Off The Leash - September 2022

Winner, 2019, 2020 & 2021 NT Media Awards, Best Magazine or Lift Out

DOUBLE DIFF

SKYWHALES

ROCK THE BAY

Darwin International Film Festival

When art meets the sky

Slowly Slowly & Luca Brasi

SEPTEMBER

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MUSIC

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PERFORMING ARTS

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VISUAL ARTS

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BOOKS & FILM

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FOOD & DRINK

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COMMUNITY

YOUR FREE WHAT’S ON GUIDE TO THE NT

IMPORTANT MESSAGE Events listed in this edition of Off The Leash are subject to change.

The situation around COVID-19 is evolving and information provided within this publication is correct – to the best of our knowledge – at time of print.

INSIDE

OFFTHELEASH.NET.AU E: editor@offtheleash.net.au T: 08 8941 7413 GPO BOX 2325, Darwin NT 0801

We recommend you refer to individual event websites and social media accounts for the most up-to-date information.

f you thought you could take a breather in September, I’m here to respectfully let you know that this month is showing no signs of slowing down in the Territory…

If there’s one thing I love more than a good movie, it’s catching a flick in a beaut setting. And I think you’d be hard pressed to find a sweeter spot to soak up the silver screen than the home of Territory film, the gorgeous Deckchair Cinema.

F R OM T H E

r o t i d E

Get excited, folks, as the Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF) returns this month to present the first full program since 2019, with world and Territory premieres, special guests (I’m talking Oscar-level special!) and industry development opportunities.

If that wasn’t exciting enough, it’s grown beyond the confines of that sweet seaside space to hold satellite screenings at Darwin Ski Club and Palmerston, with Aussie classics also lighting up the exciting new Sundown Screen at Darwin Waterfront.

There’s also a flurry of activity in the Red Centre. If the weather is clear, look to the skies for some beautiful floating sculptures, as Australian artist Patricia Piccinni’s Skywhales take flight. My fingers are crossed for good weather conditions so these adorable little (okay, massive!) creatures can drift delightfully over the desert.

Also on the cards for our mates in the Centre is Desert Festival, offering 11 vibrant days and nights of arts and culture. Held by the legends at Red Hot Arts, the 2022 festival showcases dance, visual arts, theatre, circus, an accessible arts panel, and more, and also sees 11 locally made works developed under the Project Seed initiative come to life.

FEATURE | 4 & 5 AROUND TOWN | 6 PERFORMING ARTS | 8 FESTIVALS | 15 VISUAL ARTS | 16 MUSIC | 20 CALENDAR | PULL-OUT

There’s also a tonne of tunes to wrap your ears around this month. Award-winning Aussie bands Slowly Slowly and Luca Brasi make their Darwin debut at Darwin Ski Club for Rock The Bay, a gig over two years in the making. The Darwin City Brass Band celebrates over 120 years of Territory town brass bands at the gorgeous historical setting of Mines House, and The NEO return to unleash the title track from their upcoming album.

NIFTY FIFTY GIFTY | 10

After two years of cancellations, the Desert Song Festival returns to celebrate the melting pot of diversity and culture found in the Centre. The inclusive event is set to ignite conversation with this year’s theme ‘Our Climate, Our Planet, Our Future’ allowing creatives to amplify their voices through art.

FULL BLOOM | 15

AllI can say is good luck deciding what to lock in on the calendar this month. I told you September is a biggy!

Whatever takes your fancy, I hope you have a hoot.

OUR BRASS PAST | 21

Tierney Seccull Managing Editor and Development Manager

Kate Conway Editorial Assistant

Simone Ericsson Graphic Designer

OTL is proudly supported by

Zoya Godoroja-Prieckaerts & Hannah Muir Contributing writers

TIWI TREASURES Nginingawula Kurrujipuni (Our Own Tiwi Ochre Colours)

YO U R F R E E W H AT’S O N G U I D E TO T H E N T

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Gwenneth Blitner magic, all the way from @ngukurrarts @darwinartfair

TIM MINCHIN Darwin debut under the stars

BOOKS & FILM

@diff_nt Program Launch

Use our hashtag for a chance to see your pics here

TOGETHER AGAIN Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair returns to Larrakia Country

AUGUST

#o tlmag

Winner, 2019, 2020 & 2021 NT Media Awards, Best Magazine or Lift Out

20 22

COMMUNITY

A C C O U N T A N T S

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S T R A T E G I C

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

FOOD & DRINK

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.

MUSIC

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PERFORMING ARTS

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VISUAL ARTS

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Verity was the lucky winner of our Darwin Festival giveaway, scoring a Wild Weekend in the Top End, coming all the way from Yulara. We're so glad you and your family had a wonderful time. Look at those smiling faces!

Cover proudly sponsored by Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF)

@gilby_little was pretty chuffed to catch up with Tim Minchin @darwinfestival magic

WINNER '19, '20 & '21 NT MEDIA AWARDS

Cover image: We Are Still Are Screening at DIFF Opening Night Thu 15 Sep

Best Magazine or Lift Out

Although all care isall taken in Off The Leash is correct, it is subject to change.

We recommend checking offtheleash.net.au for updates.

Although caretoisensure takeninformation to ensure information in Off The Leash is correct, it is subject to change.

We recommend checking offtheleash.net.au for updates.

September 2022

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Photo: Nicholas Gouldhurst

FEATURE

Since 2010, cinephiles, movie buffs and filmmakers alike have looked forward to the month of September with anticipation, and the Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF) it brings.

By Kate Conway

W

ith an expanded program presenting almost 40 screenings across 11 nights and five locations, DIFF is back. Bigger than ever.

DIFF’s screening capacity has doubled with the introduction of the Sundown Screen at Darwin Waterfront. Emulating the iconic home of DIFF, the Peninsula Lawns transform into Deckchair Cinema 2.0, complete with bar service, deluxe catered seating and a giant silver screen.

“Northern Lights, a local projection company, is installing a 12-metre-wide screen, which is huge – it’s bigger than the one at Deckchair Cinema, and we’ve got a large projector, which is something that you would usually use in a drive-in theatre. The whole set up is going to be incredibly well put together,” says Festival Manager James Parker, also Deckchair Cinema’s General Manager.

After successfully navigating the turbulence of recent years, delivering DIFF differently over a split-year program, Parker says the focus in 2022 is on getting back to basics and the films at heart of the festival.

“It’s one of the funnest nights of the festival! Darwin’s not a huge town, so everybody seems to know someone that is either in the film or helped out.

There’s a real buzz about it,” Parker says.

While ensuring programming meets criteria to qualify as an international film festival, this year’s new exciting offering of the Sundown Screen celebrates homegrown flavour.

“We thought it would be really fun to have a play with some classic Australian programming, some of the old Baz Luhrmann films and some iconic Australian films.”

Local flavour is further showcased with episodes of Territory TV shows Outback Ringer, True Colours, Matt Wright’s Wild Territory, MaveriX and Barrumbi Kids, highlighting a record number of screen productions developed, and recognising the benefits supporting the local film industry can bring.

Darwin-born writer, director and producer Danielle MacLean says DIFF provides a vital opportunity to connect with audiences.

“We have really focussed this year on the screening program. There have been different ventures from DIFF in the past into some interesting projects, “It is a great way to celebrate local and international films, but also to but we really wanted to bring it back to its core as a film festival. To achieve actually share your films with people, talk to like-minded people, and really that, it really boils down to premiering films and celebrating that film and just engage with the films on the ground in such a beautiful place. screen culture,” he says.

“I love showing anything at the Deckchair because local people support The meticulously curated program does just that, genres including those films, they want to see local content. They come along and we always documentaries and animation, sci-fi, drama and thrillers, in addition to get really great crowds – people appreciate local people telling their own industry events, live cinema experiences and NT premieres. stories,” she says.

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Darwin International Film Festival

There’s also a host of special guest appearances, including Oscar award-winning cinematographer and legend of the Australian film industry, John Seale (The English Patient and Mad Max: Fury Road).

For those looking for a true film festival experience – think quirky, alternative flicks that you won’t see anywhere else – Parker says his picks are Flux Gourmet and Neptune Frost.

WHEN THU 15 – SUN 25 SEP COST $7-$55 FESTIVAL PASSES AVAILABLE INFO diff.net.au

The highly anticipated Spark Film Initiative returns for a fifth year, premiering short films created specifically for DIFF from four teams of emerging local filmmakers.

“They are going to be entertaining, they are going to be whacky and weird.

You are either going to love them or you might be confused by them – but that’s fine! Whatever happens, you’ll have a good time.”

HIGHLIGHTS

Festival

Decision to Leave Detective Hae-joon investigates the death of a man who fell from a mountaintop in suspicious circumstances. The investigation leads him to the dead man’s wife Seo-rae, who becomes the prime suspect. Hae-joon and Seo-rae feel an unexpected affinity for each other, and he soon finds himself falling for his suspect.

EVENTS

Special

WHEN MON 19 SEP | 7PM AT DECKCHAIR CINEMA

We Are Still Here - Opening Night A cinematic response to the 250th anniversary of Captain Cook’s arrival, We Are Still Here is a multi-protagonist anthology of eight films from 10 First Nations directors from Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. Exploring thousands of years of kinship, loss, grief, resilience and ultimately, survival, don’t miss this powerful and poetic testament to First Nations cinematic talent.

Franklin Franklin links the story of one of Australia’s most significant environmental battles to a modern-day rafting adventure, as the filmmaker attempts to follow in the footsteps of his father’s ghost.

WHEN THU 15 SEP | 7PM AT DECKCHAIR CINEMA

WHEN FRI 16 SEP | 7PM AT DARWIN WATERFRONT COST FREE

WHEN SUN 18 SEP | 7PM AT DECKCHAIR CINEMA

Blaze One day when walking home, 12-year-old Blaze witnesses a brutal crime, and is left with conflicting emotions of debilitating fear and a desire for justice. As she spirals uncontrollably, she summons an imaginary dragon that provides solace and courage. Combining live action, puppetry and animation Blaze is a reimagined coming-ofage ode to female courage.

The Last Film Show Samay, a nine-year-old boy living with his family in remote India, discovers film for the first time and is absolutely mesmerised. He returns to the cinema day after day and befriends the projectionist, who lets him watch movies for free.

When the cinema closes, Samay and his wild gang of friends must move heaven and earth to catch and project light, and follow their dreams.

Barrumbi Kids Northern Territory production Barrumbi Kids tells the story of Tomias and Dahlia, two best friends growing up in a remote NT community. Through fishing, hunting and schooling, the children learn about themselves, each other and living in both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal cultures.

WHEN THU 22 SEP | 7PM AT DECKCHAIR CINEMA

WHEN FRI 23 SEP | 7PM AT DARWIN WATERFRONT COST FREE

WHEN SUN 25 SEP | 2PM AT EVENT CINEMAS PALMERSTON COST FREE

Set against the stunning background of Tasmania’s Franklin River, this documentary explores culture, history, activism, human spirit and our place in a fragile world.

Cinemart Darwin Ski Club's special program of events is dedicated to celebrating the art of cinema, through unique screen arts events that expand the cinema experience, with collaborations of live music soundtracks set to contemporary and classic films.

#Ghostmodern

WHEN FRI 16 SEP | 7PM Mad Max: Fury Road Live Cinema Experience

Spark 2022 Gala Screening Witness the world premiere of short films from four teams of emerging local filmmakers, shining on the big screen. This is one of the most fun nights of DIFF – don't miss it!

WHEN SAT 24 SEP | 7PM AT COST

DARWIN SKI CLUB $25-$40

WHEN FRI 23 SEP | 7PM AT DECKCHAIR CINEMA COST $10-$45

Compartment No. 6 Set in 1990’s Russia, Finnish anthropology student Laura has been spurned by her lover and decides to travel alone by train from Russia to the arctic to study.

She forms an unlikely friendship with a gruff Russian miner and along the journey, they navigate rough terrain in more ways than one.

WHEN SAT 24 SEP | 6.30PM AT DARWIN WATERFRONT COST FREE

2022 Australian Cinematographers Society NT Awards The Northern Territory’s finest cinematographers are celebrated at this prestigious event. Join Oscar winning Guest of Honour John Seale and a number of high-profile film industry members for a threecourse dinner as the sun sets into the harbour.

WHEN AT COST INFO

SAT 24 SEP | 5.30PM DECKCHAIR CINEMA $130 cinematographer.org.au

Ride the Wave This exhilarating documentary follows Scottish surf champion Ben Larg on his journey to ride the biggest, most dangerous cold-water waves in the world. Originally taking up surfing as a way to deal with being bullied, the sport further ostracises him from his local community. Undaunted, he prepares for the ultimate challenge, riding the biggest cold-water swells off the coast of Ireland.

WHEN SUN 18 SEP | 7PM AT DARWIN WATERFRONT COST FREE

Audrey Napanangka - Closing Night An intimate portrait of artist, actor and proud Warlpiri woman, Audrey Napanangka charts her challenges living within traditional ways and the modern world. Filmed over 10 years, prolific Australian producer Penelope McDonald presents this true collaboration between filmmaker and subject, portraying the richness and complexity of Australian First Nations people’s lives today.

WHEN SUN 25 SEP | 7PM AT DECKCHAIR CINEMA COST FREE

NT Screen Summit The NT Screen Summit presents the chance for film and screen practitioners to meet and connect.

It features an exciting program of local and interstate industry leaders and executives, screenings of new work, and informative sessions.

WHEN AT COST INFO

SAT 24 & SUN 25 SEP CDU, WATERFRONT CAMPUS FREE WITH INDUSTRY PASS diff.net.au/industry

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SKYWHALES

AROUND TOWN

Experiencing Alice Springs/Mparntwe is a submersion into the natural world. Hugged by the MacDonnell Ranges, these natural curiosities are constant visual elements, and we are lucky to be in their presence.

But what about the experience of the natural world that is left to chance or luck?

By By Hannah Muir

Geek ON at

By Kate Conway

BEING A GEEK is no longer something to hide. Thanks, in part, to the global success of shows like Stranger Things and video-games-turned-animation-TV-series, the wholesome and inclusive movement is about celebrating the things you love and finding your tribe.

On the first of next month, NT geeks get the chance to make connections and proudly geek out at TROPiCON, Darwin’s very own answer to Comic-Con, the convention for all things geeky and pop culture.

While it may seem like geek culture is having a resurgence, Dylan Bennett from the Northern Territory Geek Culture Collective (NTGCC) says a spotlight is being shone on a thriving society that has always been here.

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“It’s kind of like a sleeping giant – it seems like it would be a real niche to everyone, except to the people who are in the community. Actually, there’s quite a lot of us,” he says.

Artist Patricia Piccinni pictured with Skywhalepapa and Skywhale

A

bush track can be hiked one hundred times without seeing a single roo, and a flock of budgies can whoosh past while your eyes are peeled for something else. It’s unpredictable and it’s meant to be that way.

Echoing the luck we are beholden to with the wonders of the environment is the beautiful floating sculptures of Australian artist Patricia Piccinni, which can only fly if the conditions are perfect. Her evocative hot air balloon’s Skywhalepapa and Skywhale have left their home at the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) to tour Australia, and this month, they’re set to soar above the desert.

Curator of Australian Art at the NGA Elspeth Pitt, currently on tour with Patricia and the Skywhales, says bringing the art to a wider audience is a major aim of the tour.

“We’re connecting with communities and targeting audiences that may not, for whatever reason, often go to galleries. For Patricia, it’s really important not to just sail in and present the work then leave, she really wants to connect with people, and we want to work with the community.”

The Skywhales are buxom and unconventionally beautiful beasts.

They are awkwardly cumbersome on the ground but when they can

TROPiCON In a testament to just how many geeks do inhabit these here parts, TROPiCON has booked out the entire Darwin Entertainment Centre (DEC) to accommodate the vast array of interests under the umbrella of geekdom. DEC’s theatres, galleries and foyers will all be filled to the brim with gaming hubs, virtual reality experiences, exhibitor stalls, and signing stations for eager fans.

In addition to music acts, dance performances and screenings of local animations, the program also includes a cosplay competition with a $1000 prize pool and an exciting qualification round for the 2022 World Esports championships.

Esports mimics the experience of watching a professional sporting event, with professional gamers competing in multiplayer online games in front of spectators. Did you know that Darwin is home to Esports players ranked in the top 20 in Australia? Neither did we!

Bringing together all geek-based community groups and engaging the broader non-geek community in shared experiences is the goal, creating a diverse and safe space.

“These conventions are famous for inclusivity. You can come in whatever shape or form you desire and you’ll be included, accepted and celebrated. There really are open arms and open minds at geek conventions. We are definitely going to make sure that is the case for ours,” says Bennett.

“Come along and see what a vibrant, welcoming community it is and it might start you off on your own path of geekiness.”

TROPiCON WHEN SAT 1 OCT | 10AM-5PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

COST $15-$25 INFO ntgcca.com

take to the sky, they gracefully soar.

A reminder that every creature has a place. They comment on family, community, the unconventional nature of our lives and, as such, inspire empathy and a sense of identity amongst their audience who experience them communally.

“There are such few opportunities for people to come together as a community in a non-competitive way. There’s a moment as the sun’s rising and these strange and awe-inspiring creatures come to life, and it’s just a wonderful experience,” Elspeth says.

Fittingly, the plans for the Alice Springs showing are up in the

air. While the flight is scheduled for later this month, weather and conditions may affect this.

Skywhales: Every Heart Sings is a free event, though bookings are essential. Keep your eyes on the Araluen Arts Centre website for the juicy details of when and where you’ll find these majestic sky treasures.

Skywhales: Every Heart Sings WHEN SAT 24 SEP AT ALICE SPRINGS/MPARNTWE COST FREE

INFO araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au

Let's get trivial

By Tierney Seccull

CALLING ALL BOOKWORMS and lovers of the written word. If you know your Peter Carey from your Peter Temple, your Jane Eyre from your Jane Harper, the NT Writers’ Centre’s (NTWC) night of quizzical nights is for you.

Head along to Darwin Trailer Boat Club for their once-a-year Book Club Trivia Night, and test your literary knowledge whilst raising funds for the hard-working organisation.

The NTWC celebrates 25 years this year, setting a goal to raise $25,000 by the end of the year. Funds raised on the evening go towards programs, workshops and the annual NT Writers Festival to further support the Territory’s wordsmiths.

Tickets include a chilled Coopers beer, and attendees are encouraged to up their ticket by five dollars to make $25 for 25 years of the NTWC. So have a good time, do a good thing, and get behind the NTWC.

NTWC Program Manager Rita Horanyi, also this year’s NT Writers Festival Artistic Director, says it’s a hoot, with something for everyone.

“It’s just like any trivia night, it’s a lot of fun ... Grab a delicious dinner, enjoy a cold glass of beer and hang out with your friends.”

“It’s a lot of fun. The questions revolve around books, but there’s all kinds of different categories, like Books and Film, sometimes we’ll have Books and Music, there’s usually a round where you’ve got to guess the book from the cover, and questions about opening lines, that sort of thing,” she says.

Book Club Trivia Night WHEN THU 1 SEP | 6.30PM AT DARWIN TRAILER BOAT CLUB COST $20 | $25 IF YOU’RE FEELIN’ GENEROUS

INFO ntwriters.com.au

LISTINGS

BAREFOOT BEACH BALL

Father’s Day Don’t forget Dad or the father figures in your life this month (you’re welcome!). Wrap up the socks, jocks or home brew kits, and show the Old Man how much you love him!

COST INFO

FREE palmerston.nt.gov.au

Skate Nights

WHEN SUN 4 SEP Flicnics

WHEN AT COST INFO

Dust off the picnic blanket and pack the snacks for the final FlicNics of 2022, with a free screening of the 1972 classic flick, Cabaret.

Cabaret stars Liza Minelli as Sally Bowles, star performer at the Kitty Kat club. This award-winning screen adaptation of the Broadway musical portrays a love triangle set against the backdrop of the rise of the Nazi party.

WHEN AT COST INFO

SAT 10 SEP | 7-9PM JOAN FEJO PARK, ROSEBERY FREE palmerston.nt.gov.au

Brekkie in the Park Round up the crew, grab your rugs and enjoy a free healthy breakfast with plenty of family-friendly outdoor activities. Grab a coffee while the kiddos enjoy Animal Encounters with their Top End Critters show.

ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE

Arthouse CINEMA

WHEN SUN 11 SEP | 8-10AM AT FLINDERS PARK, DURACK

COST INFO

Geek Up This free spin-off program from the highly successful Geektacular is for young people aged 15-25 who want to meet, connect and play.

Each Sunday, take your pick of three activities to join – board games, Dungeons & Dragons, and digital art. Get geeky, yo!

SUN 25 SEP | 1-4PM FREE launchdarwin.com.au

Dom’s Dollar Dumplings Every Thursday is dumpling day in Nightcliff. Order yourself a cocktail, get those chopsticks ready, and tuck into a side of steamed goodness.

WHEN WED 14 & 28 SEP | 6-8PM AT JINGILI WATER GARDENS

WHEN EVERY THU | 5-7PM AT DOM’S BAR & LOUNGE

COST INFO

COST INFO

FREE launchdarwin.com.au

The Essington School Open Day WHEN THU 15 SEP | 9-10.15AM AT THE ESSINGTON SCHOOL

NIGHTCLIFF

FREE domsdarwin.com.au

Parap Village Markets

DARWIN

COST INFO

WHEN AT COST INFO

essington.nt.edu.au

SUN 25 SEP | 9-12PM ALAWA HALL

Enjoy live entertainment and don your best cocktail attire, and help celebrate 40 wonderful years of

COST INFO

Breakfast by the Bay It’s your last chance to soak up those Dry season Breakfast by the Bay vibes… Make tracks to the ocean for brekkie bowls, eggs benny, mimosas, and much more.

TACTILE ARTS WORKSHOPS

WHEN SAT 10 SEP | 6.30-11.30PM AT DARWIN SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB

$175 | $140 MEMB facebook.com/ darwinsurflifesavingclub

tactilearts.org.au

Glass Beadmaking

WHEN EVERY SUN, UNTIL 18 SEP FROM 8AM

AT INFO

DARWIN TRAILER BOAT CLUB dtbc.com.au

Movement Medicine Darwin Ecstatic Dance Deep dive into the magnificence of presence every Sunday morning, and for the love of life, have a dance! New dancers are welcome, no experience necessary.

WHEN EVERY SUN | 10-11.30AM AT NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY

Learn a range of glass beadmaking techniques, including swirling designs, adding dots and decorating, and tips on how to set up your own lamp working studio.

WHEN SUN 11 SEP | 1-6PM COST $185 | $170 MEMB

COST $20 INFO movement.magic/

Sterling Silver Byzantine Chainmail Bracelet Debra Senjuschenko leads this workshop, teaching the Byzantine Weave technique, the correct way to open and close jump rings, and how to finish off a weave.

PALMERSTON LIBRARY

WHEN SUN 25 SEP | 1-5PM COST $205 | $190 MEMB

CENTRE

@yahoo.com

palmerston.nt.gov.au/library

FREE

Too Much Stuff Recycling Upcycling Flea Market Sell or pick up second-hand clothes, plants, fishing and sporting gear, tools, plants, household goods and more at this fun little market in Alawa. Sellers, buyers, recyclers, upcyclers are all welcome.

Darwin Surf Life Saving Club at the stunning seaside location of Casuarina Beach.

CASUARINA LIBRARY

Head to Jingili for free music and skating at the park. Step aside midweek, make some time for yourself and meet other skaters – newbies and spectators welcome!

SKATE PARK

JOIN DARWIN SURF Life Saving Club for their highly-anticipated annual Barefoot Beach Ball. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks on the sand and a world-class sunset before tucking into a delicious three-course dinner under the stars.

Gadgets and Games Club WHEN EVERY TUE | 3.30-4.30PM COST FREE

Soak up the warm Territory atmosphere and hospitality at the Parap Village Markets, and sample the tantalising tastes of local and exotic dishes. Discover a bounty of local goods including clothing, jewellery, art, crafts, and much more.

Kids School Holidays Arts and Crafts

Nurserytime WHEN EVERY WED | 10-10.45AM COST FREE Geek Squad WHEN THU | 3.30-4.30PM COST FREE

Treat the kiddos to some school holiday fun with a whole bunch of creative workshops on offer, including block printing, jewellery making, soft toy sculpture, weaving and more.

FREE facebook.com/ toomuchstuffdarwin

WHEN TUE 27 SEP – FRI 7 OCT

WHEN EVERY SAT | 8AM-2PM AT PARAP VILLAGE MARKETS INFO parapvillage.com.au

10AM-11.30AM

COST

$30

Hit the Road

Parallel Mothers

Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time

Sundown

A chaotic, tender family is on a road trip across a rugged landscape, in a borrowed car where most of the film is set. They get on each other’s nerves, the film juggling themes of joy, heartbreak and surreal humour.

Janis and Ana cross paths in a hospital room, both single and pregnant by accident, with different feelings about their circumstances.

The few words they exchange create a very close link between the two.

Deep dive into Kurt Vonnegut’s life and work, from his childhood experience as a Prisoner of War to his eventual superstardom in 1969, following the publication of his anti-war novel.

When an emergency summons the wealthy Bennett family back to the U.K., simmering tensions rise between them. As a result, the delicate balance of the deceptively close-knit clan is irrevocably upset.

WHEN MON 5 SEP | 7PM

WHEN MON 12 SEP | 7PM

WHEN MON 19 SEP | 7PM

WHEN MON 26 SEP | 7PM

$17 | $14 MEMB/CONC araluenartcentre.nt.gov.au

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Photo: Duane Preston

PERFORMING ARTS

By Kate Conway

A Big Birthday Bash Whether you remember watching a play as a school student, attending a live music gig or community dance production, almost everybody has memory they hold dear of the adored home of Territory performing arts, Brown’s Mart. fter launching the iconic institution’s 50th year in June with storytelling event SPUN, and implementing a new permanent, augmented reality exhibition in July, the party culminates this month with a big birthday bash celebrating half a century of creativity, history and theatre.

The weekend-long shindig sees a whole precinct takeover, from the patchwork quilt of arts organisations that have called Brown’s Mart home, and contributed the rich tapestry of the building’s history.

Darwin Fringe, Music NT, Northern Territory Writers’ Centre, Tracks Dance, Corrugated Iron Youth Arts, Darwin Theatre Company and Darwin Community Arts are all returning to their birthplace, with a host of free performances, installations and panel talks.

“We have circus performances on the edge of Brown’s Mart and Civic Park.

The Gift by Tracks Dance was specifically choreographed to reflect on the 50 years of Brown’s Mart, Corrugated Iron are installing a shed onsite for people to explore their history and we’ve got poetry readings, poetry slams, play readings, fringe performances, and a big music gig,” says Brown’s Mart CEO, Sophia Hall.

Brown’s Mart is also launching the Have a Seat in the Theatre program.

Available to all, the program is an exciting, exclusive chance to purchase

a plaque engraved with your choice of words – your name, a loved one’s name, or a favourite quote – to live forever, firmly attached to the back of a seat in the beautiful, heritage theatre. There are only 100 seats available for purchase, so be quick!

If you would prefer to take home your memorabilia, bespoke, timber furniture crafted from the theatre’s original floorboards are also up for grabs.

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This month, they’re back, baby! The celebrated time-twisting musical collective returning to stages across Australia.

You’re invited to Darwin Entertainment Centre to celebrate the roaring ‘20s, with unique interpretations of modern music’s biggest hits delivered to your earholes via the classic styles of bygone eras through live swing and jazz music, the dazzling live spectacle featuring an ensemble of multi-talented singers and musicians.

New York City pianist Scott Bradlee created Postmodern Jukebox in a basement in Queens, and says there’s just nothing quite like coming together over a shared love of music.

FRI 23 - SUN 25 SEP BROWN’S MART FREE brownsmart.com.au

“Everybody in this community has a really deep love and affection for, and memory of, Brown’s Mart. So for us, when you are taking a moment to celebrate that anniversary and recognise that it has been 50 years of existence, you are very aware of all of that, all of those people for whom this place has been important,” she says.

Whatever Brown’s Mart means to you, everyone’s welcome to get a glimpse behind the curtain and soak up the rich history. So round up your mates for some reminiscing, enjoy the fun and raise a toast to the backbone of the Top End arts community.

By Tierney Seccull

THE GRAND REOPENING TOUR

“Music has served such a valuable function of inspiring us and reminding us of our shared humanity throughout history, and there’s simply no substitute for gathering together to experience such a powerful force live,” he says.

WHEN AT COST INFO

Reflecting on the impressive milestone, Hall says, for the Brown’s Mart team, the local people, creatives and community groups were front of mind when planning the event.

Postmodern Jukebox EARLY LAST YEAR , the talented ensemble that is Postmodern Jukebox was gearing up for their global tour, eager to share their pop-jazz fusion with audiences around the world. But just seven shows in, they had to pull the pin.

Brown’s Mart 50th Birthday Weekend

WHEN AT COST INFO

SUN 11 SEP | 8PM DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE $109-$143 yourcentre.com.au

Deadly Darwin Goes Walkabout Forming in 2018, Deadly Darwin Mob was created to spread good vibes and healing through laughter, showcasing local Aboriginal comedians and creating important dialogue.

The original comic cohort was made up of four members, a number that has since grown to 11. They’ve performed all over Darwin including sold-out shows at Brown’s Mart, and Garrmalang, Darwin Fringe and Seabreeze festivals.

“We believe laughter is the best medicine, and there’s a lot of healing that needs to be undertaken today – we believe we are the ones to do it,” says founding member, Richard Fejo.

This month, comedians Paul Seden, Richard Fejo, James Parfitt and

Richie Harrison hit the road to Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs to share some laughs and healing vibes. As an added bonus, they’re hosting a bunch of free workshops for young people and adults to flex their funny bones.

“The workshops are about empowerment,” says Fejo.

“If we can convince some youth to get up and tell a few jokes, the ulterior motive is that it’s working on public speaking, which helps them develop their own personal skills that, for example, could help them get through a job interview.”

Times have been tough of late, with many still coming to terms with the disruptions of recent years, and Deadly Darwin hopes to spread a little joy, have a little laugh, and have a deadly time.

Don’t miss these cheeky stand-up comics with a penchant for adventure, as they go walkabout in a town near you.

Photo: Paz Tassone

OH, LOOKOUT! THE comical crew from Deadly Darwin are going walkabout across the Northern Territory, delivering their quick wit and signature humour to the masses.

By Tierney Seccull

Katherine

Tennant Creek

Alice Springs

WHEN TUE 13 SEP

WHEN WED 14 SEP

WHEN FRI 16 SEP

AT GYRACC COST $22 | $18 CONC INFO gyracc.org.au

AT BARKLY REGIONAL ARTS COST $15 INFO artbacknt.com.au

AT MONTE’S LOUNGE COST $15 INFO artbacknt.com.au

5PM WORKSHOP | 7PM SHOW

5PM WORKSHOP | 7PM SHOW

5PM WORKSHOP | 7PM SHOW

BILL BAILEY

En Route To Normal

Alice Springs

WHEN TUE 13 SEP | 8PM AT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE COST $89.90 INFO araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au Darwin

WHEN THU 15 SEP | 8-10PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT

CENTRE

COST $89.90 - $99.90 INFO yourcentre.com.au GET READY TO giggle, Territorians and lucky visitors, as English actor, comedian, musician and singer Bill Bailey descends on the NT with his hilarious new show, En Route To Normal.

You wouldn’t believe it, but Bailey named his new show before COVID-19 was even a thing. It offers a funny and heart-warming mix of his stories, music and history, Bailey setting out on a personal mission

to find a way through these strange times.

With shows in Darwin and Alice Springs, Bailey returns for the first time since 2018 to publicly ponder life’s big questions. How did we get here? How do we find our way through this? And who actually are we again?

In En Route To Normal, Bailey ruminates over challenging times of

the past, reflecting on how human resilience has gotten us through the tough times.

Armed with his signature mix of satire and surrealism, storytelling and jokes, a few crowd sing-alongs and weird instruments, it’s sure to be an incredibly entertaining evening. Don’t miss your chance to catch this legendary multi-faceted performer in the flesh!

9

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By Tierney Seccull

THE NT’S BELOVED Brown’s Mart Theatre has fostered the creativity of Territorians for 50 wonderful years. One of the organisations born out of Brown’s Mart all those years ago was Tracks Dance Company – an organisation that has very much established its own brand and value in the community since.

To give you some history, Tracks was born from Brown’s Mart’s dance program that kicked off in the early 70s called Feats Unlimited, facilitated by Maggi Phillips, a dancer and circus performer. Feats Unlimited ran until 1987, then Community Dance Officer Sarah Calver came on board to continue the work Phillips had started. By 1993, Tracks Dance was developed, and in 1999 it became its own incorporated organisation.

And how does Tracks say happy birthday to the mothership? Why, with the gift of dance, of course!

The Gift celebrates the incredible service the beloved organisation

10

has so tenderly provided to the local arts community over the years, and everyone is welcome, no dance experience necessary.

Associate Artistic Director Jess Devereux says the short, sharp and shiny 15-minute pop-up is a loving gift for Brown’s Mart.

“The beauty of Brown’s Mart as a place to gather and see new work and celebrate is really important to a lot of Darwin artists, and Tracks has a long history of putting on performances in Civic Park, out the back of Brown’s Mart,” she says.

“We love creating dance for outdoor spaces, so that feels like a really important spot to celebrate and give the gift of dance – a loving gift – back to Brown’s Mart to say happy 50th.”

With three dance workshops, one dress rehearsal, and access to the

digital dance toolkit, participants will be well prepped by the time they hit the stage. Or, ya know, the lawn.

This all-in community gift is wrapped in dances and music from each decade since the 70s.

“Some of the dances that celebrate a particular decade will be one group, so the Grey Panthers will do the 70s, and we’ve got a group from Corrugated Iron Youth Arts also working with [Steph] Spillett on the noughties.

“Kelly [Beneforti] and I are working with lots of alumni from Choreolab and a bunch of our development programs, so really the finalé is the place where everyone who would like to do the workshop series can join in.

“It’s something everyone can be a part of, learning this big final dance, which is a culmination of all those decades, danced to an original track that Kuya James has made for us, with some vocals from Caiti Baker – it feels nice to have a piece of music by local artists to dance to.”

Tracks Artistic Co-Director David McMicken says he hopes everyone gets involved. In costume, of course.

“It’s our DNA to bring people together to celebrate the place they live in, and the times they live in.

We love a costume, we love a party, and we love to dance. Come and party with us!”

The Gift Finalé Workshops WHEN EVERY TUE 6 – 20 SEP 5.30-7.30PM

AT COST

TRACKS DANCE STUDIO $15 FULL

Dress Rehearsal WHEN SAT 24 SEP AT CIVIC PARK

The Gift Performance WHEN SUN 25 SEP | 5PM AT COST INFO

CIVIC PARK FREE tracksdance.com.au

LISTINGS

Ricochet

SLIDE YOUTH DANCE Theatre is known for creating innovative, dynamic and compelling youth dance theatre productions, providing professional performance opportunities to the NT’s talented, emerging artists.

WHEN WED 14 & THU 15 SEP

Performers are involved in the entire production process, from script and character development to props and costuming, as well as elite contemporary dance training to hone their performance skills.

10AM & 6.30PM

AT

DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

COST INFO

$15-$35 yourcentre.com.au

Top End Comedy’s First Thursday Showcase 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 AT COST INFO

THU 1 SEP | 7.30-9.30PM HAPPY YESS $10 facebook.com/ topendcomedy

Peter Williams Medium Live

This month, the company continues their artist residency at Darwin Entertainment Centre with dance theatre production, Ricochet.

Williams works closely with the souls passed over to deliver messages to members of the audience, and adds small educational anecdotes throughout to ensure everyone can walk away feeling positive and uplifted.

WHEN SAT 17 SEP | 7PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

COST INFO

$40-$65 yourcentre.com.au

Dolly’s Late Night Comedy Veteran Darwin comedian and former Raw Comedy National finalist, Scott McGowan, presents this monthly late night show of quality stand-up comedy.

Every month, he curates a talented line-up of three comedians and a headliner for your amusement. Sit back, relax with a drink, and soak in some of the sharpest and cheekiest comedy you’ve ever heard in a wonderfully intimate environment.

Expect to leave with a grin and some strange questions…

This hugely popular psychic-medium, known for bringing a modern and refreshing feel to his events, returns to Darwin. He amazes audiences with his ability to communicate with loved ones passed over with energy, laughter and a heartfelt respect.

WHEN AT COST INFO

Highlighting the core value of empowering young performers, Ricochet is a celebration of the insightfulness and kindness of young people in 2022, in particular, how resilient they’ve become as a generation in a society that’s been thrown many curve balls.

Ricochet is funny and sad, but also brave. The connection between the dancers combined with the youth-led production of tangible lighting design, sound creation, choreography and storytelling makes this powerful, playful and peaceful work an experience to remember.

showcase event. The perfect setting for comedy, 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 AT COST INFO

WED 28 SEP | 8.30-10PM LUCKY BAT CAFÉ & PIZZERIA $10 facebook.com/luckybat

Graeme Lewis’ G-Spot Comedy G-Spot Comedy brings you the best upcoming comedians in the Top End on the last Thursday of every month. Each month, get set for giggles galore with five hilarious comedians hitting that funny spot you never knew you had.

WHEN AT COST INFO

THU 29 SEP | 8.30-10PM THE LANDMARK $10 facebook.com/ gspotcomedy11

SAT 24 SEP | 9-11PM DOLLY’S BAR FREE facebook.com/dollysbar

Lucky Bat Laughs This monthly show features five of the finest local comedians, delivering 10-15 minute sets in a curated

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16 Fri

4 DIFF 5 Franklin 5 Cinemart 9 Deadly Darwin Goes Walkabout 22 Leaving Jackson: The Johnny Cash and June Carter Show 23 Crap Music Rave Party 23 Friday Knock Offs 23 Live on Fridays 23 Acoustic Friday

See Feature 4

Tue

See Music 20

22 Thu

4 Darwin International Film Festival

5 Blaze 7 Dom’s Dollar Dumplings 7 Geek Squad 15 Desert Festival 18 Through Our Eyes Collaborative Community Exhibition (last chance)

Wed

7 Skate Nights 7 Nurserytime 7 Kids School Holidays Arts and Crafts 11 Lucky Bat Laughs 15 Desert Festival 23 Live Music Wednesdays 23 Hot and Cold Big Band

27 28 7 Gadgets and Games Club 7 Kids School Holidays Arts and Crafts 15 Desert Festival 23 Darwin City Brass Band Rehearsals 23 Jam Night 23 Jump Inn Jams

17 Sat

20 Rock the Bay

Fri

4 DIFF 7 Parap Village Markets 11 Peter Williams Medium Live 15 Imagine Seaside Carnival 16 Timo Hogan (last chance) 17 Botanically Porcelain (last chance) 18 DVA Exhibitions (last chance)

23 Thu

4 DIFF 5 The Last Film Show 5 Spark 2022 Gala Screening 8 Brown’s Mart 50th Birthday Weekend 15 Desert Festival 23 Friday Knock Offs 23 Live on Fridays 23 Acoustic Friday

29

7 Dom’s Dollar Dumplings 7 Geek Squad 7 Kids School Holidays Arts and Crafts 11 G-Spot Comedy 15 Desert Festival 16 Retribution: What Happens Next? (opening)

18 Sun

22 Desert Song Festival (last chance)

Fri

4 DIFF 5 Compartment No. 6 5 Ride the Wave 7 Breakfast by the Bay 7 Movement Medicine 15 Imagine Seaside Carnival 16 Shock & Ore (last chance)

See Around Town 6

30

15 Desert Festival

7 Kids School Holidays Arts and Crafts 23 Friday Knock Offs 23 Live on Fridays 23 Live on the Lawns: Katanga Junior 23 Acoustic Friday

See Music 22

24

Sat 6 Skywhales: Every Heart Sings 4 DIFF 5 Cinemart 5 NT Screen Summit 7 Parap Village Markets 8 Brown’s Mart 50th Birthday Weekend 10 The Gift Dress Rehearsal 11 Dolly’s Late Night Comedy 15 Desert Festival

See Festivals 15

19 25

Mon

4 DIFF 5 Decision to Leave 7 Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time

Sun

4 DIFF 5 Audrey Napanangka 5 NT Screen Summit 7 Too Much Stuff 7 Geek Up 7 Movement Medicine 7 Sterling Silver Byzantine Chainmail Bracelet 10 The Gift Performance 15 Desert Festival

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20

Tue

4 DIFF 7 Gadgets and Games Club 10 The Gift Finalé Workshops 23 Darwin City Brass Band Rehearsals 23 Jam Night 23 Jump Inn Jams

See Performing Arts 8

8 Brown’s Mart 50th Birthday Weekend

21

Wed

Mon

4 DIFF 7 Nurserytime 23 Live Music Wednesdays 23 Hot and Cold Big Band

26

7 Sundown 15 Desert Festival

AROUND TOWn Books & fILM Performing Arts Visual Arts Food & Drink Music FESTIVALS

offtheleash.net.au

Although all care is taken to ensure information in Off The Leash is correct, it is subject to change. Not all events can be listed on this calendar, so we recommend checking offtheleash.net.au for updates.

Thu

8

Fri

Sat

7 Dom’s Dollar Dumplings 7 Geek Squad 17 Living Water (opening) 19 Mandjabu (last chance) 19 Nawern Yahwuyahwurd Dolobo (last chance) 21 The 2022 Beat Festival - Time 23 Poolside Playups EP.3

Thu

15 Darwin Street Art Festival Wrap Party 15 Darwin Street Art Festival 18 DVA Exhibitions (opening) 18 Through Our Eyes Collaborative Community Exhibition (opening) 23 Friday Knock Offs 23 Live on Fridays 23 Acoustic Friday

2

Calendar

1 Wed

6 Book Club Trivia Night 7 Dom’s Dollar Dumplings 7 Geek Squad 11 Top End Comedy’s First Thursday Showcase 15 Desert Mob (opens) 15 Darwin Street Art Festival

7 7 Nurserytime 21 The 2022 Beat Festival - Time 23 Live Music Wednesdays 23 Hot and Cold Big Band

See Music 21

10

21 Band at the Top

7 Barefoot Beach Ball 7 Flicnics: Cabaret 7 Parap Village Markets 17 Artists Need Not Apply (last chance) 20 King Fotu

See Festivals 15

11

Sun

8 Postmodern Jukebox The Grand Reopening Tour

7 Brekkie in the Park 7 Breakfast by the Bay 7 Movement Medicine 7 Glass Beadmaking 23 Seaside Sessions

3 Sat

15 Darwin Street Art Festival

7 Parap Village Markets 23 Live at the Lake

4 Sun

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!

7 Breakfast by the Bay 7 Movement Medicine 15 Darwin Street Art Festival 23 The Romantic Guitar Project

20

22

Mon

SEP See Performing Arts 8

12

7 Parallel Mothers

See Music 23

Tue

See Visual Arts 17

23 First Sunday Blues

13

7 Gadgets and Games Club 9 Deadly Darwin Goes Walkabout 9 Bill Bailey: En Route to Normal 10 The Gift Finalé Workshops 23 Darwin City Brass Band Rehearsals 23 Jam Night 23 Jump Inn Jams

5

Mon

0 Description of image

Oct web uploads deadline

Oct advert bookings deadline

Fri

7 Hit the Road 15 Darwin Street Art Festival (last chance)

9

21 The 2022 Beat Festival - Time

Wed

19 Gwarkabah (opens) 22 Desert Song Festival (opens) 23 Friday Knock Offs 23 Live on Fridays 23 Acoustic Friday

14

7 Skate Nights 7 Nurserytime 9 Deadly Darwin Goes Walkabout 11 Ricochet 23 Live Music Wednesdays 23 Hot and Cold Big Band

6

Tue

Oct ad artwork deadline

Thu

7 Gadgets and Games Club 10 The Gift Finalé Workshops 23 Darwin City Brass Band Rehearsals 23 Jam Night 23 Jump Inn Jams

See Music 21

DIFF

15

4 Darwin International Film Festival (opening) 5 We Are Still Here – DIFF Opening Night 7 The Essington School Open Day 7 Dom’s Dollar Dumplings 7 Geek Squad 9 Bill Bailey: En Route to Normal 11 Ricochet

14

Full The desert comes alive in September, and not just because of all the blooming wildflowers. Artists are bustling to gear up to their shows for the annual Desert Festival, works they’ve been preparing for all year long.

F

or 11 lively days, September comes to its climax as artists bloom into full flower and power, to share their vibrant expressions with lucky audiences.

Desert Festival producers, Red Hot Arts, have been in full swing this year, offering a new program to local artists to lend a helping hand (and a bit of handy funding!) to support shows for this year’s festival.

Project Seed has worked closely with 11 locally made creative projects since the beginning of the year, offering their support through funding, expertise and practical time and space.

“Projects have received mentoring and support, and this incubation program has really helped us to invest in local art and champion local creators,” says Red Hot Arts’ Heather Edmonds.

“This year, the Festival showcases dance, visual arts, a mural, theatre, sculpture, circus, physical theatre, an accessible arts panel, choral workshop, clowning and music, even a show that’s demonstrating how to grow oyster mushrooms using buffel grass.”

It’s really the full shebang. With so many shows in the busy 11 days, you’ll find something beautiful, something explosive, something curious, something for every one of you.

Festival

HIGHLIGHTS

Elliat Rich shares mystifying installation Between Stars and Quarks, celebrating the micro and macro of our wondrous world, the tiny atoms that make us us, and the enormous ideas that shape our lives.

NOOK Do you remember your happy place when you were young? Nook is a new theatrical work, crafted from interviews from real people, centring on the quiet moments where we allow ourselves to relax and recharge.

Listen to Jakartan artist Putrika weave her alt-soul electronica sound through a queer, kinky and glam garden party at Thorn & Thistle, or let The Nestmakers take you deep down into a dystopian bunker below the earth, a dark-humoured theatre performance of comedy and tragic reality that will make you laugh and cry.

There are new and emerging artists, as well as big names like Sydney Opera House performer Lady Lash, a Kokatha-Greek musician. With her sultry vocals, this “spiritual misfit” collaborates with local powerhouses Kirra Voller and Ray Ray to create a special evening of music and soul, under the dazzling Mparntwe stars.

The festival theme ‘Bloom’ gives you an idea of the great beauty, freshness and radiance you’ll experience from our flourishing art scene, an array of power and charm in our spirited Centre.

There’s heaps of free events and great bundle deals, so be sure to grab your tickets, support local art, and get your fix of some bloomin’ good creativity.

Desert Festival WHEN AT COST INFO

All events are held at the Desert Festival Hub at Gap View Hotel and free to attend, unless otherwise stated.

WHEN AT COST INFO

THU 1 SEP – SUN 23 OCT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE FREE desart.com.au

Darwin Street Art Festival Wrap Party Celebrate the end of the Darwin Street Art Festival with a true block party, Darwin Style. Everyone is welcome at this community event featuring a bar, food trucks, local performers, music and DJs programmed by Darwin’s own Kuya James.

WHEN AT COST INFO

FREE-$75 desfest.com

WHEN FRI 23 SEP | 6.30-8PM COST $15-$40

AT

WeSing: KINDRED

Desert Diamonds: La Vita Dei Diamanti

ALICE SPRINGS TELEGRAPH STATION

10 astounding songwriters weave an intimate songbird celebration of connection in KINDRED, combining their unique voices, styles and song stories.

WHEN FRI 23 SEP | 8-10PM COST $15-$40 Children’s Ground: Ampe-Mape Alyelheme! Kids Sing Join Arrernte families, children and educators from Ampe-kenhe Ahelhe (Children’s Ground) as they share uplifting new Arrernte children’s songs and stories.

WHEN SAT 24 SEP | 11AM-1PM

La Vita Dei Diamanti, The life of Diamonds, is a surreal and sensory immersion into the decadent world of Alice Springs cabaret favourites, the Desert Diamonds.

Experience the lavish life inside the house of the diamonds, serving audiences a lush fantasy landscape of art deco glamour.

WHEN SAT 24 SEP | 6-9PM COST $75

FRI 2 SEP | 5PM SPAIN PLACE CARPARK FREE darwinstreetartfestival.com.au

Darwin Street Art Festival The Darwin Street Art Festival returns to transform the city, armed with brushes, rollers and spray cans to create murals and spectacular art. With new artists and mural locations from the suburbs to the CBD, things are getting very colourful!

WHEN AT COST INFO

SAT 1 OCT | 5PM

Tenzin Choegyal: Be The Mountain Tibetan-Australian artist Tenzin Choegyal brings traditional Tibetan sounds to a contemporary setting, proudly holding the unbroken nomadic lineage, central to his musical repertoire.

Now in its 31st year, Desert Mob is a celebration of the bold and exhilarating expression that is desert Aboriginal art and culture.

THU 22 SEP – SUN 2 OCT FESTIVAL HUB AT THE GAP VIEW HOTEL

WHEN THU 22 SEP | 8.30PM

Sally Balfour While the isolation and extremes of the NT loom large in Sally Balfour’s song writing, Sally’s music connects on an individual level. HDon’t miss this Territory talent and performing songs from her debut EP.

Desert Mob

And it doesn’t end there – there’s more, and more, and more!

WHEN FRI 23 SEP | 5-6PM EMBRACE THE BEAUTY of the desert, and celebrate art, creativity and culture on Arrernte Country.

By Zoya Godoroja-Prieckaerts

LISTINGS

Photo: Oliver Eclipse

FESTIVALS

UNTIL MON 5 SEP DARWIN FREE darwinstreetartfestival.com.au

Imagine Seaside Carnival Head seaside for this two-day community festival for the whole family, in a stunning outdoor location on Larrakia Country. Imagine Seaside Carnival features an array of local and interstate performers, with market stalls, delicious food and drinks, and at least two chances to catch one of the best sunsets in the world!

WHEN SAT 17 & SUN 18 SEP AT DARWIN SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB & DE LA PLAGE

COST INFO

$7-$107 imagineseasidecarnival.com

15

VISUAL ARTS

SHOCK & Ore SHOCK & ORE features recent work from the Tennant Creek Brio, illuminating the poignant relics of abandoned mines and mock irreverence of former “glory days”. Exploration targets, geology and drilling intercepts are detailed on mining plans and earth-scars alike.

The Brio repurpose and transmogrify this insignia to their own tune – resounding works that evoke the haunting wounds and wonders of Country and imagination, attesting to their resilience.

At CDU Art Gallery, Shock bursts forth with all the heat and flame of a military spectacle or a fire dragon.

Large collaborative works by Fabian Brown and Rupert Betherus allude to a parody of conflict and pillage

by ancestral and folk heroes. Tucked in a side pocket of the gallery is a dragon’s lair, awash with jewelled treasures in a series of works

by Lindsay Nelson and Joseph Williams. A dazzling display, they suggest cultural reappropriation of mining maps and drilling intercepts.

Over at Coconut Studios, Ore is a metaphorical affair. While presenting trademarks typical of the Brio’s grunge and folklore, there’s strong reference to abandoned mining infrastructure, all the while invoking a sense of melancholic loss.

Coconut Studios

UNTIL SUN 18 SEP CDU Art Gallery

UNTIL SAT 22 OCT Fabian Brown and Rupert Betheras, 'Headless horseman', 2022, acrylic on canvas, 215x202cm

NORTHERN TERRITORY LIBRARY Parliament House, Darwin | lant.nt.gov.au

TUE, THU & FRI, 10AM-5PM | WED, 10AM-8PM | SAT & SUN, 1-5PM

NCCA

Northern Centre for Contemporary Art Vimy Lane, Parap | 8981 5368 | 0402 379 630 | nccart.com TUE-FRI, 10AM-4PM | SAT, 9AM-2PM | OR BY APPOINTMENT

TIMO HOGAN Timo Hogan, 'Lake Baker', 2021 acrylic on linen, 200x230cm

Jacqueline F Gribbin, 'Shifting Tides', 2022, water-based woodblock print, 45.5x60cm

PRESENTING A CREATIVE , historical and geographical based response to Darwin Harbour, the exhibition showcases the specialised technique of mokuhanga – a traditional application of inks, water and glue on hand carved woodblocks – in images that reflect the colour and light across the harbour and its ever-changing moods.

Matty Van Roden, 'Am I My Brothers Keeper?', 2022, encaustic wax on wooden panel, scripture, digital video, projector & light, 116.8x213.1cm

SUN 30 OCT

UNTIL

SAT 17 SEP

WHEN WE DO not honour our human responsibility to hold and care for Country correctly, what becomes of us? Whether the failure is spiritual, legal, cultural or environmental, what will our collective reckoning look like?

by Jacqueline F. Gribbin

UNTIL

Presented in collaboration with Spinifex Arts Project and Salon Art Projects.

RETRIBUTION: What Happens Next?

SHIFTING TIDES

16

TIMO TELLS OF the Tjukurpa within the landscape (Lake Baker) and the inhabitants that made it so. He surveys the Wati Kutjara Tjukurpa (Two Men Creation Line) of his birthright, and brings this into focus on the two-dimensional plane for all to see.

WHEN THU 29 SEP – SAT 12 NOV | OPENING THU 29 SEP, 6PM

Eight Territorian artists come together to answer this question in this exhibition. Take an immersive walk through the cerebral, haunting, confronting, vengeful and absurd fates that await us.

RAFT ARTSPACE

GODINYMAYIN YIJARD RIVERS ARTS & CULTURE

TUE–FRI, 10-4PM | SAT, 10AM-2PM | OR BY APPOINTMENT

MON-FRI, 9AM-5PM | SAT 9AM-2PM

8 Hele Cres, Ciccone | raftartspace.com.au

Stuart Hwy, Katherine East | gyracc.org.au

ARTISTS NEED NOT APPLY THIS EXHIBITION SHOWCASES art made by Artificial Intelligence. Facilitators Lukas Bendel and Ioanna Thymianidis, the human team behind the machines, have served as mere assistants and button pushers for this exhibition's 21st century creative art-bots. The result is a strange reversal of roles – humans facilitating robots – causing deeper questions about consciousness, creative process, and what is controlling what.

UNTIL

SAT 10 SEP

'Do androids dream of electric sheep', 2022, GAN [General Adversarial Network]

Botanically Porcelain: The Second Instalment Doris Bush Nungurrayi, 'Pilkati', acrylic on linen, 183x183cm

Living Water

AN EXHIBITION OF porcelain inspired by botanical forms studied in the Darwin George Brown Botanic Gardens from acclaimed ceramicist Dawn Beasley. In the Godinymayin gallery, her botanic sculptural porcelain artwork becomes an immersive experience that declares a narrative of re-growth, survival, hope, and resilience.

Raft artspace presents this exciting exhibition, featuring works by artists from Spinifex Arts Project, Papunya Tjupi, Tjarlirli Art, Warakurna Art, Tangentyere Artists, Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre and Ngukurr Arts.

WHEN THU 8 SEP – SAT 1 OCT | OPENING THU 8 SEP, 3-5PM

UNTIL

SAT 17 SEP

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

Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards Yolŋu wäŋa roŋiyirra marrtji guyaŋura bunhaŋur (Returning home from hunting) People featured: Muwarra Ganambarr 1

GUMURR’MANYDJI MANAPANMIRR DJÄMA A PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION from the Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation (ALPA) celebrating 50 years of Yolngu economic independence, enterprise, self-determination, culture and ingenuity.

WHEN DAILY, 10AM-4PM

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

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

17

DARWIN VISUAL ARTS 8 McMinn St, Darwin | dvaa.net.au

WED, 12–5PM (BY APPOINTMENT) | THU-FRI, 10AM-5PM | SAT, 10AM-2PM

Thinking of You

THE SEPTEMBER ISSUE

Joy

NEVER SAY GOODBYE

Joy is an exhibition by local Darwin artist, Cindy May. Cindy showcases pieces created across seven years of her artistic career, including digital media and illustration. A space filled with moments of awe, peace, gratitude and playfulness, Joy is dipped in flowers and colour to promote the connection between us and one another.

The September issue is a collection of original artworks created by Amber Reid and Heather Whybrow. This exhibition is a combination of contemporary takes on Darwin’s iconic historical architecture, mixed with vibrant visual imagery that alters the viewer’s state of mind when they are observing an artwork, even if only for a very brief moment.

An exhibition using found objects. The aim is to reduce, re-use and re-create with existing materials as much as possible. A trained environmental biologist, David’s wish to help with environmental issues continues to be his raison d’etre.

Virginia Close is an author, poet and visual artist. Thinking of You portrays the wondrous world of the magical imagination. With the opening of the borders, the happy feelings of travelling are alive again. This collection explores the sphere of different seasons for all reasons – love, joy, calmness, peace and serenity. Across the collection, the vibrant colours used depict the world of beauty that is yet to come.

WHEN FRI 2 – SAT 17 SEP | OPENING FRI 2 SEP, 6PM

UNTITLED GALLERY AND STUDIO

Unit 3/1 Clocktower Caryota Crt, Coconut Grove | darwincommunityarts.org WED-FRI, 11AM–4PM | SAT, 10AM-12PM

Tisha Tejaya, 'Through our eyes' 2022, digital mural

Through Our Eyes

Collaborative Community Exhibition

18

Stories, conversations, connecting, and expanding while creating. Slow art making in community settings, featuring Larrakia Nation (aged care), Bagot Community, Knuckey Lagoon, Melaleuca Community, Free Space Studio (Darwin Community Arts), Brave Project (14-18-yearolds), and members of the broader community from Naarm/Melbourne, Garramilla/Darwin, Jabiru and more.

WHEN FRI 2 – THU 22 SEP OPENING FRI 2 SEP, 6-8PM

ABORIGINAL BUSH TRADERS Shop 4, 19 The Mall, Charles Darwin Centre aboriginalbushtraders.com

Mandjabu

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

L-R Cameron Kawurlkku, 'Djomi'. Deborah Wurrkidj, 'Wakwak'.

Charlie Nangukwirrk, Wakwak. All 2022.

NAWERN YAHWUYAHWURD DOLOBO A COLLECTION OF RECENT bark paintings from Maningrida Arts, the small and exquisite. Artworks included are by Kuninjku, Rembarrnga, Ndjébanna and Burarra artists from Maningrida and surrounding homelands. Painters invoke customary knowledge and practices, experiment with visual forms, and create imagery that is both individual and contemporary. Artists skilfully merge the natural and spiritual worlds, the secular and sacred, and embody and evoke ancestral presence.

Fish Trap on Country, Injalak Art

UNTIL

THU 8 SEP

Mandjabu reflects the harmonic relationship between Kunwinjku people and their fresh water country. The progress of Mandjabu (fish trap) created to catch fish for food to feed families is celebrated in this exhibition. Such fish traps are now fashioned into finely woven sculptural fibre pieces.

UNTIL

THU 8 SEP

Shaun Lee, 'Mermen and Dolphins' (detail), acrylic on canvas.

GWARKABAH

Shaun Lee, Gwarkabah (Saltwater man), is a Larrakia, Wardaman and Karajarri contemporary freelance artist born and raised in Darwin. Shaun started painting as a young boy, learning from his large artistic family.

Known by his artist name Hafleg, Shaun specialises in murals and logos using traditional and contemporary

designs. Shaun especially enjoys creating one-off pieces and his murals, which feature in the Darwin street landscape.

WHEN FRI 9 SEP – SAT 22 OCT

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MUSIC

By Tierney Seccull

Rock the bay

Photo: Kane Hibberd

Are you ready to rock, Darwin? Well, you better be. Tassie rock band Luca Brasi and Melbourne pop punk and indie rock outfit Slowly Slowly descend on Darwin Ski Club for one epic arvy of tunes, the homegrown award-winning acts both making their Darwin debut.

"WE’VE HAD IT in the back of our minds for a while now that we’ve needed to get up there. There’s a couple of band members that have been to Darwin before, or members of our touring party, but for the most part the majority of us have never been that far north,” says Slowly Slowly frontman Ben Stewart.

“Over the lockdowns and the last couple of years of not touring, we kind of made a pact that when the gates opened up again, we’d see some parts of Australia that we hadn’t. We are so excited about it.”

Photo: Luelle Images

Slowly Slowly

A space often booked by third party event organisers, this is the first big concert organised in-house under current Darwin Ski Club management.

“We had the idea of having a rock concert that we wanted to put on ourselves about two years ago, prior to COVID or in its very early days,” says Darwin Ski Club’s Paul Gurr.

“Luca Brasi and Slowly Slowly were two bands we were particularly Luca Brasi

WHEN SAT 17 SEP | 4PM AT DARWIN SKI CLUB

$71.40 darwinskiclub.com.au

“[The bands] are actually pretty friendly with each other – they’ve got a really good connection, so that’ll be good in terms of the performance.”

Stewart corroborates this.

“I’m quite close with Tyler [Richardson], and the rest of the fellas we’ve been playing gigs with for a long time. But in particular Tyler because we’ve actually been making a record together over the last couple of months, his solo record, so I’ve been producing that, which has been awesome,” he says.

“There’s crossover in our friendship groups, and a few ways we’ve caught each other in our spider webs, but yeah, we love those guys!”

Supported by local legends Temperamental, this giggy is a biggie, the seaside setting serving

up the perfect vibe to sink a few cold ones and enjoy some live tunes.

An added bonus to the regular Ski Club bar is a pop-up cocktail bar, shaking up chilled classics. Fill your bellies with tucker from Bistro Lumen, enjoy one of The Potato Man’s famous hot spuds or some pasta and pizza from Little Italy.

All things going well, Darwin Ski Club looks to continue putting on these large-scale concerts in future.

“We have Oktoberfest, which is in its third year this year – more a beer festival than a rock concert – but the Ski Club’s known for live music and featuring Australian artists, so we want to continue that and maintain the frequency. Now that we’re out of COVID, we want to re-establish ourselves as a live venue for growing artists.”

Round up your crew, soak up those last Darwin Dry season days, and gear up for some sweet sounds by the seaside.

WIN A DOUBLE PASS! For your chance to score a free ticket for you and one of your lucky mates, simply email win@offtheleash.net.au with your name, number and response to this question in 20 words or less: Why should you win these hot tix?

Entries close Thu 8 Sep, winner notified by email. Good luck!

Photo: Steve Kelk for Foldback Media NT

King Fotu THIS MONTH, DARWIN’S power funk sensation The NEO headline a special double bill concert at Darwin Railway Club, supported by their outrageous mates, The Gentrified Ferals.

The concert officially launches ‘King FOTU’, the fourth single and title track from The NEO’s new album FOTU – an acronym for fear of the unknown – which has seen the music act sprinkle song releases throughout the year.

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COST INFO

keen on having. Unfortunately, at the time we couldn’t go through with it, but this year presented us with the opportunity to forge ahead, and both bands are really happy to come to Darwin.

‘King FOTU’ is a slam dancing, power funk tune – one of the songs

featured on the album that’ll get any listener up on the dance floor.

The NEO’s Tim Sinclair says the song explores the greatest of all fears.

lot of the album explores different fears, and this one is the biggest of them all … the way those in power can get people to turn on each other.”

“It’s this idea of what’s happening in the world, and this person abusing a position of power and using their power to manipulate the truth and change people’s ideas about what’s true and what’s not – basically trying to get more power and more money,” he says.

This is the band’s first show since winning the Passport To Airlie competition to represent the NT in the national competition at Airlie Beach Festival of Music in November.

“This song is kind of like a call for people to rise up against that. A

In fact, The NEO soft-launch the album in Airlie Beach for the festival, prior to the album’s official release in Darwin.

FOTU has been 10 years in the making and the result of some generous crowd funding.

“We’re very, very grateful that people have supported us through this. We’re hoping they feel our appreciation coming back at them," Sinclair says.

"We’re sending those that have supported us a copy of the album, and some have given more than the value of an album, so we’ve been thinking of other ways to show our appreciation, like doing backyard concerts or writing a song for them.

By Tierney Seccull

“It’s exciting to be able to say thank you, that’ll be a really great moment. And it’s not too far away!

We’re really excited to launch the album in November in Darwin and set a date – it’s been amazing.”

The NEO: King FOTU Single Launch WHEN AT COST INFO

SAT 10 SEP | 7.30PM DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB $20 | $15 CONC facebook.com/theneoband

By Tierney Seccull

FOR MORE THAN 120 years, town or brass bands have consistently made music, sweet music in the picturesque open-air locations of Darwin. The NT’s first town band kicked off in 1895 in the Darwin area, then known as Palmerston.

Brass bands traditionally, and still are, a community band. Everyone’s a volunteer, except perhaps the musical director, and anyone is welcome to join – whether you know how to play an instrument or not.

These days, the Darwin City Brass Band (DCBB) has proudly continued this tradition, performing music for the community at a wide range of free events, from ANZAC Day parades to pop-up performances

by the sea. An exciting event this month celebrates the wonderful contribution of town bands, past and present.

Held in the iconic historical setting of Mines House, Band at the Top features a dinner and show by Darwin’s much-loved community band. The idea for this special event came about when the National Trust reached out to suggest a concert in the historic Myilly Point Heritage Precinct.

“We did a concert for them towards the end of last year for one of their afternoon tea events, and we sent them a bit of information on brass bands in the Top End. The National Trust didn’t realise brass bands had been around Darwin since 1895,

so they were interested in it,” says DCBB President, Bill Buckley.

“Every year, they do a special feature on something. And they said, ‘oh look, would you do a bit of a feature with us on that band history?’ So that’s how it started, it was really initiated by the National Trust people, all as a result of one of our free concerts.”

Working with actual playlists dating back to 1895, the band, under the baton of Musical Director Craig McGiffen, presents a program of music played by the respective town bands over the past 120 plus years. The event also reflects on our war history with ‘Two to Ten’ – a special world premiere penned by Melbourne-based youth freelance composer, Jared McCunnie.

“We’ve commissioned a work to coincide with the 80th anniversary of, not just the Bombing of Darwin, but the attacks on Northern Australia in World War II,” Buckley says.

“Darwin did get bombed, and so did other places, including Katherine, Broome – right across the north we copped it for two years, so it’s really commemorating those two years of war in North Australia.”

As you experience the sounds of this beloved brass band, and reflect on our war history, you’re treated to some tasty fare. Tuck into roast pork and veggies, or opt for the fish, and top it off with a sweet brownie or classic pav. There’s also an onsite bar for a cheeky tipple or two, and everyone’s encouraged to dress

up – take your pick from any era since 1985!

This is set to be one magical, unique experience, not to be missed. Immerse yourself in this wonderful historical event, and sneak a glimpse into our brilliant past of brass.

Band at the Top WHEN SAT 10 SEP | 6PM

BOOKINGS CLOSE SAT 3 SEP FOR CATERING PURPOSES

AT MINES HOUSE COST $55 INFO facebook.com/

darwincitybrassband

By Tierney Seccull

A Beat in Time IT’S THAT TIME of the year again.

Time for performing arts students, from a whole bunch of schools across the Territory, to get together for the annual creative showcase that is The Beat Festival.

at Darwin Entertainment Centre.

The Beat Festival has allowed students to flex their creative muscles on stage since 1979, noted as a right of passage for Territory students over the years.

Held by the NT Music School in cahoots with the NT Department of Education, with support from The BEAT Foundation, each festival responds to a theme. This year’s is ‘Time’, and organisers say there’s no specific reason behind it.

Beat alumni includes the likes of artists such as Balang T.E Lewis, Jessica Mauboy and James Mangohig (aka Kuya James). More recent times have seen Phoebe Wear and Stevie Jean climb through the ranks, so those names alone are enough to let you know what kind of talent we’ve got kicking around the Territory.

“It’s a word that has many meanings … and there’s a wealth of material out there to choose the repertoire from,” says NT Music School’s Rodney Balaam.

Time features a student choir that is so big they can’t all fit on the stage at once, with 1,000 students taking part over three huge nights

This year, a 32-piece band blasts music from the music pit, as dancers, rock bands, soloists and hosts to their thang onstage.

Students go on to pursue a wide range of careers, and there are no expectations – it’s simply a fun

creative outlet for all to enjoy.

“They go through the whole journey, from rehearsing in their own schools in the months leading up show time, to group rehearsals, pre-show nerves and finally arriving with the elation of performing for a real and very large audience,” says Bill Grose, Principal of NT Music School and Executive Producer of the Beat Festival.

“By working together and playing their part, they’ve helped create something so much larger than themselves.”

The 2022 Beat Festival - Time WHEN WED 7 – FRI 9 SEP | 7PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

COST

$35 | $28 MEMB/CONC $23 CHILD (3-15)

INFO

yourcentre.com.au

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DESERT SONG FESTIVAL Photo: Emma Murray

By By Hannah Muir

CENTRAL AUSTRALIA IS a melting pot of diversity and culture that oozes talent in the arts. Songwriters, storytellers and musicians represent just some of the threads that weave through this already rich place, adding to the vibrancy of the desert’s cultural tapestry.

For its tenth year in a row, the Desert Song Festival proudly showcases the multicultural community of music, song and instruments, and the people that connect them. With this year’s theme ‘climate action:

our climate, our planet, our future’, acts have been encouraged to sing for the climate. Within the context of 60,000 years of human occupation of this country, the festival explores our connection to, and responsibility for, the environment.

In addition to the musical program, the festival includes a five-day climate and land symposium, with some of the world’s leading climate scientists participating in collaboration with Indigenous knowledge keepers. Festival Director Morris

Stuart says this year’s program is packed with diversity.

The program features the Marilya Choir, an all-Indigenous female group in collaboration with Cat Empire’s Felix Riebl, Melbourne pianist and composer Stefan Cassomenos with violinist Monico Curro, and cultural visits to Ntaria.

But, the highlight is expected to be the final event, Ormiston Big Day Out and A Cappella in the Gorge.

“It’s a unique event, it’s very inclusive, and it tries to embrace everyone. It’s a place for families, it’s a place for individuals. We hope it’s a festival that celebrates our whiteness, our blackness, our straightness, our gay-ness, our humanity.”

“It’s Australia, it’s who we are. It’s all here, we just have to embrace it and nurture it and we will all benefit from it.”

It’s hoped the varied program of events appeals to the diversity of our community.

WHEN AT COST INFO

THE ICONIC LOVE story of Johnny Cash and June Carter is one for the ages, partners in life and in music. For more than 40 years, they enthralled audiences around the world with their songs of life, love and heartache.

Carter is joined by singer, songwriter and dancer Melanie Lewin in the role of June, and has nothing but high praise for his onstage partner.

“The festival will be a great coalescence of art and music, science and Indigenous knowledge,” he says.

The wisdom coming from our diversity is mirrored beautifully within the program, deliberately created this way by Morris.

This month, you’re invited to Darwin Entertainment Centre for a trip down memory lane, with two hours of live music, stories and songs based on the performances of Johnny Cash.

Jeff Carter plays the role of Cash, and says his music has always resonated with him.

By Tierney Seccull

Leaving

22

Jackson

“I’ve always been a big lover of music that told a story, and when you listen to Johnny Cash especially, every song is a story of the fight and struggle that we all go through in life – especially as musicians, everything seems a bit harder for us for some reason, and I could relate to the songs,” he says.

“The songs for me were like singing songs that were written about my life, so it was quite easy to do.”

“She is awesome. She's almost overqualified, you know? [laughs] …

Mel really picked up the character traits straight away – little bit witty, little bit dizzy, little bit funny, little bit happy-go-lucky,” he says.

“But the girl can sing, oh my god can she sing. When it comes to live performing, I don’t think I’ve worked with a better singer and, if anything, it makes me have to work harder to keep up with her, ‘cause she’s so good!”

Stepping into the shoes to portray such a legendary artist might be a daunting task, but for Cash look-alike Carter, he tries to emulate the feelings the music legend would have felt.

“The first period was difficult, because you’re playing one of the most iconic musicians on the planet. For me personally – because I look a bit like him, I had that part of it down – I just had to sing the

FRI 9 – SUN 18 SEP ALICE SPRINGS/MPARNTWE FREE-$199 desertsong.com.au

songs as though they were about me,” he says.

“To connect with the songs, and connect with why people love his music, that was the most important thing. I go out there and sing the songs like they are mine. I’m the one who is suffering, I’m the one who’s struggling, and I’m the one who’s celebrating.

“That’s the good thing about crowds, and especially Australian crowds, is we really love that. What you want is someone to put 100 per cent into the performance, and nothing less. Whatever happens has to have 100 per cent put into the performance, and I work every day to make myself better. I love it.

I wouldn’t do anything else, that’s for sure.”

Leaving Jackson: The Johnny Cash and June Carter Show WHEN FRI 16 SEP | 7.30PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

COST $62 | $55 CONC/GROUP $22 CHILD (3-18)

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

The Romantic Guitar Project

Crap Music Rave Party feat.

DJ Tomás Ford International party icon Tomás Ford’s hilarious immersive nightclub, Crap Music Rave Party, returns to Darwin Railway Club.

Take advantage of his poor impulse control by requesting the worst possible cheesy music, and he’ll throw his unlimited reserves of energy at it to make sure it goes off as much as it can.

WHEN AT COST INFO

WHEN AT COST INFO

SUN 4 SEP | 5-6.15PM CDU THEATRE FREE-$36 facebook.com/ arafuramusiccollective

Live at the Lake Get your picnic blanket and pack the snacks for City of Palmerston’s Live at the Lake session. Head to Sanctuary Lakes for a Dry season afternoon of live music from local NT artist Scott Murphy as the sun sets.

WHEN AT COST INFO

SAT 3 SEP | 4-7PM SANCTUARY LAKES FREE palmerston.nt.gov.au

Band at the Top WHEN SAT 10 SEP | 6-9PM AT MINES HOUSE COST $55 INFO facebook.com/

WHEN AT COST INFO

SUN 11 SEP | 3PM DARWIN TRAILER BOAT CLUB FREE facebook.com/ darwintrailerboatclub

facebook.com/ hotandcoldbigband

Friday Knock Offs at Dom’s

$22-$62 yourcentre.com.au

Darwin City Brass Band Rehearsals 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!

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

Gather your crew, kick back with a cheeky cocktail or two, and let the house DJ bring in your weekend.

WHEN AT COST INFO

EVERY FRI | FROM 4PM DOM’S BAR & LOUNGE FREE domsdarwin.com.au

WHEN AT COST INFO

EVERY FRI | 5-7PM

DOM’S BAR & LOUNGE FREE domsdarwin.com.au

Hot and Cold Big Band

THE OLD COURTHOUSE FREE musicnt.com.au

BROWN’S MART COURTYARD

WHEN EVERY FRI, 6.30-9.30PM AT JUMP INN CRAFT BEER BAR & RESTAURANT

COST INFO

FREE jumpinncraftbeerbar.com

FRI 9 SEP | RPSS FRI 16 SEP | KODIVINE FRI 23 SEP | JORDAN VANDERSCHUIT FRI 30 SEP | RHYLEY MCGRATH

JAM NIGHTS AND OPEN MIC TOP END

brownsmart.com.au

RED CENTRE Poolside Playups EP.3

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

WHEN AT COST INFO

EVERY TUE | 9PM SMOKE & OAK DARWIN FREE facebook.com/ smokeandoakdarwin

RED CENTRE Jump Inn Jams

Acoustic Friday Soundtrack your Friday night with live, soulful, acoustic tunes from talented, local musos.

FREE

darwincitybrassband.org.au

EVERY WED | 7-9PM

FRI 30 SEP | 12-1.30PM

FRI 2 SEP | JESSIE MAY

Live on Fridays September is your last chance to relax into the weekend with this Dry season favourite, as the Brown’s Mart Precinct is filled with free live music. Just bring your thirsty mates – the friendly Brown’s Mart team will take care of the rest!

Live blues band support in a welcoming environment. Come down, have a couple of cold drinks and embrace the atmosphere – or jump up and sing your heart out!

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 INFO

FREE jumpinncraftbeerbar.com

TUE 6 SEP | KATANGA JUNIOR TUE 13 SEP | THE DAVIS BROS TUE 20 SEP | DEATH BY CARROT TUE 27 SEP | DOM BRINKLEY

Want a chance to see your gig listed here? Upload to our website!

Scan below for all the deets.

WHEN SUN 4 SEP | 3PM AT TRACY VILLAGE SPORTS

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

WHEN AT COST INFO

Mparntwe. September’s feature artist is Katanga Junior.

The Tanzanian artist has called Mparntwe home for two years, igniting the stages of festivals and live music venues alike.

Tackling hip-hop, reggae, ragga and indie-folk sounds, Katanga transcends his naturally deep voice across sundry styles to get the crowd moving.

WHEN AT COST INFO

facebook.com/ crapmusicraveparty

darwincitybrassband

Seaside Sessions Settle in under the green sails with a cold drink and an afternoon of live music. With two cocktails for 20 clams and world class sunsets, it’s the perfect way to see out the weekend.

DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB $10 | $5 MEMB

DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB

CENTRE

WHEN AT COST INFO

EVERY WED | 7.30PM

$20-$25

Leaving Jackson: The Johnny Cash and June Carter Show WHEN SAT 17 SEP | 7.30PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT

COST INFO

WHEN AT COST INFO

FRI 16 SEP | 7PM

ROCK THE BAY WHEN SAT 17 SEP | 5-10.30PM AT DARWIN SKI CLUB COST $ 71.40 INFO darwinskiclub.com.au Arafura Music Collective presents The Romantic Guitar Project. Be immersed in the atmospheric charm of the 19th century salon.

Performing on period guitars, Adrian Walter and Bill Grose – aka Duo Guadagnini – come together to present a special concert that showcases the music and style of the period, when the new six string guitar first rose to prominence.

Top End’s premier weekly big band gig. Swing on by to The Rails and join in the fun!

AND SOCIAL CLUB

COST INFO

GOLD COIN facebook.com/ firstsundayblues

Gleny Rae Virus and her band headline the poolside stage at Jump Inn for the third installment of Poolside Playups. Presented by 8CCC Radio in cahoots with Rhino Milk Productions, this exciting locals lovin’ music soirée also features Jessie May alongside a surprise soloist. Bring yourself, a friend, a lover or no other, and settle into an evening of original live music by some of Mparntwe’s finest creative.

WHEN THU 8 SEP | 6PM AT JUMP INN CRAFT BEER & RESTAURANT

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

COST INFO

FREE 8ccc.com.au

Live on the Lawns: Katanga Junior Enjoy your lunch on the lawns surrounding the Old Courthouse, the new home of MusicNT in

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