Off The Leash - November 2022

hristmas is coming and the Territory’s getting hot. As rain-filled clouds hover above the Top End and dry heats rise in the Centre, November brings increased excitement for the looming festive season. It also provides the perfect excuse to tuck into a good bowl of laksa!

FROM THE Editor

This month, celebrate the dish Territorians adore – one we’ll patiently line up in steamy weather for – at the fourth Darwin International Laksa Festival. Take your taste buds on a month-long food tour across the NT and sample some steaming bowls of deliciousness.

There's no denying I’m a Christmas nut, but it’s closer than even I’m prepared for, so here's a friendly heads up to make a start on that gift list. The Tactile Arts and Green Ant Christmas Craft Fairs offer two weekends of jolly good gift hunting, all in air-condi tioned comfort.. You’re bound to find some perf pressies for your loved ones, all the while supporting local creatives.

Hundreds of beautiful works make the trip from the Tiwi Is lands to Darwin for the Munupi Christmas Pop Up Market. This sweet little pop up has become a real favourite on the annual calendar for arts lovers, so snag a bargain and support the wonderful work of Munupi.

It’s your last chance to catch a flick at Deckchair Cinema before it closes for the Wet. After a bumper Dry season, they’re close to hitting the record of most tickets sold in one season. Let's help them crack it – we've got about three weeks left to make Deckie history!

The incredible institution that is 8CCC Community Radio celebrates 40 years on the airwaves with their locals lovin’ showcase, Transmission. More than just a radio station, 8CCC has fostered the development and creativity of the music industry in Alice Springs and Tennant Creek, and everywhere in-between.

I want to give a special shout out to station manager Benjamin Erin for his enduring passion and unwavering advocacy for the region – the man’s a go-getter! It’s due to his community spirit that 8CCC has become a very good friend of Off The Leash, and our inaugural year as a Territory-wide publication just wouldn’t be the same without their support. If you’re lucky enough to be in the desert, go party!

There’s music gigs aplenty – including the 10-years-inthe-making album release from the rascals at The NEO – theatre, dance and comedy shows, and beautiful art to behold. Tuck in!

In 2022,

became a

due to the generous support of Michael Sitzler, for

Tierney Seccull Managing Editor & Development Manager

Kate Conway Editorial Assistant Simone Ericsson Graphic Designer

STRATEGIC

OTL is proudly supported by

Hannah Muir

writer

@araluenartscentre

Mango pickin' season in the Top End!

@redhotarts

Hughsey at DEC

MAGNT Director Adam Worrall checking out this year's NATSIAA

TANTALISING territory

It’s no secret Territorians love their laksa. This month, we celebrate the dish that’s stolen our hearts at the fourth Darwin International Laksa Festival, with a month-long food tour across the Territory. The Festival comes to a head in a Grand Finale Festival Day, where accolades are dished out to the best laksas getting around. And competition is heating up.

arwin International Laksa Festival kicked off in the Top End in 2019 to celebrate the Territory’s “unofficial official dish” in an effort to support businesses during what is typically a quieter tourist season. Recognising the love of laksa extended beyond the boundaries of our tropical capital city, the Best Regional Laksa category was introduced last year, opening the floor to restaurants, eateries and stallholders across the Territory.

Many a Top Ender and welcome visitor spend a lazy weekend morning at a busy Darwin market, the sun beaming through build up clouds, the thick, tropical air laced with smoke trailing off sizzling hot plates. Regulars make a beeline for their favourite vendors, some possibly nursing a sore head from the night before, and it’s likely they’re there for the same thing. Laksa.

In such humid climates, you might think a steaming bowl of spicy goodness is the last thing on anyone’s mind. Yet we wait patiently in line for our fix. So what is it about laksa that keeps us coming back for more?

Sweet, salty, sour, bitter and umami are the five basic flavours our mouth can recognise, and arguably, they’re all present in one, delicious bowl of laksa. There’s sweet creamy coconut, salty and umami shrimp paste, and bitter – at times controversial – coriander.

Just add a splash of sour with some fresh squeezed lime juice and the whole gang’s there.

Throughout November, take your taste buds on a delicious journey, try as many laksas as you like, and vote for your hot picks on the Laksa Festival app. There’s a bunch of awards up for grabs, including the coveted Golden

“During the festival, we had people walking in just for laksa, and we sold 30 to 40 percent more laksa than we normally do,” he says.

Looking to the origins of the delightful dish provides more insight into the hold it has over us. When Chinese traders settled in Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, the meeting of cultures, recipes and culinary influences resulted in laksa, the original fusion dish. For two-time Golden Bowl recipient, Jason Chin from Chok’s Place, it is this melting pot of cultures and influences present in the bowl that makes it so popular.

“If you break it down there’s the noodle soup, originally from China, then spices like curry powder and turmeric, often used in Indian cuisine. And thirdly, aromatics like galangal and ginger that are from southeast regions like Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand and Philippines. That’s why it’s loved by so many people – it is a multicultural dish with multiple ethnic backgrounds in one.”

Awarded the Golden Bowl in 2019 and 2020, Chok’s Place scored the People’s Choice Laksa and People's Choice Inspired-By Laksa in 2021 with their fusion Laksa Chicken Pie. This year, they’re sticking to their winning formula of fresh, local produce, combined with consistency, quality, and just a few minor adjustments.

“At Chok’s Place, everything is made from scratch – from the stock to the spice mix and the use of fresh ingredients. We try to source ingredients locally from the markets and our suppliers. We put our heart and soul into what we produce … at the end of the day, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” he says.

The festival concludes with a daylong celebration of all things laksa, as State Square transforms into the Laksa Lawns for the Grand Finale Festival Day. The day features tasty offerings from the Territory’s best kitchens and a cooking demonstration from Malaysian Celebrity Chef, Sherson Lian.

Perhaps the best part about laksa is that no two dishes are the same. With such a mix of origins and influences, there’s a version for everyone. Embark on a delicious journey through the flavours of laksa, and see for yourself what makes it so special.

By Kate Conway Bowl award for best laksa, but benefits for entrants extend beyond taking out a gong. David Wang owns Asian Noodle House in Alice Springs and says, although their laksa was already popular, sales went up.

deck

the Halls

IT’S THE MOST wonderful time of the year! Well, almost. If you’re on the hunt for meaningful gifts, what better way to spoil your nearest and dearest than with creations from talented Top End artists, designers and makers? Cue the Tactile Arts Christmas Craft Fair.

This month, the third craft fair of the year takes place over two festive-filled days (and one special VIP night) in the air-conditioned comfort of Darwin Convention Centre. The large-scale craft market is always a hit with locals and visitors, and Tactile Arts General Manager Tessa Duke says this one’s the biggest yet.

“We’ve got the whole venue – we’re taking over the whole Convention Centre. There are four halls within the Centre, and over the past five years, we’ve slowly grown from one, to two, to three. We’ve grown to four this year.”

The growth of the craft fair’s physical footprint is for good reason. This year’s stallholder call-out saw a spike in applications, with over 150 stalls set to deck the [Convention Centre] halls, up on the record-breaking number of 120 last year.

DoKakadu

THE KAKADU FULL Moon Feast was created to celebrate Kakadu’s six seasons showcasing native foods. This month, enjoy the flavours of Kurrung, the end of the Dry season.

Kakadu Kitchen founder Ben Tyler is a proud Bininj man, and has teamed up with Cooinda Lodge Executive Chef Phil Foote to deliver the tastes of Kakadu to your taste

DIRD Kakadu Full Moon Feast

buds with a four-course feast and paired beverages. Enjoy local Bininj cuisine with ingredients foraged on-Country as you enjoy stories from the local family. Make a night of it and book a bed at Cooinda Lodge!

WHEN SAT 5 NOV | 7-10PM AT COOINDA LODGE COST $199 | $139 CHILD

In further exciting news, six remote art centres are taking part this year, including Ikuntji Artists from the desert, Arnhem Land’s Injalak Arts, Waralungku Arts from Borroloola, Merrepen Arts from Nauiyu Community on Daly River, Munupi Art & Crafts from the Tiwi Islands, and Anindilyakwa Arts over on Groote Eylandt.

There are also artist demonstra tions and workshops throughout the weekend, plus free activities for the little ones with artist Bev Garside.

This craft fair’s an extra special one for Duke. After being with Tactile Arts for more than six years, four of those as General Manager, it’s her last hurrah as she finishes up with Tactile at the end of the year. She says the organisation will always be very special to her.

“It’s been amazing. It’s such an incredible organisation. The rela tionships that come out of working for a community organisation like this, you just can’t put a value on that,” she says.

“I was new to the Territory, and it was like an immediate community. I think that’s really special, everyone

November is a magical time to experience Kakadu, with cultural experiences and natural wonders. We’ve popped together a list of things you can do in Kakadu.

By Tierney Seccull

is so open and warm and welcom ing. For me, and for a lot of people here, it’s the community of Tactile Arts that’s captured us.”

The Christmas Craft Fair in partic ular has become a passion project for the outgoing GM.

“I saw a bit of an opportunity and really wanted to develop the event to be a bit of a jewel in the crown of our program. It provides us the chance to showcase some of our incredible artists to a really large audience.

"It’s an audience that we really want to grow, which is why we’ve introduced the VIP event on the Friday night so that we can really get out there and lift the profile.”

There’s so much on offer that we couldn’t possibly list them all here, but for a little Christmas stocking inspo, expect ceramics, jewellery, decorations, handmade cards, children’s books, candles, soaps, puddings, hampers, textiles and more.

Unique gifts with a nice side of supporting the local creative community? That’s the [Christmas] spirit!

Cruise Kakadu

Explore Kakadu’s beautiful wetlands with a special sunrise or sunset cruise aboard Yellow Water Cruises. Observe local wildlife including buffalo, brolgas, magpie geese, kingfishers and, of course, crocodiles, set amongst a natural backdrop where paperbark forests line the banks and water lilies spring from below. Take your pick from 90 minutes to two hours of cruise time, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Yellow Water Billabong.

WHEN DAILY AT COOINDA LODGE COST $64- $108

Embrace Culture

A visit to the Warradjan Cultural Centre is a must do, developed by local clans to share their culture, stories, history and way of life with visitors. On weekends, Traditional Owners often sit under the shade of trees to weave bracelets and baskets for you to take home. The Cultural Centre also has a gallery shop with authentic traditional paintings available, so you can take a piece of Kakadu with you.

WHEN DAILY | 9AM-3PM AT KAKADU HIGHWAY COST FREE

Bird’s Eye View of Kakadu Summer in Top End brings with it tropical storms and heavy rainfall, with gushing waterfalls, increased crocodile movement and road closures. The Wet is the perfect excuse to enjoy Kakadu from the air, so why not book a cheeky charter with Kakadu Air and admire its beauty from above? If you’re prone to travel sickness, just make sure you take some travel tablets!

INFO kakadutourism.com

British Bakes by Melanie

VIP Event

Tactile

Christmas Craft Fair

Marra Ceramics

INFO kakadutourism.com

Green AntGi fts

LISTINGS

THE GREEN ANT Christmas Craft Fair returns to the the Royal Darwin Showgrounds, offering gift givers and craft lovers two festive-filled days of fun with unique, locally crafted stocking fillers.

Formerly known as the Marrara Christmas Craft Fair, the name change came about when market creator Di Whittaker handed over the [sleigh] reigns to The Flying Gecko Project in 2018.

Flying Gecko is made up of pas sionate local creatives Chiggy, Boo and Orlando – you’d be forgiven for thinking they were the names of Santa’s little helpers, and in a way, they kind of are.

Each year, they chip away on the next big craft fair, managing stall holder applications and organising food vendors, among other things required to create a weekend of Top End Christmas magic. The market hasn’t skipped a beat in its 32-year history, bar a small break in programming in 2020 due to, well, you know. Boo says the 31st market is shaping up to be a biggy.

“There’s about 150 stalls this year! We had to say no to quite a few people, and we had a record number of applications. We have a hopeful waiting list this year,” she says.

With a trove of trinkets and treasures on offer, the talent from

Top End creatives never ceases to deliver.

“There’s certainly a bunch of new stallholders we haven’t had before … candles seem to be the big thing this year, there’s quite a few candle makers on board. We’ve got some interesting stalls creating things from wood, and some fantastic, really gorgeous crochet toys,” Boo says.

As cliché as it sounds, there’s something for everybody. There’s plenty for the little tackers and grandies, mums and aunties – even the blokes are sorted for a special something.

“It’s always harder to buy for guys at these kinds of things but there is a good selection of stuff for men. There are even baby fishing shirts, which I thought was cute!”

The stallholder Christmas decora tion contest sees each stallholder create decoration for the Green Ant Christmas tree, and everyone that comes through the door gets the chance to score a door prize by voting for their favourite. With food stalls aplenty, including Ken’s Crepes, The Potato Man, Petra’s Raw Cakes and coffee – oh, the coffee – you can fill your bellies as you fill your Christmas stockings.

For a magical weekend supporting local artisans, and ticking a few items of that Christmas shopping list, get your goodies at Green Ant.

Melbourne Cup Bottomless Lunch Frock up and relish The Darwin Club’s beautiful tropical atmosphere, with multiple screens broadcasting the big race, live music and Fashions on the Field competitions with awesome prizes. Giddy up!

WHEN TUE 1 NOV | 11.30AM AT THE DARWIN CLUB COST $144-$207+BF INFO admiraltyhouse.com.au

First Nations Bedtime Stories

This annual week of storytelling by Common Ground returns for a fourth year, sharing five Dreaming stories over five days. Dreaming stories as old as time are brought into homes and classrooms across Australia through online films, just sign up online and they’ll be sent to you daily.

You also receive free educational resources created by Common Ground and Wiradjuri teachers, designed to help teachers bring First Nations histories and cultures into classrooms in ways that are safe and engaging.

WHEN MON 21 – FRI 25 NOV COST FREE INFO firstnationsbedtimestories.com

this fun, creative workshop.

WHEN SAT 5 NOV | 10AM AT TACTILE ARTS COST $220 | $200 MEMB INFO tactilearts.org.au

Corryton Burge Wine Dinner Indulge in a five-course set menu paired with modern wines from Corryton Burge.

WHEN FRI 18 NOV | 6.30PM AT HILTON DARWIN COST $149 INFO darwintickets.com.au

St Andrews Ceilidh

Arafura Scottish Dancers celebrate the patron saint of Scotland with their annual St Andrews Ceilidh. Head along for a night of dancing, bagpipes and haggis. That’s the craic!

The present environment of the Northern Territory’s Top End 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, Curator Emeritus of Molluscs, to explore MAGNT’s permanent Natural History Gallery.

WHEN WED 2 & TUE 29 NOV | 11AM AT MAGNT COST FREE INFO magnt.net.au

Mankind

Gentlemen of Darwin, you’re invited to come together on the first Saturday of every month for Man kind, offering a space for men of all cultures and backgrounds to come, connect, share and grow.

WHEN SAT 5 NOV | 9AM AT MELALEUCA AUSTRALIA COST FREE INFO melaluca.org.au

A Literal Translation - Workshop Join local artist Joanna del Nido for

It’s back, baby! join Rotary Club of Darwin for Bali Vibe Festival, held at the beautiful seaside setting of Darwin Surf Life Saving Club. The beach comes alive with a variety of beach sports, the Bintang Beach Bar, music, cultural performances, beachside massages (yup!), food stalls, and more. Bagus!

WHEN SAT 5 NOV | 3PM AT DARWIN SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB

COST GOLD COIN DONATION INFO darwinrotary.com.au

Variety NT Santa Fun Run

Don your best festive getups and hit the pavement for a wonderful cause. Raise funds and awareness for Variety NT the Children’s Charity, with all cash raised going to kids of the NT.

WHEN SUN 6 NOV | 6.30-9.30AM AT DARWIN WATERFRONT COST $10-$200 INFO variety.org.au/nt

Remembrance Day

Remembrance Day honours armed forces members who have died in the line of duty. Take a moment to reflect to thank those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

when FRI 11 NOV

WHEN SAT 26 NOV | 7PM

AT MASONIC HALL, PARAP COST $35 | FREE CHILD INFO maradobrini@hotmail.com

Geek Up

Young people aged 15-25 are invited to enjoy board games, Dungeons & Dragons, and digital art. Meet, connect and get geeky!

WHEN SUN 27 NOV | 1-4PM AT CASUARINA LIBRARY COST FREE INFO launchdarwin.com.au

Movement Medicine

WHEN EVERY SUN | 10AM AT NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE

COST $20 INFO movement.magic@yahoo.com

Art Jam – Creative Meet Up City of Palmerston offers this weekly meet up, for anyone aged 15 years and over, to meet other creatives and get creative in a purpose-built space.

WHEN EVERY MON | 5PM AT DURACK COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE COST FREE INFO palmerston.nt.gov.au

Talk | Unlocking MAGNT’s Natural History Gallery

Bali Vibes Festival

Tierney Seccull

Sister Mother Daughter

Bush Chook Designs

Sandra Kendell

Janie Andrews

Gadgets and Games Club

WHEN EVERY TUE | 3.30-4.30PM at PALMERSTON LIBRARY COST FREE

INFO palmerston.nt.gov.au/library

Nurserytime

WHEN EVERY WED | 10-10.45AM at PALMERSTON LIBRARY COST FREE INFO palmerston.nt.gov.au/library

Lit Larvae – Creative Queer Squad

This free costume and design project, for LGBTIQA+ youth aged 1420 years in Darwin and Palmerston, experiments with textiles, jewellery making, headpieces and masks, wearable art, and much more.

WHEN EVERY WED | 4PM AT UNTITLED GALLERY & STUDIO COST FREE INFO darwincommunityarts.org

MusicBiz - The Business of Being a Musician

Still need a day job to support yourself as a musician? Join Tracey Bunn for this workshop series on the business of making music.

WHEN EVERY WED | 6-7PM AT DARWIN COMMUNITY ARTS

COST $25 SINGLE | $100 FULL SERIES

INFO facebook.com/ shootfromthelipproductions

Dom’s Dollar Dumplings

Order yourself a cocktail, get those chopsticks ready, and tuck into a side of steamed goodness.

WHEN EVERY THU | 4PM AT DOM’S BAR & LOUNGE NIGHTCLIFF

COST $1 PER DUMPLING INFO domsdarwin.com.au

Parap Village Markets

Soak up the warm Territory atmosphere and hospitality at the Parap Village Markets, a Saturday morning ritual for locals and a must on the itineraries of visitors.

WHEN EVERY SAT | 8AM AT PARAP VILLAGE MARKETS COST FREE INFO parapvillage.com.au

RED CENTRE

Book Launch - East Of Alice by Annie Seaton

Head long to Red Kangaroo Books and join author Annie Seaton for the official launch of her gripping new book, East of Alice.

WHEN SAT 19 NOV | 2.30PM AT RED KANGAROO BOOKS COST FREE INFO redkangaroobooks.com

Alice Springs Christmas Show

FINAL DAYS Deckie

Round up the troops and enjoy a festive day of fun, with water play, a bouncy castle, free icy poles, horses, market stalls, and more. This year, the Alice Springs Christmas Show supports Ronald McDonald House Charities, with a Duck Cup and some amazing prizes up for grabs. So join in the family fun and get your Christmas shopping started. Or finished. Jolly good!.

WHEN SAT 19 NOV | 4PM AT BLATHERSKITE PARK COST $5 | FREE CHILD U5 INFO alice-springs.com.au

Latin Night at Jump Inn

AS THE CLOUDS in the Top End grow tall and dark, and the odds of getting drenched by a good downpour rise, opportunities to enjoy our favourite outdoor Dry seasons activities dwindle. One of those is catching a film at Deckchair Cinema.

Every night since April, cinematic gems have shone on the Deckie’s giant screen. This month, the iconic deck chairs are stacked, the ambient festoon lights come down, and the hard-working team ready them selves for a well-deserved break.

But not before a few more chances to enjoy the silver screen under the stars. And a few rain-filled clouds.

General Manager James Parker says 2022 has been a good one.

the incredibly talented filmmaker Ivan Sen. The Deckchair really is an institution. Guests come and are surprised at the quality of the cinema and the quality of the screenings – they can’t wait to see their films on the big screen.”

2022 also saw the return of the Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF), presenting the first full program since 2019 with 11 sweet days of cinema, workshops, industry events, and the chance to celebrate the local film industry.

By Tierney Seccull

Enjoy a night of dancing with free dance lessons, no BYO dance partner required. Meet new people and have a great time. Arriba!

WHEN SAT 19 NOV | 7PM AT JUMP INN CRAFT BEER & RESTAURANT COST FREE

INFO jumpinncraftbeerbar.com

“We’ve had an epic year. During the peak season, we had record numbers coming through the doors, and we’re on track to crack our highest annual record by the end of the year,” he says.

“We’ve had some incredible guests visit, and opened the season with

“DIFF was great. We had more special guests and more films, with screenings at the Waterfront, the Ski Club and in Palmerston. We engaged new DIFF audiences, especially families, through free public screenings. 7,000 people attended, and they really embraced it. That was really cool.”

With a handful of weeks left, there’s time to crack the annual record. Take a seat by the seaside, where there’s a chance you’ll enjoy a nice refreshing sprinkling, and soak up those precious final Deckie days.

On The Count Of Three Closing Night Event

Moonage Daydream

David Bowie is recognised as one of the most prolific and influential artists of our time, and Moonage Daydream is the first officially sanctioned film on the artist.

Told through never-before-seen footage, performances and music, and guided by his own narration, the documentary explores Bowie’s creative, musical and spiritual journey.

WHEN MON 14 NOV | 7PM

Closing out the 2022 Deckie season is this darkly comic flick about two best mates, Val and Kevin, on the last day of their lives. The thir ty-somethings are uninspired in life, and decide the only way forward is to end it all, so they make a pact. With an exit plan all but finalised, a last minute bid for more time forces one to pull out in the final moment, leading the duo on a wild ride with ironic humour and commentary on the burden of mortality.

WHEN SAT 19 NOV | 7PM AT DECKCHAIR CINEMA COST $9-$39

INFO deckchaircinema.com

Whetū Mārama: Bright Star

For the Māori peoples of New Zealand, the canoe underpins culture. This documentary details the story of Sir Hekenukumai Ngaiwi Puhipi, aka Hek Busby, and his significance for Māori in rekindling the lost art of traditional Māori voyaging, sailing the vast Pacific navigating by the stars.

WHEN MON 21 NOV | 7PM

Photo: Nicholas Gouldhurst

SandSong

STORIES FROM THE GREAT SANDY DESERT

By Hannah Muir

angarra Dance Theatre needs no introduction. Now in their fourth decade of performance, the company has been fundamental in bringing contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture to the foreground of the Australian performing arts scene.

The company is currently touring SandSong: Stories from The Great Sandy Desert, with shows in both Alice Springs and Darwin, that explores the resilience of culture against government policy in the Kimberley and Great Sandy Desert region.

keeping this culture going so the next generation has it and so we can continue living it.”

The traumatic effects of colonisation are understandably a big and personal topic to embody. Much like the subjective and personal nature in which dance is experienced, everyone has some connection to it, some meaning from it.

WHEN

COST $35–$70

araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au

Created in consultation with Wangkatjungka and Walmajarri Elders, SandSong encompasses the human and physical elements of the region, embodying the seasons, the heat in the air, the land, the weather, all inexplicably linked to one another.

Bangarra dancer Emily Flannery, a Wiradjuri woman, reflects on current strategies to preserve the culture of her mob in New South Wales.

“If you don’t really delve into the story and you don’t put your full heart into it, it doesn’t get told the way it’s supposed to. We are all so emotional ly invested in it,” Flannery says.

“It is tough, it’s a really physical show, but it’s also emotionally quite draining as well. It is heavy. They are tough things to talk about and tough things to dance about, but you get on stage and you realise why you are doing this.

WHEN

CENTRE COST $25–$69

yourcentre.com.au

“We are definitely trying to revive the culture. Our Elders are learning the language and passing that on. That helps me to connect to this story because it is about, not only survival and continuation, but thriving and

By Kate ConwayBallerinas & Brothers Grimm

HANSEL AND GRETEL, the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale of two siblings lost in the forest and held captive by a wicked witch, is a cautionary tale of stranger danger and good triumphing over evil.

This month, the beloved fable is brought to life on stage, reimagined through the lens of classical ballet as dancers from Leisa’s School of Dancing present their spectacular end-of-year performance.

The age of the dancers ranges from three to 18, making Hansel and Gretel an easy choice given the opportunity to portray a host of different characters, every dancer in the school playing their part in the recital.

“The younger children play roles like the woodland animals and the sweets in the gingerbread house. Each class gets to be a different character, and they become involved in the whole story,” says dance school Director, Leisa Jackson.

The chance to transform into dancing squirrels, butterflies, forest

“You have a story to tell, and we are in such a position of privilege to be able to tell these stories that need to be told. I’m so grateful that I get to do that.”

woodland fairies, gingerbread, cupcakes, candy canes, and other sweet treats in costume is a highlight for the dancers.

“It’s the kids favourite time when the costumes arrive, and they get to see what they are wearing. There is definitely a spark in the room when the costumes arrive,” says Jackson.

The culmination of a year’s worth of focus, dedication and discipline, the annual performance is a core pillar of the school’s approach to dance education, and an opportunity to display skills and techniques learnt.

“We don’t specifically follow the competitive side of dance – we think ballet is more about the performance, storytelling and development of skills,” Jackson says.

“They work towards this one major performance at the end of each year, and the big celebration of everything they have been doing is much more rewarding to them. When we get back to classes, it’s all they talk about. Even the following year, they are still talking about it!”

After the interval, other dance styles are showcased with the school’s jazz dancers presenting Pink Diamonds, a jewellery heist number featuring music from Pink Panther. Duprada Dance Company also hits the Top End stage for a second time this year, performing stunning contemporary piece Transforma tions, and elegant classical piece, Concerto en Blanc.

For Jackson, it’s this combination of dance styles on display, coupled with the excitement and end of year buzz, that makes the evening so special.

“It’s always a fun night out because we cover all of the styles of dance that we teach – there is a bit of something for everybody,” she says.

“Live theatre is one of those things that you can’t experience anywhere else. You get the energy of a production if you are sitting in an audience, and you’re seeing little kids pull funny faces to their parents, or dancers pulling off seemingly difficult things, you can’t experience that any other way than live.”

Gretel

Photo: Janelle Fisher

Leisa’s School of Dancing's 2021 performance, Swan Lake.

Photo: Daniel Boud

By Tierney Seccull

First Nations Funnies

Get ready to giggle, folks, as up-and-coming comics take to stages across the Territory to compete in Deadly Funny, Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s national comedy competition unearthing the freshest and funniest First Nations talent.

Heats are rolling out across the country open to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders over the age of 18, with winners going on to battle it out at next year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF). Susan Provan is MICF’s Festival Director and says it’s important to amplify First Nations voices and stories.

“Deadly Funny has grown because the stories and perspectives, and the great wit and humour of the First Nations people we’ve been working with and that are out there, is really important,” she says.

“They have, in the past, not been as represented as they should be in the great context of mainstream Australian comedy. We want to make sure those stories and those voices are heard, and that there is an easy, accessible way for talent to work its way into the larger comedy industry.”

Delivered in reduced formats in recent years due to the pandemic, this is the first full-scale event in three years. Budding comics participate in a three-hour workshop with a professional comedian before taking the mic to share their comical prowess for up to five minutes.

Previous winners and participants have gone on to do some pretty big things. This year, Deadly Funny alumni co-presented shows with the Aborig inal Comedy Allstars at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, with a few shows at London’s Soho Theatre on the side. Provan went along for the ride.

“Those shows did so well! They pretty much sold-out in Edinburgh and there were two smashing shows at Soho Theatre. There is such an appetite for that work, for those performers and their stories.”

If you’re a bit unsure if you’ve got what it takes, Provan says you might be surprised.

“You might not think you’re funny, but if you’ve got some good yarns … we want to hear what you’ve got to say. Give it a go!”

Take a comical crack and you might just find yourself on the first of many stages. If you prefer your comedy as a supportive audience member, head along to see some of the deadliest First Nations talent the NT has to offer.

Deadly Funny

WHEN WED 9 NOV | 7PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $15 INFO yourcentre.com.au

WHEN THU 10 NOV | 7PM AT GYRACC, KATHERINE INFO gyracc.org.au

CHANGE is good

By Tierney Seccull

Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life, something all women go through at some point.

There’s dozens of symptoms to signal The Change including – yes, hot flushes – but also insomnia, depression, headaches, night sweats and forgetfulness.

But for whatever reason, the milestone is still a bit of a taboo

subject, often discussed in hushed tones amongst only the closest of friends, if at all.

Menopause the Musical blows the stigma right out of the water, literally making a song and dance about it. Created by writer and producer Jeanie Linders, it premiered in the US in 2001 and has been performed across the globe in the decades since.

Menopause the Musical WHEN FRI 11 & SAT 12 NOV | 7.30PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $69.90 INFO yourcentre.com.au

The hilarious musical parody educates audiences, including the blokes, and celebrates this natural phase of a woman’s life in a light-hearted, entertaining way.

The production centres around four women at a lingerie sale all experiencing different stages and symptoms. Trish Dearness plays stuck-in-the-seventies, hippie, vegan, eye shadow-loving Earth Mother (pictured right) and says the production has lasted the distance because of its relatability.

“Women see themselves. Even though we’re characters, the four actors who are playing these roles, we’re actually very much like them,” she says.

“I think women recognise them selves or their best friend, ‘cause you’ll often hear someone in the audience saying ‘oh, that’s you, that’s you’ or ‘oh no, that’s me!’ That familiarity is really important.”

Adding to this sense of familiarity are songs you know and love, with tunes from the ‘60s to the ‘80s given a rework with witty lyrics and relatable themes.

“I sing a song called ‘I Am Awake’ to the tune of ‘I Will Survive’ because insomnia is one of Earth Mother’s main symptoms. The songs are really familiar, and it’s just lovely to have people clapping along in the audience and feeling like they can laugh out loud and feel part of it as well.”

Not only is it a downright hoot, important health information is delivered to the audience on the topic.

“We were in Byron Bay and a couple of doctors saw the show, and said they would love more women to see it to help them realise they are not alone … It’s like the singing and dancing is a little key that helps to open the door, and opens up conversations,” Dearness says.

Given stress reduction is advised for women going through The Change, a night out with good mates and a few laughs comes highly recom mended. So round up the gals (and guys), treat yourself to a pre-show dinner party, and get set for a night of laughs with a few characters you might already know.

Photo: Tiffany Garvie

LISTINGS

Coppélia

Duprada Dance Company takes their place on the Araluen Arts Centre stage this month, presenting their final production of the year, Coppélia.

Not only is it a showcase for the company, but a vehicle of reflection and nostalgia, and a wonderful learning opportunity to boot.

By Hannah Muir

RENOWNED AS A masterpiece, and the last of the Romantic ballets, it centres around lonely old alchemist Dr Coppélious, who brings his beautiful doll Coppélia to life, tricking the villagers into believing she is his real daughter. But when village youth Franz becomes infatuated with the lifelike doll, it creates chaos with his fiancé Swanilda and her friends.

The light-hearted tale is a wonderful opportunity for the whole company to work together, especially for the youngsters who gain a new understanding of performing.

“We like them to understand why they are learning ballet – learning ballet is obviously very different to being on stage, and part of a story,” says Duprada Artistic Director Lynne Hanton.

“They come to ballet all the time but it’s not often they get to see other students, they only see their own class. They’re inspired by seeing the whole company rehearse and, in particular, the ballet company members, most of whom are their teachers.”

While the end-of-year production provides an air of excitement and learning for Duprada’s youngest dancers, for those that have grown up with the company, it presents a moment of reflection.

“My 18-year-old’s look at the level fours, who are only six or seven, and remember what it was like to be that age doing their first production with the ballet company. That’s inspiring for them as well. They look at costumes they may have worn in the past, and the little ones look at costumes they may wear in the future.”

First Thursdays’ Showcase brings Darwin’s finest comedians together for five-minute routines on a nominated topic/theme. Held at a favourite Darwin comedy haunt, the Happy Yess, the scene is wonderfully intimate presenting the perfect acoustics for stand-up. It’s like being in the comedian’s lounge room... Only cleaner!

WHEN THU 3 NOV | 7.30PM AT HAPPY YESS COST $10 INFO facebook.com/topendcomedy

Fresh Tracks

An Inspector Calls

Darwin Theatre Company returns to the stage to present An Inspector Calls, directed by Mark Bunnett. This thought provoking, drawing room theatre work covers themes of social consciousness, class values and gender. Head along and support local talent.

WHEN WED 9 – SAT 12 NOV & WED 16 – SAT 19 NOV | 7PM

AT BROWN'S MART THEATRE COST $30 | $20 CONC INFO darwintheatrecompany. com.au

Dead Singers Dance Society

WHEN FRI 25 NOV & SAT 26 NOV 6.30PM AT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE COST $18-$38 INFO dupradadancecompany.com.au araluenartcentre.nt.gov.au

For Hanton, it’s important to stay as true to the original choreography as possible, to give the dancers the best understanding of the artform.

“The artistic side of it is very important … We do the big story ballets because they deserve it and they are historical as well, so the kids are learning about the history of the story, too.”

Fresh Tracks features new and original choreographic works by local dance artists, working across a range of contemporary dance and movement practices, and dealing with a diversity of conceptual and physical ideas. As part of the Tracks Development Program, Fresh Tracks supports the continuation of strong dance voices in Darwin through research, development, mento ring, feedback and presentation opportunities.

WHEN SAT 5 NOV | 2PM & 4PM AT BROWN’S MART THEATRE COST $20 | $15 CONC INFO tracksdance.com.au

Learn a fun dance routine over a four-week course that celebrates the music of a legendary dearly departed singer. Society gatherings (aka classes!) are held in inclusive and supportive dance spaces led by experienced teachers. Performances are optional to participants, and are held in public spaces at the end of each course to celebrate their achievements and new grooves.

WHEN EVERY WED 9 – 30 NOV 5.30PM-6.45PM

AT TRACKS DANCE STUDIO COST $40 INFO tracksdance.com.au

Lucky Bat Laughs

This monthly show features five of the finest local comedians, deliver ing 10-15 minute sets in a curated showcase event. The Lucky Bat is a warm and intimate environment where comedians can strut their creative talents. Described by one comedian as a “comedic petri dish”, Lucky Bat Laughs offers one of the great creative forums where comedians can stretch their comedic muscles.

WHEN WED 30 NOV | 8.30PM

AT LUCKY BAT CAFÉ & PIZZERIA COST $10 INFO facebook.com/luckybat

Top End Comedy’s First Thursday Showcase

By Tierney Seccull

MAGICMUNUPI

here’s treasure on Tiwi.

Thousands of years of Tiwi Islands history and culture is shared through traditional artworks created by artists of the region, using natural ochres in hues of yellow, red, white and black.

This month, hundreds of artworks from Pirlangimpi community on Melville Island make the voyage across the sea to Darwin for the third annual Munupi Arts Christmas Pop Up Sale.

Kicking off in 2019, Munupi Arts Manager Guy Allain says the market offers the opportunity for the Art Centre to engage with their loyal Darwin customer base.

“I think it’s really nice to connect with our Darwin friends, and offer them a good selection of artwork for their Christmas presents, for their family or for their friends,” he says.

“We are just across the Arafura Sea, but we love coming back to connect with all of our friends in Darwin. This year, we’re bringing two to

three hundred beautiful, stunning paintings on canvas or linen with us.”

Staying true to Munupi’s ethos, some of their talented artists are also in tow.

“We always travel with our artists, it’s a priority, and will have two to three in Darwin. There’s something special about being there physically with the artworks, and to be able to talk to the artists directly and ask questions.”

Although recent years have been challenging, 2022 has been a big year for the artists of Munupi. “It’s been challenging for everybody, but we’ve managed to operate and strengthen our presence in the art world,” Allain says.

“One of our artists, Alison Puruntat ameri, was a finalist in the Telstra NATSIAA this year, and also a finalist in the Wynne Prize at the Art Gallery NSW. Six of our artists were selected for The Alice Prize, and we also had an exhibition in Sydney.

“Considering all of the trauma and difficulty COVID threw everybody, we managed to keep on working. Everybody has worked really hard but we feel like we’ve been really lucky.”

If you can’t make it to the pop up, but are keen to support Munupi Arts, a range of works are available to purchase from their website. But, if you can make it, Allain urges you to stop by and say g’day.

“We just want to thank all of the Darwin supporters. They always come to support us, even when it’s the footy final – we have a really good relationship and we want to keep it up!”

Munupi Arts Pop Up Christmas Sale

WHEN WED 16 – SUN 20 NOV 10AM-5PM AT 21 KNUCKEY ST (CNR. SHADFORTH LANE) INFO munupiart.com

By Kate Conway

A TOURING EXHIBITION from the Australian Museum, Capturing Nature, examines the important role museums play in society through the lens of gothic, and at times eerie, natural history images. Hosted by CDU Art Gallery, the science-meets-art exhibition presents a unique blend of fascinating imagery and colonial photographic techniques.

Displaying over 60 replica prints collected from archival glass plate negatives, the exhibition showcases the discoveries of Australian Museum scientists in the late 1800’s and offers insight into pioneering research at a time when photography was a new technology.

In the age of the smartphone, it’s easy to whip out a device and take a snap. You might have experienced the fleeting thrill of spotting an animal in the wild, a gliding manta ray off a jetty or a rare bird sighted on a bush walk and rushed to capture the moment. It’s a far cry from the meticulous planning required in the early days of photography.

Scientists and photographers would carefully prepare and position the specimens with photoshoots taking place around the museum grounds, as early camera equipment required natural light and minimal shadow. CDU Art Gallery Curator Dr Joanna Barrkman says the striking, careful composi

tion of the images is a core element of the works.

“The photographs give us an opportunity to see different specimens, animals and species up close. Everything is pared back around them and the focus really is the animal. It’s in a formalised position and I think that adds to the potency of detail,” she says.

From the skeletal flipper of a humpback whale to a taxidermy black-headed python posed on a branch, the wide range of subjects demonstrates the diversity of fauna in Australia. Suitable for all ages, Barrkman says the exhibition sparks curiosity.

“I expect anyone that is interested in marine life, animals that live on the ground or birds would happily spend an hour looking at the exhibition. I don’t think anyone would leave disappointed, it really captures people's imagination.”

With a formal opening from Dr Kirsten Abbott, Head of Science at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, and a public program of events slated for 2023, Capturing Nature is an intriguing peek behind the scenes of our natural world, not to be missed.

Jacqueline Puruntatameri, 'Milimika' (detail), 2022, ochre on canvas, 120x80cm

By Hannah Muir

some like it

Embarking on a national tour with Artback NT, Some Like It Hot features the work of NT artists

Franck Gohier and Therese Ritchie. First stop is Araluen Arts Centre in Alice Springs.

IT’S ON ITS way, isn’t it? The stifling, relentless heat that’s expected when living in the Northern Territory, but somehow we’re never appropriately prepared for. So powerful and ever present, it becomes a character in the lives of us all.

There’s a social understanding of what it means to be ‘going troppo’, the intense effect of the sticky, thick heat on the collective. But

how deeply has that notion been explored? What would be found if the lens of tropical heat and discomfort was considered when looking into the performative nature of gender?

Curator Wendy Garden brings together the work of Territory artists

Franck Gohier and Therese Ritchie to explore this very concept with Some Like it Hot.

Garden’s interest in the troppo effect came about when researching the NT led to an awareness of a general ‘fear of the tropics’ within newspapers of the nineteenth century, with regular descriptions of people going mad. Years later, now living in Darwin, her observations were first hand.

“It seemed like a different way of being. There was a certain type of masculinity that was apparent

here that wasn’t apparent to me in other states. It was combining those things, and remembering all these concerns about tropical heat and how that affects character, that sparked my interest in exploring this notion of gender.”

Franck Gohier, with his pop art aesthetic, depicts thoughts of masculinity and trapped femininity evident in mid-twentieth century popular culture, which in some

respects, is still present today. Therese Ritchie on the other hand provides social commentary through photography, capturing what she sees as toxic masculinity playing out around her.

The exhibition notices the differ ence between gender expression of times passed and today, and contemplates the role of heat and climate.

“Things are completely different now, in many respects the exhibi tion is about looking back,” Garden says.

“But there are residues of those understandings that still play out today.”

The heat of the Territory is unavoid able but, perhaps until now, these questions have been. Garden invites you to contemplate or challenge ideas of masculinity, and pick apart what we are seeing and perhaps excusing.

WHEN

ARTS CENTRE

artbacknt.com.au

Therese Ritchie, 'Simply did not happen', 2021, pigment print, 80x110cm

COCONUT STUDIOS GALLERY

Presented as part of Darwin Community Arts’ Flesh Program, Through Our Eyes enables personal and social histories to unfold through collective art-making within the community. It features works by members of the community from the Congolese, Ethiopian, Pakistani, Somalian, South Suda nese and Ukrainian diasporas that have engaged with the project through Melaleuca Australia, as well as arts practitioners from diverse backgrounds participating in the project.

NCCA Northern Centre for

Lane,

RETRIBUTION: What Happens Next?

MAGNT Museum and Gallery of the Northern Territory 19 Conacher Street The Gardens, Darwin NT | magnt.net.au DAILY, 10AM-4PM

Annual Members' Show

NCCA's highly anticipated Annual Members' Show returns in 2022, this year's theme paying homage to NCCA’s beginnings as

Join the team and

years in

as they

Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards

The Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA) exhibition is Australia's richest art prize, showcasing the very best Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art from around the country, from emerging and established artists. This exhibition captures the attention of the nation, with an inspiring breadth of work from artists around the country.

UNTIL SUN 15 JAN, 2023

DJÄMA

A photographic exhibition from the Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation (ALPA) celebrating 50 years of Yolŋu economic independence, enterprise, self-determination, culture and ingenuity.

WHEN DAILY, 10AM-4PM

Yolŋu wäŋa roŋiyirra marrtji guyaŋura bunhaŋur (Returning home from hunting) People featured: Muwarra Ganambarr 1

2022 Telstra Art Award Winner. Margaret Rarru Garrawurra, 'Dhomala' (pandanus sail), 2022, pandanus, kurrajong, bush dyes, 278x245cm. Courtesy of the artist and Milingimbi Art and Culture

Mseme Mbeleelo, ‘Dreaming of dinner with my family’, 2022, acrylic on canvas, 42x59cm through our eyes

Rachael

OUTSTATION GALLERY

8 Parap Place, Parap | 8981 4822 | outstation.com.au WED-FRI, 10AM-5PM | SAT, 10AM-2PM

SIGN OF THE TIMES Pennyrose Wiggins

We have had a global pandemic, several years of La Niña, bush fires and flooding, which has all impacted our lives. These uncertain times are reflected in Pennyrose’s still life arrangements of Darwin birds feeding on native flowers, made in a time when we were urged to stay indoors and our access to the outdoors was limited.

Pennyrose seeks to inspire us with her paintings focusing on the fragility and beauty of the Top End of Australia, and all that inhabit it.

WHEN FRI 4 NOV – SAT 3 DEC OPENING FRI 4 NOV | 6PM

POP UP ART TRAIL Rapid Creek | 0477 168 216

RAPID CREEK

Open Studios Art Trail

ABORIGINAL BUSH TRADERS

Shop 4, 19 The Mall, Charles Darwin Centre | aboriginalbushtraders.com MON-FRI, 9AM-3PM | SAT, 8AM-2PM

BUKMAK MINY'TJI MANAPANMIRRNHA (Bringing all art together)

Following on from the success of last year’s open studios, the Rapid Creek Artist Collective has been working hard to present new and affordable artwork and craft, based on local themes. Walk, cycle or drive around Oliver and Ryland roads, and get to know some of the award-winning creatives living, learning and loving on Larrakia land. Creatives include Aly de Groot, Henry and Fernanda Dupal, Allison Dowell, Catherine Miles, Russell Mead and Katie Bradley.

WHEN SUN 13 NOV | 10AM-2PM

TACTILE ARTS

19 Conacher Street, Fannie Bay | 8981 6616 | tactilearts.org.au TUE-SUN, 10AM-4PM

This exhibition celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship of Yolŋu artists from Ramingining, Gapuwiyak, Galiwin’ku, Minjilang and Milingimbi.

Joanna del Nido, 'A literal translation', 2022, resin, epoxy clay, laser-cut & powder-coated aluminium

A Literal Translation by Joanna del Nido

Corporation turning 50 this year, artists have been commissioned to create pieces that rep resent the industrious period of enterprise and ingenuity across Arnhem Land.

In recognition of The Arnhem Land Progress

This playful exhibition explores some of the peculiarities of the English language. Using a mix of contemporary materials including resin, epoxy clay and laser-cut and powder-coated aluminium, del Nido invites you into the unexpected and evocative world of idioms. del Nido has taken the opportunity to explore these often-nonsensical plays on words to create a series of thought provoking and light-hearted works.

Fernanda Dupal, 'The Time Before the Here and Now', 2021, monoprint, 55x38cm

Manapan Art Bench. Photo: Christopher Tovo

Pennyrose Wiggins, 'Red-collared Lorikeet feeding on Eucalyptus', 2022, oil and acrylic on board, 80x60cm

DARWIN VISUAL ARTS

8 McMinn St, Darwin | dvaa.net.au

WED, 12–5PM | THU-FRI, 10AM-5PM | SAT, 10AM-2PM

PAUL JOHNSTONE GALLERY

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

WED–FRI 10AM-5PM | TUE & SAT 10AM–2PM

Territory Portraits

Expressive portraiture and figurative works exploring what it means to be a Territorian and a mother are shown in emerging artist Jess McKenzie’s first solo show. Often leaving the work ‘unfinished’ or ‘undone’, the viewer is invited to participate in the act of creation.

CECILY WILLIS SHADOW AND LIGHT

Cecily Willis is a leading ceramicist, whose exceptional skill enables her to create endless new forms and glazes. The works in this exhibition were created with a raku or stoneware clay. During the raku reduction process, smoke from the burning material impregnates the clay surface resulting in mercurial impressions of shadow and light. Cecily's works are collected the world over.

FIGURATIVE MINIMALISM MEETS ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISM

"These paintings, I hope, go some way to exploring the complex relationship between our human form in the physical world, and the desire we all have to express ourselves as individuals in an increasingly complex and surreal world." - Stephen Baddeley

The Revellers

These images by Craig Smith are about festivities. They are scenes and characters from festivals, carnivals, ceremonies and rituals real and imagined.

Some are based on traditional costumes and masks, others on memories or visions. They are about the many ways people express the creative urge to celebrate.

Craig Smith, 'Chilapa', 2022, acrylic on canvas, 40x50cm

Jessica McKenzie, 'Dr Hugh Heggie', 2020, oil on board, 3 panels

Stephen Baddeley, 'Mother Earth Gives Birth', 2022, acrylic on canvas, 123x154cm

Cecily Willis, 'Shadow and Light 3', saggar/raku fired white stoneware, combustible organic material, 14.5x57cm

WHEN FRI 11 NOV – SAT 3 DEC | OPENING FRI 11 NOV, 5-7PM

The party that is Transmission returns to the Red Centre this month. Presented by the friendly folk at 8CCC Community Radio, it showcases music artists from Alice Springs to Tennant Creek. And it’s as if the stars are aligning especially for the occasion.

By Hannah Muir

he fourth instalment of the muchloved community event coincides perfectly with the celebration of 8CCC’s fourth decade on air. Well, kind of. The milestone was technically reached during peak COVID times, so they’re making up for lost time.

In the past, Transmission, which is now a joint venture with Rhino Milk Productions, has served as a talent showcase and fundraiser, all wrapped up in over nine hours of live music that is also broadcast through 8CCC’s airwaves.

“It always features a really diverse array of local music,” says 8CCC Station Manager Benjamin Erin.

“It’s like a degustation menu. We try to showcase artists you don’t see all the time.”

Talent from across the Territory provides a mouth-watering line-up. Jessie May & The Desert Peas perform for the very first time, while DJ Wrong Banana plays a set featuring only NT music. Also making an appearance is Newboys Band from Alparra, Cassie Williams from Ntaria, and Rare Earth Heavy Metal from Tennant, just to name a few.

As per tradition, Alice Sings Community Choir gives audiences a taster of

what’s to come at their end of year perfor mance. Also of note is 8CCC Big Breaky Team’s very own Abiabi Rich Boii – a South Sudanese afro beat artist who has just recently started performing in Mparntwe.

Previously held at Monte’s Lounge, Transmission transports to the Gap View Hotel offering two stages and, of course, the perk of the pool for what’ll likely be a sweltering November day.

“The event really is grounded in community. It really is all about original local music, with artists and crew being paid award wages on the live music award,” Erin says.

The idea of celebrating community is at 8CCC’s very core, the fact evident over the organisation's 40 years. For Erin, caring for an organisation that has meant so much to so many people is an “immense privilege”.

“A lot of people in Alice Springs, at some point, have been involved with 8CCC … It’s a reflection of what people bring to it, and to be able to facilitate that ongoing involvement with our broader community brings me great joy.”

Don your party get-ups, your swimming gear, and get set for the ultimate Sunday sesh celebrating live local tunes and 40 years of 8CCC.

Benjamin Erin (8CCC) & Kodivine (Rhino Milk Productions)

Dina Indrasafitri/Gurun performing at Transmission 2019

The first programme guide from 1982

V.N. Lucarelli at Transmission 2018

By Kate Conway

NEO New

Following the release of four singles throughout the year, the wait is finally over as The NEO’s highly anticipated fourth album officially drops this month.

10 YEARS IN the making, King FOTU is the culmination of creative collaboration and the band’s commitment to honing their craft, all wrapped up in the signature brand of soul-funk raucousness that is synonymous with the high-energy ensemble.

With a back catalogue of three albums, two EP’s, and multiple regional, national and international tours under their belt, The NEO have built a solid reputation for enthusiastic shows that involve the audience and deliver tunes to get the dancefloor started.

Frontman Tim Sinclair says King FOTU embodies the atmosphere of their previous performances, in particular their iconic first gig, the nude millennium party, aka Nude 2000.

“The energy we carried into that show we always take into any show we do. Admittedly, we don’t always take our clothes off! But that kind of irreverent fearlessness – once you’ve played a naked gig, everything else seems not as scary. In those ways, this album is still true to that initial ethos,” he says.

While the drive from that now infamous show will always be inherent to the fabric of the band, King FOTU heralds a new era of technical prowess

backbone

By Kate Conway

DIVE INTO THE sonic deep end for Arafura Music Collective’s finale performance of 2022, The Deep End – It’s All About the Bass. Set in the acoustic location of the NT Supreme Court, the chamber music program highlights the lyrical, flexible and harmonic qualities of instruments often relegated to the background.

If a piece of music were a person, the bassline would be the backbone or the heartbeat. Without it, none of the other instruments sound like they’re in time, and the deep, grounding rhythm provided by the bass section is essential to any composition, no matter the genre.

“Often people don’t actually realise how important the bass is. It adds depth of sound and tone, and makes it feel substantial,” says Arafura Music Collective Creative Director, Claire Kilgariff.

As well as bringing the bassline front and centre, the concert highlights the deep pool of talented

bass musicians in the Territory, join ing forces to present works from a wide range of composers including Pablo Casals, Ian Grandage and Heitor Villa-Lobos.

Written specifically for instruments including bassoon, cello, tuba, bass flute, bass clarinet and didgeridoo, Kilgarrif says the pieces showcase instruments audiences don’t always get to hear from.

“Arafura likes to bring music to our incredibly devoted audience that is really beautiful, but also different and interesting. When you approach music from this [bass] perspective, you come up with the most fascinating repertoire,” she says.

The perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon, relax and settle in for a joyous celebration of instruments that are the heart, soul and rhythm of music.

for The NEO after some members pursued formal music study, including attending jazz school. One of them has even gained a classical degree!

“We have all worked really hard on our musicianship. People don’t neces sarily find it exciting that you’ve been working on being better musicians, it’s not as relevant in pop music. It’s more about the characters, but we’ve always been characters. We thought, maybe we better work on our music,” Sinclair laughs.

“For me this album is really exciting because it has more challenging stories and challenging music, but it’s still got that great millennium energy.”

Supported by Will Hatch’s all-star reggae band Kaivilli, the launch event features The NEO’s true outlandish style, with multimedia and elements of the band’s 2019 sci-fi musical, Breaking the Dub Barrier, incorporated into the concert.

“We like to throw down in a way that is quite unique and make it a big dance party. This will be the biggest party we’ve thrown in 10 years!”

Photo: Anja Bretfeld

Photo Paz Tassone

THE YEAR 1972 went down in the history books for a bunch of reasons. One event of note was that Neil Young topped the US album charts, his record Harvest going on to become the biggest selling album of the year.

Before the age of streaming and downloads, albums were best enjoyed from start to finish, as the artist intended. Long time lovers of Neil Young’s music David Hyams and Rose Parker are backed by a talented six-piece band to present The Human Highway, performing Young’s Harvest in full, from the top, and then some.

“Most of the music industry has really got away from the idea of

a concept album or an album that has a theme and flows from beginning to end,” Hyams says.

“I guess, for people who have listened to those albums a lot, you have that expectation of what song comes next. For a lot of people, it puts them back into the mood that maybe they were in when they listened to that music and it impacted on them.

“I make albums of my own music, and I know it’s a streaming world out there with single tracks and stuff like that, but I still like the idea of songs having this link through them that makes it an overall listening experience.”

By Tierney Seccull

YOUNG'S Harvest

Since he can remember, Hyams was always drawn to Young’s music.

“I go back a long way with Neil Young. The first songs that I learnt to play on guitar as a teenager were songs like ‘Old Man’ and ‘The Needle and the Damage Done’ … he just kept putting out great music.”

With a strong likeness to Young’s vocal capabilities, the show came about when Hyams and some mates were approached about seven years ago to put together a show for the Newport Record Club in Fremantle’s Newport Hotel.

“They were running a series where you did a classic album, from cover to cover, and we chose There Comes A Time. Myself and Rose Parker … went and did that album at the Newport, and it went down really well. We hadn’t expected it to become a thing, but we were asked back the next year, and did once-yearly shows for a few years,” Hyams says.

“When the pandemic hit us, we decided to do a bit more touring around our own state, and we took that show on the road to various places in WA … it’s become more than a little sideline. We get a lot of interest from this show and we’re

all loving the music.”

The band features Roy Martinez on bass and keyboards, Russell Wilson on drums, fiddler Adam Gare, and Jeremy Threlfall on pedal steel and guitar. In addition to Young’s award-winning, chart-topping album, they’ll also play songs from spanning the singer’s career, from the sixties through to the 21st century.

“We’ll be doing all of the songs on Harvest, including the big London Symphony Orchestra tracks, which we’ve managed to have a go at with only three of the band on stage, with no programming or anything like that. Without wanting to sound too self-congratulatory, it is a bit of a highlight of the show, the orchestral numbers.”

For an authentic music experience and a throwback to the seventies, with great live music from gifted vocalists and musicians, book your ticket to hit The Human Highway.

The Human Highway WHEN SAT 19 NOV | 8PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $45 | $40 MEMB/CONC $35 GROUP 10+ INFO yourcentre.com.au

GIG guide

OTL's quick and essential guide to live music in the NT.

To find out more, head to offtheleash.net.au

Alice BEAT – Time

The Alice BEAT Festival showcases the creativity, passion, teamwork and talent of young people from local and remote schools in the Red Centre. Catch emerging young stars as they take the stage for one huge night of music.

WHEN THU 3 NOV | 7-8.30PM AT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE COST $7-$30

INFO araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au

Transmission

WHEN SUN 6 NOV | 3PM-LATE AT GAP VIEW HOTEL 8CCC LIVESTREAM 102.1FM COST FREE INFO 8ccc.com.au

Alexander Gadjiev - Piano Recital

SKETCH THE SOUNDS OF THE SEA

By Tierney Seccull

WHEN SAT 12 NOV | 9.30AM & 11AM AT CDU THEATRE, CASUARINA COST $5-$35+BF INFO dso.org.au

Don’t miss highly esteemed classical pianist, Alexander Gadjiev, as he performs some of the best-loved piano music of Chopin, as well as Schumann’s grand and noble Fantasy in C major.

WHEN TUE 8 NOV | 7PM AT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE COST $20-$39

INFO araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au

Sketch the Sounds of the Sea

WHEN SAT 12 NOV | 9.30 & 11AM

AT CDU THEATRE, CASUARINA COST $6-$38

ART AND MUSIC collide in young minds, as musicians from the Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) Young Artists Program take the little ones on an aquatic adventure.

Children are invited to sketch along and create their own masterpieces inspired by the sea, as the string quartet plays water-themed classics. Tara Murphy is DSO’s Concertmaster and Outreach/Education Officer, and says these kinds of experiences for children are important.

“The Young Artist Program performs alongside DSO mentors, and our youth members inspiring children through performances like this is very powerful," she says.

"These sea-themed pieces evoke an assortment of imagery in children’s minds, and by drawing along to the music, it transforms the sounds into something that young children can hold and keep.”

The DSO regularly engages with young audiences through their core program, something General Manager Kate Stephens says they’re commit ted to.

“We are really passionate about creating inspiring experiences for young people through music, because it is absolutely transformative … This is often the beginning of a lifelong enjoyment and exploration of creativity and music, and it is so important that we foster this.”

Sea-inspired sounds include sailor’s hornpipes and sea shanties. Murphy says Darwin’s natural environment is a huge source of inspiration.

“We are so fortunate to perform music and create art on Larrakia Land, and be surrounded by the Arafura Sea. It’s hard not to be inspired by that.”

Spark your child’s creativity, as some of Darwin's brightest young musicians take them on an interactive musical adventure through the sea.

INFO dso.org.au

The NEO King FOTU Album Launch

WHEN SAT 12 NOV | 7.30PM

AT DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB COST $25 | $20 CONC INFO theneo.com

8 Ball Aitken & Taya Chani

Swamp-blues-rocker 8 Ball Aitken and Sydney soul-blues singer Taya Chani descend on Darwin for one night only. 8 Ball Aitken has toured the world for more than a decade performing rock across 20 countries

to date, and topped the Australian blues charts with his 2021 album Ice Cream Man.

WHEN FRI 18 NOV | 7-10.30PM

AT DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB COST $30 INFO 8ballaitken.com

The Human Highway

WHEN SAT 19 NOV | 8PM

AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $45 | $40 MEMB/CONC $35 GROUP 10+ INFO yourcentre.com.au

The Deep End – It’s All About the Bass

WHEN SUN 20 NOV | 5PM

AT NT SUPREME COURT FOYER COST $10-$38 INFO facebook.com/ arafuramusiccollective

Darwin City Brass Band Rehearsals

JAM NIGHTS AND OPEN MIC TOP END

WHEN SUN 6 NOV | 3PM AT TRACY VILLAGE SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB  COST GOLD COIN INFO facebook.com/ firstsundayblues

Jazz Assembly Jam Sessions

Monthly jazz jam sessions with a house band at the Lucky Bat. Bring an instrument if you want to join the jam, held on the last Friday of every month.

WHEN FRI 25 NOV | 8PM AT THE LUCKY BAT COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ jazzassemblyjam

Jam Night

The Darwin City Brass Band has been providing music to the community for over 40 years. You’re invited to check out the weekly rehearsals to catch a glimpse behind the scenes and join in the fun!

WHEN EVERY TUE | 7-9PM AT 2 ABALA RD, MARRARA COST $20 ANNUAL MEMB

INFO darwincitybrassband.org.au

Live Music Wednesdays at Dom’s Break up the working week and cure hump day blues with live original music from locals.

WHEN EVERY WED | 7-9PM AT DOM’S BAR & LOUNGE COST FREE

INFO domsdarwin.com.au

Hot and Cold Big Band

The Hot and Cold Big Band has been providing swing music to the unsuspecting population of Darwin since 2009. With a repertoire spanning nearly a century of swing, and a free dance lesson from Swing Dance NT, it’s easy to see it’s the Top End’s premier weekly big band gig. Swing on by to The Rails and join in the fun!

WHEN EVERY WED | 7.30PM AT DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB COST $10 | $5 MEMB

INFO facebook.com/ hotandcoldbigband

Friday Knock Offs at Dom’s Gather your crew, kick back with a cheeky cocktail or two, and let the house DJ bring in your weekend

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

INFO domsdarwin.com.au

Head down to this much-loved open mic night, jump on stage and share your musical prowess or sit back and enjoy the music with one of Smoke & Oak’s tasty concoctions.

WHEN EVERY TUE | 9PM AT SMOKE & OAK DARWIN COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ smokeandoakdarwin

RED CENTRE

Jump Inn Jams

Break up the working week and jump along to the Jump Inn for a fun jam night sesh with various artists.

WHEN EVERY TUE | 7-10PM AT JUMP INN CRAFT BEER BAR & RESTAURANT

COST FREE INFO jumpinncraftbeerbar.com

TUE 1 NOV | BILLY BLACK

TUE 8 NOV | GLENY RAE

TUE 15 NOV | SIMO KING

TUE 22 NOV | DAVE CROWE

TUE 29 NOV | DARCY DAVIS

Acoustic Friday

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 4 NOV | KODIVINE

FRI 11 NOV | JUM

FRI 18 NOV | JESSIE MAY

FRI 25 NOV | GLENY RAE