NOV 2026 ISSUE #196
R YOU
E FRATE’S ON
WH IDE TO GU E NT TH
BUILD THE BUZZ
Support local music this Ausmusic Month
CHRISTMAS MARKETS STREETS GET FESTIVE FINAL FLICKS OF 2026 Green Ant & Tactile Arts got the gifty goods
Darwin Christmas Pageant returns!
Deckchair Cinema season wraps this month
GOOD SPIRITS Feel the love at Speargrass Distillery
AROUND TOWN | VISUAL ARTS | MUSIC | PERFORMING ARTS | BOOKS & FILM | FOOD & DRINK | FESTIVALS
SAT 14 NOV
FRI 20, SAT 21 NOV
FRI 27 NOV
THU 3 — SAT 5 DEC
SAT 5 DEC
TUE 8 DEC
On sale now — Dance Construct • Victorian State Ballet • Peter Williams • SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre • Darwin Symphony Orchestra • An Evening with Guenther Steiner yourcentre.com.au DA R W I N ’ S P R E M I E R L I V E E N T E RTA I N M E N T V E N U E
new music, new mates. SOFT LAUNCH AT
BUSTARD TOWN THU 26 NOV 6PM
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ED'S LETTER I also want to drop our friends in the Red Centre a friendly lil' reminder. If you have anything you want our readers to know about, you’re welcome to upload them to our website to give us the green light to publish. We love to share desert happenings with our readership, and deadlines for next mag are noted on this page, if that’s handy. One edition left of 2026, baby!
THINGS ARE HEATING up across the NT. The final days of spring means rainclouds loom in the Top End, with hot and dry conditions ramping up in the desert (besides random storms – we’ve been thinking of our friends in the Red Centre impacted by recent weather events). November is Ausmusic Month, so we’re putting out a call to action to rally around our local music scene to support musicians and venues, not just this month, but always. So much so, we’ve joined forces with MusicNT on a new initiative to encourage attendance at live local gigs. We’ve called it Gigity. Cute, right? Gigity soft launches at Bustard Town on Ausmusic T-Shirt Day, Thu 26 Nov, so chuck on your fave local band tee and join us as talented new local outfit ROHA Collective perform in the beer garden. Plus, there’s half-price pizzas, so come enjoy a delish, budget-friendly feed. Read the main feature to find out more. Of course, November brings with it a spike in festive celebrations. The Tactile Arts Christmas Makers' Market and Green Ant Christmas Craft Fair both return to the air-conditioned comfort of Territory Netball Stadium across two huge weekends, while magic sparks in the imaginations of children as the Darwin Christmas Pageant hits the streets of Darwin.
THIS EDISH FEATURE 4 AROUND TOWN 5 BOOKS & FILM 8 PERFORMING ARTS 10 EXPLORE 15 VISUAL ARTS 16 FOOD & DRINK 20 MUSIC 22
Wet weather in the Top End means the projector at the Deckie dims until the 2027 season kicks off, so pull up a deckchair to soak up those final outdoor movie moments. If you’re in the Red Centre, Alice Springs Cinema has a chockers program of flicks rolling out in the air con. There’s a bunch of art to treat your peepers to, all across the NT, so suss out our Visual Arts section to see what’s on near you. Darwin Visual Arts has also put the call-out to be part of their new Cocoon program, so if you’ve got an idea you want to explore whilst surrounded by like-minded folks, you might like to consider throwing an application in. And if music is your jam, there are some special performances from the beautiful Arafura Music Collective and Whistling Kite New Music to grace your ears. Enjoy November, friends, and get around our thriving music scene. The question is, what NT band tee will you be wearing this Ausmusic T-Shirt Day? Tricky one!
IF THE SLIPPER FITS | 10
CRAWL INTO THE COCOON | 16
SHARE THE LOVE | 22
TEAM OFF THE LEASH
OUR COVER Mertas at BIGSOUND
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Off The Leash Inc. acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live, learn and work. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging.
Tierney White Managing Editor & Development Manager
Image: Raani Jade for Futuremag Music
Brooke Gibbs Assistant Editor Jonathan Munro Graphic Designer This edition may contain the names, images, artworks and stories of people who have passed away. Please read with care.
OFF THE LEASH IS PROUDLY NOT-FOR-PROFIT
you've got an exciting event or experience anywhere in the NT GOT AN Ifnext month, we can help you get the word out. From free promotion EVENT IN on our website to cost-effective rates in our print magazine, there's DEC/JAN? something to suit all budgets.
GET IN TOUCH editor@offtheleash.net.au 08 8941 7413 GPO BOX 2325, Darwin NT 0801
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S T R A T E G I C
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A C C O U N T A N T S
OTL is a Territory‑wide publication due to the generous support of Michael Sitzler, for all Territorians.
offtheleash.net.au | 3
FEATURE Image: Paz Tassone
BUILD THE Image: Otis Gold
It’s November, folks, and that means it’s time to rally around our local music scene for Ausmusic Month. WORDS TIERNEY WHITE
I
N THE NT, we are so fortunate to have a talented and dedicated entourage of bands and artists that scratch our live music itch with gigs. But for our Territory music mates, being in a remote pocket of the planet makes reaching audiences beyond our borders tricky. You might think, with the rise of social media and streaming, that reaching larger audiences would be easy. But it’s not that simple. Plus, consuming music online will never compare to the experience of going to a live gig. Touring interstate is an expensive exercise – for most, out of the question – due to the overall cost of living, rising fuel prices, and spenny flight fares. Executive Director of MusicNT Mark Smith recalls easier times. “There would be periods of time, pre-COVID mostly, where a band would walk into the MusicNT office, sit down to have a conversation, and say, ‘we’re about to release an album’ and we’d say, ‘alright – why don’t you put together a Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne tour’. And they’d do it, come back, and it would have worked. But now, you can't do that financially,” he says. “I think there's already barriers around getting to radio, getting in front of industry, and being physically present in that scene – and cost barriers limit this. It’s a whole different impact being there, physically on the ground and connecting with people, than trying to engage over email and phone.” The exorbitant cost of an intra-Territory flight, between Darwin and Alice Springs, makes touring within the NT near impossible, with flights interstate more affordable than the around about $1000 round-trip. In happier news, four-piece punk rock outfit from Nhulunbuy, Mertas, recently showcased at BIGSOUND – the annual national music conference in Meanjin/Brisbane that brings together artists and industry from across Australia. Mertas is the first NT band to have a dedicated official showcase slot in years, and whilst it didn’t come easy – or cheap! – it saw the band break new boundaries. “It was an amazing opportunity for us that made us feel a little bit seen. Being a relatively small band from the Northern Territory, getting the opportunity to perform on a platform, in the big smoke of Brisbane amongst a lot of cool individuals, was something that we were really stoked about and really appreciative of,” says the band’s frontman, Matt McLean.
Ausmusic Month WHEN SUN 1 – MON 30 NOV Ausmusic T-Shirt Day WHEN THU 26 NOV Gigity Soft Launch WHEN THU 26 NOV | 6-7PM AT BUSTARD TOWN COST FREE INFO
instagram.com/gigity_nt musicnt.com.au/gigity
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As you could probably imagine, the logistics of getting from Nhulunbuy to Brissie were a challenge. “The flight costs are through the roof, and we are a 12-hour drive to Katherine or Darwin … so it's challenging to say the least. We are incredibly lucky that we got support from the Regional Arts Fund with support from Gove FM. That helped us with travel costs, because otherwise, as a broke punk band from the NT, I don't think we could have afforded to go.” In the end, the band-of-four ended up out of pocket, but despite this, it was a huge opportunity with great flow-on effects, including new industry connections and a spike in followers.
“The opportunities that meant the most to us were the relationships with people that we've made – with other bands, people that came to the shows, and just being able to tick off that we played some pretty packed out shows in Brisbane. That was honestly the thing that meant the most to us, because we’ve wanted to do that for a long time, and it was our first gig outside the NT,” McLean says. “We gained a lot of knowledge on where we could go, and what support we need – and actually, what support we don't need. I kind of took away, mostly, that we should just be doing this independently for now … We're just gonna keep playing rock shows.” So what can we, as punters, do to support our music scene? Smith says there are simple ways. “Really, in the end, the most tangible way to support musicians and venues is to go to a gig. It's still going to be really hard for bands to make money from selling music, so it's really about going out, supporting the venues that are supporting the bands putting on shows. We're not towards the end of the year yet – there's still lots of gigs happening. If you’re able to, go there, buy some merch, follow the band, you know, support them. That's really the most practical way.” We’ve got an exciting new initiative to help make this happen. Off The Leash has partnered with MusicNT to pilot a program called Gigity. It’s a call to action to encourage attendance at music gigs in the NT, year ‘round – kind of like a run club or book club. Here’s how it works. An event will be posted on the Gigity Instagram page, and before said gig, you’ll meet up with friends, old and new, to bond over a drink or two, which supports the venues. Then, of course, the ticket you’ve purchased will support the musicians. Down the track, there’ll be ticket giveaways, competitions and prizes, starting out with a $100 voucher from Bustard Town for one lucky punter to the first Gigity meet-up. “There's a big national campaign, Ausify, which is managed by Music Australia, and their focus this year is around expressing your love for local music. There's been these periods of time over the years in the music industry that are challenging, sure, but what's the opportunity here? Can we try something new and see what happens?” Smith says. “The whole premise is gathering like-minded people who like to do similar things collectively. The idea that we have around Gigity is taking this idea of a collective and getting them to gigs and venues. It’s this idea of community building – we want to build the buzz!” The pilot phase rolls out over the next couple of months. It all kicks off with a soft launch at beloved local live music venue Bustard Town this Ausmusic T-Shirt Day – so don’t forget to wear your fave local band tees! – featuring new local funk-jazz-improvisational band, ROHA Collective. We’re starting in Darwin to see how it goes, with the view to roll it out in Mpartnwe/Alice Springs, too. So, let’s rally. Let’s build the buzz this Ausmusic Month, get gigging, get Gigity, and support our music makers. Oh, how they are appreciated.
AROUND TOWN
SANTA’S LITTLE MAKERS Tactile Arts Christmas Maker’s Markets light up the Territory Netball Stadium with festive colour and creativity. WORDS BROOKE GIBBS WITH EVERYTHING FROM ceramics and jewellery to textiles, homewares and handmade beauty products, there’s an incredible range on offer to spoil that special someone for Christmas or perhaps pick up a cheeky something for yourself. “There are always creative surprises to look out for at the Christmas Makers' Markets,” says General Manager Fabiola Martinez-Hinojosa. This year, alongside established makers with years of practice, the markets offer young people a platform to sell their work. “Makers are blending traditional skills with new technology, and a market stall is a great first taste of making, pricing, and selling your own work.
“We are also welcoming new makers. Every year, fresh faces bring new ideas, techniques and perspectives, and that keeps the markets feeling alive rather than familiar.” There’s something special about buying directly from the person who has made an item. When you buy from a maker, your money goes straight to a person in your local community. For many artists, Christmas is one of the most important times of the year financially, and sales at a market can help fund materials, studio time and the next body of work. It’s also about the quality of the gift. A handmade piece is one of a kind, made with care, and it comes with the maker’s story. People remember
receiving something like that long after the wrapping paper is gone. “Buying locally keeps skills, creativity and character in Darwin. A strong arts community makes Darwin a more interesting place to live,” says Martinez-Hinojosa. “I hope visitors leave feeling connected to the makers, to each other and to the idea that creativity is part of everyday life – not something that only happens in a gallery. If someone walks away feeling inspired to try making something themselves, even better.” Stallholder and volunteer Helen Menzies specialises in pottery, and has been involved in the Makers' Markets since retiring.
GREEN ANTS MAKIN’ MAGIC Ah, Christmas. It’s on our doorstep, mates. If you’re keen to get cracking on that gift list, boy, do we have a recommendation for you, with the return of the much-loved Green Ant Christmas Craft Fair. WORDS TIERNEY WHITE WITH THE RISE of mass-produced goods – or in many cases, bads, that break too easily or don’t quite match the online photos – investing in genuine, handcrafted gifts has never been more appealing. This month, the air-conditioned Territory Netball Stadium transforms into a Christmas wonderland, with over 150 stalls featuring carefully made pieces from local crafters and makers. From ceramics and textiles to paintings, jewellery, and clothing, the Green Ant Craft Fair has the goods, remaining fiercely committed to its local handmade ethos.
“I love helping organise the event as a volunteer. Working behind the scenes on the administration might not be the most glamorous job, but it is satisfying. When the doors open and the day runs smoothly, I know I’ve played a part in making that happen,” she says.
“Supporting local makers also helps keep the arts and crafts sustainable in our community. When you buy from a market run by a not-forprofit organisation like Tactile Arts, you’re helping to maintain a hub for creatives and giving artists a real sense of belonging.”
“It’s also a chance to show what I do and catch up with like-minded people I’ve worked with over the years. I love selling my work because it feels like giving a part of myself.”
Shop local, support artists and soak up the Christmas magic. See you at the markets!
Every artist adds their own flair and quirky creativity, so what you’re buying is unique and different.
WHEN SAT 7 & SUN 8 NOV, 9AM-4PM AT TERRITORY NETBALL STADIUM COST GOLD COIN DONATION INFO tactilearts.org.au
“You won’t find the same piece on anyone else’s shelf and you’ll know who made it,” Menzies says.
Organiser Hannah Swales reckons it’s the way to go this Christmas. “I know budgets are tight, and handmade can cost more than mass-produced goods. But there’s something really special about giving a gift someone has thoughtfully created, especially when it also supports a small Territory business. Every purchase makes a difference to the person behind that stall,” she says. For many, Christmas ‘tis a season for giving, so a sweet side effect of purchasing local is the more-thanyou-know support it gives to local artisans. “When you buy from a local maker, you’re supporting a person, their family and something they’ve put a lot of time and heart into. You can meet the person behind the product, hear their story, and see the skill that’s gone into making it.” In an effort to support young creators, those under the age of 18 receive half-price stall fees to help them have a go, share what they’ve made, and gain experience running their own little business. A first this year, the Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network brings a selection of artists,
Tactile Arts Christmas Makers' Markets
including new and emerging talent, to the two-day event. Swales says this is something she’s keen to support. “There’s so much creativity here in the Territory, and I love giving people an opportunity to share their work, meet customers, and get their name out there. It can be a big step putting yourself and your creations out into the world, so being able to support that is really special to me.” As well as the more than 150 stalls, food vendors Gracies Toasties, Tailwag Coffee, Wors & Worst, Co Hai Sai Gon, Flavours of Portugal, Katjas Popcorn, and NKD Fruits join the ranks to fill the bellies of hungry shoppers. Head along to Green Ant, and revel in the air-conditioned atmosphere that is positively bursting with creativity and festive feels.
Green Ant Christmas Craft Fair WHEN SAT 21 & SUN 22 NOV, 9AM-4PM AT TERRITORY NETBALL STADIUM COST $5 | $4 ONLINE FREE CHILD INFO greenantcraftfair.com
offtheleash.net.au | 5
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TOP END
Field Trip | Let’s Go Frogging
Babylon Chess Club
Show off those chess tactics at Babylon’s monthly chess tournament. Play the pro level or take it easy on the chill level. Winners receive prizes. THU 5 NOV | 7PM BABYLON BAR FREE facebook.com/babylonbardarwin
STREETS GET FESTIVE Things are about to get very jolly around here, as celebrations for the silly season hit full swing, and Santa ditches icy temps for our warm and welcoming Top End.
WORDS TIERNEY WHITE IMAGE CHARLIE BLISS
WITH EXCITEMENT BUILDING, storms looming, and Hector the Convector – the Top End’s beloved cumulonimbus thundercloud cluster – starting to make regular appearances over the Tiwi Islands, you know that Christmas is coming because the Top End’s getting hot, hot, hot. And there’s a very special time ahead this month, offering back-toback fun to get you feelin’ festive. The Christmas Makers Market in Smith St Mall returns for a second year to give gift givers the chance to pick up some thoughtful gifts whilst supporting local artisans and businesses. Pop your retail finds in the car before snagging some primo real estate on the sidewalk at what has become a true local favourite, the Darwin Christmas Pageant.
Christmas Makers Market WHEN SAT 14 NOV | 4-7PM AT SMITH ST MALL Darwin Christmas Pageant WHEN SAT 14 NOV, 6-6.45PM, CHRISTMAS TREE, 7PM, CHRISTMAS CONCERT, 7.30-9PM Santa’s Village WHEN SAT 21 NOV – WED 23 DEC 9AM-1.30PM INFO darwin.nt.gov.au
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Returning for a fifth year, this jolly shebang sees an entourage of floats, including Santa’s Sleigh, parade along the streets of Darwin, weaving through town before landing on Smith Street by Civic Park where a main stage and Christmas Concert awaits. Lord Mayor Peter Styles said the Pageant celebrates the people, diverse cultures, and community spirit that makes Darwin unique. “There’s something really special about seeing Darwin come together at Christmas, and the Pageant is one of those events that truly belongs to our community. Last year, we saw our city streets come alive with colourful floats representing local schools, businesses, sporting
clubs, cultural organisations and community groups, and we want to see even more of Darwin represented this year,” Mr Styles said. “Whether you’re building a float, cheering from the sidelines, picking up a Christmas gift at the Makers Market or joining us to light the Christmas tree, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.” Catch the Lord Mayor’s Lighting of the Christmas Tree before settling into Civic Park for the Christmas Concert, featuring local performers, schools and community groups. Six-year-old Finn has attended almost every year since the Pageant started, when he was just a bub, and says there’s one person he’s very excited to see. “I’m going to see the really real Santa!”
Quiz Night at Dinah Beach Put your trivia skills to the test and gather your cleverest crew of six for a quirky quiz night hosted by Sarah Meldrum. Expect plenty of head-scratchers, laughs and friendly competition. Best of all? It’s free to play. SAT 7 NOV | 6.30-9.30PM DINAH BEACH CRUISING YACHT ASSOCIATION FREE dbcya.com.au Harmony & Humour Bar Choir with Shalom Kaa Guaranteed to lift your spirits, this unique experience blends humour and harmony for a night of pure joy. Whether you’re a seasoned singer or just love to have fun, this event promises laughter and camaraderie in equal measure. SUN 8 NOV | 5.30PM THE LAST SUPPER $20 thelastsupper.com.au Sunday Funday in Palmerston | FrogID Week
There’s nothing quite like experiencing the magical world of wonder than through the eyes of the little ones. Festivities continue up until Christmas, with the City of Darwin Christmas Window Competition, encouraging CBD businesses to spread magic via their shopfronts, and the return of Santa’s Village to the Darwin Galleria, giving families the chance to visit Santa and snap some pics with the big man, with free activities for the kiddos sprinkled through this month and next. It’s the most wonderful time of the year.
Join MAGNT’s Natural Science Team to celebrate FrogID Week and participate in Australia’s biggest frog count. Meet at Micket Creek and get the jump on other froggers across Australia by listening for a recording the calls of amphibious friends in the wild. SAT 14 NOV | 6-8.30PM MICKET CREEK FREE magnt.net.au Comedians Against Humanity A gloriously inappropriate night of uncensored comedy, improvised chaos and terrible decisions. Darwin’s funniest comedians battle it out with outrageous cards, roast each other’s answers and leave the audience to decide the winner. No two games are ever the same and absolutely nothing is taken seriously. THU 19 NOV | 6.30PM TOP FLOOR COMEDY $20 topfloorcomedydarwin.com.au Club Krock An over-18s, all-abilities night created to bring people together in a safe, inclusive space where everyone can dance and be themselves. With music, dancing and giveaways, it’s a place to make friends, build confidence and feel included. More than a night out, it is about connection, belonging, and creating memories. FRI 20 NOV | 6-10PM CLUB TROPICAL RESORT $10 | CARERS FREE clubkrock.org
Step inside the City of Palmerston Library and develop new skills. Run by MAGNT Lead STEM Educator, Caitlin Conway, this hands-on workshop is perfect for children with curious and creative minds who want to learn how to identify local frogs by their calls and physical traits.
Off The Rack Social Market Off The Rack is presented by a group of friends that love bringing people together, supporting local artists, discovering cool secondhand treasures, and creating spaces where the community can connect. Everyone is welcome, from vintage and pre-loved clothing lovers to local artists, independent brands, and anyone with unique finds to share.
SAT 14 NOV | 1-4PM CITY OF PALMERSTON LIBRARY FREE magnt.net.au
SAT 21 NOV | 12-4PM BUSTARD TOWN $50 STALL offtheracksocialmkt@gmail.com
GUIDED BIRD WALK Suitable for all ages and experience levels, this walk led is by Mitch Rose, a local youth worker, birder and advocate for nature conservation. Learn how to identify local birds, understand their behaviour and habitats and contribute to citizen science that helps build knowledge of our wildlife. SAT 21 NOV | 4.30-6.30PM $15 creekconnections.org
Exhibition in Focus | Unruly Days: Territory Life 1911-1921
Unruly Days: Territory Life 1911-1921 explores what it was like to live in the Territory in the first decade of Commonwealth rule whilst the world was in turmoil. Join MAGNT Curator of Territory History, Jared Archibald, for an in-depth tour of the exhibition. THU 26 NOV | 11AM-2PM FREE magnet.net.au Accessible Bird Outing
FRI 27 NOV | 6.30-8.30PM CASUARINA LIBRARY FREE launchdarwin.com.au
DARWIN MASONIC HALL $40 facebook.com/arafurascottishdancers
Walks for Curious People | Weeds and Creek Care
Geek Up A space for young people to get involved and have fun. Activities include Dungeons & Dragons, board games and art workshops led by local young creatives. Plus, there’s free snacks! Recommended for ages 15-25.
Creek Knowledge Walks invite the community to slow down and learn more about the places, stories and ecosystems that shape local waterways. Learn to identify invasive species and understand their impact on local ecosystems, while exploring practical ways the community can help care for and restore waterways. SAT 28 NOV | 3-5PM SANDY CREEK $15 creekconnections.org Walks for Curious People | Plants of the Creek
Join local youth worker, birder and advocate for nature conservation, Mitch Rose, who is trained in facilitating accessible bird outings. These slower-paced birdwatching experiences are suitable for folks of all abilities, including people living with disability, neurodivergent people, carers, support workers and anyone seeking a welcoming and accessible birding experience. FRI 27 NOV | 8-10AM JINGILI WATER GARDENS $15 creekconnections.org Gaming After Dark
A safe, action-packed and inclusive place for young people aged 12-17 to hang out and socialise with new friends. No registration required, gaming gear provided and there's free snacks!
SAT 28 NOV | 5-7PM SANDY CREEK $15 creekconnections.org St Andrews Ceilidh Grab your dancing shoes and get ready for a cracking night of Scottish revelry. Arafura Scottish Country Dancers bring the ceilidh to life with pipes, drums, live music and plenty of dancing. Hit the floor, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a tipple from the bar.
Club Tropical Milonga SAT 14 NOV | 7-11PM CLUB TROPICAL RESORT FREE northerntango.com.au Kirtan Mantra Night | Palmerston FRI 20 NOV DURACK COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE FREE asmy.org.au End of Month Milonga FRI 27 NOV | 8-11PM COCONUT GROVE COMMUNITY HALL $10 northerntango.com.au Mums & Bubs Pilates EVERY MON | 10-11AM RICH LIFE HEALTH & FITNESS $15 | FREE MEMB rlhf.com.au Sunset Yoga
Fruit Bat Trivia Grab your mates for an entertaining trivia sesh that'll have you tapping into those brain cells and battling it out over questions on pop culture, history, music, and more. EVERY TUE | 7-9PM SILKS EVERY WED | 6.30-8.30PM BREEZES BAR & BISTRO EVERY WED | 7-9PM BEACHFRONT HOTEL
Drag Queens Bingo Round up your pals and head to the Zen Rooftop Lounge for Drag Queens NT Bingo. Hosted by the fabulous Sherri Lee Volua, expect laughs, prizes, music, and a whole lot of personality. It’s time to sparkle, sip, and shout BINGO! EVERY WED | 6.30-9PM ZEN ROOFTOP LOUNGE $20 facebook.com/dragqueensnt Musical Bingo Be entertained by your host, Danielle, for a fun sesh of musical bingo. Instead of numbers, listen to snippets of pop songs to mark your boxes. Bingo! EVERY THU | 6.30-8.30PM BREEZES BAR & BISTRO FREE breezesbarbistro.com
EVERY SUN | 11.15AM-12.30PM RICH LIFE HEALTH & FITNESS $20 | $18 SEN | FREE MEMB rlhf.com.au Kirtan Meditation EVERY SUN | 5-7PM NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE BY DONATION asmy.org.au
RED CENTRE Todd Mall Markets
Soak up the atmosphere at the Todd Mall Markers where local makers, artists and food vendors bring the town centre to life. Browse handmade crafts, fresh produce and unique gifts while enjoying live music and a relaxed Sunday morning vibe. SUN 9 & 22 NOV | 9AM-1PM ALICE SPRINGS TOWN COUNCIL LAWNS FREE toddmallmarkets.com.au
SUN 29 NOV | 1-4PM CASUARINA LIBRARY FREE launchdarwin.com.au
FREE facebook.com/danielleandrewscomedy
Discover the plants that grow along creeks, exploring native species, seasonal changes and the important role plants play in healthy waterways.
MIND & BODY
EVERY TUE & WED | 6-7PM RICH LIFE HEALTH & FITNESS $20 | $18 SEN | FREE MEMB rlhf.com.au Tuesday Meditations EVERY TUE | 7-7.45PM COCONUT GROVE SENIOR’S HALL $10 | FREE MEMB kadampa.org.au Vinyasa Flow at the Waterfront EVERY WED | 6.30-7.30AM DARWIN WATERFRONT $8 | FREE MEMB waterfront.nt.gov.au Senior Pilates EVERY WED | 9-10AM DARWIN WATERFRONT $8 | FREE MEMB waterfront.nt.gov.au Senior Yoga EVERY THU | 9-10AM $8 | FREE MEMB waterfront.nt.gov.au InVogue Dancing EVERY FRI | 10AM-12PM NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE $10 facebook.com/invoguedancing Mat Pilates EVERY FRI | 6.30AM-7.30AM $8 | FREE MEMB waterfront.nt.gov.au Movement Medicine EVERY SUN | 10-11.30AM $20 NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE movement.magic@yahoo.com Breathwork & Meditation
Bindi Enterprises Discover a new skill with the chance to create digital artwork and transform it into fabric repeats. Open to all levels, the class fosters creativity, inclusivity and provides disability support. EVERY TUE | 1-3PM BINDI ENTERPRISES $130-$300 bindienterprises.org.au Open Contemporary with GUTS Dance
An introduction to different elements of contemporary dance practice including technique, improvisation, learning choreography, sharing space with other bodies, and getting all your bones and muscles moving! EVERY TUE | 6-7.15PM GUTS STUDIO $20 | $160 CLASS PASS gutsdance.org.au Pub Brew Trivia Night Round up your mates and put those noggins to good use at this weekly trivia night. With pizza specials and happy hour if you scoot in a bit earlier, it’s a sweet way to spend a Thursday. EVERY THU 5PM HAPPY HOUR | 7.30PM TRIVIA ALICE SPRINGS BREWING CO alicespringsbrewingco.com.au
SAT 28 NOV | 7-11.30PM offtheleash.net.au |
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BOOKS & FILM
FINAL FLICKS OF 2026
There’s no place quite like Deckchair Cinema where you can enjoy Darwin’s unmatched sunsets, friendly possums and good tucker. But you’d better get in if you want your seaside flick fix, as the Deckie lights go dark for the Wet season. WORDS BROOKE GIBBS IMAGES PAZ TASSONE
WITH ONLY 15 more days left in this year’s season, make the most of the remaining films before you count the days ‘til the gates fling open next year, a surefire indication that the Dry has returned. The 2026 season launched with a huge opening night, where Cannes International Film Festival award winner and Territory legend, Warwick Thornton, debuted his flick, Wolfram, filmed entirely in Mparntwe/Alice Springs. One highlight of the year for General Manager James Parker, was the Alliance Française French Film Festival. “The event has been growing each year, and I think we’ve hit this really great stage where Alliance Française de Darwin, the national festival, and Deckchair are putting together an amazing event,” Parker says. The Deckie isn’t your typical movie theatre. If the outdoor location and food trucks didn’t already win you over, the Deckie has hosted many Q&As where film lovers can hear directly from the people who made the film. “A few highlights would be hearing from Kasimir Burgess about his documentary, Iron Winter, which he shot in Mongolia in the middle
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of winter. It sounded like the most amazing adventure,” Parker says. “Another highlight was having Muzafar Ali back at the cinema with We Are Not Powerless. He’s such a good public speaker and just the nicest guy.” In September, the Deckie was home to the Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF), celebrating the best of cinema from many different cultures. “Over 11 Top End nights, we screened the absolute best of world cinema and welcomed two international special guests – a first for the Festival,” Parker says. There’s no doubt that the Deckie is one of the most unique places to catch a flick, not just in Darwin, but in the world. There aren’t many places around the globe where the weather is so predictable that you could plan seven months of back-to-back screenings. “Combine that with the stunning location, our not-for-profit structure, the alternative film programming and even mouth-watering catering every night, it’s pretty awesome,” Parker says. “The program this year has been fantastic. Although we call it
alternative, it’s better described as a mix of the best of the best from each genre – the best world cinema, the best Australian films, award-winning documentaries, etc. A programming committee does a fantastic job putting it all together into the four programs that we print through the season.” The season ends with The Fox, a wildly inventive Australian fantasy comedy from writer and director Dario Russo. Nick is the good-natured heir to a wealthy rural landowner, but his comfortable life unravels when he discovers that his fiancée, Kori, is cheating on him. Desperate to repair their relationship, he captures a rogue talking fox, who offers him an extraordinary bargain. If Nick lets her live, she will reveal a magical hold capable of transforming Kori into the perfect partner. Nick follows The Fox’s advice, and the woman who emerges appears to be everything he ever wanted. As Kori develops a series of increasingly strange quirks, however, he begins to wonder whether perfection was worth the price. Starring Jai Courtney and Emily Browning, with Olivia Colman as the voice of The Fox, it’s a darkly funny and unpredictable modern folktale
about love, control and the danger of getting exactly what you wish for. According to Parker, it’s the perfect film to close out a great year. “It felt irresistible. I’ve been a huge Olivia Colman fan since she was in the British sitcom Peep Show. It’s been amazing seeing her evolve into the Hollywood juggernaut she is now. That, and having Sam Neill’s voice as The Magpie, a hot November night seemed like the right way to see out the year,” he says. While we patiently wait for the gates to open again for the 2027 season, Parker says he’s happy with how 2026 shaped up. “We’re just so happy that so many people are enjoying the cinema. Deckchair is on track to welcome over 50,000 people through the gates this year. As for next year, we always have ideas on how to move forward, but really, we’d be very happy with another year just like this one.” Until next year, Deckie!
WHEN DAILY ‘TIL SUN 15 NOV INFO deckchaircinema.com
THE FOX - DECKIE CLOSING NIGHT After discovering his fiancée has cheated, a hunter meets a shapeshifting fox who offers to transform her into the perfect woman. Jai Courtney and Emily Browning star, with Olivia Colman and Sam Neill lending their voices to this darkly comic folktale. SUN 15 NOV | 7PM DECKCHAIR CINEMA
Late Fame
RED CENTRE ALICE SPRINGS CINEMA $21 | $14 MEMB | $12 CHILD/SEN alicespringscinema.com.au
W
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LOMU
Decades after abandoning poetry, retired postal worker Ed Saxberger is startled when a group of young artists rediscovers his forgotten work and declares him a literary icon. Their attention rekindles old ambitions and draws him towards the enigmatic Gloria. WED 4 & FRI 13 NOV | 7PM
LOMU is a complex and nuanced portrait of Jonah Lomu, the most adored son of the Pacific, a legendary All Black, who transcended the game with his immense power and unstoppable determination.
The Dish SAT 7 NOV | 3.30PM Man of Valour (Sgt. Haane)
Saturday 7th November
DECKCHAIR CINEMA JERVOIS ROAD, DARWIN WATERFRONT $20 | $16 CONC $11 MEMB/CHILD | $47 FAM deckchaircinema.com.au Broken English
Cinderella AANT Centre - 6:30pm
Celebrating the outstanding screen legacy of Sam Neill. In 1969, as the world watches Apollo 11, a small team in Parkes races to keep its giant radio telescope pointed at the Moon. Inspired by true events, this Australian classic stars Neill as the quietly determined Cliff Buxton.
This documentary-drama film follows Lance Sgt. Haane Manahi DCM of B Company, 28th Māori Battalion, a soldier of extraordinary courage, whose actions proved pivotal in the 1943 battle for the fortified summit of Takrouna, Tunisia.
Tickets on Sale now Box off ice - 89803333 www.yourcentre.com.au
SAT 14 NOV | 3.30PM SAT 14 NOV | 7PM Klara And The Sun
Pretty Woman Craft-a-noon Session
Marianne Faithfull reclaims her story in this inventive portrait of a life shaped by fame, addiction, reinvention and artistic defiance. Blending archive footage, interviews and performances featuring Tilda Swinton and George MacKay, the film celebrates a singular voice and culminates in Faithfull’s final recording with Nick Cave and Warren Ellis.
Klara, an artificial friend longing for a home, finds a kindred spirit in teenager Josie, whose family is fractured by grief. Through innocent wonder and unwavering devotion, Klara brings unexpected light to their complicated world.
When successful corporate mogul Edward Lewis meets independent and carefree hooker Vivian Ward, their two lives are worlds apart. But Vivian's energetic spirit challenges Edward's no-nonsense, business-minded approach to life, sparking an immediate attraction.
MON 2 & THU 12 NOV | 7PM
THU 5, SAT 7 & WED 11 NOV | 7PM
SUN 29 NOV | 4PM offtheleash.net.au | 9
PERFORMING ARTS
A WHOLE NEW POINTE Victorian State Ballet brings the Arabian Nights to life with an enchanting new adventure in Aladdin. WORDS BROOKE GIBBS
IF THE SLIPPER FITS Glass slippers, mischievous stepsisters and a little theatrical magic heads to the stage, as some of Darwin’s youngest dancers join seasoned performers to bring a much-loved fairytale to life. LEISA'S SCHOOL OF Dancing and Alice Springs’ Duprada Dance Company join forces to sweep audiences into the magical world of Cinderella, presented as the grand finale of an annual theatre performance celebrating dancers of all ages. Speaking of magic, this collaboration sees Leisa Jackson work with Duprada’s owner, Lynne Hanton, who just so happens to be her mother, from where the inspiration to start Leisa’s School of Dancing was born. The triple bill begins with Petit Défilé, giving the school’s youngest performers their moment in the spotlight alongside Duprada Dance Company dancers, before three new contemporary works choreographed by Jackson showcase another side of the school’s training. The evening culminates in Cinderella, set to Sergei Prokofiev’s celebrated score. For Jackson, the enduring fairytale offers the perfect opportunity to introduce young dancers to the art of performing a story. “Cinderella is a familiar story and translates into dance well, giving the opportunity to create roles for children,” she says. This isn’t the school’s first trip to the Palace Ball, but each production has evolved with its dancers. “The three stagings are very different. In the first, we had no small children, just our Company dancers. The next included our seven-plus students and Company, 10 | offtheleash.net.au
and now our youngest are bringing some magic to the story.” And there’s plenty more to ballet than remembering the steps. Without dialogue to rely on, the performers must tell Cinderella’s story through movement, expression and mime. “There is a good deal of acting still required while dancing. The conversations are mimed instead of spoken, and the dance steps relate to the expression trying to be portrayed, so the physical dancing should help you feel something about the story being conveyed.” For the younger dancers, learning to communicate without speaking brings benefits extending beyond the stage. “Young dancers are learning the art of storytelling with no words and, hopefully, through the workshopping of the story into mime, they gain confidence in conversation.” But it’s the littlest performers who have a habit of capturing Jackson’s heart – and the audience. “My heart always melts a little when our youngest grace the stage. They steal the show every time just being themselves, which is all that is expected of them,” she says. “It’s about the whole experience, from walking into the theatre and seeing the stage, the auditorium, the lights and backdrops, to their teachers and the big girls and boys dancing. When they skip out onto
WORDS BROOKE GIBBS IMAGE DEBORAH CLEVERLY
the stage smiling and waving, feeling all the magical things the theatre brings, then bounce off saying how much fun they had, is what it’s all about.” Joining the Darwin dancers are Isaac and Gypsy, two performers with connections to Alice Springs. Isaac began dancing there at a young age and returned to performing after university, while Gypsy previously trained in Darwin before undertaking professional studies in Alice Springs. “Isaac is a very charismatic performer and loves being on stage. As a former teacher in Alice Springs, he is also very good with the children,” Jackson says. “Gypsy, meanwhile, returns to Darwin for her second performance with the school. She is stunning to watch on stage no matter the role and amazing with the dancers backstage too.” The performance follows a big year for Duprada Dance Company who brought Swan Lake to Darwin and Alice Springs. Now, they return home to celebrate everything from contemporary movement to classical ballet – with a pumpkin carriage, glass slipper and a few scene-stealing youngsters along for the ride. Leisa's School of Dancing Cinderella WHEN SAT 7 NOV | 6.30PM AT AANT CENTRE COST $22-$42 INFO yourcentre.com.au
READY FOR A magic carpet ride filled with dazzling dance, larger-than-life characters and a genie who knows how to make an entrance? The much-loved tale of Aladdin comes to the stage, sweeping audiences of all ages into a world of fantasy, romance and adventure.
the market, The Sultan’s palace, the wedding and coronation ceremonies. It’s really nice to see that in a costume with beautiful ballet, skill and choreography.”
“It’s got beautiful music in it, and we really felt the storyline was something special to bring to the audience,” says Managing Director Michelle Sierra.
“The audience will see beautiful partnering with the ball and the guards, and with the girls in the palace. It’s a really nice way of telling that story through ballet.”
“It’s based on One Thousand and One Nights, but it also has a bit of flair towards the Disney version, so people will understand Princess Jasmine and Jarar, and those sorts of characters. We’ve also based it off the actual Arabian Nights story, so it has a mix of both so people can follow the story and understand what’s going on.”
Sierra says The Victorian State Ballet is excited to bring something new and fresh to Darwin.
Aladdin meets Princess Jasmine who through their adventure together, learns how important it is to remain true to yourself and not try to be somebody else. While Aladdin’s tales might not be new to a lot of people, dance can bring a whole new life to the story in the way watching a movie or reading a book can’t. “I think what’s nice is you can see the stories told through ballet and through theatrical mime as well. You can see movement itself telling the story as opposed to reading it or hearing it. You can see this in ballet form,” Sierra says. “What’s really nice is when you see
There’s just something special in watching that story come alive through ballet movement.
“I’m pretty sure the audience haven’t seen anything like this in ballet form. They’ll get something different in terms of that Arabian look and feel. They’ll get a lot of different scenes where they go through the desert to the cave of dancing jewels. “That’s probably one of our favourite scenes and you’ll see the girls in different emeralds, diamonds, rubies and sapphires.” And the magic doesn't have to end when the curtain falls. Audiences can stick around for a post-show meet and greet with the cast. The Victorian State Ballet Aladdin WHEN FRI 20 NOV | 6PM SAT 21 NOV | 3PM AT AANT CENTRE COST $30-$150 INFO yourcentre.com.au
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MAKE MOVES, BREAK RULES
TOP END Cradle Song by Albert Belz
Two young Australian women are backpacking through Ireland when they take refuge at a convent that used to be a home for unmarried mothers. It is here that they encounter the supernatural force of Briar faith, and long dead secrets begins to surface. WED 4 – SAT 7 NOV | 7PM BROWN’S MART THEATRE $20-$30 brownsmart.com.au
Ready to let your creativity off the leash? Choreolab is back and it’s time to get moving. WORDS BROOKE GIBBS IMAGES DUANE PRESTON
CHOREOLAB ALUMNI STEP back into the playful, supportive world of Tracks Dance Company’s longstanding development program, where big ideas take shape, collaboration takes centre stage, and the next generation of dancemakers gets a taste of the real deal. Chorelab and its extension is a program where dancers draw from the unique cultural mix of people who call the Territory home, and this month, previous participants reunite to give it another spin.
Choreolab - Extend WHEN SAT 21 & SUN 22 NOV 10.30AM-4.30PM COST $110-$350 | PAY WHAT YOU CAN BY DONATION Program Launch and Showcase WHEN SUN 22 NOV | 5PM COST FREE (REGISTRATION REQUIRED) Tracks Masterclass Series WHEN SAT 28 NOV | 11AM-1PM COST $55 AT INFO
TRACKS DANCE STUDIO tracksdance.com.au
Led by Tracks’ powerhouse artistic team of Rachael Wallis, James Mangohig, Jenelle Saunders, Kelly Beneforti and Alyson Evans, Chorelob - Extend participants dive deeper into the art of movement, weaving together storytelling, music and theatre to create something entirely their own. Over two jam-packed days, those Choreolab skills are put to work. Think less follow-the-leader, more making the rules. Participants collaborate with Tracks’ Artistic Leadership as equal members of the creative team, devising an original collective work from the ground up. And the grand finale? Taking their creation to the stage for an audience at the Tracks 2027 program launch. No pressure, just a whole lot of creative energy.
“This year’s theme is tipping point where we use all our different art forms to explore that theme, so we have no idea what’s going to come out of it,” says Beneforti.
“It’s not about creating a performance – it’s about exploring an idea for an audience to understand something about what an artist wants to say.”
“We’re kind of asking and inviting the participants to be in a space that’s new and perhaps a little scary, exciting and challenging. We haven’t been in this space either, so I like the theme of tipping point because it also feels like that’s what we’re stepping into.”
Beneforti shares that the process behind Chorelab - Extend reminds her of baking with her kids.
Beneforti and Saunders are incredible dancers, while Beneforti brings a theatre background and Mangohig, music – Chorelab sees these different mediums come together to create something unique. Evans says that inviting an audience to watch new ideas emerge collaboratively as opposed to a polished, rehearsed piece, allows people to understand the way an artist works and the way they get to what they want to say and make decisions about that. “I think showing ideas is so important and so great because often we get so stuck on anything that’s shown to the audience has to be polished. Whereas, I think for this, because it’s not going to have a running narrative or be this beautifully shaped thing, it’s going to be quite raw,” she says.
“When I first started doing that with them, I’d always be like, ‘well, it’s not ready yet’, but now, the bit we enjoy most is tasting every single part and I’ve often found that once it’s cooked, it’s like, ‘oh, now the chocolate has butter in it. What does that taste like?’. It’s the joy in being in all those parts of the process and the explosion of all those things,” she says. And if the showcase gets you keen to move more – or you’re an audience member inspired by the experience – keep the inspiration flowing with a masterclass led by accomplished dancer, choreographer and Artistic Director Rachael Wallis. Drawing on her work with leading Indigenous dance companies nationally and internationally, Wallis explores movement that connects us to Country, with the changing seasons offering a starting point for discovery. Loosen up, think big, and get ready to make your move.
Craic Hole | Comedy with a Twist Hosted by RJ Carey, this is Darwin’s chaotic comedy night with a twist. 10 comedians take on the same ridiculous topic with five minutes of brand-new material. The audience decided who had the best craic, with the winner taking home a cash prize and a spot on next month’s line-up. THU 12 NOV | 7PM TOP FLOOR COMEDY $25 topfloorcomedydarwin.com.au ATYP Fresh Ink Play Readings
After 18 years, Australian Theatre For Young People (ATYP) returns to partner with Brown’s Mart to mentor four playwrights to hone their skills, build their writing community, and produce two short works for the stage. Come along to watch the reading of their brand-new half-hour plays. THU 19 NOV | 6PM BROWN’S MART THEATRE FREE brownsmart.com.au
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6 Darwin Christmas Pageant
20 FRI 6 Club Krock 7 Kirtan Mantra Night 7 InVogue Dancing 7 Mat Pilates 10 The Victorian State Ballet - Aladdin 23 Balearic Babylon Fridays 23 Nat, Max & Rick Trio 23 Live Lunches at the Roastery 23 Friday Night Live Sessions
5 Green Ant Christmas Craft Fair
5 Green Ant Christmas Craft Fair 7 Movement Medicine 7 Kirtan Meditation 7 Breathwork & Meditation 7 Todd Mall Markets 11 Choreolab - Extend 21 Brine Club 21 Sunday Share Brunch 23 Sunday Live at Splash 23 Crystal Robins 23 Sunday Sessions
11 Tracks Dance Program Launch & Showcase
7 Walks for Curious People 7 St Andrews Ceilidh 11 Tracks Masterclass Series 23 Saturday Night at Babs
19 The Voyage of the Easel: Geoff Todd (last chance)
7 Mums & Bubs Pilates
7 Fruit Bat Trivia 7 Drag Queens Bingo 7 Sunset Yoga 7 Vinyasa Flow 7 Senior Pilates 23 Hot n Cold Big Band
4 Ausmusic Month (ends) 7 Mums & Bubs Pilates
30 MON
7 Fruit Bat Trivia 7 Sunset Yoga 7 Tuesday Meditations 7 Bindi Enterprises 7 Open Contemporary with GUTS Dance
6 Comedians Against Humanity 7 Musical Bingo 7 Senior Yoga 7 Pub Brew Trivia Night 11 ATYP Fresh Ink Play Readings 17 The Tactile Wall Art Project (last chance) 21 Half-Price Pizza Night 23 ROHA Collective 23 Nat & Max Duo
FOR A CHANCE TO SEE YOUR EVENT LISTED IN PRINT, UPLOAD IT TO OUR WEBSITE
7 Fruit Bat Trivia 7 Sunset Yoga 7 Drag Queens Bingo 7 Vinyasa Flow 7 Senior Pilates 23 Hot n Cold Big Band
23 MON 24 TUE 25 WED
7 Fruit Bat Trivia 7 Sunset Yoga 7 Tuesday Meditations 7 Bindi Enterprises 7 Open Contemporary with GUTS Dance
16 MON 17 TUE 18 WED 19 THU DEC/JAN ADVERT ARTWORK DEADLINE
7 Mums & Bubs Pilates
7 Geek Up 7 Movement Medicine 7 Kirtan Meditation 7 Breathwork & Meditation 9 Pretty Woman Craft-a-noon Session 21 Sunday Share Brunch 23 Sunday Live at Splash 23 Nat & Max Duo 23 Crystal Robins
23 Sunday Sessions
28 SAT 29 SUN
6 Santa’s Village (starts) 6 Off The Rack Social Market 7 Guided Bird Walk 10 The Victorian State Ballet - Aladdin 11 Choreolab - Extend 23 Saturday Night at Babs
21 SAT 22 SUN
7 Movement Medicine 7 Kirtan Meditation 7 Breathwork & Meditation 21 Sunday Share Brunch 23 Sunday Live at Splash 23 Nat & Max Duo 23 Crystal Robins 23 Sunday Sessions
9 Deckchair Cinema closing night: The Fox
14 SAT 15 SUN 6 Christmas Makers Market 6 Sunday Funday in Palmerston 6 Field Trip 7 Club Tropical Milonga 9 The Dish 9 Man of Valour (Sgt.Haane) 18 Miyingari Mumunga (Happy Day/s) (last chance) 18 We Need to Talk About The Stalker (last chance) 23 Dolly Tribute 23 Saturday Night at Babs 23 Stellar Sea & Balaclava Peace Collective
FRI
7 Accessible Bird Outing 7 Gaming After Dark 7 End of Month Milonga 7 InVogue Dancing 7 Mat Pilates 17 Happy Artists by Saltbush Social Enterprises (opens) 23 Friday Night Live Jam Session 23 Balearic Babylon Fridays 23 Nat, Max & Rick Trio 23 Live Lunches at the Roastery 23 Friday Night Live Sessions
26 THU 27 4 Ausmusic T-Shirt Day 4 Gigity Soft Launch 7 Exhibition in Focus 7 Musical Bingo 7 Senior Yoga 7 Pub Brew Trivia Night 18 (In)finite (opening) 21 Half-Price Pizza Night 23 ROHA Collective 23 Nat & Max Duo
Although all care is taken to ensure information in Off The Leash is correct, it is subject to change. We recommend checking offtheleash.net.au for updates.
AROUND TOWN | VISUAL ARTS | MUSIC | PERFORMING ARTS | BOOKS & FILM | FOOD & DRINK | FESTIVALS
NOVEMBER 2026
01 SUN 4 Ausmusic Month (starts) 7 Movement Medicine 7 Kirtan Meditation 7 Breathwork & Meditation 21 The Charcuterie Session 21 Sunday Share Brunch 22 Whistling Kite New Music 23 First Sunday Blues 23 Darwin Celtic Music Sessions 23 Sunday Live at Splash 23 Nat & Max Duo 23 Crystal Robins 23 Sunday Sessions
07 SAT 10 Cinderella
5 Tactile Arts Christmas Makers’ Markets 6 Quiz Night at Dinah Beach 9 Klara & the Sun 9 LOMU 11 Cradle Song by Albert Belz 22 The Lovers 23 Saturday Night at Babs
7 Fruit Bat Trivia 7 Sunset Yoga 7 Tuesday Meditations 7 Bindi Enterprises 7 Open Contemporary with GUTS Dance
7 Fruit Bat Trivia 7 Sunset Yoga 7 Tuesday Meditations 7 Bindi Enterprises 7 Open Contemporary with GUTS Dance
DEC/JAN WEB UPLOADS & AD BOOKINGS DEADLINE
6 Babylon Chess Club 7 Musical Bingo 7 Senior Yoga 7 Pub Brew Trivia Night 9 Klara & the Sun 11 Cradle Song by Albert Belz 21 Half-Price Pizza Night 23 ROHA Collective 23 Nat & Max Duo
SOFT LAUNCH
7 Musical Bingo 7 Senior Yoga 7 Pub Brew Trivia Night 9 Broken English 11 Craic Hole 21 Half-Price Pizza Night 23 ROHA Collective 23 Nat & Max Duo
11 Cradle Song by Albert Belz
7 InVogue Dancing 7 Mat Pilates 19 The Voyage of the Easel: Geoff Todd (opening) 19 The 51st Katherine Prize (opening) 23 Balearic Babylon Fridays 23 Nat, Max & Rick Trio 23 Live Lunches at the Roastery 23 Friday Night Live Sessions
08 SUN
5 Tactile Arts Christmas Makers’ Markets
6 Harmony & Humour Bar Choir 7 Movement Medicine 7 Kirtan Meditation 7 Breathwork & Meditation 7 Todd Mall Markets 21 Sunday Share Brunch 21 Chip & Sip: Across the Ditch 22 The Lovers 23 Sunday Live at Splash 23 Crystal Robins 23 Sunday Sessions
FRI
7 InVogue Dancing 7 Mat Pilates 9 Late Fame 19 Subconscious (opening) 23 Balearic Babylon Fridays 23 Nat, Max & Rick Trio 23 Live Lunches at the Roastery 23 Friday Night Live Sessions
22 Whistling Kite New Music
12 THU 13
Don’t forget to wear your fave local band shirt for Ausmusic T-Shirt day!
BUSTARD TOWN THU 26 NOV | 6PM
7 Fruit Bat Trivia 7 Drag Queens Bingo 7 Sunset Yoga 7 Vinyasa Flow 7 Senior Pilates 9 Late Fame 11 Cradle Song by Albert Belz 23 Hot n Cold Big Band
02 MON 03 TUE 04 WED 05 THU 06 FRI
7 Mums & Bubs Pilates 9 Broken English
9 Klara & The Sun
new music, new mates.
7 Fruit Bat Trivia 7 Drag Queens Bingo 7 Sunset Yoga 7 Vinyasa Flow 7 Senior Pilates 23 Hot n Cold Big Band
Lest we forget
09 MON 10 TUE 11 WED
7 Mums & Bubs Pilates
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EXPLORE
Field of Lights art installation by Bruce Munro in Uluru. Photo Tourism and Events NT
DISCOVER CENTRAL AUSTRALIA HOT MONTHLY TIPS FROM OUR GOOD FRIENDS AT TOURISM CENTRAL AUSTRALIA
There's something about exploring the Red Centre in summer that changes your perspective. The heat encourages making the most of cooler mornings, swims in waterholes, and late afternoons spent watching the landscape shift with the light. The nights are warm and perfect for stargazing. The region's gorges and waterholes offer some of the most memorable places to swim in, from the deep waters of Ellery Creek Big Hole to the dramatic surrounds of Ormiston Gorge or Glen Helen. After rain, places like Trephina Gorge or Redbank Gorge take on an entirely different character, with creeks flowing through the landscape and waterfalls appearing where the desert is usually dry. As the temperature drops and the sun slips below the ranges, the Red Centre takes on a completely different personality. Head out for sunset, settle in around a campfire or simply look up at the black ‘screen’ full of stars. With vast open skies and remarkably little light pollution, summer nights are made for stargazing. If you would like to learn more about the celestial bodies, book in with Earth Sanctuary for a guided tour of the constellations. For a different kind of night out, make the trip to Uluru's Field of Light which celebrates its 10-year anniversary this year. Summer in Central Australia isn’t about escaping the heat – it’s about knowing how to make the most of it. Get out early while the landscape is cool and quiet, spend the day chasing waterholes and gorges, then stay out as the sun drops behind the ranges. Pack a picnic, fill the esky and turn a day trip into a day out. And when the sun goes down, there’s no better place to be than under the Central Australian night sky.
INFO discovercentralaustralia.com
offtheleash.net.au | 15
VISUAL ARTS
CRAWL INTO THE COCOON What happens when artists crawl into a cocoon for three months? A little creative chaos, a few unexpected connections and, hopefully, something wonderful emerging at the other end.
WORDS BROOKE GIBBS
THIS WET SEASON, Darwin Visual Arts (DVA) invites creatives to hunker down, experiment, and see what takes shape with a brand-new Creative Residency Program, with applications now open. From December to the end of February, DVA’s gallery transforms into a hive of creative activity, with multiple working studios bringing artists together under one roof. Think less hibernation, more collaboration – with plenty of room for ideas to get messy, grow legs, and take flight. Leading the program is Gallery Coordinator Heather Bradbury, who joins DVA after running Kapi Art Studio and Gallery in Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges. With a passion for mentoring, community connection, and creative experimentation, she’s keen to see what Darwin’s artists can dream up when given the space, time, and company to explore. “I think it would be lovely to get a range of different creative mediums of people. It’s open to anyone, really. It could be someone who’s just writing – it doesn’t have to be a painter,” she says. That’s right – you don’t need a paintbrush, a perfectly formed concept, or even a rough plan. DVA’s residency is an invitation to follow your curiosity, test an idea, or simply make space for your practice to evolve. “The main idea is that it’s Wet season. People often stay at home and things close down, but DVA has this building and we want to use all the rooms,” Bradbury says.
Cocoon Creative Residency WHEN DEC 2026 - FEB 2027 AT DARWIN VISUAL ARTS INFO darwinvisualarts.com.au
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And why do it alone when you can create alongside others? The cocoon concept is all about giving artists room to retreat into their work while staying connected to a wider creative community. “Often, when something comes out of a cocoon, it’s been a bit messy or muddy. I think someone said that when they’re in the cocoon, they go into a bit of a mush and it’s helpful to be around others,” Bradbury says.
Heather Bradbury, 'Eternity', 2018, oil on canvas, 90x151cm
“You often see cocoons hanging together, so I think it’s really important that you’re with others so you can bounce ideas off. Then the beautiful thing that comes out of that is something quite amazing at the end. It’s surprising, often even to the person that’s in the cocoon.” That sense of connection is a big part of the appeal behind this artist callout from DVA. Throughout the three-month residency, participants receive guidance, personalised feedback, and a sounding board as their ideas develop. The residency also gives participating artists the opportunity to share their practice through an interview and online artist profile, with an optional exhibition at the end of the three months. It’s a chance not only to make work, but to share the journey behind it. And for those thinking, that sounds great, but does my idea fit? – Bradbury’s advice is simple – start a conversation. “Let’s talk, because if you email me and say, ‘I’m doing this weird thing,’ once I talk to them, I can understand it more and can fit it in with this. I love to actually see people first.” DVA welcomes proposals from emerging and established artists, including solo, collaborative and group exhibitions, pop-up shows, and submissions from curators and community groups. Whether you’re an emerging artist itching to try something new, an established creative ready for a shake-up, or someone whose practice doesn’t fit neatly into a box, there’s room to grow. Forget waiting for inspiration to strike. Step into the cocoon, meet your creative neighbours and see what emerges. Apply now!
*Check individual gallery websites for opening hours
UNTITLED GALLERY + STUDIO
MIDPUL GALLERY
Unit 3/1 Clocktower Caryota Crt, Coconut Grove darwincommunityarts.org
54 Cavenagh St, Darwin City NT 0800 cdu.edu.au
Tactile Wall Art Exhibition by Maria Grujicic Studio, 2025
THE TACTILE WALL ART PROJECT
BY MARIA GRUJICIC
Jayana Andy, 'Tjukula/waterhole', 2022
CLAY ON COUNTRY
Clay on Country is a collection of works from artists in Central Australia, and was developed to coincide with Apmere Mparntwe, the 16th Australian Ceramics Triennale held in Mparntwe/Alice Springs in 2022.
An evolving, interactive exhibition, connecting children, teenagers, parents and educators through sensory exploration, play, and collaborative making. Beginning with Maria Grujicic’s tactile installation, it develops across three weeks as workshop participants and visitors respond, create, add, interact, and help transform the gallery environment. UNTIL THU 19 NOV
The collection features some established ceramic artists and some artists reconnecting with the medium after a hiatus, plus others incorporating clay into their practice for the first time. It was first displayed in 2022 at Araluen Arts Centre, and in the years since, has travelled to 10 galleries across the country, before it ends its journey back in the NT at Midpul Art Gallery at CDU. UNTIL SAT 6 FEB, 2027
ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE
61 Larapinta Dr, Alice Springs araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au | $8, $6 Conc, $20 Fam | Free NT residents
Collaborative Artwork (detail) by Saltbush Social Enterprises SEE program artists, 2026, acrylic & Posca marker on canvas
Albert Namatjira, 'Albert’s camp near Mount Hermannsburg', 1941, w atercolour on paper, 23.5x34.5cm Araluen Art Collection, acquired in 1992
HOLDING COUNTRY ARALUEN ART COLLECTION
Curated from the Araluen Collection, these artworks celebrate the enduring connection between Aboriginal people and Country across Central Australia. Vast grassy plains, spinifex covered sandhills, winding creek beds, rocky UNTIL THU 31 DEC ranges and water soakages are brought to life through painting.
HAPPY ARTISTS
BY SALTBUSH SOCIAL ENTERPRISES What happens when learning meets creativity? Students in Saltbush Social Enterprises Skills for Education & Employment program explored a variety of art mediums, including paper making, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, and painting. In this exhibition, they share their achievements and show how creativity inspires the confidence to learn.
FRI 27 NOV - THU 17 DEC offtheleash.net.au | 17
*Check individual gallery websites for opening hours
ABORIGINAL BUSH TRADERS
Shop 4, 19 The Mall, Charles Darwin Centre aboriginalbushtraders.com
NCCA
Northern Centre for Contemporary Art Vimy Lane, Parap | nccart.com.au
Digital image, taken on Kodak disposable camera, Ngurawanajirri Art Centre. Arthur Puruntatameri outside the Art Centre carving shed with works in progress. Photo Marie Yvonne Tipumantumirri.
COMMUNITY LENS A photography exhibition showcasing life on Country through the eyes of artists and arts workers from remote Aboriginal Art Centres. Captured on disposable film cameras, these authentic, unfiltered images celebrate everyday moments, culture and connection, offering a rare and deeply personal perspective of communities across Australia.
Therese Ritchie, 'Untitled', 2026, digital print on Ilford Smooth Pearl, 56x120cm
WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT THE STALKER: THERESE RITCHIE
UNTIL THU 31 DEC
Therese Ritchie's latest exhibition turns years of unwanted intrusion into photographic portraits – bodies inscribed with text, faces hidden behind masks drawn from film, meme, and popular culture. Confronting and dark, the works make visible an experience too often left unspoken. UNTIL SAT 14 NOV
Alfonso Puautijimi, Tokwampuwi (Birds)', ochre on heavyweight Saunders Waterford paper, 47x57cm
MIYINGARI MUMUNGA (HAPPY DAY/S) This exhibition brings together four artists from Ngaruwanajirri on Bathurst Island. Working with natural ochres harvested from deposits on Jikilaruwu Country, Bathurst Island, each artist paints on heavyweight Saunders Waterford paper, expressing Tiwi culture through their own distinctive style.. UNTIL SAT 14 NOV
18 | offtheleash.net.au
Zoe Slee, '(IN)FINITE', 2026, dimensions variable, digital photograph
(IN)FINITE
Time doesn't move in straight lines. It rushes, stalls, and loops back on itself and we measure it in numbers, as if it were fixed. But not all infinities are equal in size. The 2026 NCCA Members Exhibition examines we how we hold, shape, and are shaped by time. THU 26 NOV – SAT 19 DEC | OPENING THU 26 NOV, 6PM
*Check individual gallery websites for opening hours
OUTSTATION GALLERY
GYRACC
7 Anchorage Court, Darwin outstationgallery.com.au
Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre Lot 3238 Stuart Hwy, Katherine | gyracc.org.au
THE 51ST KATHERINE PRIZE Geoff Todd, 'Snowing Butterflies', acrylic on canvas, 122x240cm. Photo Phillip Huynh
THE VOYAGE OF THE EASEL: GEOFF TODD Inspired by Charles Darwin's own writings, this exhibition pairs Geoff Todd's paintings with extracts from Darwin's journals, not as scientific illustration, but as emotional, contemporary responses to one of history's most remarkable voyages. Allegorical, poignant and at times unsettling, these works reveal Darwin the man, not the scientist.
The Katherine Prize is an annual celebration of the extraordinary diversity that exists in the Northern Territory arts landscape. This exhibition brings together artists of all ages, cultural backgrounds, languages and regions of the NT, entries of any medium and by artists at all stages of their creative practice. WHEN SAT 7 NOV – SAT 12 DEC OPENING & AWARD CEREMONY | FRI 6 NOV, 6-8PM
MAGNT
19 Conacher Street, The Gardens magnt.net.au
FRI 6 – SAT 28 NOV | OPENING FRI 6 NOV, 4.30PM
DARWIN VISUAL ARTS
1/8 McMinn St, Darwin darwinvisualarts.com.au
Heather Bradbury, 'Eternity', 2018, oil on canvas, 90x151cm
2026 Telstra Art Award Winner, Ryan Presley, 'Our lifestyle of tranquillity undisturbed' (detail), 2026, oil paint on polyester, 187x152cm. Photo: Charlie Bliss
SUBCONSCIOUS
TELSTRA NATSIAA
Darwin Visual Arts Members Show explores 'SUBCONSCIOUS', the space between perception and reality, where dreams, memories and the unseen mind shape how we experience the world. Reflecting on altered realities, inner landscapes and consciousness itself.
Telstra NATSIAA is the longest running and most prestigious event for Indigenous artists in the country. The 2026 Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA) exhibition celebrates and reflects the breadth and specificity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories, histories, cultures and connections to Country.
FRI 13 NOV – SAT 5 DEC | OPENING FRI 13 NOV, 6PM
UNTIL MON 24 JAN, 2027
offtheleash.net.au | 19
FOOD & DRINK
Photo: Charlie Bliss
GOOD SPIRITS What started out as a backpacking adventure in Eastern Europe for Dom Wundke when he was 18-years-old has turned into a lifelong love of the craft of distilling.
WORDS TIERNEY WHITE
WHEN WE TRAVEL beyond our borders, we expose ourselves to different cultures, landscapes, and ways of living. Sometimes, we bring our learnings back home. Highly inspired by both his travels abroad and the Top End environment, distilling became Dom Wundke’s life obsession, with the Northern Australian native speargrass as his muse. “The speargrass itself is actually something that's been a part of my life for a long time – since that age or even before – but the idea of speargrass is about conservation. So, environmental protection, that's the whole reason I arrived in the Territory in the first place,” he says. Wundke studied environmental science at Adelaide Uni, and was always interested in conservation. He came to the Northern Territory to work in Arnhem Land as a ranger, eager to learn from the Traditional Owners how to look after the Country properly, eventually scoring a job doing just that.
Dom in Eastern Europe learning on a 500-year-old still
WHEN
MON-WED | 10AM-5PM THU | 10AM-3PM FRI | 2PM-10PM
Friday Night Live Jam Session WHEN FRI 27 NOV | 6.30-10PM AT SPEARGRASS DISTILLERY INFO speargrass.au
20 | offtheleash.net.au
“First day on the job, I was literally lighting speargrass on fire, hanging off the back of a ute – which was pretty wild, coming from the Adelaide Hills, which is a very fire prone area,” he says. “Ever since I arrived in the Top End, speargrass has been an important story for me, because it's an important part of all the ecosystems. It binds everything together. It's very resilient. It can survive fire, it can survive monsoon, and it connects North Australia. So, yeah, the speargrass story is very special to me.” It’s no wonder, then, that his first distillery is named after his beloved
native, with a speargrass seed resting in every bottle. Opening to the public earlier this year, Speargrass Distillery sits neatly in Coconut Grove, open weekdays for sales and tastings, with later hours on Fridays for drinks. Wundke got to test run his spirits at his former bar, Dom’s Bar, now Rust Bar, to skip the mass-produced spirits that have dominated the market for decades. “I saw the opportunity to not have to use these giant brands and have something local – I just couldn't pass that up. And they're not made with love either, that's the other thing, and you can tell. Smirnoff is made from corn, it's not a good thing to make vodka out of, and there's no love, there's no love in there,” Wundke says. And when he says love goes into every handcrafted Speargrass bottle, well, he’s not lying. Staff members sing to the spirits as they’re in the still and being hand bottled. In fact, the team has a strict rule that if they are in a bad mood or feeling blue, they need to stay away from the spirits and come back when they’re feeling lighter, happier. Makes you wonder what songs have been sung to the gin and tonic you’re sipping on, doesn’t it? You can also sample tasters at the Mindil and Parap Markets, test your tastebuds with Infusion Paddle Bingo, enjoy a Friday feed from Sari Rasa, and hit the distillery on the last Friday of the month for a jam session hosted by Ward Hancock, featuring an entourage of talented local musos. “What I really love about that jam
Photo: Charlie Bliss
night is that that's where all our spirits are stored. So, all the all the good vibes and the music end up in our spirits. I love thinking about that when the jam night's happening, like the spirits are just there soaking up all those great vibes,” Wundke says. Operations Manager Kristian – aka Prof. Mackie – has also been busy infusing spirits, with 109 infusions now available to try including laksa, mango, and Vegemite. Yep. Staying true to Wundke’s ethos of caring for Country, Speargrass has recently partnered with Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC) to support them to continue their conservation work. “We're donating a dollar from every 700ml bottle to AWC, as well as every triple pack that we sell. We like to support the AWC because they buy land and protect it for conservation. They own two percent of Australia's landmass now, which is really good, so anything we can do to contribute to them is great,” Wundke says.
“AWC manages and owns six properties in the NT. I visited one in Arnhem Land when I was living out there, called Wongalara Wildlife Sanctuary. They do amazing work, and that's what we want to support and get behind. We want to grow our business, our company, so that the more that we grow, the more that we can support nature and support conserving it. “Think about the native natural beauty we have in the Northern Territory … Unfortunately, a lot of our environment, particularly in the NT, is under threat due to major mining projects and other proposed developments like large-scale data centres … Think about how we can protect our natural resources, because that's the whole reason I moved here, and I think everyone who lives in Darwin and the Territory in general is here because we have this amazing natural beauty, right on our doorstep.” Plan a visit, take a tipple, and if you take a bottle home, know there’s a little part of it supporting the planet. No bad vibes at Speargrass Distillery, just good spirits.
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The Charcuterie Session | The Wild Table Explore three handcrafted salamis from Australian producer, Goose on the Loose, including pork and blue cheese, venison, and wild boar with fennel. Each is paired with a carefully selected cheese and wine in a relaxed, guided tasting.
HALF-PRICE PIZZA NIGHT
SUN 1 NOV | 4-5PM THE LAST SUPPER $74 thelastsupper.com.au Brine Club | Christmas Edition
Oysters, martinis and a little Christmas crafting. Brine Club is a leisurely afternoon of freshly shucked oysters, four flavoured toppings and optional oyster shell Christmas decorations. Enjoy martinis, Prosecco and extra oysters at the bar, with a non-oyster ticket option available for those who still want to join the fun. SUN 22 NOV | 3-5PM THE LAST SUPPER $20-$30 thelastsupper.com.au Chip & Sip: Across the Ditch Four Proper Crisps, four matched wines, and a serious investigation into chips and wine. Explore unexpected pairings, from garden herbs and Sauvignon Blanc to dill pickle crisps and fizz, and discover how flavours change when tasted together.
Thursday nights just got a whole lot cheesier. Round up your mates and head to Bustard Town for half-price pizzas with any drink purchase. Good tunes, cold drinks and pizza for half the price? That's dinner sorted. EVERY THU | 5-10PM BUSTARD TOWN FREE bustardtown.com
clay on country Artback NT Presents
DARWIN VISUAL ARTS GALLERY
members exhibition
ceramics from the central desert
SUN 8 NOV | 3.30PM THE LAST SUPPER $59 thelastsupper.com.au
O P E N I N G 6 p m F R I DAY 1 3 t h N ov U N T I L 5 t h D E C 2 0 2 6
Sunday Share Brunch
Enjoy a relaxed dining experience designed for generous share plates and easy conversation. Delve into the brunch favourites and signature spritzes, perfect for gathering friends and family over good food and free-flow beverages. EVERY SUN | 11.30AM-2PM PEPPERBERRY $15-$65 pepperberryrestaurant.com.au
WET SEASON STUDIOS AVAILABLE
Midpul Art Gallery 54 Cavenagh St, Darwin Gallery hours: Wed - Fri 10am - 4pm Sat 10am - 1pm
APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN for the DARWIN VISUAL ARTS 2027 EXHIBITION PROGRAM DEADLINE 30th NOVEMBER
9 October - 6 February Alfred Lowe,
Untitled Photo Sara Maiorino ,
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:
da rw i n v i s ua l a rt s .c o m . au offtheleash.net.au | 21
MUSIC
SHARE THE LOVE Share the love, share the music, as Arafura Music Collective presents their final performance of the year. WORDS BROOKE GIBBS IMAGE PAZ TASSONE sections in it that’s inspired by their meeting at Verdi’s Requiem and late-night kebabs in Marrickville, so it’s a story of two people coming together and creating a life together.”
THE LOVERS: MUSIC as the Heart of Community explores love as a force that binds us between partners, families, friends and the wider community. Moving from tender duos to rich ensemble textures, from the divine and celestial to the personal, familial and deeply held friendships, the music offers a joyful and heartfelt close to the year. Created from the real relationships that shape Arafura Music Collective, The Lovers opens a window into how a music community grows. “This performance explores both the many forms of love through
music and also how music creates a sense of connection, community and love,” says Coordinator and Creative Director Claire Kilgariff. “It’s really about music as a force that brings people together and shapes relationships and builds community, so Arafura Music Collective really is an ensemble of amateurs in the real meaning of the world, which means lovers of music.” The Collective is a community formed through music. When they first started playing together many years ago, that’s what drew them together – a group of people who
COLLABORATIONS IN CHAMBER Whistling Kite New Music returns to present two ambitious and compelling performances of chamber music, with a few surprises! WORDS TIERNEY WHITE IMAGE PAZ TASSONE
MUSIC LOVERS ARE invited to experience the collaborative beauty of chamber music, contemporary style, with two very special, and different, performances curated by Whistling Kite New Music Artistic Director, Nick Yates. The ensemble officially kicked off in 2020, born from a Darwin Fringe Festival performance in 2019 when Yates pitched the idea to his music peers. Made up of a round six, the ensemble presents several performances throughout the year, and have performed at Darwin Festival, AANT Centre, Brown’s Mart, George Brown Botanic Gardens Events Centre, and Audit House in the years since. 22 | offtheleash.net.au
This month, they return to Brown’s Mart, collaborating with other invited artists for two shows, the first being Soundtracks – a merging of music and film. “It's exciting to put together a concert based around original scores that members at Whistling have composed for various different sorts of short films,” Yates says. “The headline film is the Northern Territory premiere of Homesick, which is a short film by Iona Francis, with original score by myself and Stephanie Arnold. Lots of people in performing arts in the NT will know Iona – Iona and Kostadinos [Hatzivalsamis] have been going from strength to strength with their company Night Lights Pictures. “Homesick is Iona's, debut as writer/director, and it's a really sweet short film, which she says, is based on her own experience of saying goodbye to her childhood best friend before moving overseas.
wanted to play small ensemble music together rather than orchestral music. In this performance, enjoy a brandnew Australian work by Annette Anderson alongside favourites from Bach, Tchaikovsky and much-loved Australian composers, Elena Kats Chernin and Peggy Polias. “One of the new works we've commissioned by Dr Peggy Polias, is a beautiful work called ‘25’, which celebrates the 25-year marriage of Laura and Rob Llewellyn,” Kilgariff says. “It’s got some really beautiful
The Collective invites you to experience how the music, and the love of playing together, forms the threads that link musicians, audiences and the wider community. “We’ve got Adrian Walter, who’s quite a famous person in Darwin. He doesn’t live here anymore, but he was the man who ran the Darwin International Guitar Festival for many years,” Kilgariff says. “He and Bill Gross, who’s also a very prominent member of the music community, both absolutely love the music of the 19th century romantic guitar, and they’re playing this really gorgeous piece called ‘The Adventures of Love’, as a duet. It’s quite funny as well as being very beautiful and touching. Bill and Adrian really exemplify the
love of friends who come together and who spend many years playing together because of the love of the particular form of music they have.” This celebration makes a fitting end to the Collective’s performance season, ending the year on a positive note. “Everything around us seems to be full of problems, war and despair. What we’d like audiences to take away is that music and love both invite us to imagine new possibilities, and to feel hope and to recognise beauty, even in the simplest and smallest of things. It’s the idea of shared creativity,” Kilgariff says. “The Lovers offers a moment of optimism and a reminder that when we come together in music, whether you’re an audience member or you’re a musician, it’s a shared moment that can open our hearts and our minds to new potentials and new relationships. It forms a sense of belonging to a community.”
The Lovers | Music as the Heart of Community WHEN AT COST
SAT 7 NOV | 3.30-5PM GRAY COMMUNITY HALL $15-$25 | FREE (U18)
WHEN AT COST
SUN 8 NOV | 5-6.15PM DARWIN SUPREME COURT $35-$40 | FREE (U18)
INFO
arafuramusiccollective. org.au
It's a love letter to their upbringing, their friendship, and all their teenage antics. It's a very sweet little film.” Other films screening on the night to the live score include Water is Life by Sam Phelan and Miliwanga Sandy Wurrben, with original score by Netanela Mizrahi, Nick Yates, and Stephanie Arnold. Venus and The Moon by Ayelet Rose Gottleib also screens, with text by Mizrahi 's daughter Bessie, and a new arrangement of the music by Mizrahi. The second show, Stories of Water and Earth, features music by Mizrahi and poetry by Melanie Mununggurr. “Stories of Water and Earth is the name of the big work in the program … that premiered a couple of years ago at Darwin Festival ... It's had some performances since then in Sydney, but this will be only the second time it's been performed in Darwin,” Yates says. “It’s really exciting to be giving that piece, you know, more life, and Melanie's poetry about her Country is very powerful, and it's beautiful music … We'll have some other
surprises in there, too. There's going to be a new piece that I'm writing, and Steph's going to play a solo cello piece as well.” Both performances epitomise the beauty of chamber music – which holds up as an intimate and lovely experience in itself – but they also demonstrate the aptitude chamber music has in supporting other art forms, like film and poetry. Head along to experience some
incredible Territory storytelling with Whistling Kite New Music and friends. Soundtracks WHEN SUN 1 NOV | 5PM Stories of Water and Earth WHEN FRI 13 NOV | 7PM AT COST INFO
BROWN’S MART $24-$41 brownsmart.com.au
STELLAR SEA & BALACLAVA PEACE COLLECTIVE
Shake off the burnout with two slaying Alice bands, bringing you post punk power ballads and microbursts of sonic desert deadliness. Grab a feed and a drink, and settle in for some fab live local tunes from Stellar Sea and Balaclava Peace Collective. SAT 14 NOV | 9-11.30PM TROPIC OF CAPRICORN FREE tropicofcapricorn.com.au
TOP END
This relaxing monthly arvo of music is a must-see, must-do, must-hear. Strum a song and belt out a ballad or kick back with a drink in the shade while other talented musos do! SUN 1 NOV | 3-7PM TRACY VILLAGE FREE facebook.com/firstsundayblues Darwin Celtic Music Sessions Head long to Darwin's monthly Celtic music session, featuring local and visiting musicians playing through an array of traditional and contemporary music from Ireland, Scotland and the Celtic diaspora. Newcomers welcome. SUN 1 NOV | 4.30-7.30PM FREE THE LAST SUPPER topendfolkclub.org
Friday Night Live Experience one of Darwin's most vibing jam sessions. On the last Friday of every month, the stage is set at Speargrass. Hosted by the one and only Ward Hancock, local talent takes the floor. Jam time.
BABYLON BAR FREE facebook.com/babylonbardarwin
RED CENTRE
Saturday Nights at Babs
FRI 27 NOV | 6.30-9.30PM SPEARGRASS DISTILLERY FREE speargrass.au Hot n Cold Big Band Experience this 18-piece sensation, live on stage, and celebrate the timeless appeal of jazz and swing music. Entertaining Darwin audiences every week since 2009, these cats are cool. Entry includes a dance lesson with Swing Dance NT. Boogie time. EVERY WED | 7.30-9.30PM $10 DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB hotandcoldbigband.weebly.com ROHA Collective
Join Babylon every Saturday for live DJ sets from the Austin Lane window. Different DJ every weekend. Always good tunes. EVERY SAT | 9PM-2AM BABYLON BAR FREE facebook.com/babylonbardarwin Sunday Live at Splash Get out your togs, bathers or swimmers for Sunday Live at Splash. This weekly event at Darwin Airport Resort's Splash Cafe offers a chilled afternoon of music, food, drinks, and connection, set against the beautiful backdrop of the new poolside space. Bliss.
Sunday Sessions Dive into some sweet tunes every Sunday at Alice Springs Brewing Co, and enjoy a few cold ones and a feed in the sunshine with friends and fam. Keen to strum a ditty or two? Throw your name in the hat! EVERY SUN | 4-8.30PM ALICE SPRINGS BREWING CO FREE facebook.com/aspbco Live Lunches at the Roastery The Roastery fills with music from local and travelling musicians. Enjoy lunch in an intimate setting with live music setting a cozy scene. For updates on who's playing next, keep an eye on their socials!
Dolly Tribute
Celebrate the life and music of the fabulous Dolly Parton. Dress up and pack your dancing shoes for an all-star lineup of local talent. The original event poster, beautifully hand-made, is raffled on the night with proceeds going to Imagination Library. SAT 14 NOV | 7.30-10.30PM (NOT 9 ‘til 5) DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB $25 darwinrailwayclub.org
ROHA Collective take over Bustard Town every Thursday with their totally improvised live set – blending funky rhythms, jazzy hooks and solos made up on the spot. No setlist. No rules. Just see what happens. Nice. EVERY THU | 7-9PM BUSTARD TOWN FREE bustardtown.com Balearic Babylon Fridays Join Balearic Babylon Fridays on your way home from work, as Piece & Quite spins tunes through the windows with a different guest each week. EVERY FRI | 6-10PM
EVERY SUN | 2-4.30PM SPLASH CAFÉ, NOVOTEL DARWIN AIRPORT FREE darwinairporthotels.com.au
EVERY FRI | 12-2PM THE ROASTERY CAFE FREE duyucoffee.net Friday Night Live Sessions
Nat, Max & Rick Trio EVERY FRI | 12-2.30AM SWEETHEARTS FREE Nat & Max Duo EVERY THU | 6-9PM THE HOTEL DARWIN FREE EVERY SUN | 5-8PM CAVENAGH HOTEL FREE Crystal Robins EVERY SUN | 6-9PM THE FORESHORE RESTAURANT & CAFE FREE
Start your weekend right with a drink, dinner and live music in an intimate setting. Every Friday evening, The Roastery fills with music from local and travelling musicians every Friday evening.
FOR A CHANCE TO SEE YOUR GIG LISTED IN PRINT, UPLOAD IT TO OUR WEBSITE SCAN FOR DEETS
EVERY FRI | 5.30-8.30PM THE ROASTERY FREE duyucoffee.net offtheleash.net.au | 23
The much-loved Darwin Christmas Program is back, kicking off with the Makers Market, the Darwin Christmas Pageant and more in Darwin City.
Saturday 14 November 2026
NOV
14
THERE’S MORE TO LOVE! Discover Santa’s Village, dive into the Christmas Pool Party, and see what else is on at darwin.nt.gov.au/christmas
CHRISTMAS MAKERS MARKET
LORD MAYOR’S TREE LIGHTING
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Shop local makers and artists in the Mall! Brought to you by Darwin City Retailers Association.
7:00 pm - 7:15 pm Experience the magic as Darwin’s iconic Christmas Tree lights up.
DARWIN CHRISTMAS PAGEANT
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
6:00 pm - 6:45 pm Celebrate the magic of the parade, with family-fun for all! The Christmas Pageant and Concert are proudly sponsored by:
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Enjoy festive music, performances and food trucks serving a variety of cuisines from 5:00 pm at Civic Park!