Off The Leash May 2017

MAY

20 17

Celebrating 10Years in 2017 DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

OUTDOOR ANTICS

LADIES LONG LUNCH

An orchestra of and for the community

Festivals, films and fairs

Raising money for Menzies

MUSIC

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PERFORMING ARTS

•

VISUAL ARTS

•

BOOKS & FILM

•

CULTURE

•

FOOD & DRINK

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COMMUNITY

Yo u r fre e what ’s o n g u i d e TO TH E TO P E N D

Opera Gala Date: Sat 20 May, 6.30pm Venue: Darwin Waterfront Precinct Entry by: Gold coin donation

dso.org.au | 8946 6214

ON SALE 4 MAY

5 HOT SHOWS BOOK NOW AT DARWINFESTIVAL.ORG.AU

CIRCA Troppo

SYDNEY DANCE COMPANY Frame of Mind

FREE

PENNY ARCADE

Longing Lasts Longer

FULL #DFEST17 PROGRAM ON SALE 22 JUNE

Opera Australia

CITY OF DARWIN

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC

INSIDE

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F R OM T H E

Ed

s the seasons change, dragonflies fill the air and a cool salty breeze wafts over town – it’s the start of Dry season extravaganzas.

The Darwin Symphony Orchestra kicks of their Dry season with their annual Opera Gala under the stars at the Darwin Waterfront – this gold coin event presents the perfect opportunity to experience live opera, with four of Australia’s finest singers taking the stage. We took a closer look at what’s in store from our orchestra this year – see page 4.

ti or

Choose a crafty Mother’s Day gift at the Saltwater Craft Fair, make Chinese dumplings or play Gaelic football at the Darwin Waterfront Harmony Soiree, or giddy up at the Noonamah Tavern Rodeo – see Around Town.

Take a stroll, or ride your bike, along the stunning Nightcliff foreshore as you take in the Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival.

Celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, dance, art and culture at the Garrmalang Festival – see Festivals.

AROUND TOWn | 5 FESTIVALS | 7 Performing Arts | 10 FOOD & DRINK | 12 YOUTH | 17 Word on the Street | 19 BOOKS & FILM | 20 Visual Arts | 22 Music | 25 calendaR | PULL-OUT

For some indoor funnies, the Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow is heading our way, and stand-up stalwart Wil Anderson brings his new show Critically Will to Darwin audiences. Local theatre groups Milkbar Theatre and Darwin Theatre Company present new Australian play Rope Burn, and the heart warming adaptation of David Walliams’ award-winning children’s book Mr Stink takes centre stage – see Performing Arts.

May is a bumper month of film with travelling film festivals Flickerfest and BANFF stopping by. We had a chat with Richard Frankland about his first feature length film Stone Bros – catch a free screening at the Deckie as part of Reconciliation Week. For more free films under the stars, head to FlicNics in Palmerston or Alice Through the Looking Glass at Darwin Waterfront – see Books and Film.

FESTIVALS | 7

BASSINTHEGRASS, one of Darwin’s most popular music festivals, is back with a veritable who’s who of Australian talent – including Alice Springs muso Resin Moon. NT News Live on Fridays returns to kickstart our weekends, and Lee Kernaghan brings his iconic blend of country style to the Top End – see Music.

FLICNICS | 21

Whether you’re an old hat, haven’t done it for years or are an enthusiastic newbie, Skate Jam is your time to roll. If keeping your feet on the ground is more your jam, try 3on3 – see Youth.

BASSINTHEGRASS | 25

OTL is proudly supported by Roslyn Perry Managing Editor and Development Manager Anna Dowd Rosa Ellen Editorial Assistants

Zoe Beatty Graphic Designer

Chelsea Heaney Acting Music Editor

Sarah Novinetz Mike Frier Art Directors

Distributed to remote Indigenous communities with the assistance of

@francesbgrant

20 17 MAY

@larry_t_hill

Celebrating 10Years in 2017 DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

OUTDOOR ANTICS

LADIES LONG LUNCH

An orchestra of and for the community

Festivals, films and fairs

Raising money for Menzies

VISUAL ARTS

•

BOOKS & FILM

•

CULTURE

•

FOOD & DRINK

•

@deckchair_cinema

COMMUNITY

Yo u r fre e what ’s o n gu i d e TO TH E TO P E N D

MUSIC

•

PERFORMING ARTS

•

g a m l t o #

Cover proudly sponsored by Darwin Symphony Orchestra

TO SEE YOUR PICS HERE

@ntlibrary

@darwinbotanicgardens

MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR 2015

NT Media Awards

AUSTRALIAN WEB AWARDS 2015

Not-for-profit winner Caroline from GYRACC rocks a skirt made @artback_nt of recycled OTL mags at Junk Fest

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Although care istotaken to ensure information in Off TheisLeash is correct, it is subject to change.

We recommend checking offtheleash.net.au for updates.

Although all careall is taken ensure information in Off The Leash correct, it is subject to change.

We recommend checking offtheleash.net.au for updates.

3

FEATURE

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

By Anna Dowd

Matthew Wood, Artistic Director and Chief Conductor

John Oakman, Principal Bassoon

Comprising 65 volunteer musicians and a small professional core, the Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) is an orchestra of and for the community.

An accessible and essential community resource, the DSO has performed in some of the most remote places imaginable – including being the first orchestra to perform at Uluru – with a diversity in programming that crosses cultural boundaries. The 2017 season stays true to form with an extraordinary variety of music for your listening pleasure.

Kicking off the Dry is the DSO’s annual Opera Gala, featuring four of the world’s best operatic voices under the stars at the Darwin Waterfront. If you’ve never seen live opera, this gold coin event is the perfect chance to stretch out on your picnic blanket and experience what centuries of punters have fallen in love with.

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DSO OPERA GALA WHEN SAT 20 MAY | 6.30PM AT DARWIN WATERFRONT COST GOLD COIN DONATION INFO dso.org.au

Fun fact: one of those opera fans was Freddie Mercury from supergroup Queen. All the more reason to get excited about the DSO’s tribute to this superb ensemble, according to

Rhiannon Oakhill, Double Bass

DSO Chief Conductor and Artistic Director Matthew Wood.

ConocoPhillips Symphony: Pink Floyd

With the orchestra at the centre of the show, and with guest musicians sharing the stage, this is set to be one musically rich ‘rochestral’ journey.

"Have you ever watched Spielberg’s Jaws with the sound turned down?” asks Wood. “It looks rather silly – just long periods of underwater shots with the occasional dark shadow. You don’t actually see the shark for a very long time, in fact you have to wait about 80 minutes – but turn the sound up and the suspense is immense! The famous two note 'dar-dum' represents the shark and therefore the music is the shark. It is the brilliant orchestral scoring by John Williams that scares the heck out of you, and that is why you remember the music so well."

Following these outdoor musical extravaganzas, head inside for the 2017 MasterSeries – three concerts with everything from a controversial symphony by Russia’s Dmitri Shostakovich to music by the composer of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’s film score, Tan Dun and the work of John Williams, one of the most successful film composers of all time.

For inspiration closer to home, the DSO explores the work of celebrated Australian composer Peter Sculthorpe in 'Kakadu', a composition inspired by the landscape and seasons of our iconic National Park. Sculthorpe’s affinity with the Territory was enduring and his music is sure to conjure up unique visions of our sensational backyard.

“It was very clever stuff these guys were producing, with interesting and sophisticated harmonies and musical structures. This is what makes them uniquely Queen, and what gives the orchestral charts some really juicy material,” said Wood.

To complement this diverse season, the popular DSO Kids’ Classics series is back, giving youngsters the chance to be wowed by the sounds of the symphony up close in an intimate, small ensemble format.

Wood himself was inspired as a kid when the touring Adelaide Symphony Orchestra held a children’s concert in his city.

“I still remember what they played and being completely blown away by the sounds they were making. It was a transformative experience, and part of the reason why I believe so strongly in making music accessible to our younger audiences.”

Such is the power of music and the promise of another sparkling season from your orchestra, the Darwin Symphony Orchestra.

AROUND TOWN

Saltwater CRAFT FAIR

WHEN SUN 7 MAY | 9AM-2PM AT DARWIN WATERFRONT COST FREE INFO tactilearts.org.au

With abundant treasures to be found, there’s zero to nil chance you’ll walk away empty handed.

MUM’S THE WORD AT THE FIRST SALTWATER CRAFT FAIR FOR THE year, and she’s going to be more than a little happy about that. With more than 60 locally handmade arts and crafts stalls to choose from, make 2017 the year of the best Mother’s Day pressie ever.

“We have everything from beautiful original artworks, illustrations and cards by Sandra Kendall to exquisitely made wooden bowls, utensils and kitchenware by Mark Setter of Fatboy’s Wood Turning and Indigo dyed scarves and cushions by Meng Hoeschle and Pam Heffner.”

This year the fair is one week before the big day, so no need for a last minute bunch of flowers.

Internationally there has been a massive resurgence in the popularity of traditional crafts like ceramics and weaving and Duke says coming down to the fair is a fantastic opportunity to talk to the makers about the materials and processes they use.

It’s all about quality wares and quality time according to Tactile Arts’ Saltwater Craft Fair Co-ordinator Tess Duke.

“The Mother’s Day fair is well-loved

by Darwin locals and presents an opportunity to spend some quality time with your mum, perusing the beautiful stalls for a unique gift from a local artist she’ll love,” said Duke.

“Many of the stallholders also run workshops in their craft at the Tactile Arts Studios, so this is the perfect time to get up close to the works and see if it’s something you might like to try.”

WORK SHOPS tactileARTS

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

Image by Spokz Photography

DARWIN IS HOME TO SOME TOP-NOTCH PROFESSIONAL CRAFTSPEOPLE. KICK SOME CRAFTY GOALS AND SKILL UP WITH THEIR EXPERT GUIDANCE AT THESE TACTILE ARTS WORKSHOPS.

Glass Beadmaking

Learn how to shape molten glass into round, donut, organic and barrel bead shapes with Debra Senjuschenko. You’ll be introduced to solid and hollow fabrication and a variety of decorative techniques.

NOONAMAH Tavern Rodeo f you’ve never been to a rodeo, guess what? Darwin has one of the country’s top 10 right here in your backyard. Tick off this seriously Territory flavored night at the Noonamah Tavern Rodeo.

The star attraction for the evening is without a doubt featured bull Guns N Roses. After many years this legendary bush bull still holds his 100 per cent buck off rate – meaning no one has ever managed to ride him for more than eight seconds.

Proud owner Dallas Wischefski says he’s 800 kilos of pure character.

“He’s black and white and he’s got one horn up and one horn down.

He’s just really fast, he does what he has to do to get the riders off,” Wischefski said.

And if bull riding only partially tickles your fancy there’s plenty more action besides, with saddle broncs, barrel racing, a freestyle motocross burnout competition and live music with Aria-nominated country singer Adam Harvey and band Northern Lights.

There’s even a mechanical bull for those who want a tiny taste of the real thing.

Winshefski says there’s plenty of rodeo fans that reckon this is one of the best outdoor shows in the country. Go once, and you may get addicted.

“I think it’s a combination of the bulls, the bikes and the bands, and the super charged professional cars doing burnouts. It goes off.”

Giddy up!

WHEN EVERY THU 11 MAY – 1 JUN 6-9PM COST $375 | $355 MEMB |

MATERIALS INCLUDED

Smak Attak! Jellyfish Weaving

The collective word for jellyfish is ‘smack’. Jellyfish are plaguing oceans worldwide. Creatively tackle this ecological imbalance using basket making processes along with fishing line to weave a jellyfish with Artist in Residence Aly de Groot.

WHEN SUN 14 MAY | 2-5PM COST $123 | $112 MEMB |

MATERIALS INCLUDED

The Art of Mosiac

Create a personalised piece of mosaic art for your home or garden.

Covers making, decorating and firing your own handmade ceramic tiles and the skills to complete your own mosaic projects in the future.

WHEN SAT 6 MAY | 5.30PM AT NOONAMAH TAVERN COST $30 | $25 CONC | $15 U18

$70 FAM INFO facebook.com/noon amahtavern

WHEN

COST

Lino Printing on Textiles

These workshops will give you an understanding of the design and lino cutting process, along with techniques to print gorgeous designs onto fabrics like apparel or soft furnishings.

WHEN EVERY SAT 13 – 27 MAY | 10AM-1PM COST $176 | $155 MEMB |

MATERIALS INCLUDED

EVERY SUN 21 MAY – 25 JUN | 1-4PM $340 | $300 MEMB | MATERIALS INCLUDED

Botanical Alchemy

Take a rusty bucket, add leaves, a sprinkle of chance and what will you get? Magic! Join Aly de Groot to learn how to harvest, prepare and create amazing plant-dyed textiles using materials found in your garden, kitchen or local park. Silk scarf, fabric samples and other materials supplied.

WHEN SUN 28 MAY | 2-5PM COST $123 | $112 MEMB

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Darwin Waterfront Harmony Soiree

LISTINGS

Now the Dry season has arrived, it’s the perfect time for an outdoor occasion to celebrate Darwin’s rich and diverse multicultural community.

Enjoy food, entertainment and family-friendly activities from different parts of the globe. Learn how to play Greek musical instruments, make Chinese dumplings or play Gaelic football. In the evening, beautifully decorated lanterns will be released into the lagoon, followed by a spectacular fireworks finale.

WHEN AT COST INFO

Beats & Clips

GENERAL

Want to improve your audio recording or editing skills? Be it for film, music or digital storytelling, these workshops can help you upskill.

No Lights No Lycra

A weekly dance jam in the dark – no teacher, no steps to learn, no alcohol, no talking – no worries! Just dancing and great tunes. Perfect for all ages, shapes and sizes. No need to book either, just turn up when you're in the mood for a boogie.

WHEN AT

COST INFO

EVERY WED | 6-7PM HAPPY YESS THEATRE, BROWN’S MART $7 nolightsnolycra.com/darwin

Mindil Beach Sunset Market

As the sun dips into the Arafura Sea feast on cuisines such as Thai, Sri Lankan, Greek or Indian, take a wander through the palm lined boulevards for unique pressies and enjoy live entertainment.

WHEN

AT INFO

WHEN EVERY MON | 3-7PM COST FREE

Malak Community Shed Seabreeze Sunset Soiree for Creative Minds

Pencil into your diary an intimate twilight date with Professor Tim Flannery and esteemed author Kate Holden. Creative conversation with two brilliant minds, accompanied by champers and canapés.

WHEN AT

COST INFO

FRI 5 MAY | 6-8PM THE FORESHORE RESTAURANT & CAFÉ $35 nightcliffseabreeze.com

EVERY THU, 5-10PM | EVERY SUN, 4-9PM MINDIL BEACH mindil.com.au

Canapes and Constellations

Did you know Darwin has one of the best rooftops in Australia for urban stargazing? Join astronomer Geoff Carr for an unforgettable tour of the night sky using world-class telescopes from this 16th floor rooftop. Kick off with a spectacular sunset and enjoy canapés and beverages throughout the night.

WHEN FRI 5 & SAT 6 MAY | 6PM AT RAMADA SUITES ZEN QUARTER COST $85 | $35 KIDS INFO zenquarter.com/stars

Malak Marketplace

Check out the new place to be on a Saturday eve. Darwin’s first organic market includes street bistro from around the world, locally grown produce, handmade arts and crafts, live entertainment, clean living education and a health hub.

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WHEN AT

INFO

EVERY SAT | 4-9PM CHAMBERS CRESCENT CARPARK, MALAK malakmarketplace.org.au

The theme for the 38th Freds Pass Rural Show is Opening the Gate to a Taste of the Country. Join in this tropical celebration of all things rural, showcasing equestrian, livestock, local produce and entertainment.

WHEN SAT 13 MAY, 9AM-LATE | SUN

14 MAY, 9AM-3PM AT 20 BEES CREEK RD, FREDS PASS COST $15 | $5 6-17YRS, CONC | $40

FAM | FREE U5 INFO fredspassruralshow.com.au

Join the Mental Illness Fellowship NT for their SAW Trivia Night. A great opportunity to raise awareness and reduce stigmas associated with mental illness.

Artists Ahoy! Creative folk of all skill levels and mediums are invited to use the space at the brand new Durack Community Centre. Bring your tools, your work and get inspired over a cuppa with colleagues.

EVERY THU | 6-7.30PM THE HEIGHTS DURACK COMMUNITY CENTRE FREE palmerston.nt.gov.au

Freds Pass Rural Show

Schizophrenia Awareness Week (SAW) Trivia Night

Artists’ Craft and Tea

WHEN AT

COST INFO

SAT 27 MAY | 4-8.30PM DARWIN WATERFRONT FREE multicultural.nt.gov.au

Holden vs Ford Show n Shine Charity Fundraiser

A great family fun day with a kid's corner, live music, auction prizes, raffles, hot food, licensed bar and lots of classic cars on display. All proceeds go to support Variety NT. WHEN AT

COST INFO

SUN 7 MAY | 10AM-2PM DINAH BEACH CRUISING YACHT ASSOCIATION DONATION dbcya.com.au

WHEN AT COST INFO

THU 18 MAY | 7PM TRAILER BOAT CLUB $20 mifant.org.au

DARWIN WATERFRONT waterfront.nt.gov.au

Aqua Zumba

Join the Zumba pool party for a cool calorie burning dance fitness session at Darwin's Wave Lagoon.

WHEN EVERY SUN | 9AM COST $12 ADULTS | $8 U15

DARWIN COMMUNITY ARTS

darwincommunityarts.org.au Chambers Crescent Theatre, Malak

Malak Community Garden

Work on those green thumbs with these free garden workshops.

WHEN COST INFO

EVERY MON | 10AM-1PM FREE facebook.com/dcacommunity gardennews | 8945 7347

Promoting creativity, sustainability, social cohesion and a sense of community, head along for some free weekly workshops featuring local and international artists.

WHEN EVERY THU, 1-3PM | EVERY

SAT, 9.30AM-12.30PM COST FREE

PALMERSTON LIBRARY

palmerston.nt.gov.au/library

Storytime

Say goodbye to quiet libraries! 1-5 year olds and their caregivers will love singing, dancing, listening to stories and engaging with puppets in these fun, interactive sessions.

WHEN EVERY TUE & THU | 10-10.45AM COST FREE

Code Club

Coding is a great skill to help kids live in the digital age. This program is part of a nationwide network of volunteer-led, creative coding clubs for kids aged 9-12 years. Code Club is free but places are limited, so bookings are essential.

WHEN COST BOOK

EVERY SAT | 10AM & 11AM FREE askus@palmerston.nt.gov.au 8935 9999

CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS AUSTRALIA (CVA)

Shop 7A, 69 Mitchell St, Darwin conservationvolunteers.com.au | 8981 2306

Twilight Toad Busters

Who you gunna call? Toadbusters!

Join the team helping to control this environmentally devastating introduced species in various hot spots around Darwin. Learn how to tell a frog from a cane toad and toad-proof your yard.

WHEN TUE 9 – 30 MAY | 6.30-9PM AT VARIOUS DARWIN LOCATIONS COST FREE

Nursery Time

You're never too young to enjoy reading. Treat your baby to songs, puppets, nursery rhymes and movement to enhance their early literacy development. Suitable for 0-1 year olds.

WHEN EVERY WED | 10-10.45AM COST FREE

Lego Club

Bush Restoration Day

Hone your building skills with fortnightly activities and challenges.

Create your own masterpiece and display it in the library. Suitable for ages five and above.

Help restore the ecosystems of Darwin's beautiful coastal areas and wetlands by removing invasive weeds and planting trees to encourage biodiversity.

WHEN WED 10 & 24 MAY | 3.30-4.30PM COST FREE

WHEN THU 11, 18 & 25 MAY | 8.30AM AT VARIOUS DARWIN LOCATIONS COST FREE

Gadgets and Games Club

Beautify Our Beaches - Marine Debris

For kids aged 5-12 who like hands-on, problem based learning activities.

This fortnightly club is based around STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) learning activities and the equation that learning plus games equals fun.

WHEN WED 3, 17 & 31 MAY | 3.30-4.30PM COST FREE

Help out with weekly debris surveys.

Learn about types of debris, where it comes from and what impact it has on our environment. The data is added to the national database – Tangaroa WHEN EVERY MON | 8.30AM-1.30PM AT MEET AT CVA COST FREE

FESTIVALS Hot Brown Honey; image by Dylan Evans

Garrmalang festival

three-day celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music, dance, arts and culture, right in the heart of Larrakia country.

For the traditional custodians, Garrmalang is the name of what is now Darwin’s CBD. The city’s only dedicated Indigenous festival is now in its fourth year and has cemented itself as an event of national importance.

The free opening ceremony is always a powerful kick-off. This year Larrakia’s Kenbi Dancers, Gary Lang NT Dance Company and traditional performers from Yirrkala and Milingimbi come together for an unforgettable display of Indigenous song and dance.

The dance theme continues with award winning Djuki Mala, formerly known as the Chooky Dancers. Their latest show is told through dance and video, and tells the intimate story of the troupe’s journey to stardom.

On Saturday check out the rapidly rising musical star of Yirrmal Marika, grandson of the late Dr Yunupingu,

WHEN FRI 26 – SUN 28 MAY AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST VARIOUS INFO yourcentre.com.au

Yothu Yindi’s frontman. This young singer-songwriter is the talk of the industry, and his atmospheric concert should be firmly on your ‘not to miss’ list.

All-female show Hot Brown Honey is also top of the pile. Described as “a sweet hive of circus and hip-hop, burlesque and beat-boxing, dance and neo-soul cabaret, all performed by a cast of black, brown and mixed beauties, and delivered with a political sting” – this is a guaranteed audacious platter of a night.

There’s more to pack in, with panel discussion 250 Shade of Black including Luke Pearson, Michael Mansell, Josephine Crawshaw and Olga Havnen discussing Constitutional Recognition versus a Treaty. Or check out the free Larrakia artist exhibition, pop up stalls and traditional healing sessions with Larrakia Elder Bilawara Lee.

Djuki Mala

Artistic Director Gary Lang says Garrmalang puts Darwin on the main stage.

“We’re bringing Indigenous people from around the country together, showcasing what we have, and sharing it with our local community.”

Yirrmal Marika

Nightcliff LIKE A COOL WAFT OF SALTY DRY SEASON AIR, THE NIGHTCLIFF SEABREEZE FESTIVAL is upon us again, and more refreshing than ever. This week-long, multi-art form festival is a beloved fixture on the Darwin community calendar and brings more than 15,000 people together to celebrate local creativity and connection.

This year Seabreeze is painting the festival green, so to say, with pavilion ‘The Ripple Effect’ hosting discussions with scientists and other experts on climate and the environment. And check this out – internationally acclaimed scientist, explorer, conservationist and former Australian of the Year Professor Tim Flannery is star guest and speaker.

The first day is the highlight and goes off with a bang of food, fun and hundreds of live performances stretching along 1.5 kilometres of stunning Nightcliff foreshore. There’s pretty much a stage for all tastes with regular favourites including the Charles Darwin Music, Spoken Word and Blues stages, featuring back-toback performances.

You’re also invited to get learnin’ about your local mangroves and coastline with guided field walks throughout the week, in partnership with the folk from Keep Top End Coasts Healthy. This is the perfect way for schools, community groups and individuals to discover the wonders in our own backyard.

WHEN

AT COST INFO

SAT 6 – SUN 14 MAY | BIG DAY SAT 6 MAY, 8AM-10PM NIGHTCLIFF FORESHORE FREE nightcliffseabreeze.com

Always a good way to take in the world, this year you can also ride your bike and park it safely at bike concierge stops along the length of the festival. There’s high fives for people who bring their own water bottles as part of the ‘single use plastic bottle free’ initiative. You can purchase a nifty reusable Seabreeze bottle or bring your own and get hydrated via refill stations dotted throughout.

This festival is all about Community, with a capital C – so pump up your tyres or put on your walking shoes and head down for a big, beautiful day.

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DARWIN

FESTIVAL Early RELEASE WORD – DARWIN FESTIVAL HAS ANNOUNCED MORE SHOWS FOR 2017, joining its early announcement that Darwin Symphony Orchestra will perform in the Festival this year.

The new shows announced include three big-ticket events at Darwin Entertainment Centre. If you were secretly – or not so secretly – hooked on the comings and goings of Downton Abbey, you won’t want to miss Opera Australia’s take on Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. A brilliant comic opera, this madcap

paghetti eating contests, Italian pop stars, medieval flag throwing and food, lots of food – is there any wonder 20,000 Darwinites have been known to turn up for this day of deliciousness?

Get ready for new culinary and entertainment heights at the biennial Italian Festival.

Italy has 20 regions, each renowned for their distinct savoury and sweet dishes and President of the Italian Festival Association Maria Randazzo says you’ll find much of it on the festival menu.

“We don’t just stop at the pizza, pasta and gelati. There’s everything ranging from meats, breads and seafood, to grains and desserts,” said Randazzo.

And Italian vino en bira – wine and beer – to boot.

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An Italian flavoured entertainment line-up is the perfect compliment, hosted by Australian-Italian actor, comedian and producer James Liotta.

You can get your pop and R&B on with ARIA award-winning singersongwriter Cosima De Vito and enjoy world class crooner Tony Pantano, whose voice has been compared

with the likes of Elvis Presley and Luciano Pavarotti. And if you weren’t already having too much fun, there’s an ‘Italian Idol’ competition.

Fantastico!

Family friendliness is a top priority according to Randazzo, and the space includes a dedicated kid’s area, cooking demonstrations and a showcase of singing, dancing and art presented by various Darwin schools.

Randazzo says the festival is an opportunity to showcase the contributions of the Italian community to new immigrants and the public in general.

“Many Italians in the NT today arrived between the 1950s and 1970s, quite formative years. And there is now a new round of skilled migration, arriving since the 2000s, so it's refreshing for these different generations to be able to really mix on this day.”

WHEN AT COST INFO

SAT 3 JUN | 12-10PM DARWIN BOTANIC GARDENS FREE italiansnt.com.au

Penny Arcade

farce follows the adventures of a wealthy Spanish household over one chaotic day.

There's jaw-dropping acrobatic tricks and flicks as Circa goes Troppo with an action-packed beach party for the whole family and Sydney Dance Company’s electric double bill Frame of Mind also takes the Entertainment Centre stage.

Expect razor-sharp satire from New York’s undisputed queen of the underground, as Penny Arcade blazes

into town, and get teddy ready as a firm family favourite, the City of Darwin Teddy Bears’ Picnic moves to a special new home at Darwin Cenotaph on The Esplanade.

Early release tickets on sale Thursday 4 May. WHEN THU 10 – SUN 27 AUG INFO darwinfestival.org.au

noonamah Tavern & Rodeo Find us on facebook & instagram

Tavern & Restaurant great valued meals from our rodeo Steakhouse. take aways available ice cold drinks *pokies * TAB * Keno tv foxtel Big screen tv’s open 7 days (Except Good Friday and Xmas Day)

Rodeo Tickets available through ticketbo

CHESS

IN CONCERT

1801 Stuart Highway, Noonamah NT “Where The Hells Noonamah?’’

2017 Rodeo Dates May 6th June 24th August 19th Sept 23rd

October 27 & 28, Darwin Entertainment Centre

EOI close 30 May 2017 for

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

For more information contact darwinchorale@gmail.com or 0408 036 252

ROTARY CLUB OF DARWIN

thursdaY 5-10pm sundaY 4-9pm

Venue

DARWIN CONVENTION CENTRE FRIDAY 26 MAY, 2017 12.00 NOON - 4.00 PM

Free

live entertainm ent

Free Fire shows

60+ intern ati Food stallonal s 100+ arts & CraFts BYo

2017 Proceeds will go to support Menzies School of Health Research’s HealthLAB Project

Mindil VIP $12pp

Style!

SunSet in ce rved ViP spa · Private rese s ir a ch & s · Styled table h ice it w y sk e · ) (ByO Drinks

Entertainment

Great guest speakers DR DONNA ODEGAARD AM CEO Aboriginal Broadcasting Australia

MARY COUSTAS (EFFIE) Logie Award Winning Actor, Comedian, Speaker and Writer

HEIDI SMITH-VAUGHAN Head of Child Health Laboratory Research, Menzies School of Health Research

THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

MC JONATHAN UPTIN

ONLY $175pp Sponsor Table Packages Available

www.mindilmarket.com.au events@mindil.com.au

BOOKINGS: www.stickytickets.com.au/49819 CONTACT: Darwin Coordinators Linda Young: 0419 228 785 linda@darwincoordinators.com.au

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PERFORMING ARTS

Q&A

with comedian Wil Anderson

WIL ANDERSON tand-up stalwart Wil Anderson is rocking Darwin for one night only with his new show Critically Wil. Off The Leash caught up with the award-winning comedian, television host and podcaster.

You’ve been described as a “comic juggernaut of current affairs.”

How’d you decide which topics to go with for this show?

Actually making this show was really easy. I wanted to write about the current post truth, alternative fact, anti-expert world we’re living in, but didn’t want to do more Donald Trump jokes. So I just wrote down all the people and groups being persecuted under him like immigrants, women, science etc.

Actually now I think about it, Donald Trump wrote my set list. But he doesn’t get a mention.

You’re a trained journalist.

Do you recommend this as an undergraduate degree for aspiring comedians?

I actually have an entire routine in this year’s show about this. I’m certainly glad I decided to leave it 20 years ago and become a comedian because telling bad jokes to strangers in bars is probably never going to go out of fashion, but I’m not sure newspaper journalism’s going to be around much longer!

You’ve used a pun on your name for the title of your live shows since 1997. Do you suppose you’ll ever run out?

Nah, I’ve got about 40 on the list and you know something like

Wolverine will come out and I’ll be like, Wilverine! Write that down!

You’ve been back to Darwin a few times over the years, any lasting memories?

People who listen to my podcast would have heard many of the stories of my adventures in Darwin. So I’m a little disappointed this visit is on a Thursday night and I have to fly to Perth early the next day because ordinarily my Darwin nights end up being very interesting early Darwin mornings.

WHEN THU 11 MAY | 7.30PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $54.90 INFO yourcentre.com.au

SPUN: OBSESSION WHEN DOES AN INTEREST BECOME AN OBSESSION? AND WHAT LENGTHS WILL PEOPLE GO TO FOR THE THINGS THEY LOVE? FIND OUT AT THIS SPECIAL SPUN LIVE STORY TELLING EVENT PRESENTED BY THE CIT Y OF PALMERSTON. WHEN SAT 3 JUN | 6-8.30PM AT THE HEIGHTS, DURACK

COMMUNITY CENTRE COST FREE INFO storyprojects.com

10

Grab your esky, pull up a rug and get down to The Heights Durack Community Centre to meet six obsessed local storytellers including a mechanic who’s mad about stargazing, a man who doesn’t wear clothes and a woman who adores jellyfish.

differently about themselves and others. It helps people understand each other and empathise with strangers,” she said.

SPUN has joined forces with the Council, harnessing storytelling to celebrate the people of Palmerston.

Creative Director Johanna Bell says storytelling is an incredibly powerful tool for community building, bringing people from all walks of life together to share.

“We’ve found loads of people with really interesting obsessions.

Mad fishos, rev heads, bird nerds, match box collectors, artists and scientists. I think being a bit obsessive can be a very good thing, especially if you want to excel in an area.”

“Personal stories, told live are very powerful. They have the potential to make people think and feel

Bell says it’s only a shame there isn’t space for more than six storytellers.

Rope Burn TWO BEST MATES. ONE GETS CANCER. HILARIT Y ENSUES. ROPE BURN IS A NEW Australian play by Ava Karuso about friendship, boys and one of humanity's most frightening diseases.

Ben and Michael are best mates.

They play video games, drink beer and share a wicked sense of humour. But when one of them is diagnosed with cancer, they are thrust into a new reality. Told with blunt humour, Rope Burn explores the expectations of masculinity and shows how two young men are forced to shift their attitudes and open their eyes.

Director Julia Richardson says the journey of the characters is one that will resonate with a wide audience.

“Most people have experienced cancer in their life, whether that be personally, or watching a friend or family member go through it,” she said.

But that doesn’t mean you’re not in for a seriously good laugh.

“What I love most about this story is how it can make you laugh at the same time as making you feel

a profound connection to the characters and what they’re going through."

The main characters Ben and Michael are both 23 and Richardson says she immediately recognised her own friends in the way they speak and interact with each other.

"It's very modern and would be very recognisable to young people aged between 18 and 30,” said the 24-year-old director.

But Richardson says the play will appeal to all ages with its universal themes and dark humour, and insights into what it’s like to be 23 today.

“It really is a hilarious, high energy and unpredictable play.”

WHEN WED 24 MAY – SUN 4 JUN | 5PM AT BROWN’S MART THEATRE COST $25 | $20 CONC | $20 GROUP 8+ INFO facebook.com/ milkbartheatre

LISTINGS

MELBOURNE

COMEDY FESTIVAL roadshow

BUCKLE UP, MELBOURNE COMEDY FESTIVAL IS HITTING THE ROAD TO HOME DELIVER ITS FRESHEST AND FUNNIEST COMEDIC TALENT.

GENERAL

For the price of one ticket you get five comedic acts in an all-killer, nofiller cast of stars for one night only.

This year the line-up includes Aussie favorites Cal Wilson, Josh Earl and Hannah Gadsby, as well as talented newcomer Daniel Connell and funny man Carl Donnelly from the UK.

The Grey Panthers

The darlings of the over 60s dance world, this dynamic group for women and men meets weekly to learn new dances and rehearse for regular performances and special events throughout the Territory.

Between them, they’ve got all your comedy bases covered, and most destinations across Australia too with over 80 stops across the country on the itinerary, including Katherine and Alice Springs. And if you happen to know anyone in East Asia or India, this year the tour is also popping over there. That’s a lot of fun to be done.

WHEN EVERY FRI | 9.30-11AM AT TRACKS DANCE STUDIO COST $5 INFO tracksdance.com.au

Julia Morris – Lift & Separate

As a woman in her extreme 30s, Morris delivers her signature full tilt, high octane, stand-up storytelling in a delicious and raucous romp through day to day life.

Aussie TV, radio and standup comedian Josh Earl reckons the best part of being on the tour is going to places you’ve never been, and for him, that’s Darwin.

WHEN THU 1 JUN | 7.30PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $59.90 INFO yourcentre.com.au

“I’ve heard great things. First I’ll probably try and buy a record from a local artist. The rest of the time I think I’ll be next to the pool, thinking about how cold all my friends are in Melbourne,” he said.

Earl says the Roadshow gigs are always amazing, and wholeheartedly recommends attendance.

“They’re always so varied, and just when you think it can't get funnier, there’s another act in the wings to up the ante. It’s the best.”

Basically this is your chance to clock two and half hours of solid laughs.

So get on board, grab your mates and get giggling as the ultimate comedy road trip rolls into town.

WHEN FRI 19 MAY | 8PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $42 | $37 CONC, MEMB | $37

GROUP 8+ INFO yourcentre.com.au

Cal Wilson

WHEN WED 24 MAY | 12PM & 6.30PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $29.50 | $26 GROUPS 6+ INFO yourcentre.com.au

Mr Stink "MR STINK STANK. HE ALSO STUNK. AND IF IT WAS CORRECT ENGLISH TO SAY HE STINKED, THEN HE STINKED AS WELL…” This hilarious and heart warming adaptation of David Walliams’ award-winning children’s book is coming to the stage in Darwin.

It all starts with Chloe, just about the loneliest girl in the world, who has a mother consumed with running for parliament, and a father who is jobless and hiding out under the stairs. That’s when she befriends the local homeless man Mr Stink. Mr Stink is a classy bum who imparts wisdom and a good deal of methane gas.

Playwright Maryam Master says the first time she read the book, she laughed and cried projectile tears, and that the story is a winning combination of warmth, intrigue and humour.

“He wasn’t precious about his words and was really open to new ideas that would help lift the story off the page and make it theatrical. He was keen that we use the medium as much as possible.”

“I think it’s such a huge hit because young and old connect with the characters and relate to the themes, like what it means to be a true friend, and why we should never judge a book by it’s cover,” Master said.

Recommended for six to 12 year olds and their adults, Mr Stink has had rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. As one reviewer sums it up, “a play that has a long exaggerated burp as its most quotable line, and a fart as a remark, has got to be good, at least to every child that has ever lived and breathed.”

Working to adapt the book to the stage with British comedian, TV star and now author Walliams was a pleasure according to Master.

11

FOOD & DRINK

MALAK COMMUNITY DINNER hilospher Epicurus advised us to look for someone to eat and drink with before looking for something to eat and drink. Luckily the Malak Community Dinner has all bases covered with an evening that brings community together to connect and dine.

The program finished up but the dinners continued, taking on a life of their own. Today an average of 130 people attend the monthly gathering and an entertainment program has been added to the night. Darwin artists of all levels of experience are invited to perform for diners, and most nights are a feast of multicultural music.

“It’s a non-confrontational situation.

You sit at shared tables but can just take in the entertainment if you want. It’s also by donation so people from all walks of life can come along. And everyone always walks out complimenting the chefs,” Hedland said.

Without volunteers, including the hard working team that turns out incredible Indian Burmese cuisine for a big crowd every month, the night wouldn’t exist.

“We depend on donations from the night, sponsors that utilize the night to get a community program’s message out and volunteers on the day."

Volunteer power, community spirit and good tucker is where it's at, and Malak Community Dinners are well and truly testament to that.

WHEN FRI 26 MAY | 12-4PM AT DARWIN CONVENTION CENTRE COST $175 | $1750 TABLE 10 INFO darwinrotary.com/ladies- long-lunch

LADIES LONG LUNCH

en Blanc TIME TO GET YOUR OUTDOOR GLAMOUR ON DARWIN. It’s ‘tres chic’ mass picnic meets mystery date with beauty and fine taste, at the inaugural Le Diner en Blanc.

The concept originated in Paris, where 30 years ago Francois Pasquier held a dinner party to reconnect with a diverse bunch of friends. He asked them to meet in a public place dressed in white so they’d recognise each other, and to bring a friend. Such a fabulous time was had by all that they decided to do it every year.

Fast forward and Le Diner en Blanc has become an international phenomenon with more than 100,000 guests attending events in 60 cities throughout 25 countries.

But the original intention remains – a simple gathering of friends in a garden – and the winning recipe for the evening is much the same.

The location of the dinner is kept secret until the night. Guests gather on the evening at appointed departure points and are ferried by buses to a public space in their city. Everyone has to dress in white

LADIES OF DARWIN, TURN ON YOUR OUT-OF-OFFICE NOTIFICATIONS, IT’S TIME TO LUNCH LONG AND RAISE MONEY FOR A GREAT CAUSE. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Darwin, the 2017 Darwin Ladies Long Lunch brings women together to eat, drink and network with others, while raising money for the important work of Menzies School of Health.

Over the past two years the event has raised more than $100,000 for HealthLAB, a Menzies project addressing chronic disease in Indigenous Communities that was started by Rotary Member, the late Dr Sue Mayers.

12

Dîner

This year includes special guest speakers Dr Donna Odegaard, CEO of Aboriginal Broadcasting Australia and Logie Award winning actor, comedian and writer Mary Coustas who some might remember as the hilarious screen character Effie.

Associate Professor Heidi SmithVaughan from Menzies is also speaking, with an open forum for discussion.

Rotary Club President Mark Taylor says the success of the lunch proves how generous the Darwin community is when it comes to raising money for a good cause.

“Local businesses come out to sponsor the event, donate prizes and buy tables for the day itself. And this year is shaping up to be another success.”

LISTINGS

WHEN MON 29 MAY | REPEATS

MONTHLY | 6-8.30PM AT CHAMBERS CRESCENT

THEATRE, MALAK SHOPPING CENTRE COST DONATION INFO darwincommunityarts.org.au /dinners

The dinners originated out of Darwin Community Arts project My Sister’s Kitchen, which welcomed migrant and refugee women into the local community. While cooking, the women would practice their English, make connections outside of the home and learn about food from different cultures. At the end of the day their families and friends would come and share the food.

Becky Hedland from Darwin Community Arts says the evening has its own diverse following of people who come for the company, the amazing food and in support of local performers.

GENERAL Fabulous Ladies Wine Soiree

It’s like a book club, but with wine!

Sip on some of the country’s best over a five-course meal with hosts Anna Watson, General Manager of Lost Buoy, and Jane Thomson, founder of The Fabulous

and bring their food and picnic gear with them, with an emphasis on elegance, gallantry, sharing and friendship.

Darwin co-host Anisha Stitfold, along with Marijana Tadic and Britta Decker, says Darwin is an ideal place for such a concept.

“Our stunning landscape and a shared passion for celebrating outdoors with fine food, wine and friends make this the perfect city to host Diner en Blanc,” said Stitfold.

It’s like staging a massive art installation.

“The artists are also the audience.

Every single person comes in their white outfit, with their creative tableware and crockery. They all come together and fill a previously empty public space forming this huge moving piece of art over four hours. It’s really beautiful.”

WHEN SAT 6 MAY | FROM 5.45PM AT SECRET LOCATION COST $90 FOR TWO GUESTS INFO facebook.com/dinerenblanc. darwin

Ladies Wine Society. Book your fabulous spot early, as numbers are limited.

WHEN THU 25 MAY | 6.30-10.30PM AT CHAR DARWIN COST $130 | $110 MEMB INFO fabulousladieswinesociety. com

DigniTEA

Help bring awareness to the daily challenges that homeless women face each day in our community. An opportunity for friends, family and community to come together for a worthy cause and join an entertaining afternoon of food, raffles and door prizes in recognition of International Menstrual Hygiene Day. Bookings essential.

WHEN AT COST INFO

SUN 28 MAY | 12.30-4PM SKYCITY DARWIN $59 | $550 TABLE OF 10 sharethedignity.com.au

EVERY THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY 13

16 Tue

Sun

6 Storytime 6 Twilight Toad Busters

21 5 The Art of Mosaic 6 Aqua Zumba 21 NT Writers’ Festival 22 Darwin Art Trail 24 Pastel Drawing Workshop 27 Mataranka Never Never Festival

See Music 26

26 Lee Kernaghan

See Music 25

22 Mon

Sat

6 Malak Community Garden 6 Beats & Clips 6 Beautify Our Beaches 27 Monday Music Jam

27 6 Darwin Waterfront Harmony Soiree 7 Garrmalang Festival 10 Rope Burn 17 3 On 3 Basketball 20 Stone Bros 21 FlicNics 21 Visual Storytelling with Agustinas Wibowo 24 Pastel Portrait Workshop 23 Humilis (last chance)

17 Wed

25 APIA Good Times Tour

Tue

6 No Lights No Lycra 6 Nursery Time 6 Gadgets and Games Club 17 Skate Jam

23 Sun

6 Storytime 6 Twilight Toad Busters

28

5 Smak Attak! Jellyfish Weaving 5 Botanical Alchemy 6 Mindil Beach Sunset Market 6 Aqua Zumba 7 Garrmalang Festival 10 Rope Burn 12 DigniTEA 21 Wild Words 22 Butterfly Effect (last chance) 24 Pastel Portrait Workshop

18 Thu

5 Glass Beadmaking 6 Mindil Beach Sunset Market 6 Artists’ Craft and Tea 6 Schizophrenia Awareness Trivia Night 6 Malak Community Shed 6 Storytime 6 Bush Restoration Day 21 NT Writers’ Festival 21 Poetry and Coffee

Mon

See TownArts 6 10 SeeAround Performing

29

6 Malak Community Garden 6 Beats & Clips 6 Beautify Our Beaches 10 Rope Burn 12 Malak Community Dinner 27 Monday Music Jam

19 Fri

See Performing Arts 11

20

Sat

Fri

4 Darwin Symphony Orchestra Opera Gala

Thu

11 Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow

Wed

livingwatersmart.com.au

Fix your water leaks using the $200 Leak Find and Fix rebate

10 Rope Burn 11 The Grey Panthers 12 Ladies Long Lunch 25 NT News Live on Fridays 26 Hot Shots & NT Song entries close 27 Dr Hook 27 Mataranka Never Never Festival 27 Loud at the Library 27 Open Mic Nite by the Sea

26

5 Lino Printing on Textiles 6 Malak Marketplace 17 3 On 3 Basketball 21 NT Writers’ Festival 24 Pastel Drawing Workshop 25 BASSINTHEGRASS 27 Mataranka Never Never Festival

25

Wed

6 No Lights No Lycra 6 Nursery Time 6 Gadgets and Games Club 10 Rope Burn 17 Skate Jam 20 BANFF

31

5 Glass Beadmaking 6 Mindil Beach Sunset Market 6 Artists’ Craft and Tea 6 Malak Community Shed 6 Storytime 6 Bush Restoration Day 10 Rope Burn 12 Fabulous Ladies Wine Soiree 24 Seeking Symbiosis (last chance)

11 The Grey Panthers 21 NT Writers’ Festival 25 NT News Live on Fridays 27 Mataranka Never Never Festival 27 Loud at the Library 27 Open Mic Nite by the Sea

24

10 Rope Burn

Tue

6 No Lights No Lycra 6 Nursery Time 6 Lego Club 11 Mr Stink 17 Skate Jam

30

6 Storytime 6 Twilight Toad Busters 10 Rope Burn 20 BANFF 23 Ngayuku Ngura: My Home (last chance) 27 Open Mic Night Katherine

See Feature 4

See Festivals 7

7 Garrmalang Festival

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

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.

Mon

Sun

See Around Town 5

11

Tue

5 Glass Beadmaking 6 Mindil Beach Sunset Market 6 Artists’ Craft and Tea 6 Malak Community Shed 6 Storytime 6 Bush Restoration Day 10 Wil Anderson

Thu

6 Storytime 6 Twilight Toad Busters 27 Darwin City Brass Band Rehearsals

livingwatersmart.com.au

Do the 3-Step Leak Check to find household leaks.

2

Fri

11 The Grey Panthers 22 Butterfly Effect (opening) 24 Water: Eye of the Land (opening) 25 NT News Live on Fridays 27 Mataranka Never Never Festival 27 Loud at the Library 27 Open Mic Nite by the Sea

12

3 Wed

17 Skate Jam

6 No Lights No Lycra 6 Nursery Time 6 Gadgets and Games Club

Sat

5 Lino Printing on Textiles 6 Malak Marketplace 6 Freds Pass Rural Show 6 Code Club 17 3 On 3 Basketball 21 FlicNics 21 Alice Through the Looking Glass 27 Saturday Night Fever

23 NCCA exhibition opens

13

4 Thu

5

Fri

6 Seabreeze Sunset Soiree 6 Canapes & Constellations 11 The Grey Panthers 20 Flickerfest 23 Humilis (opening) 24 Seeking Symbiosis (opening) 25 NT News Live on Fridays 27 Mangrove Boogie Kings 27 Loud at the Library 27 Open Mic Nite by the Sea

Sun

6 Mindil Beach Sunset Market 6 Freds Pass Rural Show 6 Aqua Zumba 21 NT Literary Awards entries close

5 Smak Attak! Jellyfish Weaving

14

livingwatersmart.com.au

Do the 3-Step Leak Check to find hidden leaks.

If you find one, use our $200 Leak Find and Fix rebate to help fix it.

A sneaky toilet leak can use as much water as the average Australian home uses in a year.

6 Mindil Beach Sunset Market 6 Artists’ Craft and Tea 6 Malak Community Shed

See Visual Arts 23

In Darwin, we’re using more water than can be captured and supplied. Live water smart for our sustainable water future.

“I’m quiet and I run slow”

See Youth 17

Calendar MAY 2017 PUBLIC HOL

1 7 5 Saltwater Craft Fair

Wed

6 Mindil Beach Sunset Market 6 Holden vs Ford Show n Shine 6 Aqua Zumba 21 Cast From the Storm 21 Environment Centre Fundraising Film Night 27 First Sunday Blues

10 6 No Lights No Lycra 6 Nursery Time 6 Lego Club 17 Skate Jam 21 French Film Night

Mon

7 Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival

See Festivals 7

8

6 Malak Community Garden 6 Beats & Clips 6 Beautify Our Beaches 27 Monday Music Jam

See Around Town 6

6

Sat

Tue

5 Noonamah Tavern Rodeo 6 Malak Marketplace 6 Canapes & Constellations 6 Code Club 12 Diner En Blanc 21 FlicNics 24 Tripping Up the Steps to the Temple (last chance) 27 Australian Bee Gees Show 27 Kim Koole

9

Mon

6 Storytime 6 Twilight Toad Busters 27 Darwin City Brass Band Rehearsals

15

6 Malak Community Garden 6 Beats & Clips 6 Beautify Our Beaches 27 Monday Music Jam

Thek

Wee That Was

Photo by Charlie Bliss

k e e w th #you

#streetheat @ntlibrary

Caroline from GYRACC rocks a skirt made of recycled OTL mags at Junk Fest

16

Photo by Charlie Bliss

Caffè Fantastico Spaghetti Spettacolo Tagliatelle Benvenuti Gondola Gelato Ferrari Tiramisù

Caffè Fantastico Spaghetti Spettacolo Tagliatelle Benvenuti Gondola Gelato Ferrari Tiramisù

Photo by Charlie Bliss

REHEARSALS Tue 7.00pm to 9.30pm TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Sat 10.00am to 12noon Supported by City of Darwin

NEW MEMBERS AND VISITORS WELCOME Ron Roberts (President) 0418 857 744 darwincitybrassband@gmail.com

darwincitybrassband.org.au

NORTHERN TERRITORY WRITERS’ CENTRE

8941 2651 ntwriters.com.au executive@ntwriters.com.au Workshops | Monthly Events | Opportunities

YOUTH WHEN EVERY WED | 6-8PM AT JINGILI PARK COST FREE INFO launchdarwin.com.au

Wednesday

skate jam hether you’re an old hat, haven’t done it for years or are an enthusiastic newbie, Wednesday skate night at Jingili Park is your time to roll with Darwin’s growing skateboarding scene.

boarders and plenty of spectators for fun and flips.

Thanks to the City of Darwin’s LAUNCH program, this weekly evening gathering is on for another Dry season – and the family is getting bigger. Teaming up with local skate store Proper, the night regularly attracts more than 30

“It’s accessible to everyone. Most skate parks are open all hours of the day and it doesn’t matter what your age, sex, or religion is. When it comes down to it, you or I could get on a board right now and reap the benefits,” she said.

Council’s Skate Development Officer Hannah Illingworth says given the physical and social benefits of the sport, supporting and growing it makes a lot of sense.

3 3 on

WHEN SAT 13, 20, 27 MAY & 3 JUN | 5-8.30PM | AGES 12-19 AT PALMERSTON RECREATION CENTRE COST FREE INFO facebook.com/ palmerstonyouth

NT YOUNG Achievers Award

From public health initiatives to thriving businesses, the annual Northern Territory Young Achiever Awards is all about celebrating the accomplishments of young Territorians – and the 2017 roll call is as dazzling as ever.

Young Achiever of the Year Mark Munich, 24 of Driver Charles Darwin University Arts Award Eleanor Dixon, 25 of Elliot

ConocoPhillips Environment Award Alyson Stobo-Wilson, 27 of Darwin Genesse & Wyoming Australia Indigenous Achievement Award Ineke Wallis, 22 of Nhulunbuy Glencore McArthur River Mining Regional and Rural Initiative Award Neily O’Connell, 26 of Araluen NT Government Small Business Achievement Award Jamie Kokles-Ridgway, 25 of Nhulunbuy

With skateboarding becoming an Olympic sport in 2016, Illingworth says the sky’s the limit, and the recent Street Heat multidivision competition in Darwin was testament to the skill and potential of Darwin riders.

Wednesday nights are definitely about giving everyone the opportunity to have a go.

“It’s creative. Everyone has their own style and their reasons for being there. It’s good for people who aren’t into team sports but

it’s also a chance to be part of an awesome community.”

A skater herself, Illingworth says it’s something you just have to experience.

“I personally love the feeling of moving faster than I ever will on my feet. So much happens so quickly that you really do have to just do it. It’s a lot of feeling and little time for thinking, which can be a hard thing to find.”

SO WHAT IS 3ON3? IT’S THE BIGGEST URBAN TEAM SPORT IN THE WORLD, AND A WHOLE heap of instant fun. Check it out for yourself Saturday nights at the Palmerston Recreation Centre.

Fosdick says the beauty of 3on3 is it can spring up anywhere, and opening the courts on Saturday nights with music, snacks and space is just building on an already pumping scene.

3on3 follows the basic rules of traditional basketball, but it’s played on a half court, each team has three players and instead of a 40-minute game, you play for five minutes at a time. It’s fast, furious and a serious dose of fun.

“One thing I love about Palmerston is there’s little half courts dotted all over the place, so young people just start their own informal games everywhere. As long as there’s a ball, they’ll turn it into a game.”

She reckons having no strict structures is probably why it’s so big worldwide.

According to coordinator Rachel Fosdick, limited rules, mixed teams, a drop-in-when-you-can vibe and pumping tunes is a winning formula for the Saturday night comp run by City of Palmerston.

“The players range from 12 to 19 years old and they pull most of the shots. They put together their team and come up with their team names. It’s girls against boys and mixed ages – it’s really free range, where competitive basketball is highly structured,” she said.

NT Government Young Carers Award Kyaw Naing John Yusuf, 24 of The Gardens NT Government Young Indigenous Educator Award Jade Sharp, 25 of Leanyer PTTEP Australasia Health and Wellbeing Award Rian Smit, 26 of Lyons

"There’s 70 kids that play 3on3 at the Palmerston Rec Centre every afternoon with absolutely no adults in there, it’s just a group of teenagers who’ve created their own game.”

Sounds a bit awesome, hey? Get in there and give it a go for a slam dunkin' Saturday night.

Somerville Community Service Award Aditi Srinivas, 28 of Darwin The Coffee Club Fashion Award Matilda Alegria, 27 of Parap Zip Print Sport Award Jasmine Anderson, 25 of Karama

17

EF

Malak Marketplace ORGANIC FARMERS MARKET

4-9pm Every Saturday

May Events Mothers’ Day Saltwater Craft Fair Sunday 7 May 2017 9am to 2pm

Farmers Market, Food Stalls, Arts & Craft, Entertainment, Health & Education, Yoga & Market Tours

Spoil mum with a unique gift from some of the Territory’s best arts and crafts people.

Handmade wares will include glass textiles, ceramics, jewellery, paintings, prints, sculpture, candles and more.

Sat 29 April to Sat 28 October Chambers Crescent Car Park, Malak www.malakmarketplace.org.au

Free movie under the stars Alice Through the Looking Glass Saturday 13 May 2017 7pm | Free Experience the magic of the moonlight cinema every night at the Darwin Waterfront in the dry season.

Darwin Symphony Orchestra Saturday 20 May 2017 6:30pm to 9pm | Free Fireworks finale at 8:45pm A spectacular evening of opera featuring four of Australias leading operatic voices, Cheryl Barker, Jaqueline Dark, Bradley Daley and Warwick Fyfe.

Harmony Soiree Saturday 27 May 2017 4pm to 8:30pm Celebrate our thriving multicultural community and enjoy all of the food, performances and festival atmoshphere on offer.

Stephen Dupont, Sing-Sing performer, Hagen show, Western Highlands 2011. Image courtesy of the artist.

All events are alcohol and glass free waterfront.nt.gov.au

Photographs by

STEPHEN DUPONT

8 April – 18 June 2017

18

19 Conacher Street, The Gardens, Darwin

magnt.net.au

WORD ON THE STREET

Assault YOUR Ears WELCOME TO ASSAULT YOUR EARS, A MONTHLY COLUMN DEDICATED TO PODCASTS. The Unbearable Lightness of Being Hungry is probably one of the best podcast titles going around. It’s also one of the most mouth-watering, and revealing; the latter not necessarily what you’d expect from a podcast about food. Describing this podcast as just being all about food, though, doesn’t do it justice – it is next level goodness.

Originating as a blog in 2007, and a podcast in 2012, The Unbearable Lightness… is the brainchild of writer and freelancer Lee Tran Lam, who was inspired by a dinner she had at a Sydney restaurant.

Lam obviously has huge respect for food, and those who create it,

because each episode is incredibly rich with questions and detail.

Listening actually feels like an aural degustation course, but one that’s digestible, and doesn’t leave you wondering what you just ate. Lam has a beautiful knack of making you feel like you’re sitting at the table with her and a legend from the world of food.

Conversation unravels naturally, and it’s genuinely fascinating due to Lam’s ability to weave in detours from food to life, while also asking some hard questions gently. I really enjoyed her chat with Rob Caslick from Two Good.

If you’re on Instagram, check out Lam’s account, it’s a 100 per cent visual feast – @leetranlam

Jess Ong works as a Communications Manager in the arts and the private sector, and is also the Creative Producer of local storytelling night, SPUN. She is the host of SPUN’s soon-to-be launched podcast and moonlights in the world of freelance.

You can listen to The Unbearable Lightness of Being Hungry on iTunes or your favourite podcast app.

FOLLOW spunstories.net |

@jess__ong

Comics’ Corner

THERE’S SO MUCH TO DO WITH KIDS IN TOP END DRY SEASON, AND ONE UNIQUE AND SPECIAL EXPERIENCE FOR FAMILIES IS TO HEAD TO AN ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY FESTIVAL. The “jewel” for our family is Barunga Festival, an annual three day feast of music, sports and culture held in Barunga community, about four hours south of Darwin.

SHOWCASING TOP END COMIC WRITING AND LOCAL STAND-UP PERFORMERS WHO ARE GRILLED TO REVEAL THEIR INFLUENCES, FAVOURITES AND FOIBLES. Will Crawford is an up-and-crawling comic. He moonlights as a land rights lawyer and policy activist.

Q&A

with comedian Jason Williams

AFTER TAKING OUT THE NT RAW COMEDY FINAL, UP-ANDCOMING STAND-UP COMIC JASON WILLIAMS RECENTLY performed for a crowd of more than 2,000 people in the Raw Comedy Final at the Melbourne Comedy Festival.

elbow and face. Work sent me home because I didn't look the part of a waiter. I bumped into a friend who was on their way to an open mic comedy night at Brown's Mart. I joined them, got up there and had a crack at a couple things.

Aside from that haircut and awkward dress sense, how do you make hundreds of people laugh simultaneously?

Hey, my mum bought me that shirt! The trick is to remember that laughter is contagious. If you can get maybe half of them to laugh, the others will join in. Or just shut down a nasty heckler. Usually everyone is on the comedian's side!

In your Raw Comedy performance, you did a piece about not liking washing machines that sing a song after each load. Why don’t you like machines – are you speciesist?

You could definitely say I'm a livingcreature supremacist. Technology seems to do a lot wrong and it needs to be reigned in.

Tell us about your journey into stand-up comedy It was a bit of an accident. I was meant to work one night and tripped over on the way in. I managed to skin my knee, knuckles,

Favourite International and Australian stand-up comic Dave Chappelle and Jim Jefferies.

Hot tip on the next comedy superstar I love Ivan Aristeguieta.

Barunga Festival

One place you’d most like to perform Edinburgh – their Fringe sounds awesome. But I'd take Berry Springs.

Most embarrassing moment Falling over on the way into work was pretty bad! But I'd do it again if it meant I'd go further in comedy – I'm loving it.

Tips for younger players For most things, not just comedy, I would say back yourself. Always listen to something constructive and consider it – but don't change what makes you, you.

FOLLOW Croc Bite Comedy Open Mic

SAT 13 MAY | 8PM |

RAILWAY CLUB

The friendly vibe, catching up with friends, the Bunngul (traditional dance) every evening and listening to music under the stars are definite favourites. Our kids love the campfires, squashing into the family tent at night, and running around with all the other youngsters.

There are heaps of cool things for kids to do with yidaki playing, weaving, damper making, spear throwing and more. Music wise there’s something for everyone, and the 2017 line-up is looking good with Missy Higgins, Coloured Stone, B2M and other local Aboriginal bands. Family favourite Justine

Clarke returns, performing with students from the Barunga Primary School.

The Barunga Beats Disco must be seen to be believed. It goes off, and the local kids have some funky moves that would bedazzle the judges of Australia’s Got Talent.

Footy, basketball and softball are a huge part of the festival and great to watch. Personally, I’m a big fan of the women’s basketball, the barefoot athletic skills blow my mind.

But, one of the best things is just to take it easy, relax, and have a cuppa at your campsite, or perhaps contemplate an afternoon dip in the croc-free creek with the kids.

Barunga local Jamie Ahfat summed up the essence of what Barunga is all about.

“The meaning of the word Barunga is a happy place for families to live, and that’s exactly what we want for the festival, a happy place for people to come and enjoy themselves,” he said.

WHEN FRI 9 – SUN 11 JUN AT BARUNGA COST $50 | $15 YOUTH | $5 CHILD INFO barungafestival.com.au

Libby Larsen Travel is, and has always been, Libby’s passion and she believes that this shouldn’t stop when you have kids.

Libby knows that the best travel advice and tips come from other parents and so she started Growing up Troppo.

It has loads of inspiration about hip places to stay, play and eat with kids that importantly parents love too.

FOLLOW growinguptroppo.com | @growinguptroppo

19

&

flickerfest

Stone Bros

Deckchair JERVOIS ROAD, DARWIN WATERFRONT

COST $16 | $12 CONC | $10 MEMB | $35 FAM (2 ADU, 2 KIDS) BOOK deckchaircinema.com.au INFO info@deckchaircinema.com.au | 8981 0700 | GATES OPEN 6PM

Q&A

CINEMA

with Director Richard Frankland

BANFF

NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK kicks off this month with a free screening of Stone Bros at the Deckchair Cinema. In this road tripping comedy, city-based Eddie sets off to reconnect with his Indigenous roots, only to be railroaded by his wild-boy stoner cousin Charlie. Off The Leash caught up with celebrated author, poet, musician and film-maker Richard Frankland about his first feature length film.

What made you go with comedy as a genre when you wrote the screenplay?

We made it to try and humanise our mob. Aboriginal and Islander people are always seen as a problem, when we’re some of the most

20

WHEN FRI 5 MAY | 7.30PM & 9.30PM AT DECKCHAIR CINEMA COST $16 | $12 CONC | $8 U15 | $35 FAM | SINGLE SESSION INFO deckchaircinema.com.au

loving, beautiful, uproariously funny people you’ll ever meet!

Even when people are caught up carrying huge cultural loads and problems, there’s still this great humour and love.

It’s certainly a wild ride to watch, what was it like filming it?

There was a lot of love and respect on the set. I was a bit disturbed by the racism we felt coming from broader society, people outside the set, sometimes. But unfortunately that’s a reality in Australia. The biggest gift was the feeling from everyone; we were all part of making something really beautiful.

The movie kicks off Reconciliation Week in Darwin, anything you want to say to the audience?

Well, send my love and respect.

That’s number one. And I reckon, read between the lines. Take it away and let your heart sing and giggle a bit. I showed the rough cut to one old fella and he said ‘come here my boy.’ He said ‘When I seen that film, I woke up in the middle of the night laughing in the dark!’ Then he said, ‘This film will save lives!’ And that’s what I hoped for, that it would help us see each other as we truly are, not as lateral violence and broader society paints us.

Stone Bros WHEN

COST

SAT 27 MAY | 7.30PM | GATES 6PM FREE

he BANFF Mountain Film Festival – licence to thrill. You’ll be planning your next adventure before the credits roll, guaranteed.

BANFF is the most prestigious short film competition about mountain culture, sports and environment in the world. Every year it screens 300 films over a one-week festival in Banff, Canada, and follows up with an international tour of the winners, including Darwin’s own Deckchair Cinema in their itinerary.

Over two and a half hours, audiences are in for an incredible ride of soaring highs and agonising lows, experienced through

FLICKERFEST IS TOURING THE TERRITORY WITH YET ANOTHER TASTY PLATTER OF SHORT FILMS BY THE MOST TALENTED FILMMAKERS FROM AUSTRALIA AND AROUND THE WORLD. In its 24th year, the home grown Academy Accredited international short film festival has Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs on its itinerary, with a program of awardwinning short films handpicked from over 2400 entries.

From animation to comedy and flat-out suspense thrillers, everyone’s sure to walk away sated. There’s two programs on offer – Best of Australian Shorts and Best of International Shorts – and according to Festival Director Bronwyn Kidd, you don’t want to miss any of it.

“It really is an exceptional range of short films that are truly independent and unique,” said Kidd.

Springs director Dylan River, and Messiah, starring legendary actor David Gulpilil. This year Darwin’s own Miranda Tapsell is festival ambassador and main star in the always-popular festival trailer, which was directed by the celebrated Dena Curtis from Tennant Creek.

Once you’ve finished feasting on all that talented Aussie storytelling, the international line-up awaits.

From Canada to Algeria, this is the cream of the crop from around the globe including Academy Award nominated Spanish short Timecode and Nocturne in Black, made by Lebanese director Jimmy Keyrouz on a student budget, about rebuilding a piano destroyed by Jihadists in Syria.

In her 20th year as Festival Director, Kidd says she still relishes the chance to support independent storytelling and bring it to audiences.

Kidd says Flickerfest has built strong connections with the Territory over the years, and the 2017 Australian selection reflects this with films like Black Chook by talented young Alice

“Short films are outside the commercial concerns of the box office. So every year we get to see such amazing, diverse entries from around the globe. They’re truly made out of a passion for creative storytelling.”

the lenses of some of the most accomplished climbers, paddlers, skiers, snowboarders, mountaineers, mountain bikers, explorers and adventure filmmakers alive today.

Sure to enthral, BANFF is full of mesmerising cinematography, thought-provoking storylines and adrenalin-inducing action sequences.

This year you’ll run new climbing routes in French Polynesia, take an impossible ride on a mountain bike with skill master Danny MacAskill, join a band of crazy French musicians over a cavernous gorge, and ski remote and untouched slopes in Iran. You’ll hold your breath for a recreation of a world first adventure by a trio of kayakers in the Green and Colorado Rivers, and take a long hike in the desert with canine Genghis Khan and his human companion.

WHEN TUE 30 & WED 31 MAY | 7.30PM AT DECKCHAIR CINEMA COST $30.50 | $20.50 CHILD | $25.50 GROUP 15+ INFO deckchaircinema.com.au

LISTINGS Men in Black

Alice Through the Looking Glass

GENERAL

FlicNics ust off your picnic blanket and pack some snacks, the City of Palmerston’s free outdoor movie program FlicNics is back.

to draw straws, there really is something for everyone.

Make the most of perfect Dry season Saturday nights and tee up family, friends and visitors for these free outdoor cinema gatherings at Goyder Square in Palmerston.

First off the blocks this month is family fantasy adventure film Hook, followed in week two by Mary Poppins. This special theme night – prizes for best character dress – kicks off at 6pm and is screening as part of National Families Week celebrations. Head down for roaming performers, children's activities with Fairy Jill, food stalls and free popcorn!

The line-up of movies for the 2017 season has everything from action to animated movies. From Men in Black and Ghostbusters, to Shaun the Sheep and My Girl, no need

City of Palmerston Mayor Ian Abbott says as far as community building goes, FlicNics has been a huge success since it started in 2014.

NT Writers' Festival

“The idea was always to create an event that would bring the community together, strengthen family relationships and instill a sense of community pride,” Abbott said.

A free and accessible movie night has done just that according to Abbott.

“It’s been a great inclusion to our events calendar, activating our city centre with many residents attending each Saturday night.”

WHEN EVERY SAT | 7PM AT GOYDER SQUARE, PALMERSTON COST FREE INFO palmerston.nt.gov.au

WHEN SAT 13 MAY | 7PM AT DARWIN WATERFRONT COST FREE INFO waterfront.nt.gov.au

NT Literary Awards Cast from the Storm

Join the Darwin Amnesty Group for a screening of this uplifting documentary. After fleeing war and persecution, a group of teenagers come together in a life-changing theatre program at a Sydney high school. With guidance from dedicated teachers, they share with Australian audiences the extraordinary stories that made them refugees.

WHEN SUN 7 MAY | 4-5.30PM AT CHARLES DARWIN UNIVERSITY,

BUILDING BLUE 5.1.0 COST GOLD COIN DONATION INFO facebook.com/darwinamnes tyinternational

Environment Centre Fundraising Film Night

WHEN AT

COST INFO

SAT 20 & SUN 21 MAY | 9.15AM-5.15PM STREAMING TO DARWIN CITY & CASUARINA LIBRARIES | PALMERSTON LIBRARY | BATCHELOR LIBRARY FREE ntwriters.com.au

GATHER ROUND PEOPLE, THIS UNIQUE CELEBRATION OF ALL THINGS STORY IS BASED IN ALICE SPRINGS THIS YEAR – but no need to miss out if you can’t get to the Red Centre – a new program of live streaming sessions gives Darwin and other audiences around the Territory a front row seat.

The theme for this year is crossings and Festival Director Dani Powell says it's a particularly fertile one for a place like Alice Springs.

The weekend program of panels, author talks and presentations by writers, songwomen and storytellers beams live into libraries and community venues across the NT. Remote audiences in Darwin, Palmerston, Batchelor, Tennant Creek and Ngukkur can even take part in the Q&A sessions by sending questions via SMS direct to panellists.

Alice Springs, or Mparntwe, is home to the Arrente people, and Powell says the theme of crossings really came to focus when she consulted a group of Arrente women.

“Set in the geographical centre of the continent, this is a place of crossings – linguistically, culturally, geographically, " she said.

“In Arrernte they said there is the concept of iwerre-atherre – meaning two roads meeting, neither blocking nor erasing the other. It can refer to two-way learning or travelling together.”

You can listen to prize-winning field biologist Tim Lowe as well as senior Gulf Country and Yuendemu songwomen. The program has poets, photojournalists and a prolific line-up of local authors and storytellers.

Powell says the festival aims to bring the Territory’s rich storytelling communities together, including people who are outside of the larger cities and towns or those who may not be able to afford the travel.

“We welcome everyone to be part of the journey of iwerre-atherre, crossings.”

Soak up a moonlight cinema experience on the lawns with your best peeps. Based on the beloved stories of Lewis Carroll, go on an adventure with Alice as she goes back to the whimsical world of Underland to save the Mad Hatter.

Grab a dinner special or go the homemade picnic fare.

NT wordsmiths, it’s your time to shine. Entries for the 2017 Northern Territory Literary Awards are open with seven categories including short stories, travel stories, poetry, essays, youth, theatre scripts and flash fiction.

WHEN ENTRIES CLOSE SUN 14 MAY COST FREE INFO ntl.gov.au

NT WRITERS' CENTRE 8941 2651 ntwriters.com.au

Poetry and Coffee

Connect with fellow poetry lovers and share your favourite verses, or your own originals. No criticism, just enjoyment, simply turn up and sip on a coffee in chilled poetic company.

Support NT's Environment Centre at this screening of The Bentley Effect, a documentary about a successful community campaign against fracking. Special Guest Tim Flannery will open the night.

WHEN THU 18 MAY | 10-11AM AT EAT AT MARTINS, COCONUT GROVE COST FREE

WHEN AT COST

INFO

Learn how to tell your story through the lens. Join this acclaimed Indonesian photographer and travel writer as he guides you through making a photographic essay, including how to frame, compose and discover the narratives in your pictures.

SUN 7 MAY | 6-9PM DECKCHAIR CINEMA $16 | $12 CONC | $10 DFS MEMB | $8 U15 deckchaircinema.com.au

French Film Night

Go on a suspenseful ride watching L'Affaire SK1 while enjoying French cheese and wine at this monthly Alliance Française de Darwin event. The film chronicles the hunt and trial of a 1990s serial killer, dubbed “The Beast of the Bastille”, and the young inspector who become obsessed with solving the case.

WHEN WED 10 MAY | 6.30PM AT CHARLES DARWIN UNIVERSITY,

BUILDING BLUE 5.1.0 COST $20 | $14 MEMB & STUD INFO afdarwin.org

Visual Storytelling with Agustinus Wibowo

WHEN AT

COST

SAT 27 MAY | 10AM-1PM FROG HOLLOW CENTRE FOR THE ARTS $50| $42.50 NTWC MEMB

Wild Words

The stage is wide open for anyone to perform poetry, prose or read a blog – anything creative will do! An afternoon of word-ly appreciation every last Sunday of the month.

WHEN SUN 28 MAY | 3-5PM AT RAILWAY CLUB COST $5 | FREE FOR PERFORMERS

21

VISUAL ARTS MAGNT

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory 19 Conacher Street, The Gardens | 8999 8264 | magnt.net.au

DARWIN ART TRAIL

Various locations | darwinarttrail.com.au

MON–FRI 9AM-5PM | SAT & SUN 10AM-5PM

Stephen Dupont, 'Sing-Sing drummer, Enga show, Wabag 2011'; image courtesy of the artist

Piksa Niugini Photographs by Stephen Dupont Showcasing acclaimed Australian photojournalist Stephen Dupont’s journeys through Papua New Guinea’s most important cultural and political zones – the Highlands, Sepik, Bougainville and capital city Port Moresby. This remarkable body

of work captures the human spirit of the people of PNG, one of the world’s last truly wild and unique frontiers.

WHEN UNTIL SUN 16 JUL

Exit Art is a celebration of the talents and creativity of the next generation of artists and designers, presenting the very best contemporary art and design from Northern Territory Year 12 students. The exhibition reflects the diversity of NT artistic practice and practitioners, expressing universal themes of identity, place and environment.

WHEN UNTIL SUN 4 JUN

HOT!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MAGNT ART COLLECTION Hot! showcases 52 works from MAGNT's Australian art collection by some of the country's hottest artists, past and present. Featuring works by the likes of Tom Roberts, Brett Whiteley, John Brack, Tony Albert, Emily Kngwarreye and Jeffrey Smart, the exhibition looks at the various meanings we put to the word hot.

WHEN UNTIL SUN 13 AUG

NORTHERN TERRITORY LIBRARY Parliament House | Corner Bennett and Mitchell Street, Darwin ntl.nt.gov.au TUE, THU, FRI 10AM–5PM | WED 10AM-8PM | SAT & SUN 1–5PM

Art U&T

ABO

with Darwin Art Trail FROM THE INNER SUBURBS OF DARWIN TO THE BANKS OF DARWIN RIVER DAM, the Darwin Art Trail (DAT) makes for an inspiring and creative day out. Motivated by the beautiful landscapes, animals, textures and colours of the Darwin region, the group works across mediums including glasswear, jewellery, garden sculpture, pottery, painting, wood, leather, metal and recycled materials.

Running the third Sunday of each month until September, DAT showcases local artists in their private studios, providing visitors an opportunity to talk with and purchase artworks direct from the artist and to see where the magic happens.

Off The Leash caught up with some studio owners for a closer look at this growing trail.

When was DAT established?

Darwin’s first art trail was established in 2014 by four studio owners who saw a need in Darwin for the public to interact with artists in their studios, connecting and understanding their artistic

inspirations and how they work.

How many studios are on the trail?

As in all living and artistic endeavours, this is ever changing.

There have been five different studios over the last three years, all showcasing a large variety of artistic talent and work. From this base, the trail continues to grow as it taps into the vibrant and exciting Top End community.

Is there a recommended route for the day if you want to visit all the galleries?

Feedback from participants is that many will start the day with a leisurely breakfast either out rural – the Purple Mango has been mentioned – or in town, taking their time and enjoying their visits and a country drive. You can make it a whole day adventure.

What's the best part for visitors of visiting artists in their homes/studios?

Each studio is unique and there are always ‘works on the go’, so even if you have visited before you can

see the latest creations evolving – often the buyer becomes part of the process by purchasing a work before it’s even finished. It’s an opportunity to meet artists who are building their dreams, taking the chance to live life on their terms, and creating from their hearts to give back to people.

Do the artists' sell their wares elsewhere?

Yes, some of the studios are open at other times or by appointment.

Others are regulars at local markets and the large craft fairs.

Some of the studios offer tuition so that patrons can return and create their own art works.

Anything new happening on the trail in 2017?

There are three new studios joining that will push the art trail in fresh directions and offer visitors a new palette of exciting choices.

WHEN SUN 21 MAY | REPEATS MONTHLY | 10AM-4PM

TACTILE ARTS

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

iNsTagrammers

the best of NT photography from Instagram WHEN UNTIL SUN 2 JUL

22

BUTTERFLY EFFECT: AN EXHIBITION BY LUNA BIRD Butterfly Effect is the theory that a butterfly flapping its wings in a rainforest can cause a hurricane on the other side of the world.

This butterfly inspired exhibition will feature a wall of 1200 butterflies, each representing a woman lost to ovarian cancer last year.

@michaelfranchi, 'Somewhere along the north-west coastline'

Of the millions of photos shared on Instagram every day, some of the best come from photographers in the NT. Now, these have been collected in one exhibition, creating a unique picture of life in the NT, bursting with impossible landscapes, distinctive characters and cheeky wildlife.

"Ovarian cancer is not a silent killer but it does whisper. I had all the symptoms but didn’t know it. The butterflies reflect hope and that knowledge equals power". Luna Bird, artist.

Luna Bird, ‘Butterfly Wall’, 2017, resin

WHEN FRI 12 – SUN 28 MAY | OPENING FRI 12 MAY, 5.30PM

POP-UP EXHIBITION

GYRACC

art4edont2017.com

Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre Stuart Highway, Katherine East | 8972 3751 | gyracc.org.au TUE–FRI 10AM-5PM | SAT 10AM–3PM

Romolo Tipiloura, 'Owl Turutjikini', 2017, ochre on ironwood, 32 x 8 x 9cm

Kim Shanahan, 'She Dropped a Tear More Rare than a Pearl', 2017; courtesy the artist

ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENDERS OFFICE

Online Auction Now in its third year, the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO) NT art auction showcases works from 15 art centres from across the Territory. Prominent Territory artists have donated the works and money raised goes to support the EDO NT. Get involved with the environment and support Aboriginal artists by bidding in the EDO NT online art auction.

HER LIPS BEGAN TO SCORCH

Djilpin Decade:

An exquisite collection of work by visual artist and Katherine High School art teacher Kim Shanahan, this multidisciplinary exhibition explores the human understanding of temptation using three key themes: Australian fauna, human movement and aesthetics.

The home of Djilpin Arts, Ghunmarn Culture Centre in the remote community of Beswick, opened in 2007. This is the first time all 112 prints spanning over 10 years of printmaking have been shown together, in a grand culmination of community and collaboration.

WHEN UNTIL SAT 3 JUN

WHEN UNTIL THU 22 JUN BID galabid.com/auction/edont

NCCA

2/3 Parap Place, Darwin | 8981 4822 | outstation.com.au TUE 10AM-1PM | WED–FRI 10AM-5PM | SAT 10AM-2PM

WED–FRI 10AM–4PM | SAT 10AM–2PM

Karina Coombes, 'Kulama Design', ochre on linen, 100 x 100cm; image coutesy artist

Indigenous artists Karina Coombes and Joanne Nasir commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1967 Australian referendum.

AUSTRALIA,

LONG BEFORE IT HAD A NAME

Darwin-based artist Katherine Bradley's narrative frieze in oil paints.

Ancestry

Wadeye/Port Keats-based artist Jason Rao Sellaiah pays tribute to his late father through 2D and 3D forms.

WHEN FRI 12 MAY – SAT 10 JUN | OPENING FRI 12 MAY, 6-8PM

Visaitp

NOMAD ART GALLERY

WHEN UNTIL SAT 3 JUN

OUTSTATION

Northern Centre for Contemporary Art Vimy Lane, Parap | 8981 5368 | nccart.com.au

GOLDEN YEARS

Gapu Water

Cynthia Burke, ‘Landscape’, 2017, acrylic on canvas, 152 x 152cm

NGAYUKU NGURA

My home WHEN SAT 6 – TUE 30 MAY

Warakurna is a small community situated near the Rawlinson Rangers in the Ngaanyatjarra Lands of Western Australia, approximately 330km from Uluru near the NT border. The paintings from Warakurna Arts are vibrant and diverse, reflecting each artist’s unique style, stories and connection to country and focuses on the work of established artists Neville Niypula Mcarthur and Nola Campbell, and rising star Cynthia Burke.

Par ES I GALLER

Vickers Street, Parap | 8981 6382 | nomadart.com.au MON–FRI 10AM–5PM | SAT 9AM–2PM

Humilis WHEN FRI 5 – SAT 27 MAY | OPENING FRI 5 MAY, 6PM

by Winsome Jobling Sand palm, Livistona humilis, (merrepen, wumberra) is the most widespread Northern Territory palm. These resilient little palms provide food, medicine, fibre and colour. There is strength in numbers for the plants as they communicate and nurture each other through their roots and by sending airborne signals – there is constant chatter in the bush!

Winsome Jobling, 'Chattering', 2017, drypoint on handmade watermarked paper, 43 x 61cm

23

CHARLES DARWIN UNIVERSITY ART GALLERY Building Orange 12, CDU Casuarina Campus | 8946 6621 | cdu.edu.au/artgallery WED–FRI 10AM-4PM | SAT 10AM-2PM

DVAA

Darwin Visual Arts Association Woods Street, Darwin | 8981 9351 | dvaa.net.au WED–FRI 12-5PM | SAT 10AM–3PM

Pastel Society OF AUSTRALIA WORKSHOPS

Run by Christine Clark from the Pastel Society of Australia, these workshops are designed to help the beginner to the more experienced artist. Bookings essential.

DYNAMICS OF DRAWING WHEN SAT 20 & SUN 21 MAY | 8.30AM-4PM COST $100 PER DAY | $90 PSA

MEMB PER DAY

PASTEL PORTRAITS WHEN SAT 27 & SUN 28 MAY | 8.30AM-4PM COST $110 PER DAY | $90 PSA

MEMB PER DAY

PAUL JOHNSTONE GALLERY Antonio Soares , ‘Man carrying children’, late 20th century, wood, white hardwood with cloth, 51 x 11.5 x 10 cm; private collection of Maria do Céu Lopes da Silva

Harriet Place, Darwin | 8941 2220 | pauljohnstonegallery.com.au TUE–FRI 10AM–5PM | SAT 10AM–2PM

The Sculptures of Atauro island The Charles Darwin University Art Gallery, State Secretariat of Arts and Culture of TimorLeste and Timor Aid present this unique and captivating sculptural tradition from the remote island of Atauro that lies across the Wetar Strait from Dili, Timor-Leste’s capital city. The Sculptures of Atauro Island

presents both contemporary and historical sculptures, and explores continuity and change in the woodcarving and sculptural traditions of Atauro Island.

WHEN UNTIL SAT 15 JUL

Jennifer Taylor, 'Routeburn Outlook 5', oil on board, 36 x 122cm

FRAMED – THE DARWIN GALLERY 55 Stuart Highway, Stuart Park | 8981 2994 | framed.com.au MON-FRI 9AM-5.30PM | SAT 9AM-4PM | PUBLIC HOLS 11AM-3PM

Seeking

Symbiosis Award-winning Sydney artist Robyn Gordon focuses on coastal and marine environments in this exhibition of exuberant colours and textures. A painter, jeweller, printmaker, sculptor and textile artist, Robyn sees symbiotic strategies as essential to balancing man’s tendency to want to dominate nature.

WHEN FRI 5 – THU 25 MAY | OPENING FRI 5 MAY, 6.30PM

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Water: THE EYE OF THE LAND Exquisite and ethereal, Jennifer Taylor's new exhibition celebrates water in all its forms – rain, cloud, snow and ice, lake, stream and sea. In these paintings water is the eye of the land – lively, shining, changeable, expressing the mood and atmosphere of a place, seeking out and returning our gaze.

Tripping up the Steps

to the temple

Robyn Gordon, ‘5 hr Seductive Underwater Spectacle Threatened’, 2016, paint, polymer clay, cast, plated and epoxy enamelled pewter on cavas

Tripping up the steps to the Temple is Bryan Bulley’s sixth solo exhibition at Paul Johnstone Gallery. Bulley’s paintings sit within and happily bubble away in a parallel universe of their own. If the sliding doors of fate had flipped this way rather than that, if society had moved along a slightly different evolutionary branch, taking a fork left instead of right, we could well have ended up some place like where his paintings take us.

WHEN UNTIL SAT 6 MAY

Bryan Bulley, 'The Temple above Venus Bay', 2017, acrylic on canvas, 61 x 122cm

WHEN FRI 12 MAY - SAT 3 JUN | OPENING FRI 12 MAY, 5.30PM

MUSIC

BASS IN THE GRASS s one of Darwin’s most popular music festivals, BASSINTHEGRASS pulls in some of Australia’s biggest artists every year. With a veritable who’s who of rising Australian musicians on the bill, this year’s BASSINTHEGRASS line up is bound to draw a crowd.

The list is filled with Triple J favourites, with a sizable number of Hottest 100 hits between them. The station aligned with BASSINTHEGRASS as a media partner earlier this year and has ran a Triple J Unearthed competition for an NT artist to join the line-up, with Alice Springs based muso Resin Moon taking the prize.

First on the bill is Gold Coast indie pop singer and songwriter

Amy Shark. Her single ‘Adore’ catapulted her into the top of the charts last year, coming in at number two in Triple J’s Hottest 100. Since spending a large part of this year selling out venues across Australia and New Zealand, Shark is taking a trip to the Top End for a one night only appearance at BASSINTHEGRASS. Fellow Hottest 100 alumni The Rubens also take the stage. The group have had growing success since their self-titled debut album reached platinum five years ago.

The five-piece won over even more fans last year, with a free 22-show tour across the country following the release of Hoops.

Young up-and-coming singer and guitar prodigy Tash Sultana brings her solo set from Victoria, after sell-out shows across Australia, the US and Europe. Having started

as a busker on the streets of Melbourne, Sultana has gone viral as a multi-instrumentalist with a real talent for Santana-esque guitar solos.

Peking Duck, L D R U, Boo Seeka and Thundamentals are bound to bring the party vibes with their mix of electronic, hip hop and pysch rock, with other big name additions The Veronicas and John Butler Trio also joining the bill.

BASSINTHEGRASS will also feature a stack of talented local musicians.

There will be local acts, as well as the winner of the NT Music School Battle of the School Bands competition.

Tickets tend to sell out for this one, so get in quick. It is a solid list of acts and one of the best ways to welcome in the Dry season.

APIA

WHEN EVERY FRI | 4.30-7PM AT BROWN’S MART COURTYARD COST FREE INFO brownsmart.com.au

GOOD TIMEs TOUR 2017 The annual Apia Good Times Tour returns for its fifth consecutive year with another formidable lineup of Australian music legends including The Black Sorrows with Vika and Linda Bull, Colin Hay (Men at Work), Mental as Anything and Deborah Conway. Each artist performs a solo set of their hits, before joining in a collective finale with all four musicians onstage.

NT NEWS

Live on Fridays IT’S ANOTHER ONE OF THOSE MUCH-AWAITED EVENTS THAT, JUST LIKE THE DRAGONFLIES around town, returns to the Top End to mark the start of the Dry season.

This quintessential Darwin Friday afternoon knock-off session brings a range of musicians to Brown’s Mart every Friday of the Dry. Kicking things of is ROYMACKONKEY in duo form. A staple of the Darwin music scene for years, now is your chance to see this award-winning alternative rock group stripped back to two musicians.

Week two sees the country-tinged ballads of David Garnham, and Crank Williams and Patsy DeCline take the stage on May 19 with their old-school blues rock.

Capping off the month of May is Kim Koole, a previous NT Song Of The Year finalist and born and bred Territorian. Koole’s love of country music and laid-back approach inspired by the Darwin lifestyle is evident throughout her set lists.

She just celebrated the launch of her debut album last month, so it is pretty safe to say that audience

WHEN SAT 20 MAY | 11AM-11PM AT DARWIN BOTANIC GARDENS AMPHITHEATRE COST FROM $70 INFO bassinthegrass.com.au

members can expect to hear some new tracks from this well-liked local.

This popular live music showcase in the Brown’s Mart courtyard draws in new talent and well-established local musicians every year and runs until October.

The Black Sorrows are one of Australia’s most enduring touring bands, with front man Joe Camilleri steering the group through a diverse line-up of blues and soul, with flashes of country.

For 30 years Vika and Linda Bull have held their place as two of the most distinctive and versatile vocalists on the Australian music landscape.

Colin Hay is familiar to millions of music lovers as frontman and songwriter of pop sensation Men

at Work. Over the past 15 years, Hay has reinvented himself as a solo artist and is returning to Australia exclusively for this tour.

After nearly 40 years of recording and non-stop touring Mental As Anything is still going strong. The Mentals started off as students who put a band together in Sydney in the mid 1970s and have since had 25 Top 40 hits in Australia.

Deborah Conway has been a significant contributor to Australian music for over 30 years.

Her first solo album achieved platinum sales and earned her an ARIA Award. Conway will be joined onstage by long-time collaborator Willy Zygier.

WHEN WED 17 MAY | 9PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $90 INFO yourcentre.com.au

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Sarah Blasko Q&A As a multi-award winning and established artist in Australia’s music scene, you could be mistaken for thinking that Sarah Blasko has been rocking it solo for years – however Territorians are in for a special treat as Blasko brings her first completely unaccompanied performance to Darwin as a part of her The Soloist Tour.

Returning to the Top End with her much loved indie pop and rock stylings, Off The Leash caught up with the artist ahead of her visit to talk about what drove her to go it alone this time around.

You played a great concert last year for Darwin Festival. Are you looking forward to coming back to the NT? Yes, I’ve had so many memorable shows in Darwin and I know a few great people that live up there

too. I enjoy the energy of the crowd, much less reserved than city audiences and I loved the beautiful lanterns in the gardens of the Amphitheatre at Darwin Festival.

How do you feel your music has changed or developed since your first solo album in 2004?

It’s a difficult question to answer in many respects – in the same way that it can be difficult to assess how you’ve changed as a person over many years. But I do feel like I’ve found my voice. When I listen back to that first album, I hear someone trying to establish her identity, but I think now there is a certainty in my voice.

This will be your first time performing without a band on tour. Why did you decide to do this?

At this point in my life and career

LEE Kernaghan WHEN SAT 27 MAY | 7PM AT SKYCITY DARWIN COST $80 INFO skycitydarwin.com.au

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LEE KERNAGHAN OAM HAS BEEN A STAPLE IN AUSTRALIA’S COUNTRY MUSIC SCENE FOR decades and his championing of rural Australian life has seen him develop a strong community following across the country. His Pass The Hat Around Australia and Spirit Of The Bush tours raised millions for drought relief, farmers and country Australia.

With several chart-topping albums backing up his first successful 1992 album Boys From The Bush, Kernaghan returns to Darwin for a one-off performance on the lawns at SKYCITY. Part of a nationwide tour that accompanies the release of his The 25th Anniversary Album, the tour commemorates two and a half decades since Kernaghan’s first number one single and the release of his debut album The Outback Club. He has since gone on to have 34 number one hits on the Australian country music charts and sell over two million albums in Australia. His blending of traditional American country music styles with an esoteric rural

with singer-songwriter Sarah Blasko

WHEN THU 1 JUN | 8PM AT DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE COST $40 INFO yourcentre.com.au

I’m keen to reignite the fire in my belly and I thought a dose of removing myself from my comfort zone would be a great tonic. It’s also something special that no one has seen me do before – a chance to reconnect with my audience – and a couple of friends have been trying to convince me to do this for a while so I felt I owed it to them.

What do you think it will be like for you?

I think I’m going to love the experience and feel energised by it – but I think it will be quite nerve wracking too!

What can the audience expect?

A very intimate show, beautiful and simple. I’ll be playing a whole range of music from all of my albums including songs I haven’t played for a long time – drama, intrigue!

s e l fi Pro Australian flavour has cemented him as an icon in the industry. In 2015 Kernaghan released the epic Spirit of The Anzacs album, based on letters and diary records of Australian servicemen and women dating back to the landings at Gallipoli, with all earnings donated in perpetuity to veteran support groups.

This outdoor show canvasses Kernaghan’s musical career and sees him joined by popular country music group The Wolfe Brothers, who rose to fame after featuring on Australia’s Got Talent in 2012. Following up with numerous hits on the country music charts, The Wolfe Brothers achieved four number one tracks from their album Nothing But Trouble.

It’s the first time Kernaghan has performed in the Top End in 10 years, so fans should get in quick to secure tickets if they haven’t all been snapped up already.

Elsey Day (detail) by Elise Derwin. 2016 Best Portrait Photo and People's Choice Award

HOT SHOTS

Photography Comp MUSICNT IS GIVING TOP END CREATIVES THE OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE THEIR work, with applications for both the NT Song of the Year and Hot Shots Competitions now open.

The NT Song of the Year Awards showcases the songwriting talent of the Territory and was introduced in 2012 as a means to celebrate original NT music, across a range of genres. Last year’s overall winner Resin Moon went on to have a stellar 2016, with his winning track ‘Salt’ achieving nationwide airtime on Triple J, and undertaking a successful national tour.

MusicNT’s Executive Director Mark Smith said the awards are an important platform to recognise NT talent.

“NT Song gives all Territory artists the chance to be discovered, and to show the rest of the country some of the most exciting new music being created,” Smith said.

“A really exciting element is discovering new talent. We come across bedroom producers and musicians who may not have a profile yet, but are submitting killer tracks that we’ve never heard before, and we can't wait to hear this year's entries.”

You can submit your song online until 5pm Friday 26 May, with the finalists announced next month.

&

Of the year

Running in conjunction with the NT Song of the Year is the Hot Shots Music Photography Competition, which focuses on the perspective of the punter and puts the many diverse faces and places of the NT music scene front and centre.

Territorians are encouraged to submit their images of live music or musicians online or by sending in a USB or CD. There are two main categories – Best Live Shot, for images of musicians playing live, and Best Portrait for staged photographs.

Entries close on May 26, with the People’s Choice Voting opening in June. The photos are then taken on a touring exhibition to Alice Springs, Darwin and other remote centres across the Territory.

These initiatives from Music NT celebrate our local music industry and open up all types of doorways for artists. Whether you are an amateur or a more experienced artist, photographer or musician, these are great opportunities to get feedback and exposure for your work.

WHEN ENTRIES CLOSE FRI 26 MAY | 5PM INFO musicnt.com.au

NT SONG OF THE YEAR COST $11 FOR FIRST THREE SONGS

$11 FOR EACH ADDITIONAL SONG HOT SHOTS COST FREE | MAX 6 IMAGES

PER PERSON

MAY

GIG guide

WHEN AT COST INFO

Mangrove Boogie Kings

OTL's quick and essential guide to live music in the Top End. Rock on!

Since emerging from the swamps of Mangrove Creek in North Sydney in 1974, The Mangrove Boogie Kings have made a name for themselves in the Sydney pub scene and were honoured by the iconic Slim Dusty in a track named after the band. Most of the members went on to form the commercially successful band Model Husbands, but in 2008 the group was brought back together and returned to performing regularly in Sydney. These veteran rockers bring their celebrated country rock to the Railway Club this month, a show bound to satisfy blues and rockabilly fans.

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

/OTL.magazine

@OTLmag

FRI 5 MAY | 7PM RAILWAY CLUB $32.50 darwinrailwayclub.org

#OTLmag

DARWIN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

93 Mitchell Street, Darwin 8980 3333 | yourcentre.com.au

JAM NIGHTS AND OPEN MIC

GENERAL LISTINGS The Mangrove Boogie Kings WHEN AT COST INFO

FRI 5 MAY | 7PM RAILWAY CLUB $30 darwinrailwayclub.org

Open Mic Nite by the Sea

Ambient, relaxed open-air setting.

Baseline equipment provided or bring your own.

WHEN AT

COST INFO

Nightcliff Seabreeze Festival

EVERY FRI | 7-10PM DINAH BEACH CRUISING YACHT ASSOCIATION FREE dbcya.com.au

Enjoy live performances throughout the day at this community festival.

WHEN AT COST INFO

SAT 6 MAY | 8AM-10PM NIGHTCLIFF FORESHORE FREE nightcliffseabreeze.com

The Australian Bee Gees Show Saturday Night Fever 40th Anniversary Tour.

WHEN AT

COST INFO

WHEN SAT 6 MAY | 8PM COST $57.50 | $52.50 CONC

Apia Good Times Tour

The Black Sorrows with Vika and Linda Bull, Colin Hay (Men at Work), Mental as Anything and Deborah Conway.

WHEN WED 17 MAY | 8PM COST $90

SKYCITY

Mindil Beach, Gilruth Avenue 8943 8888 skycitydarwin.com.au

SAT 20 MAY | 11AM-11PM GEORGE DARWIN BOTANIC GARDENS AMPHITHEATRE FROM $70 bassinthegrass.com.au

Mataranka Never Never Festival

Kim Koole

Territory talent Koole celebrates the release of her debut album Blue Skies .

WHEN SAT 6 MAY | 7-11PM AT THE KATHERINE CLUB COST FREE

Saturday Night Fever

A fundraiser for Variety NT, channel the spirit of Studio 54, bring your best 70s disco gear, put on your boogie shoes and get ready for a night of Jive talkin’.

WHEN SAT 13 MAY | 7PM AT DISCOVERY DARWIN COST $85 | INCLUDES 2 DRINKS & FINGERFOOD INFO discoverydarwin.com.au

Dr Hook

Starring Dennis Locorriere.

This community event includes a Friday night campfire complete with dinner and live entertainment, Saturday cricket game, gymkhana and rodeo and Sunday Family Fun Day. WHEN AT COST INFO

FRI 19 – SUN 21 MAY LITTLE ROPER STOCK CAMP VARIOUS 0437 967 486

Monday Music Jam

Whether you are an established or emerging artist, bring your instrument and join like-minded musos.

WHEN EVERY MON | 7PM AT DARWIN COMMUNITY ARTS, MALAK COST FREE INFO darwincommunityarts. org.au

Darwin City Brass Band Rehearsals

New members and visitors welcome.

WHEN AT COST

INFO

Sound engineer, PA system & backline provided.

WHEN SUN 7 MAY | 2.30PM AT PINT CLUB COST GOLD COIN DONATION INFO facebook.com/firstsunday blues

Open Mic Night Katherine

Music, poetry, spoken word and storytelling.

WHEN TUE 30 MAY | 7-9PM AT KATHERINE COUNTRY CLUB COST FREE INFO katherineregionalarts.org. au

EVERY TUE | 7PM 2 ABALA ROAD, MARRARA $10 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP | $50 PER SEMESTER LEARNERS' CLASSES darwincitybrassband.org.au

NT News Live on Fridays

Brown’s Mart presents its ever popular Friday afternoon live music showcase from May-October, to help you usher in the weekend.

WHEN AT COST INFO

4.30-7PM BROWN’S MART FREE brownsmart.com.au

5 MAY 12 MAY 19 MAY

26 MAY

ROY MACKONEY (DUO) DAVID GARNHAM CRANK WILLIAMS & PATSY DE CLINE KIM KOOLE (DUO)

Loud At The Library

WHEN FRI 26 MAY | 7PM COST $99

Enjoy free live music at your local library every Friday lunchtime.

WHEN 12-1PM

Lee Kernaghan

Boys from the Bush 25th Anniversary Tour.

WHEN SAT 27 MAY | 7PM COST $80

BASSINTHEGRASS

Amy Shark, Boo Seeka, John Butler Trio, L D R U, Peking Duk, The Rubens, Tash Sultana, Thundamentals, The Veronicas, Battle of the School Bands plus local artists.

City Library Darwin Symphony Orchestra Opera Gala

Pack a picnic and enjoy an evening of opera under the stars.

WHEN AT COST INFO

SAT 20 MAY | 6.30PM DARWIN WATERFRONT GOLD COIN DONATION dso.org.au

5 MAY 12 MAY 19 MAY 26 MAY

KEVIN MCCARTHY PHILIP SPENCER TRACEY BUNN SHEL O’TOOLE

Casuarina Library 5 MAY 12 MAY 19 MAY 26 MAY

WAYNE CRISTAUDO CLARISSIMO ALAN BEAZLEY CHARLIE POWLING

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