from the bar and enjoy your start to the weekend.

Join the Facebook event to stay up to date on all things Music In Session so you know which artists are performing each month.

Discover your new favourite artists in this wonderfully intimate series that introduces you to new creators in a space where art and music meet.

UPCOMING MUSIC IN SESSION FRIDAY 8 DECEMBER FROM 5.30PM - 7.00PM

cairns.qld.gov.au/courthousegallery

GALLERY

VIBRANCE

Featuring musicians Toshi Sakamoto and Hoolia.

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FLAME.ARTS Flame.Arts fans the flames of artistic expression, igniting creativity in young and emerging artists, artists with disabilities and First Nations talents. Launched in 2020 by Creative Life in response to the Youth Arts Strategy, the program has progressively expanded, offering mentoring, professional development opportunities, and a platform for artists to explore, develop, and showcase their talents.

VIBRANCE

Split into four arts pathways, Flame.Arts offers opportunities and professional development, to support a vibrant pool of talent in the region.

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WHERE PERFORMERs SHINE BRIGHT

With an emphasis on original music writers, Flame.Music is the stepping off point for young, emerging musicians, providing opportunities to play to audiences, participate in industry workshops, and establish valuable connections within the music industry. From the annual Local & Vocal showcase and the Introducing… stage at Cairns Festival through to support gigs for touring artists, Flame.Music provides a pathway for young musicians.

Flame.Stage beckons performers to seize the spotlight and unleash their creativity. From the physical performance showcase of We.Move, Cairns Festival’s largest annual youth dance event, through to Launch Pad, an open stage for all creatives. Flame.Stage is a place for aspiring dancers, actors, poets, comedians and performers of all kinds to explore creative concepts, expand their repertoire and gain the confidence to shine on stage.

A Silver Screen Dream

THE CANVAS OF IMAGINATION

Flame.Screen caters to local young filmmakers, providing a range of professional development opportunities on their cinematic journey. From school holiday workshops to the fanfare of a film festival, Flame.Screen offers opportunities for emerging filmmakers in the region. 2023 saw the development of Understory High Film Festival, specifically dedicated to regional students, enabling artists to nurture their unique styles and build professional portfolios while fostering invaluable connections within the cinematic community.

For emerging visual artists, Flame.Visual opens a world of opportunities. The Flame Exhibition and Mentoring Program provides emerging artists from years 10 and up with the guidance and support to bring their creative visions to life. From concept development and ideation to exhibition openings, participants receive mentoring every step of the way from an established artist. The canvas is there to paint and Flame.Visual ensures the transformation of a vision into an awe-inspiring exhibition or installation.

cairns.qld.gov.au/flame.arts flameprojects@cairns.qld.gov.au 0418 670 678

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THE SOUND OF CREATIVITY

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BEHIND THE ARTS We shine a spotlight on roles within the Creative Life team that nurture the thriving arts and culture scene here in Cairns, making it accessible to every person everywhere.

We talk to Associate Festivals Producer, Amanda Belanger

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Tell us… what exactly do you do?

Where do you start? My role is to provide everything that’s required to get a festival off the ground. Supporting the Artistic Director with programming, contracting shows and artists, organising behind the scene negotiations and technical requirements, creating mean spreadsheets, managing all the moving cogs (of which there are millions) and working with other departments for assistance. I’m the conduit between marketing, technical, venues, and artists. Festivals are a collaborative beast.

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How on earth did you get here? Talk us through your career progression.

I’m a very curious person by nature, so I’ve held many different roles in various industries including sales, media, education and construction. This has allowed me to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. I’ve always been creatively minded and creatively driven. I got my diploma in events because I’m naturally good at logistics and planning, mapping things out.

This led to an events role with JUTE Theatre Company, igniting a love of live performance. What you’re delivering to an audience is an experience; they take it home with them and they hold it within them. They can’t see it or touch it, but they can feel it. An experience is invaluable, and I wanted to be a part of delivering those moments.

I remember sitting in the JUTE office and we could see CPAC being built. I said to the team that I was going to work there one day. I only took myself half seriously, but then an admin officer role at Tanks came up, which I was successful in. Not long after, I moved to a short-term role as Client Relations & Events at CPAC. From there I moved to Community Life working with all our community venues - pools, campsites, BBQs, Barlow Park, the Esplanade. Festivals use a lot of our property spaces, so that experience definitely put me in good stead for this role.

Eventually, the opportunity to join Festivals team as Associate Producer opened up, and I - being curious by nature - decided to jump at it.

What are the main things you need to consider when putting together a festival?

Programming is very much like a chess board - where will it go, does it suit this venue, this audience; does it come inside budget, do we have resources, is there an existing engaged audience, or do we need to develop one? These events exist for our vibrant community, and ensuring growth of the arts and culture scene is part of the experience.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

The actualisation of the festival. It’s watching the reactions, the wonder and enchantment of the audience. The applause, the laughter, the tears, the oohs and ahhhs. That’s why I get out of bed, filled with enthusiasm to do this job.

Describe a moment when a show or production moved you.

This year’s Cairns Festival performance, Gulgi-barra. I had only just seen snippets of it during rehearsal, and I remember racing in just before its final show and I had the opportunity to sit with the director, producer, and choreographer. I think I had tears and goosebumps, whether I wanted them or not! When I spoke to other people, I realised it wasn’t just me - this was absolutely a very special performance.

What advice do you have for those looking to enter this field?

Be curious. It’s worked for me. Back yourself. Be tenacious in the discovery of new skills. Take notes from those you respect.

Fail. Mess up. Make mistakes. And therein lies your learning and growth. This is where you learn to hone skills and identify areas you need to improve on.

For employment opportunities at Cairns Regional Council, head to cairnsqld.mercury.com.au

RESIDENCY AND EXHIBITION

Tapestry of Chaos

by Camilla Ker In a captivating journey of creation, Camilla Ker’s residency at the Tanks Arts Centre promises to explore art, therapy, and storytelling. With a focus on textile art, Camilla’s project, Tapestry of Chaos, invites you - the audience to delve into the rich tapestry of Australian quilt-making traditions, echoing the resourcefulness and resilience of rural communities, particularly those in the Far North Queensland region.

From December 20 to January 31, Camilla’s exhibition will be a dedicated space for textile artistry inspired by Cairns’ lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems. The remarkable exhibition will be available to experience at the Cairns Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, welcoming patrons from 8.30am until 4:00pm on weekdays, and from 9:30am to 2:00pm during weekends.

Here, stitches carry both intention and meaning, mirroring the ebb and flow of life, much like the unpredictable nature of epilepsy, Camilla’s lived experience. With a slow and deliberate approach to hand-sewing, Camilla’s art transforms her familiarity with epilepsy into a visual narrative that captures the beauty and unpredictability of the natural world. In this therapeutic escape from the stresses of daily life, she channels the essence of postmodern chaos into intricate patterns and textures.

Camilla’s exhibition reaches beyond the boundaries of art creation. This residency isn’t just about art; it’s a journey of creation, reflection, and connection. Camilla’s project addresses key themes such as creative engagement, community involvement, innovative site response, extending the life and accessibility of the work, income generation, social inclusion, and raising public awareness.

VIBRANCE

Don’t miss this artistic journey that promises to engage, empower, and raise awareness. Camilla Ker’s exhibition is an invitation to explore the therapeutic power of art and the resilience of the human spirit. Join her in reflecting and connecting as she explores the profound themes of epilepsy, chaos, environmentalism, and the resourcefulness of Far North Queensland’s heritage. It’s an enriching experience for both the artist and the community.

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Can You Hear the People Sing Les Misérables is one of the iconic musicals of our time.

Premiering in English in 1985, it has been presented to great acclaim all over the world and is a benchmark for amateur and professional musical theatre companies alike. Winner of multiple Tony Awards, three Oscars, three Golden Globes and four BAFTA awards – the musical Les Misérables is renowned for its inspiring storyline and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s astonishing musical composition.

Now a reworked production of the acclaimed production – based on Victor Hugo’s 19th century novel about the struggles of ex-convict aspiring for redemption – returns to Cairns in 2024, presented by the Cairns Choral Society.

VIBRANCE

The first ever amateur production of Les Misérables in the southern hemisphere was performed here in Cairns, by the Cairns Choral Society in 1993. So, it seems only fitting that 30 years on, the Society has chosen to stage Les Misérables once more, to bring the Society’s Centennial Celebrations to a close.

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for stealing a loaf of bread. Once released he remains an outcast of society and in a stroke of desperation breaks his parole to gain his freedom. Police inspector Javert vows to hunt him down and bring Valjean to justice.

The talented, 60-strong cast is made up of locals ranging in age from 10 to 60 years old. They portray the realistic, harsh lives of the citizens of Paris, before and during the revolution; where redemption is sought, love blossoms and hope is eternal.

Choral Society veterans Venera Walsh and Joanne Wright will be heading up the production team as director and musical director respectively, alongside choreographer Sarah Thorne and costume designer Sheree Barnes.

“Despite its name this is an uplifting show with well known songs, like Bring Him Home, I Dreamed a Dream, On my Own and the ever-popular Master of the House,” says Musical Director Joanne Wright.

“This show is regarded by many as the greatest musical of all time” says Venera Walsh the show’s Director, “and we are excited to bring it to the Cairns Performing Arts Centre in January”.

“There is so much talent in this cast, including Michael Newman who has played leading roles in The Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, and The Producers, to name a few.”

Based on Victor Hugo’s novel, Les Misérables is a poignant, emotional story that follows ex-convict Jean Valjean’s lifelong struggle for redemption after being imprisoned

Les Misérables | Cairns Performing Arts Centre 18th to 27th January, 2024

Jamie Cole

EXHIBITION

OUT, PROUD AND ON SHOW “My love for art, my love for the queer community, and my love for Cairns, sort of all came together and I thought [curating this exhibition] would be the perfect opportunity.”

Jamie Cole was the volunteer curator of 2023’s Cairns Pride Art Exhibition, which was from 7 October to 5 November at Tank 4 Gallery.

Jamie, who had several works featured in the exhibition himself, said that this year focussed on works that reflected on and celebrated the LGBTIQ+, brotherboy and sistergirl communities. The annual exhibition provides a safe place and platform for queer artists to show their work, he said.

Featuring over 60 works from across Australia and the globe, with submissions coming in as far as Baltimore in the USA, the exhibition was installed so that each work was out and proud, to celebrate each artist and to come out of the closet.

Jamie said that the response from both the queer and arts communities was incredible, and is sure the exhibition will continue for many more years. Cairns Pride Art Exhibition has been running in Cairns for over a decade and is part of the broader Cairns Pride Festival.

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“A lot of people in our community don’t get the chance to express themselves. They internalise a lot of their fear and anxiety. Art is a great way for people to express themselves and just get their feelings out and open.”

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6 Ways To Fund Your Art

Are you an artist or are you working with artists on a creative project in Cairns?

Is there a professional development opportunity on the horizon that would help you improve your skills?

Cairns Regional Council may be able to help you achieve your goals, with support available in the form of cash or through the in-kind provision of space such as galleries, concert stages, and performance spaces.

Funding ranges from $500 to $25,000, and there are a range of different opportunities available throughout the year.

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MAJOR ROUND

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When: Round opens April 2024 What: Cash support is provided for projects and programs of arts and cultural experiences, such as performances, exhibitions, professional development, community arts and cultural development, and initiatives to strengthen cultural tourism. Two Major Grant rounds occur annually, closing in Apr/May and Sep/Oct.

When: Open all year round What: Access to resources to support arts practice, such as art materials, consumables, catalogue, and marketing materials, is available all year.

How much: Up to $500

How much: Up to $10,000

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CITY OF THE ARTS HERO PROJECT

When: Closing April/May 2024 What: This grant round is for a highcalibre project with a major public outcome for any artforms, including exhibitions, music concerts, theatre productions, film, and community arts and cultural development projects.

How much: Up to $25,000

SMALL ARTS GRANT

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INDIVIDUAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT GRANTS

When: Open all year round

What: All year round, artists with disabilities, young people (aged 12-15), and Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people can apply for funding to develop projects that benefit them, such as professional development opportunities, project costs, or materials.

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OTHER GRANTS AND SUPPORT

What: Funds are available all year round to attend professional development opportunities, including mentoring, conferences, arts markets and tours.

Support is available for the use of council venues for all arts and cultural activities with a public outcome.

How much: Up to $1000 (within Queensland), up to $1500 (for interstate or international travel)

Up to $10,000 in value.

Visit cairns.qld.gov.au/online /apply/grants

cairns.qld.gov.au/radf

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When: Open all year round

How much: Up to $1000, or up to $1500 (for people with a disability).

ONLINE APPLICATIONS

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FLAME.ARTS ACCESS - LEG UP GRANTS

Before submitting an application, you must discuss your idea with the council’s Arts and Cultural Grants Coordinator, who can provide assistance and advice.

Contact radf@cairns.qld.gov.au or (07) 4032 6603.

The Regional Arts Development Fund is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Cairns Regional Council to support local arts and culture in Regional Queensland.

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DIDG - Deaf Indigenous Dance Group Deaf Indigenous Dance Group (DIDG) took centre stage at the Undercover Artist Festival with the help of the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).

Undercover Artist Festival exists to profile and promote outstanding work by performing artists with disability.

Since its debut in 2015, Undercover Artist Festival has quickly grown to become one of Australia’s foremost disability-led performing arts organisations. Promising to challenge the status quo and provide a platform for artists to showcase their true authenticity, the festival provides opportunities to create and develop new professional works, and also opens opportunities for paid performances.

As part of the festival, DIDG performed an amazing 30-minute dance extravaganza which culminated in inviting everyone up to learn how to shake a leg at Club Undercover on Friday 22 September. The troupe also performed a Welcome to Country on the opening night of the festival on Wednesday 20 September.

Five dancers from DIDG received funding from the RADF Flame.Arts Leg Up Grant. These grants offer up to $1000 for Young People and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People and up to $1500 for people with disability to develop arts and cultural projects.

DIDG are on a mission to promote their abilities and talent, proudly announcing that they will be performing at DanceRites in November.

Image credit: Undercover Artist Festival 2023. Photo by Jade Ellis Photography.

VIBRANCE

Since its inception in 1997, DIDG has celebrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders who are deaf or hard of hearing. Their mission is to showcase and promote their abilities and talents, providing a safe space for members to connect with each other.

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SPACES FOR ARTISTS

School of Arts

Inspirational creative works are developed in inspiring and interesting working spaces. In Cairns, there are several ways to track down access to spaces. The Cairns Arts and Culture Map website lists both Cairns Regional Council and private spaces with listings ranging from galleries and halls to outdoor stages and arts centres. If you have a space for hire, create a free listing on the site.

Council offers affordable and accessible spaces for artists, community, and cultural groups throughout the city for production, meetings, events, and rehearsals. Spaces for hire include halls, meeting rooms, a theatre, and galleries. Grants are also available to help cover hire costs and resources for eligible people and groups. Search online for ‘Cairns Council grants’.

Natalia Mann - Multi Arts Residency, Tank 3

APPLY FOR AN ARTIST’S RESIDENCY Cairns Regional Council hosts a multi-Arts Residency program open to visual artists, musicians, writers, performers, multimedia artists and community cultural developers. Applications are invited for short or long-term projects.

Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre

Residency accommodation is walking distance from Cairns Botanic Gardens and Tanks Arts Centre in Edge Hill. Studio, workshop, and presentation spaces are available at Tanks Arts Centre, Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, Cairns Performing Arts Centre, and The Court House gallery.

Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre Expressions of interest information can be found on our website: cairns.qld.gov. au/experience-cairns/arts-and-culture/arts-venues/artsresidencies.

Tank 4 Gallery, Tanks Arts Centre

ABOUT COUNCIL VENUES Hold a meeting, rehearsal or workshop Cominos House - Rose Blank Gallery cominoshouse.com/room-bookings Cairns Junior Choral Society - Main Hall cjcsoc@hotmail.com School of Arts – The Meeting Room, Veranda and School Room cairnsmuseum.org.au Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre and Amphitheatre cairns.qld.gov.au/tanks/venue-hire/botanic-gardens-visitor-centre

Host a community event, performance or conference Cairns Performing Arts Centre cairns.qld.gov.au/cpac/hire Tanks Arts Centre - Tank 3 and Tank 4 cairns.qld.gov.au/tanks/hire Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre and amphitheatre cairns.qld.gov.au/tanks/hire/bgvc

www.cairns.qld.gov.au

Australian Watercolour Muster, The Court House

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ARTISTS AT WORK

AUSTRALIAN WATERCOLOUR MUSTER The Australian Watercolour Muster featured an exhibition of watercolour paintings by artists from around the nation and a six-day public program of workshops and events at Tank 3 and at the Court House Gallery.

The evening Launch Night on September 8 featured a live painting completed in 60 minutes by Master Artist Nicolas Lopez from Peru, and was live streamed along with the ‘Colour of Cairns’ event the following day. Guests joined in both

events from the Philippines, Canada and Italy, highlighting the widespread international appeal of this exhibition. Workshop tutors for the week also highlighted a diverse flavour with presenters travelling from Peru, Canada, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.

The goal of the Australian Watercolour Muster is to create a broader platform for Australian artists to engage with the international arts community, and specifically for the watercolour community to take their work into new and creative fields of endeavour, creating opportunities to share studios and exhibitions spaces where possible in this world.

VIBRANCE

This program also featured a selection of workshops with tutors from around the world, as well as two Picnic and Paint events. Here, workshop participants experienced the amazing colours and shapes of our Indigenous artists at the Quinkan Caves and then to the cool waters of the tropical waterfalls with artist, Phillip Edward, creating a live Immersive Watercolour in the Water experience.

21

Around the Tanks BOTANIC GARDENS VISITOR CENTRE & GIFT SHOP A range of gifts, souvenirs and books from local designers and artists.

Open 8.30am - 4.00pm Monday to Friday 9.30am - 2.00pm Weekends

WORKSHOPS

SO MUCH MORE Discover an unlimited world of possibilities at Cairns Libraries Books & magazines Clubs Computer Access Copy & Print DVD’s eAudiobooks eBooks eLearning for all ages eMagazines eNewspapers Events, Activities & Workshops Free WIFI Meeting Room Hire

Various days Community workshops range from Botanical Drawing and Basketry Weaving to Ecstatic Dance and Resin Art. See tanksartscentre.com for details

FREE GUIDED HERITAGE TOURS Tours are conducted every Thursday (MayOctober) at 10.00am, departing from the Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre. Discover the history and significance of the Tanks Arts Centre.

FRIENDS OF THE BOTANIC GARDENS TOURS Tours leave from the Friends House in the Flecker Gardens Friends Flecker Gardens Tours Monday to Friday 10.00am

BIRD TOURS

VIBRANCE

Join experienced birders on guided birding tours of the Botanic Gardens precinct.

22

Tours leave from the Friends House at 7.30am every Tuesday

FREE FIRST 5 FOREVER PROGRAM It’s never too early to talk, read and share stories with your child. First 5 Forever is a family literacy program aimed at supporting stronger language and literacy environments for children aged 0–5 years and their families. Visit our website for more information about session dates, times and locations.

FREE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES Read, learn, create and discover at Cairns Libraries.

Offering a wide range of events for all ages, Cairns Libraries provides you with opportunities to connect with ideas, themes, and personalities. Visit the What’s On page on our website for more information and to discover what’s coming up at your local library.

FREE ONLINE RESOURCES Discover how easy it is to acces the library from home 24/7. Our eLibrary collection includes eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies, TV shows, magazines, and learning resources, such as online newspaper and family research archives. Visit the Cairns Libraries website to learn more about eLibrary collections.

No bookings required.

www.cairns.qld.gov.au/library

Internationally acclaimed, Grammy-nominated reggae singer-songwriter Jesse Royal is headed to North Queensland on his first ever Australian tour.

From Bob Marley encouraging the masses to Get Up, Stand Up to Peter Tosh urging the police to Legalize It, it’s easy to think of reggae as a genre built to preach social consciousness. But Jamaican singer-songwriter Jesse Royal says it’s much more than that.

“If you look around the world, reggae is literally the only genre whose message is dedicated to truth. It’s about love, it’s about strife, it’s about war, it’s about spirituality, it’s about reclaiming certain truths about our identity; that’s what reggae is dedicated to.”

Renowned for his numerous 21st century reggae anthems including Modern Day Judas, the Rastafarian singersongwriter is one of Jamaica’s most charismatic talents.

Jesse Royal FT DUBWISE

Jesse Royal is fast becoming one of Jamaica’s rising reggae stars. Collaborating with the likes of Stephen Marley, Kabaka Pyramid, Protoje, Vybz Cartel and voicing the popular Collie Buddz, Cali Roots Riddim.

Royal toured extensively in Jamaica, Europe and the United States, before releasing his second full length album, Modern Day Judas, which was nominated for a 2022 Grammy Award.

Over the course of his career, Jesse Royal has collaborated with some of the world’s most respected artists, musicians, and producers. Through vivid storytelling rooted in the belief of a universal truth, his music carries a message of hope, strength, love, and consciousness. Not just a musician, Jesse Royal is a father, a community activist, a thought leader, and a global citizen guided by his spirituality and sense of righteousness.

DECEMBER

His debut album Lily of Da Valley (2017) hit #1 on the U.S. Billboard Reggae Album chart, and his eagerly-awaited follow up LP Royal dropped June 11, 2021. He then earned his first Grammy nomination last year for this album in the category of Best Reggae Album.

“Reggae has a different tone, a different feeling, a different mood. It speaks to you in different ways,” Royal explains. “ It’s definitely royal music.”

Jesse Royal ft Dubwise Tanks Arts Centre December 7

THURSDAY 7 DECEMBER VENUE: Tank 5, Tanks Arts Centre Adult $35 : Concession $30 PRICE: All ticket prices include booking fee.

Doors 6.30pm | Show 7.30pm TIME: RATING: 15+

VIBRANCE

Catch Jesse Royal in Soundsystem style, singing alongside DJ Dubwise.

23

EXHIBITION

Music in Session Everybody rise! Music is now in session…

Bringing musical magic to the Court House Gallery. Merging local talent with some of the best and most diverse outof-town talent we can muster, it’s fresh, fun, and free... and right in the centre of town!

Gather your friends and loved ones, and settle in for an evening where art and music meet.

December’s Music In Session features two incredible local musicians, Toshi Sakamoto and Hoolia.

Marita D’Arcy MACHANS BEACH: ITS COMMUNITY, KIDS, AND THE BRIDGE

Over the last twelve months, artist Marita D’Arcy has been making portraits of exceptional individuals and community role models of that tight knit little suburb, Machans Beach.

Marita herself does not live in Machans, but her son and grandchildren do. Starting with the school community, and then through to the long-term residents, Marita has met, gathered stories from, and painted portraits of the most extraordinary and inspiring people in the community.

Toshi Sakamoto is a Kuranda based singer-songwriter influenced by both the Japanese traditional and modern music as well as world music and healing sounds. He plays his original folk songs focusing on people’s hearts, lives, hopes and memories.

Hoolia is a Cairns based Argentinian artist who sings original songs in English and Spanish, threaded to tell stories of inspiration and empowerment.

FRIDAY 8 DECEMBER

VENUE: Court House Gallery PRICE: Free TIME: Show 5.30pm RATING: PG

UNTIL SUNDAY 10 DECEMBER

VENUE: Tank 4, Tanks Arts Centre PRICE: Free OPEN: 9.00am - 4.30pm weekdays 10.00am - 2.00pm weekends INFO: maritadarcy.com.au IMAGE DETAILS: Mary and the Bush Turkeys, acrylic on paper 2023

Persona

Soundtracked

Persona is a commemorative project featuring the cultural & creative engagements of Australian contemporary veteran artists. A chance meeting of Australian National Veterans Arts Museum (ANVAM) founder, Tanja Johnston, & photographer, Michael Christofas in 2017, Tanja & Michael brought their interests in showcasing who veteran artists are together to form Persona.

Soundtracked explores five decades of Australian music through the eyes and ears of a 50 year old music tragic who can’t hold a tune or play an instrument.

Persona honours contemporary Australian service personnel who form the veteran arts community. It aims to provide a glimpse and insight into current & ex-serving veteran artists and their persona as artists & creatives.

UNTIL 10 DECEMBER VENUE: Tank 4, Tanks Arts Centre Free PRICE: 9.00am - 4.30pm weekdays OPEN: 10.00am - 2.00pm weekends INFO: thejunctioncairns.com

(50 YEARS OF AUSTRALIAN MUSIC) REGULAR RICK (RICKY BERESFORD)

A visual soundtrack of personal memories linked to songs that start with small town AM 70’s radio, progress to 80’s pub rock, embrace the 90’s indie scene and stumble through the 2000’s to adulthood.

UNTIL SUNDAY 10 DECEMBER VENUE: Tank 4, Tanks Arts Centre Free PRICE: 9.00am - 4.30pm weekdays OPEN: 10.00am - 2.00pm weekends INFO: tanksartscentre.com

IMAGE DETAILS: Image credit: Adam Lo, Brett Neale, Scott Perrin, Donna Bourke, Jason Westcott and Kat Rae by Michael Christofas, Persona: Contemporary Veteran Artists, Digital Photography

IMAGE DETAILS: The Power and the Passion, acrylic on paper Regular Rick 2023

VIBRANCE

CONTEMPORARY VETERAN ARTISTS

DECEMBER

EXHIBITION

25

Convergence TAFE QLD DIPLOMA GRADUATES OF 2023

Presenting the graduate artists of TAFE Queensland, Convergence is a refined selection of work, covering a wide array of fine art mediums.

Witness the fusion of styles, mediums, and perspectives as these seven emerging artists come together to celebrate the completion of their CUA51120 Diploma of Visual Arts studies through TAFE Queensland.

Featured Artists: Allysha Sordelli, Amanda Rowen, Bianca Sordelli, Elaine Murray, Eva Surmova, Kristilea Oliveri, Naomi Evans.

UNTIL SUNDAY 10 DECEMBER VENUE: Tank 4, Tanks Arts Centre Free PRICE: 9.00am - 4.30pm weekdays OPEN: 10.00am - 2.00pm weekends INFO: tanksartscentre.com IMAGE DETAILS: No Self Control, kinetic sculpture, Elaine Murray, 2023

School Holiday Workshops Creative Life’s Holiday Workshop series returns in December, providing a week of fun, inspiring, practical and educational workshops, for young people between the ages of 8 and 17. The workshops cover a range of art-related topics, including history-rich illustration, the art of stop motion, the mesmerising world of animations, the graceful realm of contemporary dance, and the creative journey of wearable art making.

Participants will have the opportunity to master scene composition and learn basic framing skills, express themselves through contemporary dance, and craft their own wearable art pieces. The range of creative opportunities is bound to inspire and engage young minds.

All sessions are FREE, but bookings are essential due to limited availability. More information, including bookings and accessibility details, is available at tanksartscentre.com.

MONDAY 11 - FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER

VENUE: Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre PRICE: Free - registration essential TIME: Workshops start at 10.00am RATING: PG INFO: tanksartscentre.com

Welcoming Cairns In 2021, Cairns Regional Council joined the Welcoming Cities Network. As part of Council’s commitment to being a Welcoming City, the Welcoming Cairns exhibition will showcase diverse stories of our migrant residents, and those who are doing the important work of welcoming them.

The Welcoming Cairns exhibition seeks to celebrate diversity in Cairns and foster feelings of belonging, cultural pride, and community spirit. The exhibition will provide an opportunity for locals and migrants of all backgrounds to get to know each other and explore the diverse narratives that make up our city.

The Mind of a Street Kid TRISTAN HARRIS

DECEMBER

EXHIBITION

EXHIBITION

Tristan Harris hunts for cars to photograph. His hunting grounds are the streets of Cairns, the gritty, industrial areas, the shopping centre car parks, car sales yards, mechanics, and smash repairers. This is where he finds his subjects.

Tristan’s photography is inspired by the aesthetics of grunge, nu metal and hip-hop music videos of the late nineties and early noughties. There is a colour tone and a musical tone that is dark and metallic.

With a brilliant eye for composition and a handful of phone aps, Tristan achieves a style of photography that he admits is retro and nostalgic.

VENUE: Tank 4, Tanks Arts Centre Free PRICE: 9.00am - 4.30pm weekdays OPEN: 10.00am - 2.00pm weekends INFO: Andre.McMillan@cairns.qld.gov.au IMAGE DETAILS: Cairns Indonesian Association

THURSDAY 14 DECEMBER - SUNDAY 14 JANUARY LAUNCH: 6PM FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER VENUE: Tank 4, Tanks Arts Centre PRICE: Free OPEN: 9.00am - 4.30pm weekdays 10.00am - 2.00pm weekends INFO: tanksartscentre.com IMAGE DETAILS: You get too comfortable, You never really got up. 1963 Rover P6, Lifeline Bunda Street Photographed: July 20th 2023. Finished editing: August 3rd 2023

VIBRANCE

FRI 15 DEC - SUN 14 JAN LAUNCH: 6PM FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER

27

EXHIBITION

Still Life (Good Job)

Marina Prior & David Hobson

Liesl Hull draws everything, with anything. Whatever is in front of Liesl can become the subject of a sketch, or a watercolour painting, or a picture coloured with highlighter pens, if that’s what happens to be at hand.

After 6 years of selling out 180+ shows around the country and over 85,000 tickets, Soprano and Tenor powerhouse legends of Musical Theatre and Opera, Marina Prior & David Hobson embark on their Encore Tour, The 2 Of Us in up close and personal mode. Brand new songs, back-stage and life stories, and including the classics from their vast repertoire spanning 35 years in a two-hour spectacular show.

LIESL HULL

For this exhibition, Liesl has practiced an exercise of sitting before an arrangement of vessels, and plants, and other ornamental objects people have brought for her, and rendered what she sees with perhaps the king of the hard line, charcoal.

THU 14 DEC - SUN 14 JAN LAUNCH: 6PM FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER VENUE: Tank 4, Tanks Arts Centre Free PRICE: 9.00am - 4.30pm weekdays OPEN: 10.00am - 2.00pm weekends INFO: tanksartscentre.com IMAGE DETAILS: Christmas time – Xmas on happy holiday - OK Adelaide S.A. charcoal on paper by Liesl Hull 2023

2023 ENCORE TOUR

Accompanied by renowned pianist David Cameron, in a twohour intimate performance, Marina and David will perform their classics from productions such as The Phantom of The Opera, Cats, 9 TO 5 The Musical, Evita, Les Miserables, West Side Story, Guys and Dolls, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and La Boheme, to name but a few, as well as favourites from their award-winning albums.

Hear the classics, their recorded favourites with a hint of humour thrown in! Definitely a show not to be missed!

SATURDAY 16 DECEMBER

VENUE: CPAC Theatre PRICE: Adult $69.95 : Concession $64.95 Child (3-16 years) $34.95 : Group (10+) $64.95 All ticket prices include booking fee.

TIME: Doors 6.30pm | Show 7.30pm RATING: PG

Carols In The Park Carols in the Park will return to Munro Martin Parklands for 2023 with a live stage production. This year’s event will embody a ‘Baubles and Bows’ theme, featuring a wide variety of local artists.

Watch the show live on stage at Munro Martin Parklands and BYO picnic, blankets and chairs, or live streamed in airconditioned comfort in CPAC Theatre.

Tapestry of Chaos CAMILLA KER

DECEMBER

EXHIBITION

During her time as an artist in residence at the Tank Arts Centre, Camilla Ker will be creating a series of textile artworks that explore themes like epilepsy awareness, therapeutic hand sewing, and empowerment. Drawing from the rich tapestry of Australian quilt-making traditions, Camilla infuses pieces with the spirit of Wagga quilts, inspired by the resourcefulness of rural communities.

Using farm ephemera, like coffee and grain sacks, sourced from the Far North Queensland region, her work pays homage to the heritage of these communities, shedding light on the experiences of individuals living with epilepsy and echoing the chaotic nature of seizures and the resilience required to navigate them.

SUNDAY 17 DECEMBER VENUE:

Munro Martin Parklands - live Cairns Performing Arts Centre - live stream

PRICE: Free TIME: Doors 4.00pm | Show 6.30pm RATING: PG

VENUE: Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre Free PRICE: 8.30am - 4.00pm weekdays OPEN: 9.30am - 2.00pm weekends INFO: tanksartscentre.com IMAGE DETAILS: I Need Space (detail), quilt by Camilla Ker 2023

VIBRANCE

WED 20 DEC - WED 31 JAN

29

Accessorise SIXFOLD PROJECT

Accessorise is an opportunity for creative play from Australian artist collective, Sixfold Project. Walking the line between rigorous studio practice and notions of commercial ‘success’, the artists dabble in creative baubles, wearable art, and sculptural works to enhance our bodies, lives, and spaces.

Following the thread of creative experimentation, Accessorise delivers an array of work expanding our understanding of art making, art collecting and the fluidity of studio practice.

Taking art off the walls and onto the streets, Accessorise features work from Raewyn Biggs (Cook Islands), Barbara Dover (FNQ), Louisa Ennis-Thomas (VIC), Julie Poulsen (FNQ), Rose Rigley (FNQ) and Jennifer Valmadre (FNQ).

UNTIL SATURDAY 6 JANUARY VENUE: Free PRICE: OPEN: INFO:

Compositional Utterances MANDY QUADRIO (TRAWLWOOLWAY), SUSAN HAWKINS AND JAN OLIVER

Compositional Utterances is a site-responsive, collaborative exhibition by three artists whose material-led practices share feminist and ecological concerns. The exhibition is the product of deep conversation and collaboration between Brisbane-based artists Mandy Quadrio, Susan Hawkins and Jan Oliver.

FRIDAY 12 JANUARY - SATURDAY 2 MARCH LAUNCH: 6PM FRIDAY 12 JANUARY VENUE: Court House Gallery, Abbott St Free PRICE: 10.00am - 4.00pm Tuesday - Saturday OPEN: INFO: cairns.qld.gov.au/courthousegallery IMAGE DETAILS: Compositional Utterances, installation view, University of Sunshine

IMAGE DETAILS: Allsorts, Barbara Dover, Found objects 2023

Coast, 2023. Image: Carl Warner.

WORKSHOPS

Public Programs FREE WORKSHOPS COMPOSITIONAL UTTERANCES SATURDAY 13 JANUARY Join Compositional Utterances artists Mandy Quadrio, Susan Hawkins and Jan Oliver for a hands-on workshop, in which participants will transform some of the artists’ favourite everyday materials into a kinetic, sound installation.

Bookings essential.

EXHIBITION

The Nature of Nature

JANUARY

VENUE: Court House Gallery, Abbott St PRICE: Free TIME: 10.00am - 12.00pm INFO: cairns.qld.gov.au/courthousegallery BOOKING: cairnsregionalcouncil.snapforms.com.au/form/ compositional-utterances-workshop

THE JUNCTION CLUBHOUSE CAIRNS SATURDAY 20 & 27 JANUARY SATURDAY 3 & 10 FEBRUARY Join artist Joanne Bingham for a series of free painting workshops. Your individual workshop pieces will become part of this evolving artwork and returned to you once the exhibition finishes.

SAT 20 JAN: Painting on canvas with acrylics SAT 27 JAN: Painting wooden birds with acrylics SAT 3 FEB: Bug and fungi painting with acrylics SAT 10 FEB: Watercolour leaf printing Suitable for ages 16 and up. Bookings essential.

Class limited to 10 participants per session VENUE: Tank 4, Tanks Arts Centre PRICE: Free TIME: 10.00am - 12.00pm INFO: thejunctioncairns.com BOOKING: trybooking.com/CLWBH

The Nature of Nature exhibition, an extension of its successful 2022 debut at the Kite Gallery, highlights the unique perspectives of individuals navigating mental health challenges.

Presented by The Junction Clubhouse Cairns and curated by the talented Jaamy Slarks with production by Mariana Verdaasdonk, it showcases individual works in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, drawing, 3D printing and mixed media. This exhibition fosters an inclusive community, providing a safe space to connect and share stories.

THU 18 JAN - SUN 25 FEB LAUNCH: 6PM FRIDAY 19 JANUARY VENUE: Tank 4, Tanks Arts Centre Free PRICE: 9.00am - 4.30pm weekdays OPEN: 10.00am - 2.00pm weekends INFO: thejunctioncairns.com IMAGE DETAILS: Collage, various artists: acrylics, paper, alcohol inks, mixed media

VIBRANCE

THE NATURE OF NATURE

31

Les Misérables Cairns Choral Society’s talented Directors Venera Walsh and Joanne Wright are proudly bringing one of the world’s most iconic and longest-running musicals, Les Misérables, to Cairns’ audiences. Joining them and leading a very talented orchestra will be Musical Director, Margaret Willis and Assistant Musical Director, Emma Baker.

Les Misérables tells the story of Jean Valjean, a former convict who spends a lifetime seeking redemption. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France and the aftermath of the French Revolution, this timeless story of intertwined destinies reveals the power of compassion and the quiet evil of suffering. As Valjean’s quest for a new life carries him into Paris and to the barricades of the Student Revolution, he is hunted by Inspector Javert and also the ghosts of his past. Amidst a battle for the soul of Paris, he discovers the true meaning of love and salvation.

Performed in over 40 countries and 22 languages, and with a haunting, swelling score that features such famed songs as I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own, and Bring Him Home, Les Mis brings Victor Hugo’s revolutionary novel blazingly to life.

FRIDAY 19 - SATURDAY 27 JANUARY

VENUE: CPAC Theatre PRICE: A-Reserve $65 : B-Reserve $55 TIME: Doors 1 hour prior | Show 7.30pm Sun 21 & Sat 27, 2.00pm RATING: PG

I Am Here

INDIGENOUS DESIGN LABS (IDL) I Am Here pays tribute to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders throughout Cairns. The purpose of the exhibition is to honour and celebrate Elders while also creating an opportunity for the young Indigenous creatives to connect and yarn with them on a regular basis. Elders are the keepers of our cultural knowledge and this project set out to highlight the importance of keeping connection to them (old people). These portraits will be accompanied by an explainer about the person in the portrait and will be animated with a social media augmented reality feature to enhance the visual display.

FRIDAY 12 JANUARY - SATURDAY 2 MARCH LAUNCH: 10AM SATURDAY 20 JANUARY VENUE: Court House Gallery, Abbott St Free PRICE: 10.00am - 4.00pm Tuesday - Saturday OPEN: INFO: cairns.qld.gov.au/courthousegallery IMAGE DETAILS: Aunty Eslyn Wargent (Ewamian People), photograph, IDL Crew Curated by Peggy Kasabad Lane

The Chinese Zodiac

Mia Dyson

The Chinese Zodiac exhibition celebrates twenty years of strong cultural ties, exchange and friendship between sister cities, Cairns and Zhanjiang.

Her albums have been widely praised. The Moment received 4 stars in Rolling Stone Australia while Idyllwild was hailed as “Brilliant” by Daytrotter debuted in the CMJ top 100 in the US, and scored a win as Double J Radio’s ‘Artist of the Year’ in Australia.

HAYLEY GILLESPIE & THE ZHANJIANG CALLIGRAPHY ASSOCIATION

The exhibition will feature original artworks of the twelve animals of the Chinese Zodiac calendar from Cairns artist, Ms Hayley Gillespie, and members of the Zhanjiang Calligraphy Association.

‘TENDER HEART’ TOUR Mia Dyson is an award-winning guitarist and singer/ songwriter who has toured with the likes of Stevie Nicks, Joe Cocker, Eric Clapton, Chris Isaak and many more. A multiple ARIA & APRA award-winning artist, Dyson was recently named one of Australia’s top 25 guitarists of all time.

JANUARY

EXHIBITION

On sale Monday 4 December.

VENUE: Tank 4, Tanks Arts Centre Free PRICE: 9.00am - 4.30pm weekdays OPEN: 10.00am - 2.00pm weekends INFO: cadcai.org.au IMAGE DETAILS: Wooden dragon (detail), acrylic on canvas by Hayley Gillespie 2023

FRIDAY 23 FEBRUARY

VENUE: Tank 5, Tanks Arts Centre PRICE: One Price $35 All ticket prices include booking fee.

TIME: Doors 6.30pm | Show 7.30pm RATING: PG

VIBRANCE

FRIDAY 19 JANUARY - SUNDAY 25 FEBRUARY LAUNCH: 6PM THURSDAY 25 JANUARY

33

CAIRNS INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC AIRPORT C O L L I N S AVE .

CAIRNS BOTANIC GARDENS

AIR

PO

RT A VE.

CAPTA IN

CO OK HIG

HWAY

TANKS ARTS CENTRE Tanks Arts Centre is located next to the remarkable Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre and surrounded by the tropical botanic gardens, walking trails of Mount Whitfield and nearby restaurants and cafés.

46 Collins Ave, Edge Hill

CAPTAIN COOK HIGHWAY

MUNRO MARTIN PARKLANDS Located directly opposite CPAC, MMP is open from 6.00am to 8.30pm, seven days a week except on ticketed event days.

123 Sheridan St, Cairns

CAIRNS PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE CPAC is a comfortable stroll from the heart of the city and only 5km to the Cairns domestic and international airport.

9-11 Florence St, Cairns

WAY

CAIRNS ESPLANADE

GRAFTON ST.

CAIRNS CENTRAL SHOPPING CENTRE

SHERIDAN ST.

FLORENCE ST.

LAGOON

COURT HOUSE GALLERY Court House Gallery is right in the heart of the city, next door to the Cairns Art Gallery. Just a short stroll from The Esplanade and the new dining precinct. Free to enter and open 10.00am - 4.00pm Tuesday to Saturday.

38 Abbott St, Cairns

BOOKINGS All tickets for Tanks Arts Centre, Cairns Performing Arts Centre and Munro Martin Parklands events are sold through Ticketlink.

ONLINE ticketlink.com.au PHONE 1300 855 835 IN PERSON Box Office Cairns Performing Arts Centre Corner of Sheridan & Florence streets BOX OFFICE OPENING HOURS Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm

BOOKING FEES All advertised tickets prices include a booking fee of 5% capped at $2.

GIFT VOUCHERS Gift vouchers are available to purchase at the box office, over the phone or via ticketlink.com.au CONCESSIONS Please check for available discounts when purchasing your tickets. Concession cards and ID must be shown when collecting tickets or the full price may be charged.

VENUE INFORMATION TANKS ARTS CENTRE

CPAC (Theatre and Studio)

MMP

COURT HOUSE GALLERY

Contact Number

4032 6600

Ticketlink 1300 855 835

Ticketlink 1300 855 835

Drop off point

46 Collins Avenue

Cnr Florence and Sheridan Streets. Entry from Florence Street

38 Abbott Street Six gates surrounding the park. Main is Florence Street, this is the entrance for ticketed events

Weather cover

Short uncovered walk

Sheltered drop off point

Outdoor venue

Bicycle racks

Located near Tank 64 Cafe

Located on the Sheridan Street side of the building

Located at Florence Street Main Gate entrance

Parking

Collins Avenue, Tank 1 car park (close to Sheridan Street entrance)

Public parking for 122 vehicles

Sheridan, Florence, Minnie and Grafton streets, as well as at CPAC

Street parking or 350 metres from Lake Street multistorey car park

Seating

Standing only / Seated* A viewing platform is available in Tank 5

Fully seated

Not seated

Not seated

Refreshments

Bar snacks, food van, fully licensed bar#

Antipasto & cheese boards.

Hot Food. Bar Snacks.

Barista coffee. Bar snacks.

Fully licensed bar **

Food Vans#, fully licensed bar#

Nil

Cameras

Phone only

None allowed

Phone only

Not permitted in exhibition spaces

Cloak room

Nil

Nil - however there is storage for umbrellas

Nil

Nil Outdoor designated area

Smoking

Outdoor designated area

Outdoor designated area

Outdoor designated area

Capacity

650 Standing. 450 Seated

941/388

3000

Bathrooms

Accessible, located beside Tank 5 and in the Visitor Centre

Accessible, located on each level

Accessible, located on the Sheridan Street side, under the main vine arbour

Dress code

Casual, shoes required

Smart casual, shoes required Casual, shoes required

4032 6620

Short uncovered walk

Accessible, located on inside

Casual, shoes required

ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION If you have any accessibility queries for ticketed shows please contact Ticketlink on 1300 855 835, if you have a venue or event query related to non-ticketed events please contact the venue numbers above.

Three in front of Main Entrance (front of Tank 4); one on Collins Avenue and two at Tank Sixty Four Café

Four in car park

Sheridan, Florence, Minnie and Grafton streets, as well as at CPAC

Wheel chair accessibility

Fully accessible with compliant graded paths and access points. Tank 3 has a compliant graded ramp

Fully accessible with seating available upon booking.

Accessible lift available for transport to 1st/2nd levels of building

The park has been designed to be fully accessible

Fully accessible with compliant graded paths and access points

Wheelie walker

Keep with you

Usher will mind and return

Keep with you

Keep with you

Compliant graded paths

Level entry and lifts

Level ground entry

Compliant graded paths

Access parking

Level access

Companion Card

Hearing loop

Hearing loop - Telicoil software

Hearing system Accepted

Accepted

Accepted

Not required

# Event days only

* Some Tanks shows require fully standing to allow for higher ticket numbers to ensure a financially viable show.

** Opening times are show dependant. Check the event on Ticketlink for details.

Our venues are committed to making our programs and venues accessible for all people. If you require specific assistance in any way please let us know when you book your tickets. At the venue, our friendly front-of-house staff are there to help you.

Please see venue websites for the latest venue guides

Please have your tickets ready on your phone

This publication is written, designed and produced by Creative Life, a branch of Cairns Regional Council. Where indicated, content such as reviews, interviews and outcome reports are contributed by third parties and should not be considered as the official view of Cairns Regional Council. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in part or in whole in any way without permission. All images are copyright Cairns Regional Council unless otherwise credited. All information is correct at time of printing but may be subject to change.

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