Off The Leash - September 2023

If you were planning to catch up on some rest after an action-packed festival season, you might want to hit pause. There's still stacks of action in the NT, from the desert to the tropics.

The big screen at Deckchair Cinema lights up this month with Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF), returning in 2023 with what is arguably its biggest year yet. Over 11 huge nights of cinema, with NT, Australian and world premieres, DIFF puts the thriving Territory film industry on the red carpet and under lights, right where it belongs.

In huge news, the legend that is Hugo Weaving is coming to town! That’s no typo, friends. Weaving’s making the trip to Larrakia Country for the DIFF screening of his latest flick, The Rooster. I was chuffed to chat with him – as someone who studied drama at uni, and once dreamed of a career in stage and film, I can't tell you how incredible it was to speak to one of my heroes. He is every bit the legend you'd expect. Well done, DIFF team.

The desert delights this month with art, music, food and culture. Our mates at Red Hot Arts present Desert

Festival, also dishing out 11 sweet days of festival goodness. Experience the beauty of Central Australia at Desert Mob, a true highlight on the annual arts calendar featuring works from over 30 Art Centres, plus a symposium, market, and more. And if you can’t make it to the desert, let the desert come to you, as the reggae sensation that is Eastern Arrernte Band hits the road for their NT regional tour.

Darwin Street Art Festival returns, a squad of local and visiting creatives armed with spray cans and paint to splash colour across our tropical capital city. The remote coastal community of Numbulwar celebrates Arnhem Land culture, song and dance at this year’s Numburindi Festival. Told you. Stacks!

In OTL news, I’m taking a little break. After getting hitched more than two years ago, my husband Chris and I are off on our honeymoon. While I'm off exploring the amazing landscapes of Europe, the lovely Jenna Hoare is holding the fort for production of the October edition.

That’s it from me – I hope your September is sweet. Ciao!

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.

EDITOR OUT OF OFFICE!

Tierney is jet-setting off to Europe for a well-earned break – and her honeymoon! – this month, back on deck in Oct. Jenna Hoare is manning the ship for production of the Oct edition while she's gone, so please send any new advertising bookings to jenna@offtheleash.net.au.

Arriverderci, Tierney – we hope you have the best time!

Kate and Danny

Tierney Seccull Managing Editor & Development Manager

Kate Conway Editorial Assistant

Danny Crichton Graphic Designer

Betty Sweetlove & Jenna Hoare Contributing writers

September is no doubt the most exciting time in the Northern Territory for film lovers and makers, as Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF) illuminates the silver screen to showcase local, national and international cinematic gems. With a bounty of special guests, filmmakers and actors, plus huge opportunities for the NT’s thriving film industry, DIFF is the most anticipated event on the Territory's big screen scene. And 2023 delivers one of the most impressive programs to date.

By Tierney Seccull

EARNING ITS STRIPES as the home of Territory cinema, offering a varied selection of films throughout its annual program, Deckchair Cinema somehow manages to up the ante over 11 flick-filled nights each September with a diverse DIFF program. Curated by a passionate Festival Programming Committee, which includes members of the local film industry, they’ve sure had their work cut out for them.

“It’s a massive challenge. Over the years, the Deckchair programming has progressed and improved, and the programmers are looking at the release schedules from the festival line-up in Cannes, so DIFF needs to go above and beyond normal Deckchair programming,” says DIFF Manager James Parker, also Deckchair General Manager.

Regardless of any challenges, DIFF continues to punch above its weight, with national and international premieres, and screenings of films handpicked from the international film festival circuit such as Cannes, Sundance and Berlinale. As well as the iconic Deckie, satellite screenings are held at Darwin Waterfront, BCC Cinemas in Casuarina, and the Museum and Art Gallery of the NT.

One of the many benefits of DIFF is that it diversifies the audience experience, opening a world of genres, stories and formats – even cultures – one mightn’t have thought to explore.

“We’ve got films from every continent – things you have never seen before, or that could be out of your comfort zone. We have a film from Sudan –Goodbye Julia, which looks fantastic – just as an example of something that you likely wouldn’t come across in your normal viewing,” Parker says.

Also lighting up the big screen is Australian family flick Scarygirl, Japanese drama Perfect Days, French crime and drama feature Anatomy of a Fall, and horror film Tiger Stripes, a creative collaboration between Malaysia, Taiwan and Singapore. There's also a hefty short film program.

SCENE BIG OUR SCREEN

In what could be one of the biggest events in DIFF history, closing night screens Australian film The Rooster, the directorial debut from actor-turned-filmmaker, Mark Leonard Winter. He's one of the evening’s special guests and brings with him an entourage of creatives of the film, including legendary actor, Hugo Weaving. Huge.

In addition to the exciting film program, DIFF presents the welcome opportunity for the local film industry to grow through development opportunities at the two-day Northern Territory Screen Summit. Presented by Screen Territory, it allows anyone from screen professionals to emerging filmmakers to chat film production and engage with industry experts.

But any filmmaker, producer or actor will tell you there’s no better feeling than seeing your work on the big screen, and the chance to witness talented Territorians up in lights is what it’s all about in the Spark Film Showcase.

“Spark has seen a record investment from Screen Territory in 2023, supporting four films by local filmmakers. It’s always a highlight in the festival and one of the most fun nights … Friends, family and people that know the filmmakers come along and they’re really into the films, there’s an amazing energy,” Parker says.

At DIFF HQ, Deckchair offers a nightly all-in feast for the senses. Head in early to dine on flavours from around the world with dishes from local eateries, or hang back afterwards for late night sweets and hot chippies. Take a tipple at the pop-up gin bar and enjoy live tunes from local legends. If you’re keen to embrace all that DIFF has to offer, treat yourself with a multi-film Festival Pass or Full Access Pass.

September is for the screen. Settle in under the stars – with the stars – and soak up some of the best titles in cinema across the globe, right here on beautiful Larrakia Country.

SPARK FILM SHOWCASE

Four teams of emerging Territory filmmakers received funding and support from Screen Territory to produce 10-minute films, created especially for DIFF. You're invited to join the filmmakers at their world premieres at the home of Territory cinema.

First Drop

WHEN FRI 22 SEP | 7PM AT DECKCHAIR CINEMA COST $10-$20

Hephaestion

After another argument with her long-suffering dad, 15-year-old Xanthe storms out of the house and stumbles upon a rusted-out old robot in the bush. Balancing humour, drama and heartbreak, Rust proves that making new friends isn’t always easy – even when you have an instruction manual.

It's the end of the world and everyone knows it. Determined to uphold a sense of order, Zara drags her parents to the high school's last concert. But emotions run high, and when nothing goes as planned, Zara is forced to embrace the chaos.

Set in Alice Springs, reclusive and bitter retiree Ted is tasked with caring for his Pakistani neighbour’s 8-year-old daughter, Saleha. Keen to limit his engagement with her, Ted’s defences come down as he realises the two share a mutual love of cricket, thus begins the blossoming of an unlikely friendship.

Two actors meet in a tent to discuss a film they are working on – a younger man playing Hephaestion, and a more mature one playing Alexander, the Great. As the thespians dissect their roles, Hephaestion argues against the use of friendship as a label to hide genuine romance.

Darwin International Film Festival

Rust

Fiasco

Photo: Nicholas Gouldhurst

Hugo Weaving is one of the greats. From getting frocked up in drag in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert to playing poker-faced Agent Smith in The Matrix or Elrond of Rivendell in The Lord of the Rings, his characters are as diverse as the landscapes in which they appear.

With an incredible ability to adapt and transform, Weaving portrays a forest-dwelling hermit in The Rooster, the directorial debut from Mark Leonard Winter. Tierney Seccull caught up with the legend of the silver screen to chat about the film and his career. And table tennis!

HUGO THE HERMIT

Thanks for your time, Hugo – it’s an honour to be chatting! Can you tell us a bit about your character, Mit?

He’s a man who’s withdrawn from the world for various reasons, and made the choice to disappear into the woods ... but it all stems from childhood trauma, I think, and associated alcoholism. That's Mit, in a nutshell, he’s a hermit who lives in the woods.

He’s got health issues and used to being on his own, but he’s still searching for something – he’s still trying to work something out, to nut out his problematic past.

He’s got a certain wisdom but it’s a bit left of field. He’s got a sense of humour as well, and he’s an ideocratic, mercurial creature, who you probably wouldn't really want to get too close to. But on the other hand, there might be rewards if you do get close to him.

I know what you mean, I found Mit quite endearing, he tugged at my heart strings at times. I wanted to give him a big hug but keep him at arm’s length at the same time!

[Laughs] Yeah, I think that’s really the reason why he's withdrawn, he knows that about himself, he knows he’s a loose cannon. He has felt scarred by the world, so it’s easier to withdraw from it … It’s easier to blame the world and push it away than it sometimes is to live in it.

Mit deals with some heavy topics and goes to pretty dark places –how did you prepare for that?

One of the greatest helps for me was a wonderful Australian Story on Gregory Smith, his story is

Shayda - Opening Night

amazing. For me, when I’m looking at a role, the script is always the first jumping-off point ... there’s a wealth of fabulous information and stories in Mark’s script that might be enough, plus imagination, to develop a character. But I always try, if I can, to find someone who’s like that character and be with them and talk to them.

In this case, it was quite hard – you can imagine a hermit doesn’t want to be found! [laughs] So I had to use my imagination, but I did lean on that Australian Story quite heavily … I thought his story was very moving and very powerful. I got his life struggle, so I sort of used that sense with Mit, he’d been struggling ever since he was a kid.

The film is the directorial debut by actor-turned-director Mark Leonard Winter, and I’d say he’d be pretty chuffed to have someone of your calibre say yes to his film, so I’m wondering why you did that? Mark and I have known each other for a while. We’ve worked together about four times, this is our fifth, and did a film some years back called Healing. We were both away from home … staying in the same digs, so we got to know each other very well, working on set every day. There's a lot of mutual respect there.

He wrote The Rooster because he needed to and he wanted to, but when he started writing, he started to think about Mit and who would play him. He’s always said he wrote the character with me in mind – not that I am the character, but that

Best of Annecy Kids

he imagined me playing it. I read a number of different drafts and found them really interesting, I was wanting to do it straight from the word go. I knew it would take a while for him to get the money up, it’s so hard these days and it’s a tiny budget, but I was always very keen to work with him and to play that character.

Your character has quite the journey with Phoenix Raei’s character Dan, what was he like to work with?

Really beautiful. He’s very soulful, warm and really smart. He hadn’t had the sort of prep time that he would normally like to do a film like that. We’re very similar in that way, in that if you’re gonna do something, you’d need at least six weeks to prepare. To understand a character and approach them in the right way, I'll take as much time as you can give me, please!

He was busy working on something else until the last minute, and we’d only met on Zoom … and so my relationship with Phoenix was very much meeting him [the day before the shoot] and giving him a big hug, and saying “it's so lovely to meet you in the flesh, and tomorrow we have our first scene where we go to a grave and I shoot a bottle out of your hand!”

It’s a good first scene because the characters don’t know each other, and we don’t know each other, so we discovered each other as the characters discovered each other. It was absolutely delightful to work with Phoenix, we had a lot of fun.

It looked like your characters had a lot of fun, with a fair bit of table tennis action.

[Laughs] We’d often be down there between takes just hitting it backwards and forwards, so we were on the table quite a bit!

[Laughs] Oh, I love that! You've been in the acting game for decades – what’s it like to still be practising the craft you love?

I think I feel really privileged to be able to do it, you know, I love working and exploring a new character or a new challenge, whether it’s on stage or film … I love it. I love having the opportunity to explore human psyche and human relationships, and the weird characters that make up the world. It’s a pleasure.

The Rooster screens at the gorgeous Deckchair Cinema for DIFF’s closing night, and you'll be there! Are you looking forward to your visit?

I’m really excited about coming up to Darwin in the Northern Territory, I have never been, and I’ve always wanted to. So culturally, Darwin to me just seems really fascinating, so I’m really interested to get up there.

I suspect and I understand that the culture in Darwin is really unique and the only place in Australia that has that particular culture, so I’m really interested in that. I'm so looking forward to it. My eyes and my arms are open – I will embrace what’s thrown at me!

Shayda tells the story of an Iranian woman trying to create a sense of normalcy for her daughter while trying to escape an abusive husband. This special opening night event also features short film Dipped in Black / Marungka Tjalatjunu, with special guests Osamah Sami (Shayda), and Derik Lynch and Duncan Graham (Dipped in Black).

THU 14 SEP | 7PM DECKCHAIR CINEMA

It’s a film festival for the kids! The Best of Annecy Kids assembles funny, touching and poetic short films, just for the young ones. Films from the Official Selection, as well as a tailor-made Annecy opening sequence by the students of Gobelins, l’école de l’image, make up this special program to enchant children six and over.

WHEN SUN 17 SEP | 3PM

FREE 5-15

The thriving NT Screen Industry gets together under one roof for two days of networking and presentations with local and interstate speakers and guests. Highlighting the program are some of the biggest names in the industry, with representatives from Screen Australia, Studio Canal, NITV, Paramount, Melbourne International Film Festival and Madman.

Guest creatives include directors Rolf de Heer and Mark Leonard Winter, alongside the filmmakers from the 2023 Spark program.

WHEN SAT 23 & SUN 24 SEP

WATERFRONT

NT Screen Summit

The Rooster – Closing Night

With special guests Hugo Weaving, Mark Leonard Winter & MahVeen Shahraki

Phoenix Raei (Dan) and Hugo Weaving (Mit)

Photo: Sarah Enticknap

Another unforgettable year of Desert Festival awaits, with awardwinning Fringe acts, ground-breaking local arts and a brand-new location.

By Betty Sweetlove

DISCOVER DESERT Delights

ADELIGHT FOR lovers of all things art, culture, food and festivities, this award-winning Mparntwe festival is a diverse display of desert culture and hand-picked interstate acts. Having taken various forms over the years, it’s long been a showcase for homegrown talent and spectacular visiting artists.

Curated by the dedicated team at Red Hot Arts, including Festival Producer Rosie Denton, this year’s program is hotter than ever. With a record-breaking number of applicants, the 2023 festival is bursting with cream-of-the-crop performers.

“As a multi-art form festival, there’s nothing else like it that celebrates all different aspects of performance. We have an installation art piece, theatre pieces, two award-winning Fringe acts, and three NT Music Award winners coming this year,” says Denton.

Headlining the festival this year is ROUGE. Winner of the Best Circus Award at Adelaide Fringe, this adults-only show sparkles with breathtaking bur lesque and mind-bending stunts, on display for one-night only at Araluen Arts Centre.

“I worked at the Fringe this year and it was my favourite show, and I saw heaps of shows. It’s incredible circus. It’s a little bit naughty, and it has that Alice Springs vibe that anything goes,” Denton says.

Taking the night to the next level is the ROUGE After Party, curated by Mparntwe’s filthiest new performance collective, The Gutter, with their signature mix of ritual, kink and queer eroticism. Other local arts offerings include Victoria Alondra’s innovative, multi-art form Future Echoes – a moving and unapologetic exposé of resource extraction and colonialism by a powerful local lineup of poets, hip hop artists and dancers.

“There’s so much range. There’s going to be a Bush Dance, a family friendly Sunday evening event that’s part of Gleny Rae’s Project Seed development piece – there’s truly a whole scope of works and every day is different,” Denton says.

Running annually, Project Seed nurtures the development of fresh local ideas, with funding and support to get new work onto the stage. This year, five Project Seed acts have poured their hearts into their pieces and are ready to wow their first audiences.

Music That Moves features a string quartet in profound collaboration with three dancers, exploring movement and migration stories, and Dem Arrernte Mob is an epic showcase of emerging hip hop artists. Denton says Project Seed support is vital for local arts.

“There’s a big platform for music in this town but not so much for dance, theatre, or those experimental pieces that are multidisciplinary, so we give that platform.”

Desert Festival also plants new roots at Olive Pink Botanic Gardens. An oasis of greenery and wildlife, it’s the perfect backdrop for 11 days of magical performance.

“It’s prime time in Central Australia, the most beautiful days and balmy evenings, and Olive Pink is the most stunning location,” Denton says.

With the gardens transformed by stages, a dome and a bar, Festival-goers can treat themselves to a different style of tickets this year.

“We have a new Luna Park style option, so you can buy a ticket to a whole evening of events. It takes the stress from choosing one event, and Red Hot Arts members can grab discounts.”

What better invitation to explore the brilliant burst of events, workshops, children’s shows and installations at this year’s Desert Festival.

Photos: Lisa Hatz Photography

FrankYamma

WeSing perform at the 2022 Desert Festival

MEETS THE STREET WHERE THE GALLERY

By Jenna Hoare

You’re in for a technicolour treat this month in the Top End, as creatives continue to transform the city with a mega line up at the 2023 Darwin Street Art Festival (DSAF).

HEADING INTO ITS seventh year on Larrakia Country, the 2023 DSAF hosts an impressive team of new artists set to spring upon the awaiting walls around town and into the suburbs.

Those who know even a little about street art will recognise a name or two, from Dublin's well-known Aches, who produces large-scale psychedelic murals worldwide, to iconic Australian street artists Adnate, Filthy Ratbag, JESWRI, Gonketa and Kitt Bennett, all set to make a splash this year.

DSAF is annual collab between Project Collective and Activate Darwin, and wouldn't be what it is without its local contingent sharing Territory stories, 2023 featuring the likes of award-winning artist Tisha Teya and the return of Larrakia artist Jason Lee.

“We’re proud to have local artists make up over half of the line-up for 2023,” says DSAF Director David Collins.

"Tisha Teya’s piece pays homage to the Rapid Creek Markets. She created a pocketbook about the markets and we’re bringing it to life through a large-scale mural.”

One of the big guest names this year is JESWRI, a multifaceted Gadigal artist living in Naarm/ Melbourne, known for his largescale street art and big brand collaborations. He says being part

of DSAF is a milestone he’s been manifesting for years.

“Not to sound cliché, but this is the first year I’ve started to get involved with street art festivals … and Darwin is the one I’ve been looking forward to [the most] out of all of them. The work Darwin has been producing has been high calibre and it’s a must-see destination.”

Being an Aboriginal artist, feeling the importance of being connected to the community are at the forefront of why this festival speaks to him so much. JESWRI’s piece is based off the ever-lasting image of King Kong on the tower, and the idea of the character being painted in a bad light by society.

Not one to shy away from using technology to give his art an interactive element, JESWRI says he has developed an arcade game based on his work.

“I’ve leant on AI. I’ve been working on coding to develop an arcade game – you’ll have a chance to swat your own cars as King Kong."

The 2023 DSAF also offers significant female representation through its exploration of the stories from women graffiti artists who have made an impact on the national and international street art scene.

The documentary screening of Girl Power at the Deckchair Cinema follows graffiti writers from 15 cities around the world.

When asked how aspiring female and LGBTQIA+ graffiti artists can get involved in the local street art scene, Collins says there’s a few ways.

“Babes Paint Darwin have an inclusive and safe space to come on down as part of the festival … and they hold a monthly catch up at Austin Lane and the skate park in Leanyer,” he says.

“I encourage those interested in getting involved to start painting on their own, and then come on down and ask questions and learn. I started out painting on my own as a kid and went from there. There’s also LAUNCH Street Heat – a skate and paint workshop everyone is welcome to join in Jingili Water Gardens as part of this year’s festival.”

Keep your eyes peeled for the 2023 DSAF wonder walls, as a talented entourage of artists take to the streets armed with spray cans and paint brushes to paint the town.

By Tierney Seccull

The Creative Coast

Darwin Street Art Festival

WHEN MON

THE REMOTE COASTAL community of Numbulwar, located on the west side of the gulf of Carpentaria, comes alive each year for the three-day Numburindi Festival. Since 2016, the festival has celebrated the art, music, dance and culture of the remote Arnhem Land community. Home to the incredible Red Flag Dancers, world renowned Songman Ngulmiya Nundhirribala – also the festival’s artistic director – and award-winning band Yilila, Numbulwar is an area rich with culture. Numburindi presents the welcome occasion to celebrate the thriving creativity the region produces.

The festival is supported by Artback NT, and CEO Shay Vigona Goudge says the event is a real highlight, regardless of its remoteness.

“The much-anticipated three-day event is a special opportunity for a community as remote as Numbulwar to work toward performances that showcase the cultural history and traditions from the clan groups living in Numbulwar."

These groups include the Ngalmi, Nundhirribala, Murrungun, Nunggarragalu and Mangurra Peoples, and the festival showcases their traditional cultural dances.

In addition to the local love, Numbulwar welcomes special guests with open arms. Joining homegrown band Yilila are Sandridge Band and the Women’s Cultural Song Group from Borroloola, Saltwater Band from Elcho Island, and Mambali Band and Salt Lake Band from neighbouring Anindilyakwa on Groote Eylandt.

Award-winning singer-songwriter Emily Wurramara, also from Anindilyakwa, joins the ranks, and Eastern Arrernte Band from the desert stop by as part of their Territory-wide Reggae Dancer tour, also supported by Artback NT. Numbulwar Numburindi Arts joins forces with local school children on a special mural project, and an exciting new addition in 2023 is the new chill out acoustic stage, dishing out wood fired Numburindi pizzas to the acoustic sounds of performing artists.

The annual event is put together by a festival committee, made up of Numbulwar Elders and community members who work in cahoots with Artback NT. Amanda Nglami is Cultural Advisor to the festival, and says it’s a lovely, shared experience.

“Sharing our culture with visitors and family from other remote communities, and passing on that traditional knowledge, is very important … We love this chance to celebrate our stories, language, dance and song.”

This combination of the sights, sounds and culture of Numbulwar makes Numburindi Festival a genuinely special and immersive experience. If you’re keen for a rendezvous to Arnhem Land, apply for a visitor’s permit and plan your sleeping arrangements – camping spots for self-contained explorers are very, very limited.

Numburindi Festival

WHEN THU 21 – SAT 23 SEP

AT JOSHUA PARK, NUMBULWAR

Photo: Benjamin Warlngundu Bayliss

'Stay Grounded' by Kitt Bennett

Magic Dance

ROUND UP THE troops and dust off your dancing shoes, because Milkwood Steiner School's annual Bush Dance extravaganza is back, bringing good food, good company and good ol’ fashioned familyfriendly fun.

Festivities kick off with a Welcome to Country featuring traditional dance and music from Larrakia Nation dancers and musicians. There’s a jam-packed line-up of entertainment, including headline act singer/songwriter Leah Flanagan, bush band Four Bars In, and singalongs led by Milkwood staff and students.

The Bush Dance celebrates the role communities play in sustaining oral traditions through music, dance and storytelling. Principal of Milkwood Steiner School Netanela Mizrahi says the event is an important one.

“The Bush Dance is a source of pride and a statement of social justice and contribution by our community on Larrakia Country,” she says.

“It’s a reminder that we all seek experiences of cultural pride and community connection, and when we come together, we can nourish, entertain and care for one another.”

By Kate Conway

The school grounds transform into a festive dance floor with fairy lights, hay bales and decorations, lovingly hand-crafted by Milkwood students. There’s a raffle with great prizes up for grabs, plus stalls with craft, commemorative Bush Dance t-shirts, homemade cordial and preserves for sale.

Throughout the evening, traditional dance caller Mara is on hand to teach the audience steps to three sets of cultural dances, with everyone encouraged to join in. It’s a school disco, Milkwood style!

“We’re all learning the songs and dances for the first time, a dance where no one is performing and everyone is participating. It’s a special opportunity to be part of something truly joyful with your whole family, and to spread that joy with everyone around you,” Mizrahi says.

“We think Milkwood is a really special place and we want to open our doors to share some of this magic with our community.”

Milkwood Bush Dance

WHEN SAT 2 SEP | 5.30-9.30PM

AT MILKWOOD STEINER SCHOOL

COST $10 | FREE U13 INFO milkwood.nt.edu.au

Jabiru Dry Season Markets

It’s your last chance to check out these friendly Dry season markets in the heart of Kakadu. There’s handmade craft, second-hand items, coffee and brekkie.

WHEN SAT 2 SEP | 8-11AM AT JABIRU LAKE PLAY PARK COST FREE INFO facebook.com/jabirumarkets

Tapestry Weaving

Learn tapestry techniques to create simple, shaped tapestries in this two-day workshop.

WHEN SAT 2 & SUN 3 SEP 9AM-4PM AT TACTILE ARTS STUDIOS COST $340 | $310 MEMB INFO tactilearts.org.au

Father's Day

Relinquish the remote control, stock up on his favourite treats and celebrate the father figures in your lives this Father's Day.

WHEN SUN 3 SEP

City of Palmerston Youth Media Team

WHEN THU 7 & 21 SEP | 4.30-5.15PM AT PALMERSTON RECREATION CENTRE COST FREE INFO palmerston.nt.gov.au

Six Embroidery Stitches

Learn the basics in this workshop, perfect for beginners and those wanting to rediscover the joy of hand stitching.

WHEN SAT 9 SEP | 1-4PM AT TACTILE ARTS COST $100 | $90 MEMB INFO tactilearts.org.au

Synergy Botanical Art Workshop

Join artist Anastasia Maximova for this hands-on workshop exploring the vibrant world of botanical art.

WHEN SAT 9 & SUN 10 SEP 9.30AM-4PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $250 INFO yourcentre.com.au

NTWC Book Club Trivia

Know your Peter Carey from your Peter Temple, Jane Eyre from your Jane Harper? Gather your friends, put your bookish smarts to the test and help raise funds to support the NT Writers Centre.

WHEN WED 13 SEP | 6.30-9.30PM AT DARWIN TRAILER BOAT CLUB COST $20 INFO ntwriters.com.au

Monoprinting

Make multiple monoprints on papers of different colours and sizes using quality Permaset inks, printing paper, wooden tools and rollers.

WHEN SAT 16 & 23 SEP 9.30-12.30PM

AT TACTILE ARTS

COST $200 | $185 MEMB INFO tactilearts.org.au

Argentine Tango

WHEN SUN 17 SEP | 6-9PM

AT ZEN ROOFTOP QUARTER

COST FREE INFO northerntango.com.au

FlicNics - A Man Called Otto

Dust off the picnic blanket, pack the snacks and enjoy A Man Called Otto, this month’s free outdoor flick under the stars.

WHEN SAT 23 SEP | 7PM AT SANCTUARY LAKES COST FREE INFO palmerston.nt.gov.au

Too Much Stuff

WHEN SUN 24 SEP | 9AM-12PM AT ALAWA HALL COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ toomuchstuffdarwin

Geek Up

WHEN SUN 24 SEP | 1-4PM AT CASUARINA LIBRARY COST FREE INFO launchdarwin.com.au

Children’s Talk from Jaws to Claws Join MAGNT Curator Emeritus of Molluscs, Dr Richard Willan, for an exciting tour through the museum’s Natural History Gallery, and learn about marine stingers and the mini monsters that live in the Territory.

WHEN THU 28 SEP | 11AM-12PM AT MAGNT COST FREE INFO magnt.net.au

Talk | Interconnections: Fort Dundas Join MAGNT Assistant Registrar Kerry Nancarrow to explore the interconnections between MAGNT’s History and Culture Collections.

WHEN SAT 30 SEP | 11AM-12PM AT MAGNT COST FREE INFO magnt.net.au

Tiny Tots Playground Mix and mingle with fellow Territory families at this free weekly playgroup.

WHEN EVERY MON | 9-11AM AT THE QUARTER CASUARINA SQUARE COST FREE INFO casuarinasquare.com.au

Lego Club

Lego heads rejoice. City of Palmerston Library’s Lego club is back! Head along to unleash your inner master builder and create endless sets of fun miniature creations.

WHEN EVERY WED| 3.30-4.30PM AT CITY OF PALMERSTON LIBRARY COST FREE INFO palmerston.gov.au

Movement Medicine

WHEN EVERY SUN (EXC. SUN 24 SEP) 10-11.30AM AT NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE COST $20 INFO facebook.com/ movementmedicine

Skyline Ferris Wheel

WHEN DAILY | 10AM-10PM AT STOKES HILL WHARF COST $15 | $10 CHILD/CONC $50 GROUP 6+ INFO skylineattractions.com.au

RED CENTRE

No Woman Left Behind Conference Returning to Alice Springs, the Conference brings an incredible day sharing stories of lived experiences and achievements.

WHEN FRI 1 SEP | 8.30AM-4.30PM AT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE COST $220 | $1200 GROUP 6 INFO nooneleftbehind.com.au

Todd Mall Markets

Take a stroll down the iconic Todd Mall and peruse local produce, art, crafts and food at these friendly outdoor markets. It’s the perfect way to unwind on a Sunday.

WHEN SUN 3 & 17 SEP | 9AM-1PM AT TODD MALL COST FREE INFO toddmallmarkets.com.au

Outback Masquerade

Don your finest and mask up – for fun, this time! – at the Connellan Airways Trust Outback Masquerade. Enjoy live entertainment from the Baker Boys band and a threecourse meal. Fun!

WHEN SAT 23 SEP | 7-11PM AT ALICE SPRINGS CONVENTION CENTRE COST $190 | $1700 TABLE OF 10 INFO connellanairwaystrust.org.au

Simpsons Gap Sunset Watercolour

Capture the vibrant colours of the Red Centre’s landscape during sunset and learn watercolour painting techniques at this unique experience..

WHEN EVERY SUN | 3-7PM AT SIMPSONS GAP COST $175 INFO arttoursofaustralia.com

PERFORMING ARTS

IS ALWAYS SORE DANIEL CONNELL

Affable, hilarious and quintessentially Aussie, stand-up comedian Daniel Connell is back to entertain Darwin audiences with his signature dry and observational wit. Kate Conway caught up with him for a yarn about his relatable new show, I’m Always Sore.

So, are you really always sore? [Laughs] You know what? From a seven-day week point of view, I reckon I’m sore like five of the seven days. So pretty much always sore. I played touch footy last night and today I’m incredibly sore, and that will last until the weekend ,and then I’ll probably have two days where I don’t feel sore, and then it’s back round again.

So, it’s self-inflicted sport-induced soreness?

It’s either wanting to hang on to my youth and play some sort of sport, or chasing around a three-and-ahalf-year-old and picking him up.

Speaking of being a dad, in honour of Father’s Day this month, can you tell us your favourite dad joke?

One I always think of is from my Dad when I was a kid. If we ever got fish and chips he would always say, “if calamari rings, tell him I’m busy.” I always say it to my wife and son when we’re having fish and chips, and it gets nothing – which it should – but it’s nice to keep that going.

Nice, keep the family tradition going. How does your son feel about your comedy?

So far, he doesn’t get it. He likes looking at me on a TV screen or a computer screen … He’s quite curious about how I get into the TV and inside the laptop. That’s kind of his main concern at the moment. How I got in there and how I’m going to get out!

(Laughs) How are you in two places at once, Dad? That’s right!

You’ve performed on stages all over Australia and around the world, including the Edinburgh Fringe and throughout Asia, what are some of your highlights?

Top of the tree would be the Edinburgh Fringe. That was an amazing experience … because it’s so close to everything, you get people from every country there. Some nights, you do a show to 50 Scots, then the next night you’d have 10 Spanish or 20 people from Italy in the crowd. It’s a really mixed bag and a such wild experience. Something I’d never experienced before.

Another was when I did a tour of India in 2018 with the Comedy Festival Roadshow. We travelled through India for a month touring around and doing shows, and that was an unbelievable experience.

To be able to go there, where I’ve always wanted to travel, and do stand-up at the same time was amazing. Stand-up comedy is quite new there … normally, people just laugh and clap, maybe, if it’s really good, but over there, they were clapping at everything. Which was a nice feeling.

Considering you’re always sore, did you try your hand at any yoga while you were there? Good question! No but I should’ve,

I’ve missed my chance there. Tell us how you’re feeling about joining us in the Top End?

I can’t wait. I came up and did the Road Show for the Comedy Festival in 2017, and had a great time touring around. I’d not been to Darwin before that, then I came back last year and did my solo show and just had the best time.

I just love Darwin. Obviously, the climate is lovely as soon as you step off the plane, but I just find the crowds there are so up for it. I think they’re quite appreciative that you’ve come up there, so if they like what you do, they really get behind it. There are many elements that make me keen to get back there. I really love Darwin.

That’s so nice to hear! Is there anything you’re keen to see or do on your visit?

I didn’t get a chance to go to Crocosaurus Cove last time, so I’ve got to get there and suss that out, I do love crocodiles. And there’s also a restaurant I ate at in 2017 across the road from the Entertainment Centre?

Ah yes, Hanuman?

Yes, I really want to get a meal there and I’ve got a cousin there as well, so I should catch up with her, too.

By Kate Conway

Gossip Folks

IF YOU’RE YET to check out a performance from SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre, you’re missing out. High energy, high production, and full of heart, the talented Territory dancers put together works that share insightful themes with creativity and grace.

Their latest original performance, Gossip hits the Darwin Entertain-

ment Centre stage this month, and it’s no exception.

Set in a fictional call centre staffed with familiar faces – think famous musicians, actors, activists and animated characters – Gossip transports audiences to the start of a busy work week, and the trials and tribulations of office life.

SLIDE’s Artistic Director Joanna

Noonan says the light-hearted setting marks a departure from the company’s previous works.

“Gossip is much more joyful. It’s funny and it celebrates camaraderie in the workplace. Although the word gossip can suggest something more sinister, the banter and the gossip in this piece is funny and clever,” she says.

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

The collaborative creative process consisted of compiling ideas and suggestions from 28 dancers who make up SLIDE’s Company One, with the piece growing organically throughout rehearsals.

Dancers hail from backgrounds ranging from tap, contemporary and ballet, to gymnastics and musical theatre, resulting in engaging, multifaceted choreography. The layered performance cleverly draws inspiration from some unlikely sources.

“We were inspired by the rhythms of office sounds, the sounds of a photocopier, the sounds of phones ringing … we use those to really help the rhythmic score inside our bodies,” Noonan says.

It wouldn’t be a SLIDE performance

without an underlying message, and Gossip shines a light on the way humans can seek connection in the workplace. Through the lens of the celebrity's characteristics, the performance explores typical dynamics found in an office environment including friendships, hierarchies and rivalries.“There are so many different people that make the heartbeat of a business, office, school or wherever. Our colleagues can be like our extra family, and you’ve got to navigate that,” Noonan says.

“Hopefully, we want to make our young audience feel excited about moving into their careers and to experience the different characters that you meet on a journey.”

Music, Love & Mistaken Identity

If music be the food of love, play on.

By Kate Conway

The iconic opening line of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night sets the tone of the piece, known as one of the legendary playwright’s most musical.

THIS MONTH, NATIONAL theatre company Bell Shakespeare returns to Territory stages with performances of the riotous romantic comedy in Darwin and Alice Springs.

Directed by British-Australian stage director Heather Fairbairn, the performance is backed by music composed by Australian singer/songwriter Sarah Blasko. From the lyrical opening line to a main character named after an instrument, music and melody are pivotal to the play.

Actor Mike Howlett plays Sir Andrew Aguecheek – a stereotypical Shakespearian fool whose main purpose is to make the audience laugh – and says that Blasko’s composition adds an extra layer to the performance.

“She’s really charted what the play is saying throughout the piece, and made sure the songs reflect that. It’s not a just a beautiful song for a beautiful song's sake. They’re instrumental in telling this story.”

Throughout the play, characters express themselves in lyrical rhyming verses and intuitively comment on how the music is echoing their emotions. It’s all part of the genius of Shakespeare.

“I’ve always been told, with

musicals, characters sing when they don’t have the words to express how they feel. Although this is a comedy and it’s a ridiculous romp, there’s also this undertone of love and the light and darkness that comes with that,” Howlett says.

“When you sing or speak in a lyrical way, words are secondary. I think that’s Shakespeare being aware that words have power, but music has this ability to connect and get to a deeper level in a relatable, universal way.”

The title refers to the twelfth night after Christmas – a night in Shakespeare's time associated with festivities, revelry and conscious disorder.

“It’s a night where everything was turned on its head. Servants would dress as their masters, men would dress as women, or people would pretend to be royalty. Things that, at the time, would get you beaten or killed on any other night are allowed for one night only,” Howlett says.

Full of mistaken identity hi-jinks, unrequited love and a comedic subplot, Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night is the OG rom-com and one of his most accessible. It’s been adapted into modern operas, musicals and films – notably early noughties

teen flick, She’s The Man.

“It’s one of the most easily digestible of his plays. It’s quite easy to follow and understand. There is Shakespearian metaphor but it’s very simple compared to a lot of his plays,” Howlett says.

“Out of all his plays, this is the one that really has something to offer everybody. There’s a bunch of songs, there’s dancing ... the design is easily one of the most beautiful shows I’ve ever been in. The acting is amazing and it’s a really beautiful love story, or meditation on what love is.”

Embrace the chaos and disorder and step into the weird and wonderful world of Twelfth Night with Australia’s Shakespeare specialists.

Bell Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night

Darwin

WHEN WED 13 SEP | 10.30AM & 7.30PM

AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

COST $25-$50

INFO yourcentre.com.au

Alice Springs

WHEN FRI 15 SEP | 8-10.30PM

AT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE

COST $69 | $67 CONC | $65 MEMB

INFO araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au

Photo: Brett Boardman

Don’t you just love being wined and dined, sharing a meal with special ones over a few drinks? How would you feel about being wined and dined by a six-centimetre chef from France? Oui!

By Tierney Seccull

Le Petit Chef

IF YOU’RE KEEN to take it up a notch and experience a bit of theatre with your dinner, then Le Petit Chef is for you. The exciting culinary experience has enchanted food lovers all around the world including Dubai, Berlin, London, and of course, Paris, and for his first trip to Australia, the smallest chef in the world has taken charge of the kitchen at Hilton Darwin to delight diners with five delicious courses.

Now, if you’re wondering how a chef so small can produce life-size dishes, the answer is simple: Chef is a video projection. This immersive dining experience uses cutting-edge 3D mapping technology and sound effects, and each course sees Chef forage and fish for his ingredients – from the veggie garden to the bottom of the sea – right on your dinner plate.

Le Petit Chef was created by Antoon Verbeeck and Filip Sterckx of Belgian artist collective, Skullmapping. They started out with wall projections and have featured in light festivals around the world. In 2015, they came up with the idea to project imagery onto dining tables as a concept to assist with empty restaurants or dining rooms. They debuted their idea to friends on Antoon’s terrace, uploaded it to YouTube, and like a lot of good ideas these days, it went viral.

Hilton Darwin General Manager Markus Kaliss says he’s thrilled to host the little guy in his Australian debut.

“We are always trying to find new things, to make the dining scene in

Pink CHOPSTI

By Tierney Seccull

When it comes to cuisine, we’re pretty spoilt for choice at Darwin Waterfront. No matter the fare you're on the fang for, there’s a restaurant for that, with everything from pizza and aperitivos to laksa and coconut crushies to schnitties and beer.

WELL, FOOD-LOVIN' friends, there's a new kid on the block.

Pink Chopstix has thrown open the doors to dish out delicious modern Chinese dishes by the water’s side. Located on Wharf 2, this exciting new restaurant fills a longtime vacant space with festoon lights and bright neon signs, the décor a simple palette of shades of grey, black, and hot “Barbie” pink.

It’s the first dine-in restaurant for proud owner Dorris Lin, who also runs One Waffle & Two Peck at Cas Square, which recently opened a second store at Gateway. This passion for bringing people together and dishing out delicious

food runs in the family.

“My father was a head chef for 38 years, and my family moved to Darwin in 2008 so I grew up here – I went to middle school and high school before moving to Adelaide to go to university,” she says.

After staying on in Adelaide for three years after uni, Dorris popped back to visit her beloved Darwin in what ended up being quite the life-changing trip.

“The reason I moved back is because I met my husband, Rio, in Darwin. He’s been working in Japanese cuisine for 10 years now,

so I don’t know if it was destiny, but we both had family with the restaurant background,” she says.

“I came back for a Christmas holiday and I met him, here at the Waterfront. And on the first of June this year, we had our wedding right here, at the restaurant. This is why we decided on this spot to be our restaurant – we love this spot, it’s given me a lot, it’s given me a husband!”

In turn, she’s giving us a lot. With father Heng and husband Rio on the tools, supported by a well-oiled restaurant team, fresh flavours are plated up and devoured by

Darwin exciting … I was on a family holiday in Bali last year and I saw [Le Petit Chef] there, and thought that would be a good thing to have in Australia … I just wanted to bring something new and exciting to Darwin," he says.

“Even while you eat, the little projections are still there, and it’s not stagnant – the little fish are swimming across the table, so the kids love it. It works so well for us, and it’s working well at another Hilton in Cairns who have started it as well.”

Watch in awe as Chef dishes up five tantalising courses. Feast on caprese salad, bouillabaisse soup, grilled tiger prawn with garlic and lemon butter – or lobster, if you want to luxe out! – slow-braised beef cheek with fingerling potatoes, steamed broccolini and bordelaise sauce, and saffron and cardamom infused rice pudding.

Vegetarians and kiddos are also catered for, with an age recommendation of six and over, so almost everyone has the chance to enjoy the wholesome culinary experience. You have the option to upgrade to the free-flowing beverage package to enjoy some beer with your bouillabaisse soup, or some pinot with your potatoes. And because it’s been such a hit, the Hilton team is looking to extend the season until Christmas, with a festive-inspired menu.

Gather your life size mates and settle in for a date with Le Petit Chef. Miam!

delighted restaurant-goers every night of the week.

Signature dishes include mud crab, seafood platter and whole fish, all seafood sourced from local fisherman. You can also enjoy a range of starters, like satay chicken and house made dumplings, mains of stir fries and soups, and if you’re up for a bit of everything, you can opt for the Feed Me menu.

The bar also tempts with a wide range of cocktails, spirits, wine and beer to whet your whistle. Regardless of what you dine or sip on, Dorris hopes you all walk away with full bellies, feeling well looked

after. And maybe a little bit in love.

“I just love Darwin. We have very beautiful sunsets, we’ve got very special views of the Waterfront – and I just want more people to enjoy Darwin, love Darwin. Good food can bring the people all together.”

Photo: Hope Taylor

chef Rio Lu

Dip Into DESERT MOB

Experience Central Australia in all its glory at Desert Mob, the unmissable art event of the year.

By Betty Sweetlove

BACK FOR ITS 32nd year, Desert Mob is a monumental celebration of desert culture in the heart of Australia. A pivotal gathering of artists, families, art-lovers and collectors, this year’s program brings together 34 Aboriginal Art Centres spanning 16 language groups from across Central Australia.

Awash with vibrant visual culture and multi-talented artists, the program is co-curated by renowned curator Hetti Perkins (Arrernte and Kalkadoon) and Aspen Beattie (Luritja, Warumungu and Yawuru) at DesArt.

“It’s always been a dream to return home and Desert Mob is giving me this wonderful opportunity to be able to live and work back home,” says Perkins, who came on board as curator in 2022.

“It’s a chance to see and experience the diversity of desert culture coming together at one of the oldest art events in Australia, in terms of Aboriginal art, and something that people look forward to every year.”

Returning for the first time since 2019 is the Desert Mob Symposium. A kaleidoscope of culture and talent, audiences are treated to short films, dance, panel discussions, and two debut runway collections of wearable art. This all-day event is a unique opportunity to hear from emerging and established artists from many different Art Centres.

“They’re all autonomous Art Centres doing amazing things in their communities, and we want to tell those bigger stories too,” Perkins says.

“Yes, they’re making work for people to enjoy in their homes, their collections and our major institutions, but it’s also about being able to experience the different types of storytelling. That’s a really important part of Desert Mob.”

Visitors can dip in and out of a generous palette of free and ticketed events running through to October. Learn from acclaimed Yarrenyty Arltere Artists at their soft sculpture workshop or drop into a live demonstration celebrating 20 years of ceramic making at Ernabella Arts.

Desert Mob WHEN THU 7 SEP – SUN 22 OCT

Desert Mob Symposium WHEN FRI 8 SEP | 10AM-3.30PM COST $25

Overflowing with events, Desert Mob includes the world-class exhibition and art market, after-dark events, workshops and demonstrations. Whether you’re an avid collector or just want to eat delicious damper and wander through the market, it’s an art extravaganza like no other.

“It has to be experienced firsthand. It’s one of those rare events where there’s artists and families and everyone all coming together to celebrate, so it really does have that atmosphere,” Perkins says.

Brand-new this year, the gallery doors open for two balmy summer nights at Desert Mob After Dark. Enjoy curator talks and musical performances over delicious food and a glass of wine.

With a stunning new website designed by Jenna Lee, the excitement, innovation and energy of Desert Mob is bursting. Don’t miss your chance to embrace the enduring culture of the desert.

Photo: Oliver Eclipse. Courtesy of Desart

Photo: Sarah Brooke. Courtesy of the artist and Martumili Artists

Jimmy Frank, Norman Frank and Joseph Williams. Desert Mob 2021 Opening

Nancy Nyanjilpayi Chapman with her painting 'Jarntinti' for Desert Mob 2023

Photo: Emma Murray. Courtesy Araluen Arts Centre

Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir. Desert Mob 2022 Opening

mirragma gunugurr-wa BAMBOO RAFT

Take a stroll on Larrakia Country, along Darwin’s Esplanade to Bicentennial Park, and you’ll come across the most impressive sight – a four-metre-high mermaid tail, beside it, a raft. The two sculptures, crafted from recycled aluminium, form Darwin’s newest major public artwork.

Uncle Roque Gullawun Lee and Trent Bundirrik Lee, mirragma gunugurr-wa tells the story of how bamboo rafts were used for transport by Larrakia people between Darwin and Mandorah, and their strong saltwater connection.

Larrakia language for bamboo raft, Uncle Roque recalls hearing about mirragma gunugurr-wa

“The old people told me when I was younger that they used rafts to go to ceremonies, fishing, and to connect with family on the opposite side of Darwin Harbour.”

As well as sharing the story of the bamboo rafts and ancient tales of mermaids inhabiting the waters of Darwin Harbour, collaborator Trent Lee says the public work is a symbol of resilience.

“I hope it will give a sense of pride for us mob and show that we are

still here after all this time – living, breathing, still hunting on our Country and doing what we do.”

The work was commissioned by City of Darwin in partnership with Larrakia Nation and GARUWA Creative, a First Nations owned storytelling agency. City of Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis says it’s important Larrakia culture is on display and accessible on Country.

“This wonderful piece of art will become a cultural landmark in Darwin, and is another way people can interact with Larrakia culture on Larrakia land.”

With storytelling and culture sharing at its core, visitors can scan the on-site QR code to learn the Larrakia story and get insight into the process behind the work.

Larrakia Nation assisted with selecting the artists before City of Darwin put out a national call-out

for public art consultants. GARUWA Creative was ultimately chosen to facilitate the project, and with vast experience in film and documentary, this was their first public art commission.

Created by siblings Genevieve Grieves and Kieran Satour, of the Worimi from the mid-north coast of New South Wales, GARUWA’s purpose is to facilitate storytelling with a collaborative and holistic approach. Creative Director Genevieve Grieves says the project came together in a wholesome way.

“It's refreshing to see a project that puts Traditional Owners at the core, and then bring in a team to support their vision,” she says.

“It shares deep stories of place. Through it, we learn more about and appreciate the significance of the Country we are on."

Women’s Business

By Kate Conway

Since 1989, the Centre’s internationally renowned textile studio, Bábbarra Designs, has operated as a social enterprise, providing financial independence for women

of the community, surrounding homelands and future generations.

Jessica Stalenberg is Manager of Bábbarra Women’s Centre and says the artists are no stranger to seeing their works exhibited on a large scale, but this is the first time there’s been a significant survey of works from the Art Centre.

“It’s the first time their whole story has been covered from start to present. It's covering the early foundations of very small lino print on cloth through to the large-form screen prints that are being made now,” she says.

“We’re proud that the whole centre is represented, and happy that it’s looked at a few of the families that have had three generations of women practising at the centre.”

Curated by CDU Art Gallery Curator Dr Joanna Barrkman, the exhibition features over 80 vibrant hand-printed textiles from 24 different artists, as well as limited-edition prints on paper, sculptures and basketry.

“It can be quite difficult to present textiles in a fine art setting, because they are harder to work with than canvas or bark or sculpture. CDU have done a fantastic job of presenting textiles as works of art,” Stalenberg says.

By Tierney Seccull

Manburrba is the Kuninjku language word for cloth, and the printed designs portray significant ancestral stories of West Arnhem Land Country and cultures. The exhibition visually depicts a story of women’s empowerment and celebrates the Top End’s thriving textiles industry.

“It’s an important exhibition for Darwin and the Northern Territory to host. Bábbarra Women’s Centre is just one of many Art Centres in the Top End working with textiles and we've been doing it for a long time,” Stalenberg says.

“We’ve got customers that were buying textiles 20 years ago. Bábbarra have just kept going, and now with Indigenous Fashion Projects, Indigenous textiles are really booming, and it’s amazing to see that a small women’s centre were pivotal and there at the beginning of it all.”

Head to CDU Art Gallery and soak up the history, beauty and talent brought to you by the artists of Bábbarra Women’s Centre.

CREATED BY LARRAKIA artists

AT BICENTENNIAL PARK,

Photo: Jessica Stalenberg. Courtesy B á bbarra Women's Centre

PAPUNYA TULA ARTISTS

63 Todd mall Alice Springs | 8952 4731 | papunyatula.com.au

MON-FRI, 9AM-4PM | SAT, 9AM-12PM

RAFT ARTSPACE

8 Hele Crescent, Ciccone | 0428 410 811 | raftartspace.com.au

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

Sun & Shadow, Art of the Spinifex People

Papunya Tula Annual Exhibition: Kutjungkarrinyi –Gathering Together

PAPUNYA TULA ARTISTS present the annual exhibition, Kutjungkarrinyi – Gathering Together. This year’s offering showcases an array of stunning new paintings from both senior and emerging artists of the Kintore and Kiwirrkura communities.

As well as showcasing the very best new works, the exhibition pays tribute to some of the company’s past greats. Works from a reserve stock never before exhibited are also available for purchase and viewing.

WHEN FRI 8 – FRI 22 SEP | OPENING FRI 8 SEP, 6PM

TACTILE ARTS

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

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

PAUL JOHNSTONE GALLERY

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

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

SHORT SHELF LIFE

AFTER A THREE -month residency at Tactile Arts, Suzanne Knight presents her most recent collection of works. Short Shelf Life explores the domestic and the wild, where the natural world is dominated and restricted by waste that seeps into our environment and spreads unhindered, destroying habitats and the creatures that live there. Knight uses this exhibition to raise environmental awareness and take global responsibility to help preserve the Australian environment. WHEN

RAFT ARTSPACE IN conjunction with the Spinifex Arts Project celebrates the Spinifex story with a book launch and exhibition Sun & Shadow, Art of the Spinifex People. Artists Lennard Walker Ngalpingka Simms, Veronica Jessica Brown, Noli Rictor and Katie Brown are joined by editors John Carty, Luke Scholes and contributors Scott Cane and Ian Baird. Come and celebrate the art and listen to the story of the Spinifex people.

UNTIL SAT 9 SEP

BOOK LAUNCH SAT 9 SEP | 4-6PM

AILEEN NAPALJARRI LONG

HELD IN CONJUNCTION with Barkly Regional Arts, Paul Johnstone Gallery presents the first solo exhibition by Aileen Napaljarri Long. Born to a Warlipiri father and Warlmanpa mother, Aileen Long grew up in Willowra Community and moved to Tennant Creek in her youth. Her bold and colourful abstract depictions of bush food, in particular wanakiji (bush tomato), recall fond memories searching for bush food with her family, common in the Barkly region particularly after big rain.

WHEN

Simon Hogan, ‘Lingka’, 2022, acrylic on linen, 200x137cm

Suzanne Knight, 'Display Label II - Four O’clock Moth', 2023, tapestry weaving wool & cotton, 245x85mm

Aileen Long, 'Nunjawarri (bush potato)', 2023, acrylic on canvas, 76x61cm

Adrian Jurra Tjungurrayi, untitled, 2023, acrylic on Belgian linen, 122x107cm

UNTITLED GALLERY + STUDIO

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

WED-FRI, 11AM–4PM | SAT, 10AM-12PM

COCONUT STUDIOS GALLERY

8/18 Caryota Court, Coconut Grove | facebook.com/coconutstudiosdarwin THU-SAT, 10AM-5PM | OR BY APPT.

Kuntarringanyi Wankatjaku

A SELECTION OF new works by the men of Papunya Tjupi Arts. Kuntarringanyi wankatjaku (Luritja: Too shy to speak) captures the collective creativity and expression born out of recent experimentation and exploration taking place at the men’s studio, completed in 2020. This exhibition celebrates the success of the men’s studio, and the burgeoning creativity of emerging and established male artists working at Papunya Tjupi Arts.

GARY LEE: MIDLING

MEMENTO 23: CHANGE

THE MEMENTO ARTISTS are back for a third year, this time addressing the theme of Change. As inevitable as the phases of the moon, change happens to all of us, everywhere. Sometimes change unfolds gently, other times like an unpredictable jolt of lightning. One thing is certain, growth is impossible without change.

WHEN FRI 8 – THU 28 SEP | OPENING FRI 8 SEP, 6PM

MAGNT Museum and Gallery of the Northern Territory

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

DAILY, 10AM-4PM

2023

Telstra National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Art Awards

THE TELSTRA NATIONAL

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA) celebrates 40 years in 2023, and aims to amplify the very best Australian Indigenous art from around the country. The NATSIAA is Australia’s longest running and most prestigious Indigenous art award, and features 63 works by emerging and established artists from across the nation.

The exhibition captures the attention of the nation, with an inspiring breadth of work from artists around the country.

UNTIL SUN 18 FEB, 2024

MIDLING , THE LARRAKIA word for together, is a selection of new and remade works by Gary Lee. Drawing on the artist’s personal archive of historic family photographs and artworks (photo-based and illustration), it brings together key strands of a practice which redefines notions of cultural identity, masculinity and beauty from a Larrakia perspective.

UNTIL SAT 9 SEP

NORTHERN TERRITORY LIBRARY

Parliament House, Darwin | lant.nt.gov.au

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

HOW IT ALL BEGAN: TIWI TEXTILES AND PRINTS

LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES of the Northern Territory presents How it All Began, an exhibition of works by Bede Tungutalum and Diana Wood Conroy spanning 50 years. It is accompanied by personal archival material used in the creation of Diana and Bede's book Tiwi Textiles. This exhibition tells the story of a formative moment in the history of First Nations textiles and print making.

2023 NATSIAA Winner, Keith Wikmunea, 'Ku’, Theewith & Kalampang: The White Cockatoo, Galah and the wandering Dog'. Photo MAGNT / Mark Sherwood

Gary Lee, 'Self-portrait with Manish' from the Skin series (detail), 2003-23, type-C print, 30x42cm

Bede Tungutalum with Diana Wood Conroy, 'Blue Circles', 1974, screen print on calico, 1.6x1.34m

Justin Allen, 'Walpa kurrunpa', 2003, synthetic polymer on linen, 122x183cm

Linda Joy, Sonia Martignon, Sandra Kendell, Ingrid Gersmanis, Marita Albers, Kate Fernyhough, Memento23 - Change, various mediums, 2023

DARWIN VISUAL ARTS

8 McMinn St, Darwin | dvaa.net.au

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

When The Heart is Happy it Forgets to Grow Old

"MY WORK CELEBRATES images of women standing in, emerging from, or swimming through, water. They’re strong, beautiful, and rendered in unique poses so women can confidently celebrate the liberty of the underwater world. Through vibrant colours and splashes of paint and thread, I evoke an embryonic space for change." –

HEALING AT THE BORDERLAND

EVA SAN USES bright acrylics to explore her response as an art therapist with Malaysian roots negotiating the liminal space between trauma and healing in a Western colonial paradigm. Her use of the ‘borderland’ makes the everyday seem strange and monstrous while exploring our cultural identities as powerful and healing.

A Sense of Place RACHELLE MCLEAN

THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK light is intense, full of colour and heat. Paint thickens as the asphalt heats, sticky and viscous. This light is tempered come dusk, changing the palette. In this rugged, timeless land, life abounds despite this harshness. Quirky, intrusive, claiming its ownership.

BLAK POWER: 50 Years of First Nations Superheroes in Australian Art

A SURVEY EXHIBITION celebrating First Nations superheroes in Indigenous Australian Contemporary Art. Notions of identity and supernatural forces in popular Blak culture are considered through a selection of comics, illustration, graffiti, painting, printmaking, sculpture, film, animation and photography. Featuring work by Dennis Golding, Dylan Mooney, Ray Mudjandi, Iwantja Women’s Film Project with Kaylene Whiskey, Jonathon Saunders, and more.

Art Devoid by Justin

Mcgrath

The September Issue #2

THIS EXHIBITION CELEBRATES the good times experienced over the year with friendships and family, and the ones you make. Commemorating these relationships, Heather Whybrow uses vibrant colours and playful patterns to depict images of moments had, that are held deep in the heart.

STEP INTO DEVOID , where art transcends meaning, and engage in this visceral, poetic exploration that ignites contemplation and introspection, inviting feeling over thought. Embark on this artful journey, where creativity thrives in a realm beyond words.

Kerry Inkster

Kerry Inkster, 'When the heart is happy', 2023, mixed media, 29.7x42cm

Eva San, 'Reclaiming Roots as Resistance', 2023, acrylic & charcoal, 91.4x121.8cm

Rachelle McLean, 'Waterhouse Creek - Top Springs', 2022, 79x55cm

Heather Whybrow, 'Newstead Boys'

Iwantja Young Women’s Film Project, production still from Kungka Kunpu, 2019. Pictured: Kaylene Whiskey. Photo: Jackson Lee

EASTERN ARRERNTE BAND Bush Tour

By Betty Sweetlove

Hailing from Ltyentye Apurte/Santa Teresa, 80km from Mparntwe/Alice Springs, the Eastern Arrernte Band (EAB) is a reggae sensation making waves way beyond the desert.

With their soul-stirring rhythms, infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics sung in Eastern Arrernte and English, EAB take their tunes on tour this month. Backed by Artback NT, the band embarks on an extraordinary journey, including festivals and regional venues, right across the Territory.

“I’m excited the band are heading to all the remote locations, there’s so much country being covered on this trip. This tour also plays at two remote festivals, Stone Country Festival and Numburindi Festival,” says Evan Saunders, Performing Arts Manager at Artback.

Forming back in high school, band members include Wesley Oliver and Tyrone Hayes on keys and vocals, Barney Conway on drums, Gordon Mulladad on lead guitar and vocals, Brandon Hayes on rhythm guitar, and Baxter Alice on bass. Back on Country, they work as youth workers, assistant teachers, school bus drivers and night patrol men, inspired to contribute their skills to the community.

The band’s uplifting reggae sound is also a way to express their connection to Country and sense of self. Their unmistakably catchy songs tackle issues affecting young Aboriginal people including loneliness, incarceration and identity.

Songs, including crowd favourite ‘Prison Cell’ and fresh new track ‘Ringer Soak’, will see gig-goers out in full force, but it’s hard to say which of their anthems is the most popular.

“My favourite track is ‘Reggae Dancer’ – it takes you straight to the desert,” Saunders says.

You'll also be blown away by the band’s support acts under starlit skies along the way. EAB released their debut album Reggae Dancer in 2021, and Saunders says Artback is keen to connect with any up-and-coming bands that may be inspired by the trailblazing band.

“We have an EOI for performing arts opening up, and people should get in touch with us. We’re always interested to hear what NT musicians are up to and where they see themselves heading.”

From the desert to the gulf, this bush tour connects with people from all walks of life and is a huge milestone for the band. Not only an epic adventure, the Reggae Dancer Bush Tour is a celebration of culture, storytelling and community.

“These guys have such an infectious, danceable sound, everyone will love them!”

In the iconic words of EAB, “come on all you reggae dancers”. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of music history in the making.

Eastern Arrernte Band NT Regional Tour – Reggae Dancer

WED 13 SEP | ALI CURUNG

THU 14 SEP | THE MEMO CLUB, TENNANT CREEK

SAT 16 SEP | STONE COUNTRY FESTIVAL, GUNBALANYA

SUN 17 SEP | MARRAWUDDI ARTS CENTRE, JABIRU

TUE 19 SEP | BUSTARD TOWN, DARWIN

THU 21 SEP | DJILPIN ARTS CENTRE, BESWICK

SAT 23 SEP | NUMBURINDI FESTIVAL, NUMBULWAR

THU 28 SEP | GAP VIEW HOTEL, ALICE SPRINGS

INFO artbacknt.com.au | facebook.com/easternarrernteband

Photo: Laurie May

Get ready, Northern Territory, because Eastern Arrernte Band is coming to a town near you!

Old Testament Tune

By Kate Conway

IN 1847, COMPOSER Felix Mendelssohn conducted the first performance of a revised version of his renowned work Elijah. Leading an orchestra in the first violin chair that day was a highly regarded musician and composer named George Perry.

This month, Darwin choir Vocalective performs the iconic oratorio (work with a religious theme) led by Music Director Michael Loughlin – who happens to be Perry’s great, great, great grandson.

This isn’t the first time Loughlin has unearthed a family connection in historical musical greatness. Back in April, Vocalective presented the world premiere of a lost work created by Loughlin’s late father, celebrated Australian-British composer George Frederick Loughlin. After that discovery, Loughlin kept digging, this time on his mother’s side, and that’s where he found the Perry/Mendelssohn connection.

“It’s quite an emotional feeling, to think that he knew and worked with the composer … his work in that oratorio was significant because he was the leader of the orchestra. To think that he worked with, and probably shook hands with, Mendelssohn is quite extraordinary … it’s quite special for me,” Loughlin says.

Through soaring strings and evocative melodies, the dramatic work tells stories from the Prophet Elijah’s life detailed in the Old Testament. He performed miracles such as bringing a young boy back to life, ending drought and famine, as well as preaching – at times with war and fighting – the will of God.

“A lot of them are quite violent … there's lots of death and destruction in

It’s Storytime!

these Old Testament stories and Elijah's life is like that,” says Loughlin.

“Mendelssohn, he was a genius, and he was able to musically depict some of these things Elijah was doing.”

The storytelling is reinforced by lyrical vocals, with the choir commenting on the action similarly to a Greek chorus. Vocalective's talented choir and orchestra are joined by four exciting soloists, featuring Melbourne's David Eckstein in the demanding title role, highly regarded lyric tenor Henry Choo, Canberra-based soprano Keren Dalzell and Darwin’s own mezzo, Fiona Wake.

Contrasting stunning chorales and arias with delicate moments of divine contemplation and action, the mastery of Mendellsohn’s work expertly portrays the drama of the blockbuster worthy plot. Witness Vocalective take the stage at the Italian Club and tackle the spectacular masterpiece with their signature flair.

By Tierney Seccull

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (DSO) has joined forces with Larrakia artist and author Jason Lee to present a very special morning of storytelling.

Lee has written and illustrated children's books that share tales of fishing, cooking, gardening and eating, and having fun with the family. Join Lee as he reads his sweet stories, Catching Bait and Nanna's Barramundi, backed by a sweet soundscape from an ensemble of DSO musicians.

This creative collab between Lee and the DSO came about when DSO

Education and Outreach Officer, Tara Murphy, reached out to Library

For All – an organisation that creates books and learning in local languages – for Top End stories. She says Lee’s books jumped out at her from the get-go.

“They just grabbed me! They say you shouldn’t judge a book by the cover, but that’s exactly what I did, they're so cute,” she says.

“It’s always interesting to look at our own community for stories that are relevant, because the themes are familiar. Catching Bait is about a little boy casting a net to catch bait,

which is just something everyone in Darwin is familiar with.

“Jason’s such an amazing artistic character, a jack of all trades and a wonderful artist, and when he reads his stories, it really brings you back to sitting down at story time as a kid.”

Lee says he hopes his books help to keep culture strong, and educates young ones.

“It's about making them aware that language is still here, because we started reviving the language about four years ago. I don’t think many

kids know that this is Larrakia land. And it’s just trying to make it fun, so it will engage them to learn.”

A renowned illustrator and artist, it was the International Year of Indigenous Languages in 2019 that inspired Lee to delve into the world of children’s books.

“There’s just one other Larrakia book out there, and there’s nothing else. So that’s what inspired me. I’ve done a plant one, a sea creature one, bird one and a mammals and reptiles one, now. It makes me proud to get the language out there. Just proud, really.”

As well as stories and music, there are other creative activities for the kids to enjoy while they listen, including colouring-in.

Be whisked away to Nanna’s kitchen, catch some bait and fish for yummy barra, and enjoy this exciting musical Larrakia adventure.

Storytime

Photo: Tim Nicol Photography

Photo: Paz Tassone

GIG guide

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

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

Steve Case Live Music

WHEN FRI 1 – SUN 3 SEP | 6PM AT ADELAIDE RIVER INN COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ stevecasemusic

On Frances 80s Street Party

Celebrate the rhythm of the 80s at City of Palmerston's retro block party. Don your fluoro get-ups and dance the night away as DJ Sarah Mac spins classic pop and rock hits, plus performances from Psych Dance crew, stand-up comedy and Fairy Jill.

WHEN SAT 2 SEP | 5PM AT FRANCES DR, PALMERSTON COST FREE INFO palmerston.nt.gov.au

Strum a song and belt out a ballad or relax with a drink in the shade, as talented local musos take to the stage at this beloved monthly arvo of music.

WHEN SUN 3 SEP | 3PM

AT TRACY VILLAGE SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ firstsundayblues

The Beat Festival - Courage

See the stars of the future, right now, in The Beat Festival’s annual showcase by talented Northern Territory school students. This year’s show, Courage, features a 300-voice choir, 30-piece orchestra, dance groups, rock bands, soloists, music ensembles and vocalists, from a talented pool of young folks.

WHEN WED 6 – FRI 8 SEP | 7PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $25-$38 INFO yourcentre.com.au

Bjorn Again - Thank ABBA for the Music tour

Calling all dancing queens, kings and peeps! Bjorn Again brings the hits in this entertaining night of ABBA-solute fun for the whole family. Performing all around the world, Bjorn Again is the only

Sunset Sounds at Cullen Bay

SEPTEMBER IS YOUR last chance to check out Sunset Sounds at Cullen Bay. Every Sunday, settle in on the lawns at Cullen Bay Beach and enjoy live tunes from talented local musos. If there’s one thing that tops a beaut Top End sunset by the beach, it’s a beaut Top End sunset by the beach backed by live music!

The gorgeous lawns of Cullen Beach beckon you to pull up for a picnic,

or if you’re up for maxo relaxo, treat yourself to some takeaway from the many restaurants nearby. We’re talking burgers, pizza, ice cream and, of course, fish and chips! With all the ingredients for a sweet Sunday arv, round up your crew and soak up those sweet sunset tunes.

WHEN EVERY SUN | 5.30-8PM AT CULLEN BAY BEACH COST FREE INFO cullenbaymarina.com.au

tribute band endorsed by ABBA themselves, so dust off your satin flares and platform shoes, and dance the night away.

WHEN SAT 9 SEP | 8-9PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $70-$80 INFO yourcentre.com.au

Darwin Celtic Music Sessions

Enjoy an afternoon of traditional and contemporary folk music. All folk traditions are welcome, bring an instrument and join the fun.

WHEN SUN 10 SEP | 4.30PM

AT LUCKY BAT COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ darwintradmusic

Elvis - One Night in Vegas

COST $75-$89 INFO yourcentre.com.au

Jazz Assembly Jam Session

Jazz and cocktails on a lazy Sunday afternoon? Yes, please! Bring your instrument and jump on stage with the house band, or kick back and enjoy the music with a refreshing arvy tipple.

WHEN SUN 24 SEP | 5-7PM AT DOM’S BAR & LOUNGE COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ jazzassemblyjam

Darwin City Brass Band Rehearsals

WHEN EVERY TUE | 7-9PM AT 2 ABALA RD, MARRARA COST $20 ANNUAL MEMB INFO darwincitybrassband.org.au

Darwin City Brass Band Learners

Classes

WHEN EVERY WED | 4.30-7PM AT 2 ABALA RD, MARRARA COST $20 ANNUAL MEMB INFO darwincitybrassband.org.au

Wednesday Night Swing

from local food trucks and chilled live tunes from local acts. There’s gin, cocktails and NT craft beers to get your chops around.

WHEN EVERY FRI & SAT FROM 12PM AT WILLING DISTILLERY COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ willingdistillery

RED CENTRE

Bush Bands Bash

Toni Childs in Concert – a Retrospective

Join legendary singer/songwriter Toni Childs for a concert celebrating her life’s musical works. Expect hits and fan favourites including 'Don’t Walk Away' and 'Many Rivers to Cross', as well as an introduction to her new albums, It’s All a Beautiful Noise and Citizens of the Planet

WHEN SAT 30 SEP | 7.30PM AT ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE COST $70 | $68 CONC/ GROUPS 10+ | $175 VIP INFO araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au

Jump Inn Jams WHEN EVERY TUE | 7-10PM AT JUMP INN CRAFT BEER BAR & RESTAURANT COST FREE INFO jumpinncraftbeerbar.com

Internationally acclaimed tribute artist Mark Anthony brings all the glamour, costumes and greatest hits from the King of Rock. Widely regarded as one of the best Elvis Presley tribute artists, Anthony's joined by a full live band to offer audiences an unforgettable experience. Get ready to shake, rattle and roll!

WHEN FRI 15 SEP | 7.30-10PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $79.90 | $74.90 MEMB/CONC $49.90 CHILD INFO yourcentre.com.au

The Waifs Up All Night 20th Anniversary Tour

Australian indie folk rock band, The Waifs, celebrate 20 years of iconic breakthrough album Up All Night Hitting the Darwin Entertainment Centre stage for one night only, the band is set to perform the full album and share other fan favourites.

WHEN FRI 22 SEP | 7.30-11PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT

Break up the working week and join Swing Dance NT for a twirl, accompanied by the 19-piece Hot and Cold Big Band.

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

Fridays @ Dom’s Celebrate Fri-yay with happy hour! Catch up with mates, enjoy fine cocktails and relax as the house DJ brings in the weekend.

WHEN EVERY FRI, FROM 4PM 5-7PM HAPPY HOUR AT DOM’S BAR & LOUNGE COST FREE INFO domsdarwin.com.au

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

Weekends at Willing Kick off your weekend early at Willing Distillery, with tasty food

MusicNT's iconic Bush Bands Bash returns to Alice Springs Telegraph Station this year, with six hours of non-stop music in a family-friendly environment. Featuring an incredible line up of remote Indigenous bands and artists, the theme for this year's event is 'Celebrating Positivity and Unity'.

WHEN SUN 10 SEP | 4-10PM AT ALICE SPRINGS TELEGRAPH STATION COST $10 | FREE U16 INFO musicnt.com.au

TUE 5 SEP | GABBY DEVER & FRIENDS

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

FRI 8 SEP | DEAN BETTS

FRI 15 SEP | THE JUM SHOW FRI 22 SEP | ALISON MAPLESON FRI 29 SEP | ANDY PENKOW