Off The Leash - May 2023

It’s that time of year when Top End folks reach for the winter woollies, whilst our mates in the desert battle through actual cold conditions as the mercury dips under 10 degrees. Ah, May, it’s good to see you.

Gracing our cover is lead singer Andrew Gurruwiwi of high-energy, eight-piece funk outfit Andrew Gurruwiwi Band, who perform at Darwin Entertainment Centre this month for Garrmalang Festival. Garrmalang has showcased and celebrated First Nations culture on Larrakia Country since its inception in 2014. This year, the beloved festival has grown to offer six huge days of learning, art, conversations, music and culture.

Other faves that make a welcome return include the first Tactile Arts Craft Fair for the year and Freds Pass Rural Show. Deckchair Cinema threw the gates open for the season, and this month gives you the chance to soak up French culture and cinema at the French Film Festival. Magnifique!

On the back of the incredible Wide Open Space in the desert, festival season continues to ramp up. The locals lovin’ Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival brings the beautiful Nightcliff Foreshore to life over three days, while BASSINTHEGRASS hits the beach at Mindil. I had a huge fan girl

moment getting to chat with Julian Hamilton of The Presets, the legendary Aussie duo hitting the stage for the music festival’s 20th anniversary year.

If you haven’t been along to see Archie 100 at MAGNT yet, set some time aside to check it out, it is absolutely incredible. The fabulous Archie 100 public program is also in full swing with free and ticketed events, and talks and tours.

Our newest OTL contributor Kodi Twiner lets us in on one of the most delicious spots to grab a feed in Mparntwe (ahem, empanadas anyone?) whilst Betty Sweetlove gives us the rundown on Alice Springs World Chamber Orchestra’s latest gig.

In OTL news, we welcome Danny Crichton to the team as Graphic Designer. Some of you may know Danny from his creative design work or his time as boss man at The Lucky Bat. (Fun fact: Danny won the cover design competition in 2015 when OTL went through a full rebrand.) Heartfelt thanks go to Simone Ericsson for her wonderful contribution to six editions of OTL.

Pour yourself a chilled bev, or a hot one if you’re feeling the cold, and enjoy poring over the pages of May.

OTL is proudly supported by

Betty Sweetlove & Kodi Twiner

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.

In 2022, OTL became a Territory-wide publication due to the generous support of Michael Sitzler, for all Territorians.

Cover proudly sponsored by Darwin Entertainment Centre

Image: Andrew Gurruwiwi Band

Tierney Seccull Managing Editor & Development Manager

Kate Conway Editorial Assistant

Danny Crichton Graphic Designer

Contributing writers

GARRMALANG

GO FOR

For almost a decade, Garrmalang Festival has descended on the heart of Larrakia Country to celebrate the richness of First Nations art and culture, deeply inherent to the Northern Territory. This month, Garrmalang returns with an exciting, extended six-day program.

By Kate Conway

Founded by Ben Graetz in 2014 as a passion project, Garrmalang Festival was originally held over a Dry season weekend, and in the years since, has grown into a thriving hub of community and connection.

Dr Wendy Ludwig returns as Creative Director for a second year, and says the extended six-day program was designed to cater to a broader audience, but also to enable organisers to provide an important platform to engage young First Nations people.

With a focus on the topic Young People Tracking - where to next?, the first two days of Garrmalang is dedicated to panel talks and workshops for invited First Nations senior and middle school students to explore the next stage of their lives after school.

“I think it’s really important to provide space and opportunity for young people to start talking about some of the things that are really on their minds at the moment,” Ludwig says.

"To have young people come into Darwin Entertainment Centre and see that this is a place they can feel comfortable to do things that are of interest to them, and that there’s employment opportunities in the arts industry that can make genuine contributions to the economy … That’s the broader kind of thinking that I have in terms of engaging young people in this particular kind of environment.”

Highlighting the potential for a career in the arts, singing workshops for the school students, facilitated by renowned First Nations musicians Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse, culminate in a special choir performance at the Festival Official Gathering and Welcome. These workshops continue the duo’s important work to keep First Nations languages alive, through performing and teaching original songs in the Noongar language.

Fresh from a successful run at Sydney Festival, iconic First Nations actor, writer and comedian Elaine Crombie presents her one-woman show, Janet’s Vagrant Love. Combining stunning vocals with her signature wit, Janet’s Vagrant Love draws on Crombie’s personal experiences to deliver a performance Crombie is hopeful audiences can relate to.

“I’m excited to bring Janet’s Vagrant Love to Darwin and have the mob come and see it. Especially the young ones, so they can hopefully see themselves in me, on stage, yarning, telling stories, singing, being light,” she says.

Headlining Friday night’s festivities is seven-piece Yolŋu funk and reggae

group The Andrew Gurruwiwi Band. Hailing from Arnhem Land, and led by the band’s namesake Yolŋu Elder, their distinctive sound creates an electric, high-energy atmosphere. The band’s debut single Gatjumak means ‘go for it’. Frontman Andrew Gurruwiwi says, while the upbeat song is inspired by sport and giving your all on the footy field, it’s applicable to dancing too.

“Gatjumak can mean everything. Show me what you got, show me your style of dance. Just do it! Get up and dance,” he says.

The bumper program also includes art exhibition Mamulubma, featuring selected works from the Batchelor Institute Art Collection that celebrates fresh and saltwater mermaids. NT Dance Company Artistic Director and Larrakia man Gary Lang presents a departure from his signature medium of dance, with a spoken word performance in The Gary Lang Story.

With such a jam-packed program, you might be concerned about timetable clashes. But the Festival has been thoughtfully planned with the audience in mind. Performances are scheduled to enable movement throughout the venue with ease, and ticket packages are available to encourage attendees to make the most of Garrmalang.

“Coupled together with the creative expression and celebration of beautiful, successful endeavours, the Festival provides opportunities in terms of the panel discussions for some serious conversations to happen. But it’s also an opportunity to inform and grow the understandings and insights of non-First Nations people about the breadth and depth of First Nations life,” says Ludwig.

“It’s important for people’s souls to see positive and uplifting, creative, artistic expression. In light of all the things that are happening in our lives at the moment, it’s a good balance for people.”

Head along to DEC and embrace the opportunity to be fully immersed in this thoughtfully curated dose of arts and culture. Get your Garrmalang on.

Garrmalang Festival

WHEN WED 24 – SUN 28 MAY

AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

COST FREE-$40

INFO yourcentre.com.au

2023 program

Garrmalang Festival offers a melting pot of First Nations art, culture, music and storytelling, the 2023 extended program running over a huge six days for the first time in Festival history. Events are free unless otherwise noted, and registration may be required. Don’t miss the chance to soak up this important and immersive cultural Festival.

EDUCATION PROGRAM

In a Festival first, the 2023 Garrmalang Festival offers an education program, which includes a youth day for First Nations students from local middle and senior schools. The day includes a panel discussion moderated by Northern Territory Young Australian of the Year 2023, Jahdai Vigona, and workshops facilitated by musicians Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse. These Education Program initiatives are designed to explore pathways and opportunities following school years.

WHEN TUE 23 & WED 24 MAY

PUBLIC PROGRAM

Mamulubma | Mermaids Mamulubma exhibits selected works in various mediums from the Batchelor Institute Art Collection, that celebrate the mystery and allure of mermaids. Mermaids are female saltwater and freshwater spirits that merge sites and stories of significance in First Nations cultures.

WHEN WED 24 – SUN 28 MAY AT DEC GALLERY

The Gary Lang Story

Luglug & Damara-lidji | Official Gathering & Welcome Festivities officially kick off with a traditional smoking ceremony and dance by local Larrakia community members. Proceedings are followed by a special local youth choir performance, which is developed during Education Program workshops with multi-award-winning duo Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse.

WHEN FRI 26 MAY | 5.30PM

Janet’s Vagrant Love

WHEN SAT 27 | 9-11AM AT BALCONY BAR

Numanggwa Yili Rriyung | Blak Meeting Place (Marketplace)

WHEN WED 24 – SUN 28 MAY AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE INFO yourcentre.com.au

Western Australia. Don’t miss this stunning performance merging the ancient language with contemporary music, vocals and poignant stories.

WHEN SAT 27 MAY | 6PM AT STUDIO THEATRE COST $20-$30

An Evening with Ursula Yovich Special Guest Chris Tamwoy

Founder and Artistic Director of NT Dance Company, Gary Lang, presents an honest, fun and raw hour of storytelling that opens a door to the past. Lang regales his memories with a dash of controversy, for a unique and entertaining insight into the renowned Larrakia man.

WHEN WED 24 MAY | 7PM THU 25 MAY | 10AM & 7PM

STUDIO THEATRE

Written and performed by renowned First Nations actor Elaine Crombie, Janet’s Vagrant Love presents hard truths of raising young Blak men as a single mum, delivered in a commanding performance with humour and heartfelt song.

WHEN FRI 26 MAY | 6.45PM AT STUDIO THEATRE COST $20-$40

Andrew Gurruwiwi Band

Special Guest Paul Ah Chee

High-energy, seven-piece funk and reggae group, the Andrew Gurruwiwi Band, takes to the stage for an explosive performance, featuring debut single ‘Gatjumak (Go For It)’. This exciting concert is supported by special guest Paul Ah Chee, and emceed by Eddie Kitching.

WHEN FRI 26 MAY | 8.15PM AT THE PLAYHOUSE COST $20-$40

Mayima | Eat and Drink

Delight your tastebuds with a range of tasty treats throughout the Festival.

WHEN FRI 26 – SUN 28 MAY

Darriba Narri Minanggurrgwa Yabarrag | Elders’ Morning Tea

Come together to celebrate our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders. This special event brings the community together to honour those who have passed on their knowledge, paved the way, and who continue to inspire. Enjoy music by Aunty June Mills with tea, coffee and delicious treats provided.

From arts and crafts to services, Blak Meeting Place provides a welcoming space to browse the rich diversity of artworks and products on offer from First Nations artists and businesses. Head along to support ethical purchasing, and discover groups providing essential services to our First Nations communities.

WHEN SAT 27 MAY | 9AM-2PM

Daranigi Gulwa | Our Songs Kick back with a drink and something to eat, and treat your ears to the Garrmalang soundtrack featuring some of Darwin’s finest First Nations musicians.

Prayer Corby, Damien Armstrong, Robert Mills Collective

WHEN SAT 27 MAY | 11AM-8PM AT FORECOURT

Darryl Barba & Eddie Kitching

WHEN SUN 28 MAY | 12-6PM AT BALCONY BAR

Numanggwa-Gum | Blak Talk

The Voice – Let’s Talk About the Question

Later this year, eligible Australians will vote in a referendum on whether or not to give First Nations Australians a Voice to the Australian Parliament and the Government. What does this mean for you? What will you do? In this panel discussion, moderator Ursula Raymond and expert panellists invite you to join them to talk about The Voice.

WHEN SAT 27 MAY | 12PM AT THE PLAYHOUSE

Gina Williams & Guy Ghouse

Award-winning duo Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse use music to highlight one of the most beautiful and rare languages, the Noongar language of the southern corner of

Experience the soulful sounds of Ursula Yovich with a live band, in a captivating evening of song. Joined by bassist Adam Ventura of Midnight Oil, take a journey through the universal language of song inspired by Ursula’s roots in Arnhem Land. This special evening is supported by special guest and guitar virtuoso Chris Tamwoy, and emceed by Ursula Raymond.

WHEN SAT 27 MAY | 8PM AT THE PLAYHOUSE COST $20-$40

Guligi Numanggwa | Big Blak Dot Comedy Spectacular – Kevin Kropinyeri Goes Talkabout & Dora Smith

Kevin Kropinyeri returns to Garrmalang Festival with an all new show featuring some Blakfulla yarns about his past. Emceed by Deadly Darwin’s Richie Fejo, and joined by Deadly Funny Grand Finalist and emerging talent Dora Smith, Kropinyeri delivers his unpredictable and cheeky, yet relatable, sense of humour.

WHEN SUN 28 MAY | 5PM AT STUDIO THEATRE COST $20-$35

Official Welcome 2022 Garrmalang Festival.

Photo: Benjamin Warlngundu Bayliss

MUM 'S theWord

ByTierneySeccull

Here at Off The Leash, we like to think we provide a pretty good community service. Part of that service is to remind our readers of any significant dates coming up, like Mother’s Day, for example.

THE TIME TO celebrate Mums and mother figures in our lives is upon us, and we’ve got you covered for the perfect gift ideas to help you earn top spot as favourite child. You're welcome.

Tactile Arts kicks off its 2023 craft fair program with the All The Mothers Craft Fair, unleashing local creativity upon the gorgeous green surrounds of Darwin Waterfront. Tactile Arts’ newly appointed General Manager Aneka Truman is excited for the first craft fair of the year, also the first since all health restrictions were fully lifted.

“I believe it’s going to be the biggest one yet, as we’ve got close to 90 stalls exhibiting. It should be really buzzing and a really great atmosphere,” she says.

“I went along last year when there were still COVID restrictions in place, so the stalls had to be placed further apart. Hopefully we’ll all fit, it should be really good!”

Enjoy a lovely Saturday perusing the many stalls for handmade treasures by local artisans, with a bounty of unique arts and crafts on offer, the craft fair soundtracked by the acoustic sounds of Michael Clarke and Melanie Gray. There are two workshops where you can craft your own pair of silver earrings, and some free creative workshops for the kiddos with Bev Garside.

All The Mothers Craft Fair WHEN SAT 6 MAY | 9AM-3PM AT DARWIN WATERFRONT COST FREE INFO tactilearts.org.au

By Tierney Seccull

Keep it rural

FOR MORE THAN 40 years, Freds Pass Rural Show has showcased the beauty and charm of rural life in the Top End with an annual celebration of animals, market produce, horticulture, food and family fun.

From humble beginnings as a small fete at Howard Springs Primary School back in 1978, it’s grown into the huge weekend-long event it is today.

This year sees a slight change of scenery, the new location on the western side of Freds Pass Reserve offering a green and shady space to relax in by the lake. Freds Pass Rural Show Inc. Chair Shirley Preston says it’s an exciting move.

“The benefit of the new space is that it can be a permanent home for the Show. It’s more compact in its set out, there’s more shade with a natural amphitheatre we can use, and it’s more picturesque with the bushland, the lake and big mahogany trees,” she says.

“There’s less walking for everyone because of that compactness – so there’s lots of good things to come out of it.”

A true point of difference for the family-orientated show is the inclusion of the wood chop competition. In fact, it’s so much of a drawcard, expert woodchoppers are flown in especially for the occasion.

“One of the biggest highlights is the wood chop exhibition – we are the only show in the NT that has wood chop. Many people have seen wood chops in southern shows, because it’s always a feature of southern shows, and we have to bring our woodchoppers up here from Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia so the Territory audience can experience it.”

Of course, the usual suspects round out the Show’s offerings, with equestrian events, livestock judging, animal displays, an exhibition hall featuring the community's artistic and creative

talents, a side show alley, main stage performances, music talent quests, the NT Young Rural Achiever Awards and a vast array of poultry, horticulture and market garden produce. Yep, it’s a mouthful.

On the topic of full mouths, the highly anticipated 50km Feast gala dinner kicks off the action on the Friday evening, this year featuring the culinary prowess of Paul ‘Yoda’ Iskov. Iskov hails from Fervor, a foodie biz from Western Australia that features a revolving team of qualified chefs that offer unique outdoor dining experiences.

Fervor champions foraged local and native ingredients in their dishes, so prepare your tastebuds for an evening of indulgence, where the stars shine both in the sky and on your dinner plates.

Heads up – the 50km Feast is limited to just 200 guests. Tickets include a four-course dinner, three-hour drinks package and fundraising auction. With a

Spoil Mum with ceramics, textiles, glass works, crocheted homewares and bags, clothing, chutneys and jams, and jewellery. For a good pamper sesh, explore the lovely range of artisan soaps, candles and body scrubs. Or if you’re a mother yourself, and overdue for a bit of retail therapy, treat yourself to whatever tickles your fancy!

After a day hunting for treasures, why not kick back with a cool drink and a feed from one of the Waterfront’s many restaurants? Settle in and soak up the atmosphere of this beloved Top End craft fair.

Welcome to Country from Aunty Bilawara Lee, a Smoking Ceremony, and entertainment from Constantina Bush and DJ Charly Templar, these tickets are hot, hot, hot.

For a top Top End weekend, round up the troops and make tracks to Freds Pass Rural Show.

50km Feast

WHEN FRI 26 MAY | 6.30PM

AT FREDS PASS RESERVE COST $250

Freds Pass Rural Show

WHEN SAT 27 & SUN 28 MAY

AT FREDS PASS RESERVE COST FREE-$95

Photo: Paz Tassone

LISTINGS

Cashin’ Your Trash In

By Tierney Seccull

A BELOVED K-TOWN favourite makes an exciting return next month, as the 2023 Katherine Junk Festival celebrates all things trash. Presented by the legends at Katherine Regional Arts, the sustainable Junk Fest brings the community together for an action-packed day of fun whilst shining a light on the catastrophic effects our actions as consumers have on the environment.

Junk Fest is fun for the whole family, and offers live music and dance performances, food and kids’ play spaces, but a true favourite is the Junk Art Competition, where participants and groups can submit junk art works made entirely from reused and recycled materials.

The time has come to get those thinking caps on, friends, as Junk Fest organisers are calling for your trashy submissions!

Darwin Festival Italian

Dreaming of a trip to Italy?

Smashed season two of The White Lotus? Keen to get your pasta fix?

The Darwin Italian Festival returns to celebrate the best of Italian culture and cuisine. Head along and enjoy delicious pizza and pasta, music, competitions, and stacks of family friendly entertainment. Ah, that's amore!

WHEN SAT 13 MAY | 12-11.30PM AT DARWIN WATERFRONT COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ italianfestivaldarwin

Birth Matters

Explore choices around pregnancy, birth and postpartum care in Darwin at this evening workshop.

WHEN TUE 2 MAY | 6-8.30PM AT THE WELLNESS HUB DARWIN COST $25 INFO nebula.net.au

Botanical Art: Seasons

WHEN SAT 6 MAY | 8-11AM AT JABIRU LAKE PLAY PARK COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ jabirumarkets

Hammered Silver Earrings

Portrait Painting

Join artist Frances Wicketts for this portraiture workshop to coincide with Archie 100 at MAGNT.

There’s a range of categories to enter including sculptures, junk fashion and junk shoes, and there’s even special categories for tots, tweens and teens. Plus, there’s thousands of bucks up for grabs in prize money. If you need some inspo, crafters and creatives are invited to work on their trashy creations over a series of workshops every Tuesday evening.

So if you’ve got a trashy idea or some funky junk to share, Junk Fest is keen to cash in your trash.

Junk Fest Workshops

WHEN EVERY TUE | 5.30-7.30PM COST FREE

Junk Fest Art Competition

WHEN SUN 28 MAY | SUBMISSIONS CLOSE COST FREE

At KATHERINE REGIONAL ARTS iNFO katherineregionalarts.org.au

Learn art techniques to render botanical art. Suitable for intermediate and advanced levels, weekly sessions focus on a variety of challenges as well as guide participants through drawing skills and brushwork techniques.

WHEN EVERY WED, 3-24 MAY 6-8PM AT TACTILE ARTS STUDIOS COST $280 | $260 MEMB INFO tactilearts.org.au

Palmerston Youth Media Team

Keen for some work experience in a creative industry? Join City of Palmerston's Youth Media Team. They're a group of 14-25-year-olds that come together to share what is important to them.

WHEN THU 4 & 18 MAY | 4.30PM AT PALMERSTON REC CENTRE COST FREE INFO palmerston.nt.gov.au

Jabiru Dry Season Markets

Spend a lazy weekend morning browsing locally handmade craft, secondhand items and local tour group info at these friendly markets in the heart of Kakadu.

Green GRANTS

ARE YOU PASSIONATE about making positive change when it comes to the environment? Got a great, Earth-friendly idea you’d love to get off the ground? Need a bit of cash to make it happen? City of Darwin can help.

Through the Environment and Climate Change Grants program,

Join Tactile Arts’ silver workers to learn how to make beautiful 925 silver earrings. Perfect timing for Mother's Day, make a gift for a loved one or keep to treasure.

WHEN SAT 6 MAY | 10AM & 11.30AM AT DARWIN WATERFRONT COST $65 INFO tactilearts.org.au

Insect Ecology, Collection and Curation Masterclass

This workshop is an introduction to insects in Australia, their ecology, diversity and distribution, as well as a primer on ethical collecting and museum curation.

WHEN SAT 6 MAY | 9AM-4PM AT MAGNT COST $250 INFO magnt.net.au

Beginners Ceramic Design and Wheel Throwing

Suitable for multiple levels of skill, learn about the art of wheel throwing with ceramic artist, Ekat Veloudos.

WHEN EVERY TUE, 9 MAY – 13 JUN 5-8PM AT TACTILE ARTS STUDIOS COST $435 | $400 MEMB INFO tactilearts.org.au

they’re giving environmentally conscious folks the opportunity to have their ideas funded.

They’re calling for applications that either focus on climate change mitigation and adaptation, or explore conservation and improvement of natural systems, including biodiversity enrichment. City of Darwin is also open to information gathering, technology or trial processes to improve any of these two key areas.

With the view to facilitate ideas

WHEN SAT 13 & 20 MAY 9.30AM-1PM AT TACTILE ARTS STUDIOS COST $215 | $195 MEMB INFO tactilearts.org.au

Sell and Trade Your Arts Market @ WTS

WTS is calling all DIY makers, crafters and creatives of all kinds to sell and trade your arts. Live music and radio broadcast by 8CCC Community Radio.

WHEN SAT 13 MAY | 9AM-1PM AT WATCH THIS SPACE COST GOLD COIN | FREE FOR FIRST NATIONS INFO wts.org.au

Mother’s Day Pommery High Tea

Treat Mum to a luxurious high tea and indulge in a delicious selection of seasonal sandwiches, freshly baked scones and delectable cakes, accompanied by a bottle of bubbles.

WHEN SUN 14 MAY | 1.30-3.30PM AT PEPPERBERRY RESTAURANT COST $159 FOR 2 | $189 FOR 3 INFO darwintickets.com.au

that benefit the Darwin community, applications that will hit a soft spot with assessors should include practical and implementable outcomes, innovative and sustainable ideas, and align with City of Darwin’s Climate Emergency Response Plan and Greening Strategy.

If you’ve got a green idea you’d like to get off the ground, apply today!

WHEN WED 31 MAY APPLICATIONS CLOSE INFO darwin.nt.gov.au/ environment-grants

Talk | Territory History CollectionChinese in the Top End

Join MAGNT Assistant Curator of Territory History Paige Taylor, for this talk inspired by the impact Granny Lum Loy had on the Top End. This special viewing of historical objects tells the story of how the Territory developed into the multicultural society it is today.

WHEN SUN 14 MAY | 11.30AM12.15PM

AT MAGNT THEATRETTE COST FREE INFO magnt.net.au

Seniors at the Library | Travelling Solo

Travelling solo can seem daunting. In this panel session, three women who have travelled solo as mature-aged people share their tips and tricks for travel.

WHEN TUE 16 MAY | 10AM-12PM

AT CASUARINA LIBRARY COST FREE INFO darwin.nt.gov.au

Talk | Transformations – The Changing Nature of the Territory

The Northern Territory has two separate climates – one dominated by water during the Wet season and one dominated by the unrelenting sun during the Dry season. Join Dr Richard Willan,to explore MAGNT’s best-loved permanent gallery, the Natural History Gallery.

WHEN THU 18 MAY | 11AM-12PM AT MAGNT COST FREE INFO magnt.net.au

Carpentaria Trivia Fundraiser

Join Carpentaria for a night of trivia and raffles in support of their Paediatric Equipment Program. Test your general knowledge and help contribute to the funds required for repairs, maintenance and purchase of new equipment for this worthy cause.

WHEN THU 18 MAY | 6.30-9.30PM

AT DARWIN TRAILER BOAT CLUB COST $20 INFO darwintickets.com.au

Soundscapes: Exploring imagery, deep listening and vocal work for wellbeing

Featuring workshops by Kuya James, Ania Tait and Megan Atfield, this immersive and experiential event explores deep listening of live and electronic music to inspire imagery, and introduce holistic voice therapy.

WHEN SAT 20 MAY | 10AM-3PM

AT DARWIN COMMUNITY ARTS COST $55 INFO austmta.org.au

Darwin Sailing Club 60th Anniversary Gala Ball

Dust off your finest Territory rig and celebrate 60 years of Darwin Sailing Club with a three-course meal, three-hour beverage package, and live entertainment from The Kicks. Round up your mates and celebrate

six sweet decades of sailing, socialising and sunsets.

WHEN SAT 20 MAY | 6.30PM AT DARWIN SAILING CLUB COST $200 | $190 MEMB $1800 TABLE INFO darwinsailingclub.com.au

Argentine Tango

WHEN SUN 21 MAY | 6-9PM AT RAMADA SUITES ZEN QUARTER COST FREE INFO northerntango.com.au

Reconciliation Week

National Reconciliation Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to explore how to contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

WHEN SAT 27 MAY – SAT 3 JUN INFO reconciliation.org.au

Great Northern Mud Crab Comp

Get excited fishos, the Great Northern Mud Crab competition is back! Round up your crew and register your team for the chance to claim bragging rights.

WHEN SAT 27 MAY | 6AM AT DARWIN TRAILER BOAT CLUB COST FREE INFO dtbc.com.au

Stone Set Ring

In this workshop with Debra Senjuschenko, students each make a beautiful sterling silver ring set with a stone of their choice.

WHEN SUN 28 MAY | 10AM-4PM AT TACTILE ARTS STUDIOS COST $310 | $285 MEMB INFO tactilearts.org.au

Geek Up Geek Up is a free afternoon filled with enjoyable, geeky activities for young people aged 15-25. Take your pick of three activities to join and get geeky!

WHEN SUN 28 MAY | 1-4PM AT CASUARINA LIBRARY COST FREE INFO launchdarwin.com.au

Art Jam – Creative Meet Up

Bring your masterpiece makin' gear and get creative at this weekly meet up for peeps aged 15 and up.

WHEN EVERY MON (EXC. 1 MAY) 5-7PM AT DURACK COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE COST FREE INFO palmerston.nt.gov.au

Movement Medicine WHEN EVERY SUN | 10-11.30AM AT NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE COST $20 INFO facebook.com/ movementmedicinedarwin

FESTIVALS

Community Salt, Sea &

With its stunning cliffside ocean views, picturesque jetty and outdoor friendly lifestyle, many consider Nightcliff one of the most desirable suburbs in Darwin. Since 2004, Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival has heralded the beginning of the Dry, and celebrated the beating heart of this sweet seaside suburb.

By Kate Conway

THIS MONTH, AFTER community dismay following last year’s event cancellation, the beloved festival is back in action.

Sprawling more than two kilometres, Seabreeze threads the Foreshore with over 16 stages and areas, showcasing everything from belly dancing to a three-on-three basketball competition, to comedy and circus acts. The eclectic mix of performances highlights the Top End’s unique and thriving culture of music, dance and visual arts.

For the first time, the 2023 Festival spans three glorious days. Festival Development Manager Tom Jones says organisers aimed to capture a new crowd, and moving from two to three days means the event is shaping up to be a biggie.

“We’re anticipating it to be a lot bigger than previously, the feedback from the community is excitement that it’s going to be over three days. People who work on Saturdays are excited they can still get along to enjoy a full day’s entertainment,” he says.

front and centre.

“We’re putting our waste right in the middle of the Festival, so everyone can see how we’re sorting it out, and we’ll have people standing at every bin to make sure that people do the right thing,” he says.

Maintaining Seabreeze’s strong ethos of community and inclusivity, the Community Village is back with local community groups, clubs and organisations setting up information stalls. The Ripple Effect stage is back, a speaker’s space with special guests, thought-provoking discussions and forums.

Whether it’s entering the popular Jetty Art Space or Sand Sculpture art prizes, or jumping on stage to sing, dance or act, the Festival sees over one thousand performers showcase creativity across over 100 performances. Jones says the grassroots community involvement is deeply inherent to the cherished event.

Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival

WHEN FRI 12 MAY | 5-10PM SAT 13 MAY | 3-10PM SUN 14 MAY | 3-8PM

AT NIGHTCLIFF FORESHORE COST FREE

INFO nightcliffseabreeze.com

Proudly conducted as a waste wise event, with no single use plastics in sight, Festival attendees are encouraged to bring their own water bottles, cups and cutlery, and travel via bicycle or catch a handy free bus. Roy Smith is Chair of the Nightcliff Art Music and Culture Inc Committee, and says sustainability is literally

“There’s not many festivals where locals get such a presence, it’s about more than any one particular artist. I think it’s exciting that so many of the local artists get to have a go,” he says.

“There’s just something really special about the Seabreeze Festival. It’s so inclusive of local artists, the community and there’s such a good atmosphere. There’s nothing quite like it.”

Photo: Paz Tassone

Since the early eighties, David Strassman has been a master of the craft of ventriloquism, from humble beginnings busking on streets to huge sell-out stage shows across the world.

First performing on Aussie shores in 1991, he’s back touring his beloved “second home” with the evil and cheeky Chuck Wood and adorably loveable Ted E. Bare in tow. Tierney Seccull caught up with Strasso for a yarn about his new show, The Chocolate Diet.

David Strassman

Tell us about your new show!

It is, I think, one of my funniest shows yet. All of my characters go through amazing issues they have to resolve. One of them is that Ted E. knows he gained some weight from the lockdowns. And we don’t really mention those two dark years – because no-one wants to really remember them anymore – but he is addicted to chocolates, as we all are, and I try to convince him that he has to wean off the chocolates, and he doesn’t want to, ‘cause he loves them, it’s all he eats.

And so, we finally convince him that you can have chocolates, but you have to have a healthy diet as well. And he commits to going on a diet, and he comes back impossibly thin, he went too far. So that’s a hilarious routine. Then he comes back later on in the show and goes the opposite way, he’s enormous. Ted E. Bare goes through three physical transformations in this show, and it’s absolutely stunning and hilarious. It’s funny.

Oh, poor Ted E. Bare. Many of us can relate to a few unwanted COVID kilos. And you’re bringing your evil mate Chuck Wood with you, too? Yes, Chuck is having gender identity issues. So, he is culturally relevant and he’s pro LGBTQI+, he’s pro women. He is going through a hilarious transformation, however, it does not take the piss. It’s respectful and funny. I’ve been vetted by the pride community … and for people like this hetero male, it’s an achievement to be able to be vetted by the pride community. But at the end, Chuck turns out to be the bastard he’s always been, so he hasn’t changed too much!

Two huge journeys for your puppets in The Chocolate Diet. What inspired the show?

I always do cultural and current affairs in my show, it’s not like I’m a political comedian or someone trying to preach, you know. Jim Jefferies is great because he talks about society’s ills, but ya know, I’m a puppeteer, it’s a puppet show! Except my puppets are twisted and all have issues that reflect our issues – I’m kind of holding up a mirror to all of us. And the great thing about these puppets is that they can say sh-t that no one’s supposed to say, because we know they’re not real.

They can certainly get away with being a bit cheeky! If they’ve not had the pleasure before, what can audiences expect from your show?

It’s a laugh every moment. I’m a grown man that plays with dolls, but the dolls or puppets are twisted. It’s not for the faint of heart, it’s not for little children, it’s not for the overly religious, but it’s definitely for someone who wants to laugh so hard – and this is no joke – that your face will be hurting by the end of the evening.

Ventriloquism is such a unique craft requiring a lot of skill – there’s a lot on the go managing the puppet’s body and their words, as well as your own. Is that difficult at times or have you just been doing it for so long that it comes naturally?

It comes naturally, it’s almost second nature. When I know a script so much and it’s ingrained in my memory … that’s when my show blossoms and the characters improvise. They take on truly a brand new life of their own.

It’s astounding to me sometimes, because they’ll say things and think of things that I don’t think of, and it will literally cause me to stop and cack myself laughing in front of the audience because I’m surprised at what came out of their mouth!

You regularly tour Australia and NZ with your live shows – what is it that keeps you coming back?

I’ve a long history with the Northern Territory, and Australia is my second home. You’ve gotta love a place where the slogan is “she’ll be right, mate” and “let’s have a sausage sizzle at Bunnings on Sat arvo”.

I first came to Alice in the mid-nineties, and I’ve spent a lot of time in the outback camping, travelling. I’ve been to Hermannsburg and Ntaria, and I’ve been between Alice and Darwin. I love the outback mentality.

One thing I love is that you are aware that nature is more powerful than you are. When you’re living in a city, like Sydney or Melbourne, it’s different – everything is muted. But the person that lives in the NT or in the outback, you are a sturdier person, in my opinion.

That is one of the reasons I keep coming back, not just to do my shows, but to explore the surroundings. It’s the power of the country.

David Strassman – The Chocolate Diet

Photo: Adam Shane

Photo

MOVEMakers

By Tierney Seccull

Hymns for the

This month, nine movement curious people from Tracks Dance Company’s Choreolab program share their findings in a special two-performance showcase. Developed in 2009, the program gives participants the annual opportunity to explore their own physical movement in a supportive environment.

By Tierney Seccull

WitchinG HOUR

FOR MANY CULTURES across the globe, particularly in Asia, it’s believed that spirits rise in the dead of the night. It’s in these late but early hours, commonly referred to as the witching hour, the thin veil between life and death can be easily punctured.

This idea of the witching hour, and the otherworldly sense it stirs, has inspired the latest work from Darwin based musician and producer James Mangohig, aka Kuya James. Hymns for the Witching Hour premieres at Brown’s Mart Theatre this month, and draws on James’ Filipino-Australian heritage and former religious beliefs.

“I guess, growing up in the church, I definitely had a kind of weird upbringing, talking about lots of things like the angels and devils and God … When I left the church and did my first theatre show, In-Between Two, I kind of shared a bit of my journey in leaving the church,” he says.

“When I was young, I had this really vivid imagination. My father and I would say these prayers before bedtime, kind of about spiritual warfare about angels and Christ’s blood protecting our house … I imagined this shield going over our

house and would lay in bed, and my brain would explode with colours and visions.

“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve spoken to my father about the night, and nightmares, and dreams with him … I realised I wanted to make a show about the comfort I feel from music when I think of those scary spiritual warfare scenes, and so Hymns for the Witching Hour became this comforting soundtrack that I started writing.”

Through James’ musical soundscape, the immersive work captures the essence of the witching hour, yet soothes the unrest it may stir. The set design’s been crafted in the clever mind of Jocelyn Tribe, and features choreography by Kino McHugh, who is joined by dancers Ruttiya McElroy and Steph Spillett. The trio of dancers are cloaked by video projections reminiscent of James’ childhood.

“It was Jocelyn Tribe who came up with the idea of using these overhead projectors, because before I played music in church, my job was to move the words on the overhead projector – I had to have the next sheet ready for the hymn or contemporary Christian rock song,” he laughs.

“Jocelyn loved the idea, so they’re full analogue projections from overhead projectors. That’s a cool link, because that’s what my job used to be in the church, but also something from growing up in Australia in the 80s and 90s.

“I love those little nostalgic things that remind us of a simpler time. I’m not someone to harp on about how things used to be better, I just think it’s nice to sometimes remember those really simple times.”

In previous performance works, such as James’ music production for Tracks Dance shows, he’s followed the lead of the dancers, the music designed for the choreography. But in Hymns for the Witching Hour, his music has led the charge.

Delve into the late-night mind of Kuya James, where angels and devils tread both worlds, and through his music find some comfort in those lonely hours.

AIMED AT PEOPLE with some level of dance or movement experience, or with some kind of artistic practice, the showcase is the culmination of 10 weeks of exploration.

The program is facilitated by Tracks Dance Animateurs Steph Spillett and Kelly Beneforti, also both former Choreolab participants. Spillett facilitated for the first time last year, and says it’s given them valuable perspective.

“I think that, being a former participant, it gave me a raw point of view on what the participant’s experience would be like. It’s been an exploration for me, as a facilitator, to consider how we can run the course to suit participants best this year. It’s always on a year-by-year basis.”

This year’s entourage includes Jennie Attrill, Marilynne N Kirshbaum, Flynn, Jeremy Garnett, Karen Hawkes, Anita Lakatos, Severine Meunier, Serina Pech and Terra Suppiah.

“The group we have this year have come from a range of artistic practices, even movement practices like yoga, and there aren’t many dancers. So they bring a different discussion into the room in terms of being in your body,” Spillett says.

“That’s the best thing about it, the exploration and the playing is different no matter what practice you’re in. For the participants, it’s good to know that we’re not going for an end product or what’s

presented on stage, we’re about finding the progress and how to play with tasks to the full extent.”

The participants have taken part in a range of tasks over the 10 weeks, each week exploring a new theme, including choreography framework the Locus cube by Trisha Brown.

“It’s like you’re sitting inside a cube, and you’ve got letters all around you … and you’ve got to spell things out over three different plains. We decided to spell our favourite season from the four seasons, which is beautiful because everyone’s pathway is going to be different for each letter, and it’s a good way to think about working in different plains.”

If you’re interested to see the physical manifestation of what the participants have experienced over the past couple of months, head along to the showcase to find out.

“Kelly and I, as facilitators, have tried to create a space to reassure the participants that it’s a showing, not a polished performance. It’s about showing what it means to create movement and to create work … it lets audience members get some insight on things that they don’t otherwise get to see.”

Choreolab 101: Explore

Photo: Charlie Bliss

Photo: Duane Preston

Dead Singers Dance Society

In this four-week course with Tracks Dance, learn a fun and achievable dance routine that celebrates the music of a legendary dearly departed singer. This month, move to the distinctive, magical voice of John Lennon.

WHEN EVERY THU | 5.30PM

AT TRACKS DANCE STUDIO

COST $40 COURSE INFO tracksdance.com.au

LIFE SLIDE YOUTH DANCE THEATRE

A contemplative new choreographic work, LIFE follows the lives of teenagers whose safe place is where the music is. Inspired by songs that resonate with the cast, and focusing on lyrics, sign language communication and symbolism, SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre presents a contemplative new choreography for their first 2023 show.

WHEN WED 17– FRI 19 MAY 10AM & 6.30PM

AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

Amy Hetherington - Juggle

Happy Mother's Day Nhulunbuy!

What better way to spend it than laughing about the chaos of parenting and identity with award-winning Darwin comedian, Amy Hetherington?

WHEN SUN 14 MAY | 3PM

BABY-FRIENDLY MATINEE

AT GOVE COUNTRY GOLF CLUB

COST $20 INFO facebook.com/ amyhetheringtoncomedy

COST $35 | $20 CHILD $15 SCHOOLS INFO yourcentre.com.au

Kel Balnaves - Have a Crack

Following a 15,000km tour of regional Australia, South Aussie comedian Kel Balnaves is back with his latest show and it’s a cracker. Looking for punchy, relatable, award-winning Aussie stand up? Have a crack at this one.

WHEN SAT 20 MAY | 8PM

AT ALICE SPRINGS BREWING CO.

COST $20 INFO facebook.com/ kelbalnavescomedy

Top Territory Texts

Heads up Territory writers and wizards of the written word, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and polish up any unpublished projects, because entries for the 2023 NT Literary Awards are open!

By Kate Conway

FOR OVER 35 years, the annual competition has celebrated the artistry of local wordsmiths across an array of categories including short story, creative non-fiction, poetry, theatre and more, with a prize pool of free memberships, masterclasses and over $5000 in cash up for grabs. Not bad at all.

Prolific local novelist, playwright and screenwriter Sean Guy won the Brown’s Mart Theatre Award last year for his theatre script, Under the Table, and says the nod was a milestone in his career.

“It was just about the best feeling of my adult life. I’ve never won an award as a writer before, except

French Film Festival

Celebrate French culture

this month, as Deckchair Cinema joins forces with Alliance Française de Darwin to present the 2023 French Film Festival. Enjoy French cinema over three magnifique days, with French wine and cheese on offer throughout, and tuck into a French feast by De la Plage on closing night. Très bien!

November

From writer/director Cédric Jimenez, November powerfully explores the perspective of the lead investigators of the French anti-terrorism services, working against the clock in the aftermath of the 2015 attacks across Paris. It’s an edge-of-your seat deep-dive into one of the most incredible manhunts in European history.

WHEN FRI 5 MAY | 7PM

Les Femmes du Square Angèle, a thirty-something from Ivory Coast, gets by in life thanks

DECKCHAIR CINEMA, DARWIN

Mascerade

for a few short stories when I was a teenager, but as an adult professional writer, that was the first one,” he says.

After submission, the play was performed at a sold out run during last year’s Darwin Fringe Festival, followed by a further three nights due to audience demand. This year, Guy put his work out to theatre companies around Australia, and it was recently performed in Melbourne with more theatre groups interested in his quirky whodunnit.

While he’s previously had work picked up by interstate theatres, Guy acknowledges the value taking out the prestigious award can bring.

“You cannot overstate how important an award like this is for local writers.

It’s the biggest one for unproduced work … That kind of award and recognition, it’s not even about the money, [it’s about] being able to go to interstate theatres and say ‘hey, I won the biggest NT award for theatre writing’ it just makes a huge difference. It’s a massive kick start to a career.”

Whether you’re an established writer with a back catalogue of unpublished pieces to draw from, or an emerging talent at the early stages of your career, everyone is encouraged to enter. If you’ve got a

story to tell, submit your entry and make the most of this incredible platform. According to Guy, the benefits of entering are endless.

“The worst thing that will happen is you come out of it with a finished piece of work. Or you might get some feedback. Even if you’re not shortlisted, then at least you’ll have something ready that you can send off to the next award, you can show your friends, or you can keep developing it for next year. There is no downside to entering an award.”

COST $9-$17 | $41 FAM INFO deckchaircinema.com

Glamour, sex, money and manipulation all combine in this comedy-drama. Aspiring dancer Adrien’s life is turned upside-down after a motorbike accident, but things change when he meets the captivating Margot, who lives for the thrill of scams and romance. Together, they fantasise about a better life.

WHEN THU 4 MAY | 7PM

to her gift of gab. To escape from a bunch of dangerous criminals, she becomes a nanny in uptown Paris. Discovering the work conditions of her colleagues, she decides to stand up for their rights.

WHEN FRI 5 MAY | 9.10PM

La Dégustation

Hortense has a big heart and no one to share it with, and meets Jacques, a 50-something grumpy local cellarman while buying a nice bottle of wine. Eager to see him again, she attends a chaotic wine tasting in Jacques’ shop. As

Hortense and Jacques grow closer and closer, their past begins to catch up to them.

WHEN SAT 6 MAY | 7PM

Saint Omer

This extraordinary narrative debut feature, by acclaimed documentarian Alice Diop, depicts the gripping story of a young novelist who is forced to confront her own complex family history as she attends a notorious murder trial.

WHEN SAT 6 MAY | 9PM

2022 NT Literary Awards Winners Sean with Cj from Brown's Mart

4 Garrmalang Festival

Housed in the Araluen Cultural Precinct, in the former Connellan Airways mess house, is Yaye’s Café, offering coffee and light refreshments daily to the Precinct’s many welcome visitors.

Yaye’s, pronounced yar-yars, means sisters in Arrernte language, and relates to the Two Women Dreaming story that runs through the land the Precinct calls home.

By Kodi Twiner

WHEN DAILY | 7AM-2PM AT ARALUEN CULTURAL PRECINCT INFO facebook.com/yayescafe

Yaye’s Café at Max Relaxo

THE SPACE IS soundtracked by native birdsong and South American music plays through the speakers, offering a welcoming and gentle vibe with an imprint of Latino culture. For owner Max Fonte, it’s more than just a café.

“I’m from Argentina, my South American roots are very present in everything I do.”

Max arrived in Mparntwe in 2015 after looking at the map and choosing “a place not by the coast”. His two-week trip to the desert turns into eight years this July. He applied to operate Yaye’s in 2019, and within a few months it opened, all set for its new chapter.

Then the world went sideways. Pandemic, no tourism, you know the story. But Max notes the community as the reason Yaye’s pulled through.

“We survived through local support.”

It’s been a rollercoaster ride for Max, who insists that owning a café in Central Australia was never in the plan. But he has no regrets, and his deep value of community and culture is evident in every story he shares.

Yaye’s signature dish is the empanada. Max started making empanadas at local markets, which has transferred to the café menu with ease. The South American style pastries come in a variety of flavours, like chilli sweet corn or bacon, egg and cheese. Yaye’s also serves traditional herbal tea, known as maté, and chilli hot chocolate.

For a sweet treat, sample their best-selling homemade, mama's recipe, apple cake.

The café has become a home away from home for the team.

“If you’re in the kitchen you will hear English and Spanish, it gets messy, it gets noisy, it’s loud sometimes. A little bit like us,” Max says.

The outdoor area is family friendly, kids and pets are welcome with a toy-box and plenty of space, and customers can donate a toy in exchange for a babycino. It’s also become a bit of a hot spot for freelancers, who work from their laptops, nicely caffeinated with full tummies. Max has his favourite tip for a blissful café experience.

“I think the best time to come to Yaye’s is in the morning light. You can have time to yourself, which is precious. The air is fresh, the light hitting the mural … mornings are really nice.”

Inside the building, Yaye’s sells local artisan jewellery and holds exhibitions throughout the year. It was the hub for Desert Song Festival 2022, and they’ve hosted book releases and mental health week events. Providing a venue for the community is a passion for Max, so if you've got an idea, he's open to collaboration.

“Come in and chat with us. If we can do it, we will do it!” he says.

Get your max relaxo on, enjoy the mingling of cultures, community and cuisine, and let Max and his friendly team look after you.

Max (left) & his crew Max's famous empanadas!

Art meets science meets ancient culture in this thought-provoking video exhibition by Australian artists Sonia Leber and David Chesworth. Where Lakes Once Had Water opened at CDU Art Gallery last month, and journeys across Country and back in time as changes in climate, landscape and ecology are investigated over the span of 130,000 years.

WHERE LAKES ONCE HAD WATER

By Tierney Seccull

TO CREATE THE almost 29-minute work, Leber and Chesworth travelled to a range of diverse locations across the Northern Territory, from arid lands to tropical lagoons.

“We travelled with Earth scientists, Indigenous rangers and Elders on field trips out of Darwin to film them digging into the ancient soils to explore long-term climate history,” Leber says.

“We were fascinated by how everyone sensed the land, read the signs and signals, and experienced the environment in each present moment. Equally, we wondered about how the birds, insects and other non-humans were experiencing different versions of the land.”

Using video and audio as a tool, the work evokes the idea of hidden forces and hidden energies in the environment. It captures the Earth’s surface from different perspectives, documents its marks and landscapes, and evaluates the impact of water, sun and fire. Chesworth

CDU ART GALLERY

says Indigenous involvement was integral to the project.

“Importantly, the Earth Scientists were accompanied everywhere by Indigenous rangers and Elders, such as Mudburra Elder Ray Dimakarri Dixon, who imparted local cultural knowledge and a care and concern for Country,” he says.

“The Wiradjuri scientist Michael-Shawn Fletcher was part of Cassandra Rowe and Michael Brand’s team at Girraween Lagoon, joined by the Larrakia Rangers. Michael-Shawn encouraged us to view the environment as a cultural landscape shaped by 60,000 years of Indigenous custodianship.”

A symposium to complement the multi-media work, chaired by CDU Professor of Digital Humanities

Jennifer Deger, brings the artists together with scientists from the Australian Research Council Centre Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH).

Dr Cassandra Rowe, a CABAH scientist involved in the project,

Orange 12, CDU Casuarina Campus | cdu.edu.au/gallery

WED-FRI, 10AM-4PM | SAT, 10AM-2PM

says she was drawn to the project to see science through the lens of another.

“It was just really lovely to jump into a different sort of vehicle of communication … to be able to join in with Sonia and David, and to be able to design a different kind of presentation of what we do,” she says.

Mumkurla-nginyi-ma parrngalinyparla, from the darkness into the light:

GURINDJI FREEDOM BANNERS

THE GURINDJI FREEDOM banners celebrate the 1966 Wave Hill Walk-off, when Vincent Lingiari

AM led Gurindji, Mudbura, Bilnara, Ngarinman and Warlpiri peoples on a strike from Wave Hill Station. This industrial dispute over appalling work and living conditions at Wave Hill Station became a demand by the Gurindji for the return of their traditional lands. It eventuated in the first historic handback of lands to First Nations Australians, 1975 and the Aboriginal Land Rights (NT) Act, 1976.

“I thought it was really great to show this in a place, and maybe reach different people, that pure science never really would. To have it in galleries and on display, it’s a very different space to what we do, and I was really looking forward to seeing research presented in that completely different way, to completely different people.”

UNTIL SAT 15 JUL | SYMPOSIUM WED 17 MAY, 3-5PM AT CDU ART GALLERY INFO cdu.edu.au/ art-collection-gallery

DON WHYTE FRAMING

Unit 5/1 Travers St, Coconut Grove | donwhyteframing.com

TUE-FRI, 8AM-5PM | SAT, 9AM-2PM

Off Cuts

Sonia Leber and David Chesworth, 'Where Lakes Once Had Water', video still, 2020, University of Wollongong Art Collection. CABAH Art Series Commission in association with Bundanon. Filmed on the lands and waters of the Mudburra, Marlinja, Jingili, Elliot, Jawoyn and Larrakia communities

Gurindji community members, Joanna Barrkman and Chips Mackinolty, 'Walk-off banner; the Gurindji freedom banner series', 2000, applique and hand-painted textile, 163x316cm. Reproduced courtesy of Karungkarni Arts and Culture

DON WHYTE FRAMING'S famous art fundraiser features new works on small canvas offcuts, inspired by this year’s theme 'Twice as Big as Texas'. Head along to enjoy the creative interpretations from artists, local and afar.

MAGNT Museum and Gallery of the Northern Territory

19 Conacher Street The Gardens, Darwin NT | magnt.net.au

DAILY, 10AM-4PM

Archie 100

A Century of the Archibald Prize

AUSTRALIA’S OLDEST AND most prestigious portrait award, the Archibald Prize, celebrated its 100th birthday in 2021. To mark the occasion, the Art Gallery of NSW presents the touring exhibition Archie 100: A Century of the Archibald Prize. The exhibition celebrates the winners and the losers, the controversies and the commonplace and, above all, the artists who have made the Archibald Prize the most sought after accolade in the Australian art world today.

WHEN DAILY, 10AM-4PM | $12, $10 CONC, $5 CHILD (5-15)

Public Program

The Archie 100 goodness continues, with an exciting public program of events in full swing. Places are limited so check out the MAGNT website and scoop up some hot tickets. Events are free unless cost is listed, and registrations are required.

AT MAGNT INFO magnt.net.au

Tour | Director’s Pick – Archie 100: A Century of the Archibald Prize

Join MAGNT Director Adam Worrall on a tour, as he reveals some of his favourite artworks gracing the MAGNT walls.

WHEN THU 4 MAY | 11AM-12PM

COST $12 | $10 CONC | $5 U15

Talk | A True Territorian: Portrait of Grandma Lum Loy

Join MAGNT Senior Curator of Art, Bryony Nainby, for this talk discussing the 1979 Archibald prize finalist painting, A true Territorian: Portrait of Grandma Lum Loy painted by Geoff La Gerche.

WHEN SUN 14 MAY | 12.30-12.50PM

Talk | Granny Lum Loy, The Matriarch of Darwin’s Chinese Community

Former Chief Minister Clare Martin

AO is joined by descendants and close friends of Granny Lum Loy for this panel discussion, highlighting the lasting impacts she had on the Darwin Chinese community.

WHEN SUN 14 MAY | 1-2PM

Sunset Soiree | Directors Pick – Archie 100: A Century of the Archibald Prize

Join MAGNT Director Adam Worrall for light refreshments at sunset,

as he reveals some of his favourite artworks in the touring Archie 100 exhibition.

WHEN THU 18 MAY | 5.30PM COST $30

Workshop | Pop Up Paint ‘n’ Sip Party – Dame Edna in the Archie 100

Hello possums! Enjoy an evening of fun, frivolity and glitz to recreate John Brack’s portrait of Dame Edna Everage, 1969 Archibald Prize winner. Following a tour of the exhibition, be guided through a fabulous two-hour painting session, as you recreate Dame Edna in paint whilst sipping on a cool beverage. Delightful!

WHEN FRI 26 MAY | 5.30-8.30PM COST $60

Talk | In Our Hands: Portraiture Practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Artists

MAGNT Curator of Aboriginal Art and Material Culture, Rebekah Raymond moderates this special Reconciliation Week panel discussion. Joined by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, they unpack the power of portraiture, how their works reveal who they are, and what it means to be Aboriginal today.

WHEN SAT 27 MAY | 11AM-12.30PM

BLAK on a Hot Tin Roof

Geoff La Gerche, 'A true Territorian: Portrait of Grandma Lum Loy' (detail) 1979, MAGNT, gift of the artist, 1993 © Geoff La Gerche. Photo: MAGNT/Mark Sherwood

Created by Kamahi Djordon King especially for Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts & Culture Centre (GYRACC), this exhibition is a tribute to the artist’s past and his life growing up Indigenous in Katherine. Join GYRAAC in celebrating the artist’s versatility, dedication to sustainability, nostalgia, and latest body of work.

Kamahi Djordon King, 'Saltlake', acrylic paint on corrugated sheet, 135x84mm

GODINYMAYIN YIJARD RIVERS ARTS & CULTURE

Stuart Hwy, Katherine East | gyracc.org.au MON-FRI, 9AM-5PM

PAUL JOHNSTONE GALLERY

2/2 Harriet Place, Darwin | 8941 2220 | pauljohnstonegallery.com.au

WED-FRI, 10AM-5PM | TUE & SAT, 10AM-2PM

Gwenneth Blitner

Wurrugugu (flower)

TACTILE ARTS

19 Conacher Street, Fannie Bay | 8981 6616 | tactilearts.org.au

TUE-FRI, 10AM-4PM | SAT, 10AM-2PM

PORTRAITS

JOIN TACTILE ARTS for their first members' exhibition of 2023. Portraits runs in conjunction with Archie 100 at the Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Archibald Prize, Australia’s most prestigious portrait award. Talented local artists explore the theme of Portraits through the mediums of ceramics, glass, textiles, paintings, mosaics, sculpture, jewellery and more.

PAUL JOHNSTONE GALLERY is proud to present a solo exhibition by revered artist Gwenneth Blitner. Imbued with colour, Gwenneth’s paintings depict the lush landscapes around her home at Ngukurr on the Roper River. They are memories of the places she has visited with family, reminding her of the importance of Country and of the connections to Marra Country. Rich with interpretation, Gwenneth's effulgent depictions of wildflowers punctuate patterned details of the landscape.

COCONUT STUDIOS GALLERY

8/18 Caryota Court, Coconut Grove | facebook.com/coconutstudiosdarwin

THU-SAT, 10AM-5PM | SUN, 10AM-3PM

THE GREAT SEA IS NEVER FAR AWAY

A SOLO EXHIBITION by Gaye Coyne, charting her ongoing affinity with the sea and the natural world, and her process of incorporating close observation, emotional reaction and memory.

UNTIL

WHEN SAT 6 – SAT 27 MAY OPENING SAT 6 MAY, 11AM

WHEN FRI 26 MAY – SUN 18 JUN | OPENING FRI 26 MAY, 5.30PM

Understory by Winsome Jobling

A THREE-MONTH RESIDENCY at Tactile Arts has evolved into an exhibition of large multi-panel prints, capturing the internal energy and rhythms of the Top End landscape. Winsome Jobling attempts to make visible how the natural world touches us through a multi-sensory space to enfold and enclose, to evoke intimacy and a sense of time, reminding us that the reciprocal relationships of all living and non-living things is an elaborate and all-encompassing mesh of networks.

Winsome Jobling, 'Understory' (detail), 2023, handmade papers, drypoint & stitching, 80x57cm

Ingrid Gersmanis, 'The Kitchen Queen', 2020, found objects

Gwenneth Blitner painting at the Ngukurr studio (courtesy Ngukurr Art Centre)

Gaye Coyne, 'Sea Landscape', 2022, acrylic & Indian ink on canvas, 40x40cm

NCCA Northern Centre for Contemporary Art

Vimy Lane, Parap | 8981 5368 | 0402 379 630 | nccart.com

WED-FRI, 10AM-4PM | SAT, 8AM-2PM | OR BY APPOINTMENT

ABORIGINAL BUSH TRADERS

Shop 4, 19 The Mall, Charles Darwin Centre | aboriginalbushtraders.com

MON-FRI, 9AM-3PM | SAT, 8AM-2PM

UN-BORDERING WORLDS

NEW NARRATIVES FOR NORTHERN KOSOVO

WHAT ROLE CAN contemporary art play in a divided war-torn city? Does it have the power to change the status quo? Can a river be the stage on which to propose peaceful solutions?

These are the questions asked by NCCA Director Petrit Abazi, and artists

Stanislava Pinchuk and Piers Greville, in their emblematic contributions to the European nomadic biennale of art, Manifesta 14 Prishtin, ‘It matters what worlds world worlds: how to tell stories otherwise’.

UNTIL SAT 3 JUN

UNTITLED GALLERY + STUDIO

Unit 3/1 Clocktower Caryota Crt, Coconut Grove darwincommunityarts.org

WED-FRI, 11AM–4PM | SAT, 10AM-12PM

HYPNA GOGIA

POP-UP GALLERY

Shop 19/21 Knuckey St, Darwin MON-FRI, 10AM-4PM | SAT, 10AM-1PM

Yipu Jangkarni, Big Rain:

Art from Karungkarni Art and Culture, Kalkarindji

IN MARCH THIS year, Kalkarindji was hit by disastrous floods. Having now returned to their community, the artists at Karungkarni Art and Culture have begun their Art Centre clean up and are back producing stunning works. This exhibition looks at the importance of water, and its movement and Dreaming stories.

WHEN TUE 2 MAY – SAT 10 JUN

Megan Wild, 'Dingo', 2023, ceramic

EMERGING ARTISTS MEGAN Wild and Roxanne Voulanas explore the ideas of escapism and daydreaming through their respective mediums of sculpture and painting. Wild’s nonsensical ceramic creatures are complemented by Voulanas’ surrealist dreamscapes and scenic interpretations in acrylic. Hypnagogia hopes to bring you a welcome distraction from the mundane of your day-to-day.

WHEN FRI 5 – THU 25 MAY | OPENING

5 MAY, 6PM

Soak Tumble Dry

SOAK TUMBLE DRY  pop-up exhibition returns for a third year to Darwin CBD. This year's group exhibition showcases four photographers and a local sculptor in the empty On Safari shop on Knuckey Street. Drop in to experience contemporary photography at its best, as the artists explore the drama and excitement of the tropical Wet season.

Daniel Palmer, 'The Rains', acrylic on canvas, 122x122cm

Stanislava Pinchuk, ‘Europe Without Monuments’, 2022 (detail). Photo Marcello Maranzan

Nicholas Gouldhurst, 'Wedge tail eagle', 2023, photographic paper, 43x27cm

ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE

61 Larapinta Dr, Alice Springs | araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au

DAILY 10AM-4PM

Rauschenberg & Johns Significant Others

AT THE HEIGHT of the Abstract

4th National Indigenous Art Triennial CEREMONY

THE FOURTH NATIONAL Indigenous Art Triennial: Ceremony, is the National Gallery of Australia’s flagship exhibition of contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. From the intimate and personal to the collective and collaborative, ceremonies manifest through visual art, film, music and dance. Featuring the work of 35 artists from across Australia, this exhibition reveals how ceremony is at the nexus of Country, of culture and of community.

until SUN 11 JUN

Expressionist movement, a new avant-garde emerged from a relationship between two young artists. Robert Rauschenberg and Jasper Johns began a private creative dialogue that introduced everyday signs, objects, and media into their work, collapsing the distinction between art and life. This exhibition draws on the National Gallery of Australia’s collection of prints with works by both artists and holdings of some other key works.

until SUN 14 MAY

Jasper Johns, Gemini G.E.L., 'Bent "Blue"; from Fragments - according to what', 1971, National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, Purchased 1973. VAGA/Copyright Agency

Darrell Sibosado, Bard people, 'Ngarrgidj Morr (the proper path to follow)', 2022, commissioned for the 4th National Indigenous Art Triennial: Ceremony

MUSIC

It’s no secret we love a good party in Darwin, and we’re also partial to a bit of Dry season action by the beach. So when beach, party and blissful weather combine, with some of the hottest music acts kicking around Australia in tow, it’s a dream concoction.

Multi-award-winning duo Julian Hamilton and Kim Moyes – aka The Presets – have earned their stripes as one of the country’s biggest names in electronic music, and they’re coming to Larrakia Country for the 20th anniversary year of BASSINTHEGRASS Music Festival. Tierney Seccull caught up with Hamilton for a chinwag.

We are very bloody excited that you are coming to Darwin for BASSINTHEGRASS Music Festival. You’ve played massive festivals around the world, including Glastonbury and Coachella, what enticed you to BASS?

It’s a great gig, it’s a great festival, and it’s one of my favourites in the country. We love any chance to get up to Darwin, it’s such a beautiful part of the world, and one of the main reasons for us to make the trip across the country to come and visit you guys.

When was your last trip to Darwin?

Oh, goodness, now you’re testing my memory! We’ve done BASSINTHEGRASS before and also played the car races up there. Every time we go, the weather’s nice and warm and the beer is nice and cold, and the sprinklers are going strong on the main strip there!

We do like to keep our visitors nice and hydrated, and nice and cool. Well, I appreciate it [laughs].

Something you may not know is that 2023 marks the 20th anniversary of BASS. It also marks 20 years since

THE PRESETS TURN UP THE BASS

you launched your first LP Blow Up in 2003. Congratulations! Oh, thank you very much. Look at us both, BASSINTHEGRASS and The Presets still going strong 20 years later [laughs].

We love it, and we’re very grateful for you both. How does it feel to still be touring and sharing your beats two decades later?

It’s amazing, it really is amazing. We’re so very lucky and grateful that we still get to do it 20 years later, and that people still come to the shows. We’ve watched bands kind of come and go along the way, and somehow, we’re still managing to hang tough, still playing gigs. Like I said, we’re really lucky and really grateful to still be doing it.

Absolutely, I think you’ve found the secret formula! Being in the game for 20 years means you’ve sound tracked a lot of our lives. When you think of how music can rouse nostalgic memories from the past, how does it feel to have played a hand in that?

It’s really humbling, I won’t lie. It’s fabulous when people come and stop me on the street or after a show, and say they love a song from way back when. Now we’re finding that people are coming up and saying “I love a song from your last record, and my parents really loved your first album when they went to see you play 20 years ago,” you know? It’s crossing generations now, which is crazy.

We’re really grateful, and it’s very humbling. We’re very lucky to write songs that have become part of

someone’s lives, it’s very special.

I can hear the smile on your face when you talk about that, being on the phone I don’t know that you’ve got a grin on your chops, but it certainly sounds like it. No, I do, I really do! 20 years ago when we did those first shows in tiny little clubs in Sydney, I guess we’d hoped we’d have a career in music, but I don’t think either of us dreamed this band would still be going 20 years later. So yeah, it’s been a fabulous career and we’re very, very grateful for the opportunity. And for people to stick with us.

I remember lining up in a nightclub queue in 2008 when ‘My People’ was unleashed, the whole line started singing and dancing – it really took the world by storm. That’s one of my Presets memories – being happy lining up in a nightclub queue, if you can believe it!

[laughs]. Oh, that’s wonderful. Yeah look, it was a magical time and I do remember that period very fondly. Everyone has their own favourite songs from over the years … it’s fabulous that we get to be part of people’s histories.

Well, you’re doing it well! You’ve worked with countless music legends in the past, and played a tonne of festivals, does anything stand out in your mind as a highlight?

There have certainly been magic moments along the way. I certainly remember when ‘My People’ came out and we were suddenly playing really big shows. But I mean, before that, I remember the first time we sold out a tiny club in Sydney, and

sold 150 tickets, that was a huge sting for us back then.

Now later in our career, the fact we still get to play shows and people still remember us and still like our music, that’s a very cool thing. I guess the one thing that has stood out for us over the years is the longevity, and the fact that people still remember us, that’s really special.

Any new music on the cards?

We’re always working on new music. It’s a different sort of world now, back in the day, you always had to be working on a new album, and the new album would be coming out in the next couple of years. I guess the industry has kind of changed so much now that albums aren’t so important, there’s a lot more singles, EPs, remixes and collaborations with other artists. There’s always little bits and pieces on the boil, we’re always making new tunes, so you’ll hear some new sounds from us very soon.

It's so good to hear you guys are still making tunes, with no plans to wind down.

Oh, totally, I don’t think we’re ever gonna wind down, we love this band so much. And I don’t know what else we’d do – we’ve gone too far to start another career path. I think it’s serious now [laughs].

[Laughs] Yeah, it’s serious now. You can choose not to answer this question, but your significant other is the formidable Janice Petersen, newsreader for SBS World News. Ever considered a sneaky SBS

news cover, à la 'ABC News Theme', Pendulum style? [laughs]. That’d be a good idea! Look, I’ll put it to her; it is a great soundtrack, the SBS World News theme. Maybe I’ll go have a tinker and see what I can come up with. Maybe I can even get Janice to twist their arms and see if they’ll use it on the show?

Ah, that would be pretty epic! Any plans while you’re visiting Darwin? There’s a few things we love doing when we’re up there. I can’t remember what it’s called, but there’s like a boat club with a bar and a swimming pool, which we’ve been to over the years … we always end up having an Emu Export or something up there.

I really love Mindil Beach Markets, of course, so I’d love to go and check that out. I love my ais kacang, a Malaysian icy, syrupy dessert, so I might head down there for some wok-fried barramundi and some ais kacang!

Enjoy the extended interview at offtheleash.net.au

Tasty Tucker

& Tunes

While many of us understand the health benefits in stepping away from technology, it’s often not easy to do in today’s ‘always-on’ society. Good news, there’s no excuse not to take a well-earned break from the screens as Lunch on the Lawn returns to soundtrack Wednesday lunchtimes.

By Kate Conway

LAUNCHED BY SINGER-SONGWRITER Tracey Bunn in 2018, what began as an initiative to enliven the CBD and promote emerging and established musicians has grown into a much anticipated fixture on the Dry season calendar.

Previously running from May to July, this year’s program extends into early August to enjoy every last drop of outdoorsy weather before it gets too hot, with an extended time slot to boot.

“In the past, we’ve had quite a few people rock up at about quarter-to-one and the music was almost over. So this year, we’ve decided to extend it, so people that like to have a later lunch break could still come down and enjoy the music,” Bunn says.

“Also, we’ve always had lots of families bringing their babies down, or taking the chance to have a family gathering on the lawn or a social gathering with friends, and a lot of people just didn’t want to leave!

“I was forever leaving people on the mats until the absolute last minute when it came time to pack up.”

Talent confirmed to feature in this year’s program includes Phil O’Brien and Graham Ring (aka Two Good Blokes), Ward Hancock, Gypsy Schmidt and Per Forsberg, and Sally Balfour. Indie/pop singer-songwriter Serina Pech is scheduled to kick things off this month with her signature delicate, raw vocal beauty and junkyard style percussion.

As if the diverse music program wasn’t enticing enough, local eateries are on board once again with weekly specials available for pre-order, meaning less time waiting in queues and more time to soak up the sunshine and music, a combination Bunn says Territorians should make the most of.

“Come down and see some amazing music, sit on the grass in the shade and just enjoy being outside. I mean, we live in Darwin for that reason, don’t we? Why on earth would you sit in front of a computer in your office when you can get outside and enjoy some great live music? And it’s free!”

There you go, folks. Permission granted to step away from the desk this Dry.

A Surprise Sunset Symphony

By Tierney Seccull

If you’ve got your hot little hands on a copy of the Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) 2023 program, there’s a fair chance you’ve marked up next month’s Rhythm of the 90s throwback party on the calendar.

BUT IN AN exciting development, at a time of the year when there is a small gap in programming, they’ve come together to present a surprise Sunset Symphony in the amphitheatre at Charles Darwin University (CDU).

DSO Artistic Director and Chief Conductor Jon Tooby says the event came about after a couple of other

ideas fell through.

“This has worked out perfectly for us, this show, because we are supported hugely by CDU and there is a wonderful space there for us to use. In effect, what we were going to do anyway in terms of the program [for the other two potential events] is very similar in what we will do for Sunset Symphony,” he says.

“It’s kind of a real big love-in, this concert. For our relationship with CDU, to kind of give back a bit, and just to have a real presence here and bring the community with us, and hopefully some of the staff and the students come along for the ride with us. That’s what it’s all about.”

Dr Amanda Morris is CDU’s first appointed Director of CDU Academy of the Arts, and says she’s keen to see the DSO illuminate a space on campus.

“It’s just wonderful that the DSO –because they are part of the family here if you like, at CDU – they came to us and said ‘look, we’ve been thinking about it for a while, what would you think about if we were to perform on campus?’ and we said ‘yes, we’d love it’,” she says.

“It just brings life to the campus, but also for the new Academy of the Arts, it’s just wonderful to have our friends and colleagues from the DSO performing here, and for the students from the Academy of the Arts to have the opportunity to listen to them playing in our big backyard.”

Sunset Symphony is free to attend and offers a relaxed evening of classical favourites for the family, including Prokofiev’s enchanting Romeo and Juliet, Bizet’s Carmen Suite, and Badelt’s iconic Pirates of the Caribbean.

“The program is really fun and accessible, very classical. It’ll be a really fun show, with lots of smaller items and not big symphonies,” Tooby says.

Guests are encouraged to get comfy and bring along picnic rugs and cushions to the alcohol-free event. Pack a picnic dinner, or if you’re keen to skip the kitchen altogether, grab a feast from the food trucks on hand to take your order.

Round up the family and settle into the sounds of DSO’s sweet Sunset Symphony.

Sunset Symphony

WHEN SAT 20 MAY | 6.30PM AT CDU AMPHITHEATRE COST FREE (REGISTRATIONS ESSENTIAL) INFO dso.org.au

THINK GLOBAL, play LOCAL

Enjoy a breathtaking concert featuring contemporary masters from an enchanting Alice Springs ensemble, as the Alice Springs World Chamber Orchestra (ASWCO) returns to Araluen Arts Centre with a stunning new program to share.

By Betty Sweetlove

WITH A FLAIR for captivating contemporary music from around the world, the orchestra brings innovative global flavours to classical favourites, old and new. This month’s program includes a bespoke contemporary commission and mesmerising selections from Philip Glass and Elena Kats-Chernin.

Starting a World Chamber Orchestra might sound ambitious in a small desert town, but Artistic Director Markus Kuchenbuch champions the wealth of local talent including teachers, doctors, and lawyers. Kuchenbuch says ASWCO is all about giving classically trained musicians a chance to share their passion and expand the musical experiences on offer for local audiences.

His unique approach gives players the opportunity to take different seats in the orchestra, and upcoming concert features the talented Jane Coleman as lead violinist.

“We have so much creativity in Alice Springs,” he says.

Celebrating the town’s multicultural influences, the orchestra features instruments from West Africa, Japan, China and Europe, and showcasing surprising sounds from across the planet is their forte. Kuchenbuch draws on his own international connections to keep the music flowing in their ever-expanding repertoire.

Ahead of this month’s concert, the ensemble has worked closely with

Connecticut-based composer Kevin Bishop, on a poignant commission highlighting the devastating recent events in Syria and Turkey. Beginning with beautiful renditions of melodies from the region, the piece blends Syrian, Kurdish and Turkish influences in a profoundly moving and experimental soundscape.

Kuchenbuch takes time at each concert to tell the stories of connection and meaning behind the music. He shares the inspiration behind his selection and highlights the spirit of each piece.

“There’s so much more to classical music than what you hear on the radio.”

For violinist Glenyss Rae, joining ASWCO has been all about community and the calibre of the players.

“We play music that speaks to the people of this town –it’s personal and fun, and we make a beautiful sound,” she says.

Join the Alice Springs World Chamber Orchestra to sink deep into sublime arrangements and their signature global sound.

Contemporary Classical Chamber Music

WHEN SAT 20 MAY | 7.30PM

AT WITCHETTY’S ARTS SPACE, ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE

COST $35 | $25 CONC | $10 CHILD

INFO araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au alicewco.com

GIG guide

OTL's

UP NORTH Mini Music Fest

quick and essential guide to live music in the NT.

To

On The Record Competition

Air Raid Records’ On The Record Competition gives Territory musicians the chance to win their music pressed to vinyl. Email your best two original tracks to be in the running!

WHEN ENTRIES CLOSE MON 1 MAY INFO airraidrecords@gmail.com

Malcura - Flamenco Fusion

Hot off the heels of their latest EP Flamenco Metal, Malcura hits the stage in Darwin for the first time. Blending flamenco guitar techniques with rock, funk, metal and gypsy jazz influences, alongside quirky covers and some special Top End themed surprises.

WHEN SAT 6 MAY | 8PM-MIDNIGHT AT BUSTARD TOWN COST $20-$25 INFO facebook.com/malcura

This relaxing monthly arvo of music is a must-see, must-do, musthear. Strum a song and belt out a ballad or kick back with a drink in the shade while other talented musos do!

WHEN SUN 7 MAY | 3PM AT TRACY VILLAGE SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ firstsundayblues

The Big 50 Birthday Party Celebrate 50 years of Cas Square with birthday cake, face painting, giveaways and a top-secret performance from an exciting Australian dance music group.

WHEN FRI 12 MAY | 3-9PM AT CASUARINA SQUARE FOOD COURT COST FREE INFO casuarinasquare.com.au

BASSINTHEGRASS

Soak up the sun, sand and good vibes at Darwin's favourite beachside music festival BASSINTHEGRASS. With some of the biggest acts under the Aussie sun, including the likes of Spacey Jane, The Presets, Angus & Julia Stone and the Territory’s own Baker Boy, things

Get ready to bring in the Dry season with Up North. After the successful release of their latest album Return to Mars, Melbourne punk legends Captives are heading to the Top End for the first time ever. Accompanying them is Darwin’s finest, Roy Mackonkey, Temperamental and The Burnouts.

WHEN FRI 5 MAY | 7-11PM AT DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB COST $25-$30 INFO stonecoldrecords.com.au

are about to get hot, hot, hot. Don't forget to slip, slop, slap!

WHEN SAT 20 MAY | 1PM-LATE AT MINDIL BEACH COST $140 INFO bassinthegrass.com.au

Steve Case Live Music

Join outback acoustic entertainer Steve Case as he begins his NT in '23 Tour, kicking off with his oneman-band show at the Banyan Tree Caravan Park.

WHEN DAILY (EXC. SUN) | FROM 6PM AT LITCHFIELD BANYAN TREE RESORT COST FREE INFO linktree.com/stevecasemusic

Darwin City Brass Band Rehearsals

WHEN EVERY TUE | 7-9PM

AT 2 ABALA RD MARARRA COST $20 ANNUAL MEMB INFO darwincitybrassband.org.au

Darwin City Brass Band Learner's Classes

Darwin City Brass Band offers friendly and fun tuition on Wednesdays during school terms.

WHEN EVERY WED | 4.30-6.30PM AT 2 ABALA RD MARARRA COST $20 ANNUAL MEMB INFO darwincitybrassband.org.au

Wednesday Night Swing

Join Swing Dance NT at the historic Darwin Railway Club for swing dancing backed by the 19-piece Hot and Cold Big Band. Offering a free beginner lesson, swing dancing is perfect for any age and ability, plus it's a great way to meet new friends and exercise in a fun way. Head along and give it a whirl!

WHEN EVERY WED | 7.30PM AT DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB COST $10 INFO facebook.com/groups/ swingdancent

Fridays @ Dom’s with DJ Jay Dub

Whether you're looking to unwind after a busy week or catching up with friends, Dom's bar has got you covered. Sip on a selection of delicious cocktails and let the house DJ kick start your weekend.

WHEN EVERY FRI | FROM 4PM AT DOM’S BAR & LOUNGE

COST FREE INFO domsdarwin.com.au

Bella Maree

Bella Maree performs her live solo acoustic show using a mix of eclectic methods including finger-picking, plucking, hand percussion on the guitar and foot tapping accompanied by her kazoo. Don't miss this talented muso and her acoustic mix of soul, blues, R&B, folk and alt rock.

WHEN EVERY FRI | 5PM AT ATRIUM BAR & GARDEN COST FREE INFO bellamareemusic.com

RED CENTRE

Jump Inn Jams

Start your hump day celebrations a day early at this fun jam night sesh with various local musos.

WHEN EVERY TUE | 7-9PM AT JUMP INN CRAFT BEER BAR & RESTUARANT COST FREE INFO jumpinncraftbeerbar.com

TUE 2 MAY | MISS FRIBY

TUE 9 MAY | THE WANTED GEMS

TUE 16 MAY | KATIE HARDER & THE ARTFUL DODGERS

TUE 23 MAY | SHILO MONKLAND

Acoustic Fridays

Shake off the working week and soundtrack your Friday night with live, soulful acoustic tunes from talented, local musos.

WHEN EVERY FRI | 6.30-9.30PM AT JUMP INN CRAFT BEER BAR & RESTAURANT COST FREE INFO jumpinncraftbeerbar.com

FRI 5 MAY | JORDAN VANDERSCHUIT

FRI 12 MAY | KODIVINE FRI 19 MAY | GLENY RAE

Burgers Beers &

THE RIFF RAFF that is Burger Joint returns to the Top End to celebrate their new tune, 'Pub In The Middle of Nowhere'. Former Darwinites G and T-Bone have made the trek from their respective homes down south to revisit the old stomping ground – or you know, grounds – at three unique Top End pubs for a handful of shows.

After a couple of quiet years, the musical motorcycle-riding duo invites punters to kick back with a few brews, and enjoy some music with their tongue-in-cheek outlook on life at their favourite watering holes.

'Pub In The Middle of Nowhere' is a tip of the hat to the pubs they've

spent time touring to over the years or riding their motorbikes to for a cheeky schooner. The opening verse is an ode to the Humpty Doo Tavern, a place they used to regularly ride to for a cold one on a Sunday.

“Territory pubs have the essence of what a pub should be, it’s a feeling. It's relaxed, you can wear thongs, you can just be you,” T-Bone says.

“They're places for everyone. There's a feeling like anyone is welcome, and you're all there to enjoy the same thing – cold beer and good food.”

With shows at Darwin Railway Club, Humpty Doo Tavern and Cox Country Club, there’s a chance to get a Burger and beer fix near you!