The Arts Centre Gold Coast — Culture Issue 6

CULTURE The Arts Centre Gold Coast | Gold Coast City Gallery | Evandale Parklands

FREE

FLOOD

SECR ET S & LIE S

STAGE YOUR WORK

IN 2017

SANKOFA

AFR ICAN DANC E

Practically perfect MARY POPPINS ARRIVES

APR

JUN

Image: Owen Leong, Mudra 2014, pigment print on archival cotton paper. Collection: Gold Coast City Gallery. Courtesy of the artist and Dianne Tanzer Gallery & Projects, Melbourne and Artereal Gallery Sydney.

Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Photography Award Call for Entries for 2016 Open until 30 April For works in still photographic media by Australian artists living in Australia or overseas produced between September 2014 and April 2016 (18 month period). $20,000 first prize and up to $10,000 in acquisitions.

2015 Winner Owen Long Artist talk SatURDAY 25 JunE, 4pm — Free

Exhibition 25 June – 21 August theartscentregc.com.au/gallery Gold Coast City Gallery 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise, QLD, 4217

Presented with the Support of the Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Foundation for the Arts

Issue Six April — June, 2016 Chairman

Welcome to Cultu re

Kerry Watson Deputy Chair Richard Munro Directors Dr Patrick Corrigan AM Cr Jan Grew Tomas Johnsson Christine Lohman

This year’s musical is a family-friendly classic. Mary Poppins (p.4) is a perfect choice for children and adults and features many well-loved songs performed by some of our city’s best talent. It’ll be supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

Theatre lovers are spoiled for choice this season, with the epic mainstage drama Motherland, (p.8) the intense play Flood (p.10), the edgy youth piece Sugarland (p.7) and the comedy Allen (p.11).

Dr Patrick Mitchell Steve Romer

EXECUTIVE STAFF

We’ll also welcome African musicians in Sankofa (p.16), comedians from the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow (p.12) and continue the popular exhibition, How to Make a Monster (p.29).

Destry Puia General Manager

See you at the show.

Destry Puia — General Manager

Anna Carroll Director Cultural Precinct Project Sue-Anne Chapman Director Marketing and Communications Brad Rush Programming Director Lynda White Director Corporate Services

Contents

Tracy Cooper-Lavery Gallery Director

CULTURE TEAM Katie Loveday Marketing Supervisor Michelle Macwhirter Marketing Coordinator / Culture Editor Chris Bouffler Designer and Brand Coordinator Virginia Rigney Senior Curator

CONTRIBUTORS Sarah Worrall, Anastasia Scott-Myles, Rob Loudon, Amber Patch, Stephanie Pickett

PROOFREADER Angela Sunde

CONTACT PO Box 6615, GCMC QLD 9726 (07) 5588 4000 www.theartscentregc.com.au

Editorial contributions or comments can be sent to macwhirter@theartscentregc.com.au.

Culture is published by The Arts Centre Gold Coast. The publication of editorial does not necessarily constitute endorsement of views or opinions expressed. The publisher does not accept

STAGE – Theatre 04 Practically perfect 07 Risky behaviour 08 Brisbane history comes to life 10 Could you keep the secret?

11 On the couch STAGE – Comedy 12 Melbourne’s funniest hit the road 13 Such Noble comedy 14 Comedy in The Basement STAGE – Music 16 African dance 17 Gold Coast Jazz & Blues Club 18 Fiesta free concerts

MORE 35 Cultural Precinct update 36 Talking space with Dr Patrick Mitchell 38 Dinner under the stars 40 A place for the people 42 Calendar Apr-Jun 46 Snapped 47 Support Us 50 The Friends of The Arts Centre 51 Partners

Get social with us #culturemagazine

KIDS & TEENS 20 He’s still hungry 22 YScreen 23 Lend us your voices OPPORTUNITIES 25 Stage your work

responsibility for statements made by advertisers.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY We acknowledge and pay respects to the traditional Aboriginal people of the Gold Coast and their descendants. We also acknowledge the many Aboriginal people from other regions as well as Torres Strait and South Sea Islander people who now live in the local area and have made an important contribution to the community.

The information in this magazine is correct at the time of printing (Feb 2016).

SCREEN 27 Adrenalin adventure 27 Hearing and vision impaired 28 Gold Coast Film Festival GALLERY 29 Photo fanatics 30 How to Make a Monster 32 Get your monster on EVENTS 33 Glow 34 Farmers and fitness

Cover image: Christian Tiger

S TA G E M U S I C A L

Practically perfect Bringing the world’s best-loved nanny to our stage is a challenge Director John Senczuk is ready for. Mary Poppins opens in June.

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John, what qualities are vital when casting Mary Poppins and Bert?

Both roles are opportunities for bravura performances that require that ‘triple threat’ talent: actor, singer, dancer.

Despite the musical’s situation in Edwardian London, both roles are surprisingly ‘Australian’. Bert is that concerned, good-natured but rambunctious larrikin who likes a good yarn, he’s devoted and loyal; Mary Poppins professes to being ‘practically perfect’ in every way, but you do get the impression that she is a character born out of the resilience of the Australian bush (as we know she was).

There are hints in the libretto of a history between Bert and Mary Poppins. In casting the two roles we need to find two actors who can connect and complement each other practically in the drama and musical numbers, but also in a more invitingly visceral way. These characters are perfect for the style of Australian performance that our actors relish: exuberant and cheeky but emotionally vulnerable and painfully truthful.

theatre, managing to work on at least one, sometimes more, a year since.

In 2004, I was commissioned (with director Gale Edwards) to write Eureka a musical to celebrate the sesquicentenary of the Stockade. It was the start of a new path; directing and writing musicals is, I’m very pleased to say, a total preoccupation.

In 2014, my ‘country’ musical Rose and Rodeo (with golden guitar winner Brendon Walmsley) premiered in Toowoomba. My current projects include lyrics for The Valley Burns, a commission from Brisbane Powerhouse (music by Ed Kuepper); book and lyrics for a musical adaptation of DH Lawrence’s Kangaroo (music by Tim Cunniffe); and a major musical with Brisbane composer Bradley McCaw.

What’s your favourite scene?

Each of the scenes contributes something special, moment by moment, whether it’s the big production numbers like Jolly Holiday, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious or Step in Time; the slapstick of the kitchen scene; the poignancy of Feed the Birds or George’s epiphany; the sweet magical moments of Mary’s interaction with the children… so many fantastic moments.

As I prepare for the production, however, I’ve become intrigued by the scenes at the bank and the repetitive, precise world of the Bank Clerks, Chairman and Board of Directors. The whole social commentary and conflict emanating from that situation is crucial to the plot of Mary Poppins. George may be the master in his own house, but in his work situation we see a completely different man.

What are you looking forward to about working on the Gold Coast?

Working in any new community is exciting and I’m very much looking forward to seeing the talent - that’s always a surprising and wonderful experience. Being new to the Gold Coast, I’m eager too, to start working with the cast and the enthusiastic and generous staff of The Arts Centre, and to get to know the area with new mates!

The Gold Coast has such a fantastic reputation for its fun, sunny and informal lifestyle, so I’m more than intrigued to present audiences with this magical family fable, a fabulously contrasting story set in stitched-up, gloomy Edwardian London* with its formal conventions and strict moral code. That should make for an exciting theatrical experience!

How did the movie Saving Mr. Banks affect audience perceptions of the Mary Poppins story?

I think the experience of her early life in Allora, the early death of her alcoholic father – a failed bank manager – and her Aunt Ellie were wellknown factors in PL Travers' development of the Mary Poppins books.

Why do you think Mary Poppins has remained popular for so long?

These were remarkable and moving scenes in the film.

The original books by PL Travers (illustrated by Mary Shepard - whose These types of ‘back stage’ stories are perennially popular, and I was father, incidentally, illustrated Winnie-the-Pooh and The Wind in the Willows) were delightful and extremely popular as fascinated as anyone by Emma Thompson’s books for children thirty years before Walt wonderful evocation of a ‘difficult’ Travers, the About John Senczuk Director Disney enhanced the character’s reputation strapped-for-cash, prim English writer pitted with the film starring Julie Andrews. against the relentlessly charming, no less A graduate of NIDA, director and theatre In the first instance, I think Mary Poppins adamant, opportunistic Walt Disney, played by polymath John Senczuk has enjoyed a remains popular because of her no-nonsense, Tom Hanks. I often wonder, though, whether long and distinguished career in drama, positive, enjoy-the-moment philosophy of these revelations take the gloss off our vision dance and music theatre. He has directed/ life. This, coupled with her active imagination, of the writer and tarnish our perception of the designed for the sell-out seasons of her (often) wicked sense of humour, and the characters? Do I really want to see how the Les Misérables, The Sound of Music inventive ways in which she addresses problems trick works? How the magic happens? and Puss in Boots, Oklahoma!, Annie makes her endlessly fascinating.

What was a revelation was the Get Your Gun, David Williamson’s When There are moral tales also, for all of us: presentation of the Skerman brothers, Richard Dad Married Fury, Blood Brothers and respect for family and friends; protect our and Robert, who wrote lyrics and music for the Oliver! He has written and staged his own children; enjoy nature and the small things in songs for the film of Mary Poppins. The way works and is currently collaborating with the film presents their collaboration and work life; and see ‘the magic’ around us. The songs Matthew Condon on The Valley Burns and method was fantastic (even more, hearing the of course - both in the film and the musical - are Bradley McCaw on King Wally. actual tape recordings of their sessions over clever, catchy and memorable; we instinctively the closing credits). know all the words!

Is musical theatre your first love?

Early in my career I was preoccupied with drama, and was very interested in new Australian plays as well as the Renaissance dramatists, especially Shakespeare and Marlowe. It was during my ten years at Sydney Theatre Company, however, that I caught the musical bug - working on the Australian premier of Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods was an awardwinning and significant success for me.

In the strange way in which careers work in Australia, it’s only been in the last decade or so that I’ve been able to concentrate on musical

This event is proudly supported by Paradise Point Community Bank Branch Bendigo Bank (Major Partner) and Pindara Private Hospital (Support Partner).

See Mary Poppins on Friday 17 June to Saturday 25 June in the Arts Theatre. Tickets are Adult $65, Concession $59, Group 6+ $54 and Student / Child (U15yrs) $42. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000. *Fans will be interested to know that the screenwriter Julian Fellowes - Gosford Park and

Downton Abbey - is responsible for writing the script (the book) for the musical Mary Poppins.

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Image: Tracey Schramm

S TA G E T H E AT R E

Hurry, limited tickets available

Risky behaviour Sugarland provides a glimpse into a teenage Australia that feels like a foreign country. This exceptional play will make you laugh, cry and stay with you long after you leave the theatre.

In 2011, playwrights Rachael Coopes (Art House) and Wayne Blair (The Sapphires, Bloodland, The Gods of Wheat Street) engaged in a series of residencies in the town of Katherine, Northern Territory. The aim was to create a story that would allow audiences around the country to gain a personal understanding of what life is like growing up in remote Australia.

With over two months spent in this unique place gathering stories, making friends and writing, the result is this extraordinary new play. Following the lives of five teenagers and their local youth worker, Sugarland explores an unseen world of big responsibilities and simple pleasures, of complex issues and elusive solutions and gives insight to lives rarely seen on the Australian stage.

Nina is 16 years old, good at school, has a job at the cinema and one of the best singing voices around. But none of that is important.

She needs a place to live. Living with her Aunty in an overcrowded house, things aren't going well, and it’s getting complicated.

Erica is 16 and the new girl in town. Her Dad’s in the RAAF and the family’s just moved to Katherine. She’s lived all over Australia and every time she makes somewhere home, she moves again. She’s so used to being an outsider, she's stopped trying to fit in. The only thing they have in common is the music they listen to. Sometimes that's enough.

Sugarland tackles some hard-hitting issues such as self-harm and drug use.

Aussie Theatre described it as ‘...a beautifully calibrated play, pitched perfectly to the

adolescent ear and with a compassion for its characters that transcends the alliance of similar ages. This is a play for young people, but it’s an important play for everyone.'

This event is part of our Indigenous Program, proudly presented by Bond University.

See Sugarland on Friday 29 April at 7.30pm or Saturday 30 April at 1pm or 7.30pm in The Space. Tickets are Adult $48, Concession $42, Group 6+ $42 or Student $26. Recommended for mature audiences, aged 15 and over. Contains adult concepts. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

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Brisbane history comes to life Motherland is an epic story spanning the twentieth century, World War II and the Russian Revolution.

Shortlisted for the 2013 Patrick White Playwrights’ Award, Motherland tells a story of a forgotten figure in Brisbane’s history: Nell Tritton.

Nell was born into the Tritton family in 1899. Her father owned the Tritton Furniture Emporium, which, until recent years, was a Brisbane landmark, with its name spelled out at the top of a building in George Street.

In the 1920s, Nell left for Europe and worked as a foreign correspondent. She fell for the exiled Russian Prime Minister, Alexander Kerensky and the two were married in 1939, right before the outbreak of World War II. When the Nazis invaded France, Kerensky’s life was in danger. It fell to Nell to get him out of France and she drove for 17 days before she finally managed to get him onto a ship.

They escaped France, but the pressure had been too much for Nell and she collapsed on the ship. Kerensky brought her back to her parents’ home in Clayfield as soon as the war was over, hoping that the sunshine and her parents’ care would help her, but it was too late. Nell died in 1946 in Kerensky’s arms in Brisbane.

Motherland is a dramatic retelling of this story, brought to the stage by director, Caroline Dunphy, and a stellar cast, including Barbara Lowing, Kerith Atkinson, Rebecca Riggs, Peter Cossar and Daniel Murphy.

After four years of research and writing, Katherine Lyall-Watson is still just as intrigued by the real people at the heart of the play as she was on the day she started writing. ‘The best and worst thing about researching history,’ she says, ‘is that it’s never finished. It’s been four years and Nell is still an enigma. Her family helped shape Brisbane and her life was extraordinary, but history has forgotten her. Writing Motherland has been a way to bring her back to life and to re-imagine some of the moments that defined her.’

Timeframes and locations collide and interweave as the actors play multiple characters in this fast-paced and passionate 90-minute theatrical depiction of true stories.

Following a season at Metro Arts, Liz Burcham, CEO of Metro Arts says, ‘Katherine Lyall-Watson is an extremely proficient playwright and we are honoured to co-present the very first production of her writings.

Her plays need to be seen.’

See Motherland on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 May at 7.30pm in the Arts Theatre. Tickets are Adult $48, Concession $42, Group 6+ $42, Student $26. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

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'Nell is still an enigma.

Her family helped shape Brisbane and her life was extraordinary, but history has forgotten her.'

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Could you keep the secret?

Flood is a bold new play which explores how we live with the realities we choose to bury.

Shock Therapy Productions’ Hayden Jones and Sam Foster will direct six exceptional local actors in the drama Flood, which explores secrets, friendships and betrayal.

Six young friends, all upper middle class, are reunited on a camping trip to the north west of Australia. Briefly losing their bearings, they settle on a campsite by a small freshwater creek.

On the second day of their trip they are confronted by an elderly man who aggressively orders them to leave. Miscommunication between the group of friends and the elder causes the conflict to intensify. Adrenaline takes over and the situation escalates out of control. Fearing retribution for their actions, the friends make an impulsive decision.

In the following weeks, they are each affected differently by the weight of the act they committed. When a flood unearths their secret, guilt takes its toll and the friends’ relationships are tested to their limits.

Hayden says, ‘We chose this play because it is interesting in both content and style. It asks questions about cross-cultural understanding, connection to country and prejudice. But it doesn't jam anything down your throat. There are no 'good guys' or 'bad guys'. There are just characters and they are all very real and are treated with sensitivity.’

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Sam adds ‘Stylistically it offers some exciting challenges. It is a tight ensemble piece, with dynamic storytelling, requiring us to be inventive with minimal set and props. We are really looking forward to working so closely with this great young cast.’

Which of your friends would be the best at keeping a secret? Who would crack first under pressure? And what lengths would you go to in order to protect ‘the group’?

Written by Chris Isaacs, co-creator of It’s Dark Outside (nominated for a 2013 Helpmann Award) and member of Black Swan’s Emerging Writers Group, Flood is this year’s Youth Theatre Project performance.

Proudly Supported by Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast and Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Society, Gold Coast Inc. See Flood on Thursday 7 April, Friday 8 April or Saturday 9 April at 7.30pm in The Space. Tickets are Adult $27, Concession / Group 6+ $24 or Student $15. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

Image: Michael Aird

S TA G E T H E AT R E

On the couch

Making something beautiful

From …Awkward Productions and

Following a week-long residency in

the creator of Beautifully Dead and

The Space, Alicia Jones presents

Un Natural Selection comes the

a free public showing of her latest

black comedy, Allen.

physical theatre work.

Over the years, psychiatrist Dr Roberts has lost his empathy for his patients. Sick of listening to their mundane problems, Dr Roberts begins creating his own entertainment: prescribing the wrong medication, demeaning patients as a form of self-therapy and manipulating them to make their problems worse.

Although Jeremy sits in the psychiatrist’s chair, his own issues outweigh those of his patients. Jeremy is consumed by control and soon, his behaviour will lead him on a dark (and hilarious) path of consequences.

Writer Stewart McMillan said, ‘I wrote Allen after really falling in love with this character from Un Natural Selection. It was so much fun writing for a sarcastic sociopath… the possibilities are endless.’

About his writing style, Stewart says, ‘I’m influenced by Monty Python, Little Britain, The Simpsons etc so my productions are more like a live cartoon than Shakespeare. My work doesn’t have a secret, subliminal message or agenda, I just love seeing / hearing audiences of all ages laughing at my work… well hopefully, as it’s a comedy!’

Featuring murders, a police investigation and one very comfy couch, Allen is a dark comedy for anyone who likes a good laugh at someone else’s expense.

In an exciting, new collaboration, physical theatre specialist Alicia Jones, together with acclaimed director, Sue Rider, present Making Something Beautiful: In the Context of Another. This work-in-progress uncovers a childlike world of beautiful experiences wrapped in layers upon layers of violence, grief, loneliness and despair.

In 2013, Alicia assembled a group of diverse artists to performatively research the relationship between violence, education and media conditioning. The piece started out as a Work in Residence at Metro Arts, focusing on activating social discourse around cycles of violence.

Originally funded for research development by the Australia Council for the Arts, Making Something Beautiful was inspired by Alicia's work within Queensland's prison system. The original work, Performing Detention is an ongoing journey and has given rise to an eclectic mix of stories and experiences for children and young people and also an extensive photographic series.

Alicia's performative style is informed by a decade of training with Ozfrank Theatre Company and explorations into Butoh and Bodyweather.

This is a well-crafted opportunity for Alicia to work with one of Australia's best directors, to make art from a place of beauty, love and self care.

See Allen on Thursday 16, Friday 17 and Saturday 18 June in The Space at 7.30pm. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

Making Something Beautiful: In the Context of Another is a week of performative research culminating in a free public showing on Sunday 24 April at 2pm in The Space. Bookings essential.

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S TA G E C O M E D Y

Melbourne’s funniest hit the road This year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow features a stellar line-up of comedians, including Bob Franklin, Kevin Kropinyeri, David Quirk, Jess Perkins and the USA’s Pajama Men.

Bob Franklin (MC) Bob Franklin is an award-winning comedian, writer, director, author and actor.

He is perhaps best-known for his extensive comedy work, including television and film roles as well as stand-up performances, but it may come as a surprise that this multi-talented creative has a serious side too, with numerous writing, directing and acting credits in dramatic works and an emerging career as a novelist.

Bob’s television comedy work includes Please Like Me (2013-15), Upper Middle Bogan (2013), Talking ‘bout Your Generation (2010-12), Thank God You’re Here (2006-2009), Stupid Stupid Man (2006-08), The Micallef Program (1998), Eric (1997), The Adventures of Lano and Woodley (1997), Jimeoin (1994-95) and The Mick Molloy Show (1999).

Bob has appeared in film comedies Boytown (2006), Bad Eggs (2002) and The Craic (1999) and had dramatic roles in Beneath Hill 60 (2010), The Last Confession of Alexander 12 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

Pearce (2008) Three Blind Mice (2008), Macbeth (2006) and After The Deluge (2002).

He has won a slew of awards for his work including the Melbourne International Comedy Festival's Golden Piece of Wood award for Stubborn Monkey Disorder (2012), Sunday Age Best Comedy Award for An Audience with Sir Robert (2011) and Equity Best Ensemble Award for The Librarians (2011).

He has also has written and directed two short suspense films and followed up his 2010 collection of short stories with the release of his first novel Moving Tigers in 2015.

likeable, silly and measured; mixing keen observational stand-up with joyfully ridiculous physical comedy. Kevin has blasted his way onto the national standup scene in a ridiculously short time, initially making a splash in 2008, winning the Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s national Deadly Funny comedy competition.

Kevin boasts a rich background as a state grade footballer and basketballer, a visual artist and years as a Youth Worker and an Aboriginal Education Worker ... and now, as a comedian.

Kevin Kropinyeri Kevin Kropinyeri is one of the fastest rising stars in Australian comedy. He’s a one-man whirlwind that will have you holding your sides laughing, as he shares tales of growing up, marriage and the particular, absurd challenges of life as an Aboriginal Australian family man.

A high-energy performer, Kevin is sharp,

See Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow on Friday 13 May at 8pm in the Arts Theatre. Tickets are Adult $56, Concession $48, Group 6+ $45 or Student $32. Recommended 15+. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

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'His first act last night was one of the most brilliant hours I have ever spent in a theatre...'

Quirky, brilliantly inventive and ever so nimble-witted, Ross Noble’s laugh-outloud performances have made him one of the world’s best-loved comedians.

Such Noble comedy

Everybody's favourite randomist is back and, as always, he has a lot of stuff backing up in his head and it’s time to let it all out.

Ross Noble’s massive national tour of his latest show Brain Dump will showcase his exuberance, spontaneity and cerebral style that has established him as one of the greatest comedians of the 21st century.

Described by The Sunday Telegraph as ‘The most brilliant stand-up of his generation’, this former Perrier Award nominee, Barry Award, and Time Out award winner for best live stand-up is a rare treat for residents of The Gold Coast.

Come and join this freewheeling and off-the-cuff master surrealist as he uses an infinite imagination and plenty of tomfoolery in a night not-to-be-missed. As the Daily Mail states, ‘His first act last night was one of the most brilliant hours I have ever spent in a theatre… and the second even better.’

See Ross Noble: Brain Dump on Sunday 17 April at 8pm in the Arts Theatre.

Tickets are Adults $46.90, Pensioners / Seniors / Students / Group 10+ $42.90.

Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000. Recommended 15+.

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COMEDY IN THE BASEMENT MICKEY D

Friday 1 April

DAVE WILLIAMS

Friday 15 April

DANIEL TOWNES

Friday 22 April

Friday 29 April

TAHIR

Friday 6 May

MICK MEREDITH

Friday 13 May

MANDY NOLAN

Friday 20 May

CHRIS WAINHOUSE

Friday 27 May

Friday 3 June

Friday 10 June

Friday 17 June

DARREN SANDERS

Friday 8 April

BRUNO LUCIA

DAVE CALLAN

STEADY EDDY

JACQUES BARRETT

Enjoy guaranteed, non-stop laughs and hilarious antics every Friday night from 8.00pm at Comedy in The Basement. Doors and bar open from 6.30pm. Tickets are $25 for adults or $22 for groups of six or more. Dinner and show packages available for $79. Groups please book in advance. Strictly 18+.

Friday 24 June

MICK NEVEN

WWW.THEARTSCENTREGC.COM.AU APRIL — JUNE, 2016 #COMEDYINTHEBASEMENT

FREE CONCERT SERIES

S TA G E M U S I C

African dance Sankofa is an unforgettable experience of high-energy African music, dance and culture with a contemporary edge. Asanti Dance Theatre company director, Appiah Annan, overcame significant challenges to achieve success in dance.

Appiah, how did you become a dancer?

I started dancing when I was 10 years old on the streets of Ghana. Then, I was just copying what I saw around me. I used to stand in front of my dad’s mirror and check myself out. The more I danced the more I enjoyed it and one day I was picked up by my master, Omari Oppong, and joined his group the Miracle Dancers. I didn’t have money to pay him to teach me so in the mornings, when I had to sell food for my mum before I went to school, I used to keep some and give it to Omari as payment. I am still not sure if my mum ever found out, but I am sure she must have known!

Training with Omari, I learnt a lot and quickly became a good freestyle and afrofunk dancer. We used to perform all over Ghana and I remember I used to be very tired at school because I was out late dancing at nightclubs and bars. Sometimes I would fall asleep at my desk and my teacher would cane me to wake me up. The headmaster advised me to stop dancing because my learning was more important than anything. When I won the national dance championships at 16, he forgot about this I think and made me the dance captain in the school. I used to teach my classmates how to dance and they were happy because everyone in the area had seen me dance on TV. When I was 17, I was accepted into AGORO which was one of the country’s leading dance companies. I moved away from my family and danced with the company for two years before it collapsed and I was out of work, along with many of the country’s finest dancers and musicians. I was left with nothing and didn’t want to go home. I felt that I had learnt so much and I didn’t want to throw it all away.

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That’s when I started Asanti. I was living on the beach and invited two of my friends to join me. We trained together and before long the group had built to a 15-piece, internationally recognised performance company. We were known in Ghana for our power and passion and students, dancers and travellers from all over the world would come to learn from us. The company is still operating in Ghana today and has helped many dancers and musicians to achieve a better life and share their knowledge of dance and music all over the world.

From there I went to London and danced in a West End show before coming to Australia. I started Asanti here and have been working for the last seven years to build it to where it is now.

What made you want to step away from traditional dance and into a contemporary format?

Growing up as a dancer in Ghana we were always learning dances from other parts of Africa and from around the world. I love my traditional dances and have learnt a lot from my predecessors, but even in Ghana I was trying to explore new boundaries.

In coming to Australia, I thought that all of my dreams would come true and that I could make anything possible. I realised quickly when I got here that, actually, it’s not that easy and I have had to work hard to get to where I am now. I found myself performing in the cultural dance scene here in Melbourne and, while I enjoy presenting my culture to other people at festivals and parties and that sort of thing, I was feeling like my work as an artist was not being able to grow.

I slowly began exploring afro-contemporary dance and putting short dances into our festival sets. The audiences loved the contemporary movement and the more I explored it the more I realised that this was a new area of interest for me. I decided that it was time that I make this a focus and push myself as a choreographer. Afro-contemporary dance is exciting because it combines all of my dance knowledge and allows me to utilise it as a choreographer in my own right, not just as a cultural dancer.

Can you tell us a little about the show?

Sankofa is my first full length afrocontemporary work. It explores the traditional Adinkra symbol which teaches us that before you can move forward you must look back to the past. When I was beginning my research for the show I knew that this was an important part of our culture and that it is a theme that people can identify with no matter where they have come from. The more I looked into it the more I realised that this was a really important story to tell.

Sankofa features incredible international guest artists from Ghana, combined with some of Australia’s most exciting afrocontemporary dancers and musicians, making them Australia’s leading African dance company. Experience Sankofa on Saturday 2 April at 7.30pm. Tickets are Adults $48, Concession/Group 6+ $42, Student/Child (u15yrs) $26. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

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Gold Coast Jazz & Blues Club The Gold Coast Jazz & Blues Club draws acclaim for its selection of bands, singers and musicians drawn from all over Australia.

WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD Friday 15 April From being an orphan boy in New Orleans to one of the best-known people in the world, this is the story of Louis Armstrong and how he changed the world of jazz through his peerless improvisational skills. Muchloved because of his big, wide smile and unassuming manner plus his gravelly voice, his repertoire stretched from Chimes Blues (1923) to Hello Dolly and What a Wonderful World circa 1964. Some of the country’s top jazz musicians come together in this show, including Geoff Power on trumpet and vocals.

THE UNFORGETTABLE NAT KING COLE Friday 13 May Nat King Cole started out as a jazz pianist who sang the occasional song, but then, in time, became one of the biggest sellers of records with hits like Unforgettable, Too Young, Mona Lisa, Stardust, Route 66, When I Fall In Love and many others. Dorian Mode and His Trio from Sydney tell the story of Nat King Cole, his life and his music.

THE RUBY PAGE QUINTET Friday 17 June Those of us who remember the music of The Four Freshmen and The Hi Lo’s will immediately identify with the talent of Ruby Page, because she and her pianist, Joe Ruberto, and trumpeter, Bob Venier, have cultivated a sound which, while all their own, echoes their predecessors. At the Newcastle Jazz Festival last August, Ruby Page was one of the star attractions where several of the Gold Coast contingent fell head over heels in love with her music. This will be Ruby’s first appearance on the Gold Coast.

All performances are staged in the Paradise Showroom. The bar and bistro opens at 6pm and the show starts at 7.30pm. Members tickets are $25 and Visitors are $30.

Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

ISSUE SIX CULTURE 17

S TA G E M U S I C

Free lunchtime concerts Fiesta de la Musica presents a series of free lunchtime performances showcasing a variety of local professional musicians and guest artists on the first Thursday of each month.

The Spirit of Latin and

The Best

The Gamelan and the

High Standards of Jazz

of Brass

Indonesian Experience

Mirror Image Entertainers are set to delight with the smooth sounds of your favourite songs, sophisticated Latin rhythms and the best jazz standards ever written. Featuring James Henshaw on vocals and bass guitar, John Pieri on guitar and vocals, Al Cesario on percussion and Glenn Thomas on piano and trumpet, these musicians will bring their wealth of experience to the Terrace Stage. This includes their work on Australian television and in the USA and Canada, as well as their experience in backing artists such as Normie Rowe and John Farnham.

Robert Evans has gathered some of the best Gold Coast musicians to present The Best of Brass. Featuring Trumpets, Trombone, French Horn and Tuba, experience the rich history of brass instruments and their music from the medieval consorts, the fanfares, the classical beauty of brass ensembles to the rich military, jazz and contemporary heritage.

The Terrace Stage will come alive with the musical colour and intricate texture of the brass instrument family.

Julia Pope and students from the Hills International College present music for gamelan orchestra – both traditional from the city of Solo in Java and new compositions by Julia Pope. The gamelan consists of both tuned and un-tuned percussion instruments made of wood and iron, all beautifully decorated in red and gold. Dancers from Tarian Indonesia will also perform during the concert, telling stories through movement and with their beautiful costumes.

See it Thursday 5 May at 1pm on the Terrace Stage. The show runs 45 minutes.

Join us Thursday 2 June on the Terrace Stage at 1pm. Come along and try playing in a gamelan from 12 – 12.30pm. Students from the College will guide and assist you in learning the patterns and beats of Javanese music.

Catch it on Thursday 7 April at 1pm on the Terrace Stage. The show runs 45 minutes.

Fiesta de la Musica returns once again in 2016 to delight Gold Coast music lovers in a celebration of the best in classical music from around the world. For more, please visit www.theartscentregc.com.au.

Jazz fever If you loved Janet Seidel as Doris Day, don’t miss her as Peggy Lee. Janet Seidel and her quartet will perform a selection of songs from her album Don’t Smoke in Bed: Songs in the Key of Peggy Lee. The songs include Things are Swinging, Why Don’t You Do Right?, Mr. Wonderful, He’s a Tramp, I’m a WOMAN, Fever, You Do Something to Me and more.

In this intimate cabaret concert, Janet and her quartet pay tribute to Grammy Award-winning American jazz singer, songwriter and actress, Peggy Lee. Janet Seidel’s voice has been ranked by critics with those of Peggy Lee, Doris Day, Julie London and Blossom Dearie, and has earned her the title ‘Australia’s First Lady of Jazz’.

Songs in the Key of Peggy Lee on Monday 4 April at 11am. Complimentary morning tea served from 10.15am. Tickets are $19.50. High tea or lunch options also available for pre-purchase for $13.50.

18 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

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KIDS AND TEENS

He’s still hungry The Very Hungry Caterpillar was first published in 1969. Forty-seven years later, that caterpillar will munch through more leaves and strawberries and cherry pies in The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show.

Parent / Carer tip!

The Very Hungry Caterpillar is the last of four stories told on stage, so before the show starts, let your little one know the ‘caterpillar’ will be on at the end!

As one of the best-selling books of all time (that’s right – it outsold The Great Gatsby and is even-stevens with classic To Kill A Mockingbird), Eric Carle has the formula right – colourful thick pages, holes for little fingers to wiggle in, delicious food and – spoiler alert - a gorgeous fat caterpillar that turns into a colourful butterfly (forever immortalised in acrylic paint and cellophane cut-outs in classrooms across the world).

We can all relate to the caterpillar’s perpetual craving for food, munching through increasing amounts until he feels ill. Readers of the classic picture book will then fondly remember the moment the butterfly emerged across the page, spreading his multi-coloured wings, and being forever affected by the act of metamorphosis.

It should have been hard to recreate the 20 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

magic of this childhood classic on stage, but JWR Productions and Michael Seider’s have brought this beloved bedtime story, and some of Eric Carles’ other classic tales, to life on stage in a magical story of transformation, families and belonging.

Faithful to the author's vision, this beautiful stage production for children including four stories: The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse, Mister Seahorse and The Very Lonely Firefly.

In the lesser-known stories we find something new. The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse is a story of creative expression – if you see an orange elephant, then paint an orange elephant – it’s good to be yourself! Mister Seahorse explores the role of fathers and is visually stunning and The Very Lonely Firefly

takes us on a story of belonging – a timely story for children learning about friendship and community.

Little ones will be taken on a journey through the talents of Eric Carle until the show builds to the crescendo of the iconic Hungry Caterpillar appearing in his kaleidoscopic glory.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show is part of the 2016 Family Series, proudly supported by McGrath Estate Agents.

See The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show on Friday 20 May at 10am, 11.45am or 1.15pm, or Saturday 21 May at 10.30am or 2pm. Tickets are Adult / Child / Concession $25, or Family (2 adults and 2 children) $69. Book at www.theartscentregc.com. au or (07) 5588 4000.

KIDS AND TEENS

‘and - pop! out of the egg came a tiny and very hungry caterpillar.’

ISSUE SIX CULTURE 21

KIDS AND TEENS

YScreen­ — More than just Minions The inaugural YScreen program is delivered as part of the annual Gold Coast

Film Festival and it brings thoughtful and intelligent cinema to a young audience these Easter school holidays.

Too often, children’s movies can tend towards the formulaic and predictable, with unique stories few and far between. YScreen aims to change that.

There are no princesses or must-have merchandise with these children’s movies, but that’s not to say they are without whimsy and colour. YScreen is a new initiative being delivered as part of the festival and Lucy Fisher, director of Gold Coast Film Festival, says, ‘It aims to bring engaging screen culture to children and youth on the Gold Coast’.

Case in point is Landfill Harmonic – a film that exposes children to the very different lives of children halfway around the world. Not only is the culture of the Landfill Harmonic children very different to Australian children, but their socio-economic circumstances are another world. Landfill Harmonic follows the Recycled Orchestra of Cateura, a Paraguayan musical youth group of kids that live next to one of

LANDFILL HARMONIC (105 minutes) GENRE Documentary / Music DATE Sunday 3 April, 11.30am VENUE Arts Cinema

22 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

South America’s largest landfills. This unlikely orchestra plays music from instruments made entirely out of garbage. Growing up on a garbage dump and literally making music from recycled materials, such as an oil can, these children find a love of music and music-making. While their circumstances provide contrast, it is their normality – they are normal children with a love of play and hope for the future – that will touch children and adults alike. With lots of ‘they are just like me’ moments, Landfill Harmonic will provide children with insightful contrast of how children their own age live around the world.

Celebrating local film-makers, Gold Coast Film Festival will also screen children’s classic Babe in homage to Gold Coast Film Festival patron, John Cox. John won the 1996 Academy Award for Visual Effects at the 68th Academy Awards for his work on Babe, famously defeating Apollo 13.

HIP HOP-ERATION (93 minutes) GENRE Documentary / Comedy DATE Tuesday 5 April, 3pm VENUE Arts Cinema

Finally, two more YScreen films will be presented at The Arts Centre Gold Coast as part of Gold Coast Film Festival. April and the Extraordinary World is an adaptation of the work of the legendary French comic artist, Jacques Tardi, and takes place in an alternate reality where Napoleon was not exiled and instead changes history as we know it.

Winning a raft of awards in its native New Zealand, Hip Hop-eration is about the joy of living life to the fullest and proves that youth is very much a state of mind. The journey to the Hip Hop Dance Championships will have young audiences cheering in delight.

Y Screen is presented by Bond University.

BABE

See www.theartscentregc.com.au more information.

for

(POP UP PICTURES)

APRIL AND THE EXTRAORDINARY WORLD

(91 minutes) GENRE Family / Comedy DATE Wednesday 6 April, 6pm VENUE Evandale Lake

(105 minutes) GENRE Animation / Adventure DATE Thursday 7 April, 10am VENUE Arts Cinema

KIDS AND TEENS

Lend us your voices The Gold Coast Choir will lend their heart-melting voices to an upcoming collaboration at The Arts Centre Gold Coast.

Since 2012, the Gold Coast Choir has been bringing children from all over the city together to share their love of singing and performing. Identifying that Gold Coast children had no choir of their own, founders Anthony Phipps, Jane Campbell and Lee Murphy, decided to create a choir with no barriers.

Every week, children from all over the Gold Coast enjoy coming together with a common interest in song. Gold Coast Choir Director, Anthony Phipps says that although they are different ages (4 – 17 years old), from different backgrounds, and attend different private and public schools throughout the Gold Coast, they love each other’s company.

Anthony says, ‘Singing is an outlet for them to relax and socialise as well.

Above all, their confidence improves in not just performing but in their day-to-day lives. Singing makes them happy.’

The choir sings across a wide variety of genres, including classical, musical theatre, pop, rock, jazz and gospel. They know their audiences and even have a repertoire of nursery rhyme songs for the very young – they just love performing for anyone that will listen!

The choir performed as part of the community choir of over 200 local

Gold Coast students for Bleach* Festival’s Horizon with Angels in March.

Featuring the music of legendary singer/songwriter, Leonard Cohen, and combined with the talents of Circa, Australia’s leading contemporary circus company, Horizon with Angels was a whimsical night of circus and music .

Gold Coast Choir will bring their expertise with them – they are seasoned performers. You may have seen the choir at community events all over the Gold Coast including Broadbeach Carols in the Park 20142015 and the Mayor's Christmas Carols 2015. They have even been on television competing on Australia's Got Talent 2015. They also sing for corporate functions, charity events and their own concerts for parents and friends.

The students get a huge thrill from singing in different performance settings, to large and small crowds and to people from different cultures and backgrounds.

The children are next looking forward to performing as the community choir supporting the July school holiday production of The Moon’s A Balloon in the Arts Theatre on 7 to 8 July.

ISSUE SIX CULTURE 23

THE ARTS CENTRE GOLD COAST

2016 FAMILY SERIES

Much-loved characters come to life!

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show

The Peasant Prince

The Moon’s A Balloon

Sungglepot and Cuddlepie

20 – 21 May

4 – 5 July

7 – 8 July

25 – 26 July

For more information and to book visit www.theartscentregc.com.au The 2016 Family Series is proudly presented by

Image: Project Puccini participants in 2015

OPPORTUNITIES

Sing with

Next Stage

OperaQ Local aspiring performers have the opportunity to audition for a coveted spot in the Gold Coast performances of The Barber of Seville when Opera Queensland’s groundbreaking community initiative returns as ‘Project Rossini’.

Successful applicants will participate in a program of free professional training in singing, dancing, stagecraft and Italian language skills before taking to the stage alongside Queensland’s best singers and the support of an ensemble from Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

In 2014, OperaQ’s world-first initiative Project Puccini saw 800 people in eight Queensland regions compete for 384 spots to sing in La Bohème. The project changed lives and filled theatres across the state.

Proudly Supported by Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast Expressions of interest are now open at the OperaQ website: www.operaq. com.au/whats-on/project-rossini.

Registrations close Wednesday 6 April.

The Barber of Seville comes to our stage on 29 and 30 July.

Tickets are on sale now at www.theartscentregc.com.au.

Stage your work in 2017

Are you looking for a venue to showcase your music, band or cabaret show? Are you launching your album? Apply now for our Next Stage program to be considered for financially-supported access to The Basement to produce your own performance.

What we offer Next Stage recipients will receive a support package valued at $1200, including venue access plus professional technical, front-ofhouse and ticketing support.

Specifically, The Arts Centre Gold Coast will fund and manage: • 1 night only access to The Basement • 6 hours of ST technical labour • 3 hours of ST Front-of-House labour • Set ticket pricing and schedule of performance • Ticket sales management • Standard lighting and audio equipment • Advertising in eNews and website After the expenses* are settled, artists will receive 70% of the Box Office takings.

Next Stage recipients will be emerging or established artists with the ability to deliver a polished performance and actively drive their own sales. To be considered, please email Vicki Buenen, Producer, on buenen@ theartscentregc.com.au, including: • A biography, outlining your performance experience (include links to online footage where possible) • A 250 word performance pitch • Preferred dates

Opportunities for independent theatre makers Have you thought about creating your own theatre work? Our black box theatre The Space is the perfect place to stretch your theatrical wings.

We are seeking expressions of interest for our 2017 Season in The Space. We encourage emerging and established independent theatre makers from the Gold Coast and surrounding regions including Brisbane and beyond to apply.

If you have a full work in mind, great! We can support you with a presenter package to bring that vision to life with professional marketing, ticketing, technical support and more.

Or if you’ve got an idea that needs some work, apply for our Works In Progress program. We’ll give you time, space and funds for professional support to bring your creative vision closer to the next stage.

Expressions of interest close Tuesday 30 June, 2016. Please download and fill in the application form and send to Producer Vicki Buenen on buenen@ theartscentregc.com.au.

Let us help you take your career to the next stage. *Expenses include booking fees, credit card charges, computer programming and labour above agreed contribution ISSUE SIX CULTURE 25

SCREEN

Coming to the Arts Cinema Cinema Supervisor and Programmer, Mika Mantykivi, gives us a sneak peek of the upcoming program.

Dad’s Army

Eddie the Eagle

The Man Who

(April)

(April)

Knew Infinity (May)

This hilarious British war comedy film is based on the BBC television sitcom Dad's Army. Directed by Oliver Parker, set in 1944, after the events depicted in the television series, the story sees a glamorous journalist sent to report on the Walmington-on-Sea Home Guard platoon. This is all before MI5 discovers there is a German spy hiding in the fictional British town. Stars Catherine ZetaJones and Bill Nighy.

Eddie the Eagle is a British-American-German sports comedy drama about Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards, a British skier who, in 1988, became the first competitor to represent Great Britain in Olympic ski jumping. The film had its world premiere at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival in January. Stars Hugh Jackman, Christopher Walken and Taron Egerton.

Growing up poor in Madras, India, Srinivasa Ramanujan Iyengar earns admittance to Cambridge University during WWI, where he becomes a pioneer in mathematical theories with the guidance of his professor, G.H. Hardy.

Stars Jeremy Irons, Stephen Fry and Dev Patel.

Love chatting about movies?

JOIN OUR MOVIE REVIEW CLUB! On the fourth Wednesday of each month, the Arts Cinema hosts a Movie Review Club. This is a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and discuss the selected film with a forum of academics. Simply see the film ahead of time, and join us on the day for an interactive discussion. Morning teas are offered at a special price and membership is free.

The next Movie Review Clubs will be held Wednesdays 27 April, 25 May and 22 June in The Basement at 10.30am. Films to be advised, visit the website for more information.

See you there!

26 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

SCREEN

Adrenalin adventure

The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour presents the most enthralling mountain adventure films that will have you on the edge of your seat.

Audiences will experience incredible highs and agonising lows through the lenses of some of the most accomplished climbers, paddlers, skiers, snowboarders, mountaineers, mountain bikers, explorers and adventure filmmakers alive today.

This year, the Australian line-up features two-and-ahalf hours of captivating short films shot in some of the most wild and remote corners of the world. Sure to enthral, it showcases mesmerising cinematography, thought-provoking storylines and adrenalin-inducing action sequences.

The tour is hot on the heels of the largest – and one of the most prestigious – mountain festivals in the world, the Banff

Mountain Festival, which takes place every November in the mountain town of Banff, in Canada. More than 300 of the world’s best mountain sport, culture, environment, adventure and exploration films are shown during the week-long event. A selection of award winners and audience favourites then tours the globe, visiting 390 communities and 35 countries as part of the festival’s official world tour.

See The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour on Tuesday 26 April at 7pm in the Arts Theatre. Tickets are Adult $30.50, Child $20.50 or Groups 10+ $25.50. Book at www. theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

For h earing and vision impaired New technology to greatly improve the lives of visual and hearing-impaired Gold Coasters has been installed at the Arts Centre Cinema.

With thousands of residents impacted by poor eyesight and hearing, the technology is already proving a winner for cinema goers.

Closed Captions are now available so people can read what they can’t hear and enjoy the latest movies. Captions are delivered via a personal device with a privacy screen, so only you can see the captions.

Kerry Campbell from Better Hearing says ‘The caption glasses and gooseneck caption piece are both excellent for the thousands of hearing-impaired people

on the Gold Coast who previously did not understand the dialogue at the movies at The Arts Centre theatres.’

Cinema 1 and 2 has three types of equipment available to assist our guests upon request. The equipment includes: • Closed Caption Headset Receiver - these glasses receive captions via infrared energy to assist hearing-impaired guests.

• Closed Caption Receiver – this gooseneck held caption box receives captions via infrared energy and rests in the chair cup holder.

• Listening assistive headset - Visually impaired guests can listen to audio-described movies with a spoken commentary including

visual jokes, visual scenes, settings and body language. Hearing-impaired guests can access audio enhancement through the same device; the audio is delivered through a personal headset with individual left and right volume controls.

These sessions are listed on our website with the code CC inserted beside. These products are compatible with films that have been encrypted with this technology. This new technology at the Arts Cinema is subject to availability.

Check session times or ask the Box Office staff for more information.

ISSUE SIX CULTURE 27

20150208_GCFF_Art-Culture AD.indd 1

8/02/2016 2:26 PM

GALLERY

Collection highlight This monumental canvas, nearly five metres in length, captures the cultural and creative knowledge of its creator Nyurapayia Nampitjinpa (aka Mrs. Bennett), an artist who herself has been described as a force of nature. She grew up in an extended nomad familial group. It was not until her teenage years that she first encountered white man.

Mrs Bennett was the wife of John John Bennett Tjapangati (c.19302002), a Pintupi speaker from Mukulurruone and one of the original artists at Papunya Tula, the settlement which was the founding place of the Western Desert Art Movement.

Although she could neither read nor write, Nicolas Rothwell observed that ‘her head was a universe of song and sacred knowledge.’1 Her paintings reference traditional women’s ceremonies and stories relating to her ‘country’ around Docker River in Pitjantjatjara lands.

Mrs Bennett was influential in shaping the female Aboriginal

artists women’s movement and was an important participant in a collaboration project on canvas entitled ‘Minyma Tjukurrpa’, which involved female painters of Kintore and related women from the centre of Ikuntji Bluff.

The Art of Nyurapayia Nampitjinpa (Mrs Bennett) was published last year to celebrate her art and life. The painting featured on the cover Untitled 2011 (pictured), was recently donated to Gold Coast City Gallery by Mr Craig Edwards under the Cultural Gifts Program.

Nicolas Rothwell, Nyurapayia Nampitjinpa, artist of a universe of song and desert law, The

1

Australian, 1 February 2013 Image: Nyurapayia Nampitjinpa aka Mrs. Bennett (1935-2013), Untitled 2011, synthetic polymer paint on canvas, Collection Gold Coast City Gallery, Gift of Craig Edwards under the Cultural Gifts Program 2016

Photo fanatics The Photo Fanatics Photography Immersion Day is for young artists aged 13 to 18 years. It’s an opportunity to learn from photographers from The Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Photography Award.

Proudly supported by The Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast.

This popular program will be held on Friday 1 July from 11am until 4pm. Cost is $55. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

ISSUE SIX CULTURE 29

HOW TO MAKE A MONSTER

Open your eyes to a world of creature FX

30 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

Image: Eye of animatronic crocodile made for Peter Pan (2003) at the John Cox Creature Workshop.

GALLERY

GALLERY

Get your monster on at How to Make a Monster:

the art and technology of animatronics at Gold Coast City Gallery Meet all kinds of movie monsters and get behind-the-scenes access to Visual Effects Academy Award® Winner and Gold Coast resident John Cox’s Creature Workshop.

Play with real animatronic mermaids, snowmen, gorillas, aliens, animals and more from classic films like Pitch Black, Inspector Gadget, Scooby Doo, Peter Pan, The Chronicles of Narnia and Babe.

Learn how fantasy creatures are created from the page to full size inventions. Become an animatronics puppeteer, a lighting technician or a creature designer.

The John Cox Creature Workshop is based on the Gold Coast and has produced many animatronic monsters and creatures for film from the 1980s right up to today. John Cox was originally drawn into this industry by finding the stop-motion animatronic Tyrannosaurus Rex and monster gorilla which was used in

Make your own monster and win a monster experience for you and 10 friends!

Celebrate monster-making on the Gold Coast by creating your own monster sculpture.

Create your own 3D monster at home, school or at Gold Coast City Gallery! Email a photo of your monster and go in the draw to win fantastic prizes.

Right here on the Gold Coast, John Cox and his Creature Workshop have created the international blockbuster exhibition How to Make a Monster: the art and technology of animatronics. Now, you can bring your own monster to life and win cool prizes!

an early version of the King Kong (1933) movie that he saw as a boy. This enthralling movie experience charted John Cox’s career course towards success and glamour, including many industry awards and nominations.

A highlight is winning the 1995 Academy Award® for creating the animatronic pigs, sheep and other creatures for the classic film Babe (1995).

See How to Make a Monster at Gold Coast City Gallery from 25 March until 12 June.

Gain access to the secrets of monster and creature design and the technologies that bring animatronics to life on film.

This is your last chance to experience this one-of-a-kind, international blockbuster exhibition where art and science collide!

Entry is $5.

Monster Prizes include: • Private tour of the How to Make a Monster with John Cox Creature Workshop team for you and 10 of your friends before the end of the exhibition on Sunday, 12 June 2016 • A double pass to a Monster Workshop of your choice • Plus a cool Monster gift pack How to enter: • Email entries to competitions@ theartscentregc.com.au • Entries close 5pm on Monday 9 May, 2016 • Finalists announced Tuesday 17 May 2016 • Monster awards event and winners announced on Saturday 21 May For full details including terms and conditions, visit www.theartscentregc. com.au.

Monster culture With How to Make a Monster opening at Gold Coast City Gallery, Project Officer Madeleine Boyd considers the role of monsters in the historical imagination.

Since the dawn of time, monsters and humans have shared the world. Strange beasts that fly in through a window or lurk behind a tree have sent chills and thrills through the spines of kids and grownups. Some of these monsters are real, like bears and wolves roaming through the village. Others grow from the imagination, feeding on fears in the dark corners of our minds. From these beginnings, stories and legends emerge.

Some of these tales warn against dangers, and others are merely entertaining. How can we tell the difference between fact and fiction? For example, many intrepid explorers still wonder if the Abominable Snowman roams the wilderness of Nepal. In Australia, Aboriginal people in some areas tell stories of bunyips, halfamphibious monsters, who devour people who come to their billabong homes. Some paleo-archeologists suggest that this story goes back thousands of years to when giant carnivorous marsupials roamed the continent of Pangea.

As stories are passed down through generations, told and retold, artists have always found ways to represent the characters. All over the planet, monsters and spirits have been drawn on or carved into rock walls by our ancient ancestors.

Over vast stretches of time, technologies have changed along with culture.

In today’s world, complex mechanical, electrical and digital technologies are a part of everyday life and so it’s no surprise that these technologies are also being harnessed to make new monsters.

Monsters quickly appeared on the silver screen, creating the need for monster movie makers and artists to innovate. The concept of the animatron was born. This is a moving sculpture with a mechanical skeleton that can be positioned and moved to create the appearance of being alive on film.

Animatronics have advanced in complexity and verisimilitude with living creatures along with technological developments in micro-computing, software, mechanics, and the chemistry of sculptural materials such as silicone.

John Cox Creature Workshop is a contemporary example of the best in animatronics, design and making.

ISSUE SIX CULTURE 31

GALLERY

Get your monster on How to Make a Moster Workshops Whether for fun or curiosity and for kids to adults, our workshops and drop-in activities will reveal secrets behind the work of Academy Award® winning John Cox's Creature Workshop and classic films like Nim’s Island, Pitch Black and Babe.

Monster Activity Zones

Monsters After Dark

Enjoy activity zones like ‘Kids Monsters’ where you can make your own monster from plasticine by following the John Cox Creature Workshop method. Runs every day from 25 March until 12 June inside the How to Make a Moster exhibition.

AGE All COST Included with $5 entry fee

A stimulating look at monster culture and monster making presented by artists, industry experts and academics. Each session includes engaging debates and are followed by topical movie screenings. 18+ yrs

Get Your Monster On workshops

April — Analogue vs Digital Creature FX May — Contemporary Monsters

Make your own monster at the half-day programs: Robot Monsters, Mermaid Monsters, Arty Monsters or Movie Monsters. Kids will learn about the art and technology of animatronics through making, tinkering and imagining.

AGE 6 -12 yrs COST Half Day $15 or Full Day $30 (Exhibition entry included in workshop fee) BOOK www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000

Monster-xpert ‘Get Your Monster On’ workshops Kids will play with digital projection, movie making and more, learning the skills to continue creating at home.

AGE 6 - 12 yrs DATES Selected times during school holidays and weekends. Check website for prices and details.

Get Your Monster On Workshops Schedule DATE

9am – 12pm

1pm – 4pm

Sat 26 Mar

Arty Monsters

Movie Monsters

Sun 27 Mar

Mermaid Monsters

Arty Monsters

Wed 30 Mar Thu 31 Mar Fri 1 Apr

13 - 18 and 18+ Whether you are a monster maker for fun or career or even working on tweaks for next year’s Supernova costume, masterclasses delivered by industry experts are sure to help you get your monster on.

Monster Sculpture School with Richard Mueck Richard Mueck has worked in the film and TV industry for over 35 years, from Star Wars to Where The Wild Things Are. He has worked as a puppeteer, costume performer, animatronics performer, sculptor, character builder and designer. Book and win Barnes casting and moulding supply VIP membership or prize pack.

Make a Monster, Alien or Super Hero Sat 9 Apr, 10am - 1pm I 15+ yrs I $45

Robot Monsters

Monster Sculpt: Action Figure Advanced

Robot Monsters

Mermaid Monsters

12, 19 and 26 Apr, 6pm – 8.30pm I 18+ I $400

Movie Monsters

Monsters on the Wall: Jason Haggerty

Robot Monsters

Arty Monsters

Mon 28 Mar Tue 29 Mar

4pm - 5.30pm

Mermaid Monsters

Fri 25 Mar

Monster Masterclasses

Mermaid and Monsters dress up day Dress up and receive two-for-one entry to the exhibition.

Monster Sculpt: Head Casting for Prosthetics. Part 1 Demonstration Sat 16 Apr, 10am – 1pm I 18+ yrs I $150

Sat 2 Apr

Arty Monsters

Movie Monsters

Monster Sculpt: Head Casting for Prosthetics. Part 2 Make a Face Cast

Sun 3 Apr

Robot Monsters

Mermaid Monsters

Sat 16 Apr, 2 pm – 5pm I 18+ yrs I $100

Mon 4 Apr

Make a Monster Movie: Stop Motion with Ethan Cox

Tue 5 Apr

Make a Monster Movie: Stop Motion with Ethan Cox

Wed 6 Apr

Arty Monsters

Movie Monsters

Thu 7 Apr

Robot Monsters

Arty Monsters

Fri 8 Apr

Mermaid Monsters

Sat 9 Apr Sun 10 Apr

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17 and 24 Apr, 9.30am – 4.30pm I 18+ yrs I $400

Monster Sculpt: Body Dummy for Cosplay Sat 23 Apr, 1.00pm – 5.00pm I 18+ yrs I $150

10am - 1pm Make a Monster, Alien or Super Hero Movie Monsters

Monster Sculpt: Mask and Prosthetics

Arty Monsters

For all details for Monster workshops and After Dark, please visit www.theartscentregc.com.au.

EVENTS

GLOW Prepare yourself for an evening of sensory overload at the third annual GLOW at the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct.

Staged around the Evandale Lake in the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct, GLOW will illuminate your senses with a myriad of light-based installations and activities.

On the program this year is a laser water show; illuminated art installations showcasing Bond University and Griffith University projects; an open air cinema featuring work by emerging artists in animation, audio, design, film, games, web and mobile, along with a feature film and short films from In the Bin and The Gold Coast Film Festival; music by local bands; the popular glow-in-the-dark yoga and tai-chi; a mobile gaming unit; extreme virtual reality and star gazing. The GLOW street food precinct will

also ensure you don’t go hungry, and we have a great line up of bands including Cheap Fakes, LS Philosophy, Aquila Young, Jackson James Smith and Crown The Humble.

A highlight is the virtual-reality experience, providing a 360 degree, fully immersive video using the latest technology.

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to climb Mt Everest, swim with sharks, turtles and dolphins, or if you’re too scared to ride a real roller coaster, then this is a must-do activity.

The aim of GLOW was to develop a night time digital arts event incorporating the beauty of the Evandale Lake and Surfers Paradise skyline, while giving local creatives

and students the chance to showcase their work at a free community event.

It was also created as a means to use the space around The Arts Centre Gold Coast in innovative ways that builds capacity for people to envisage how the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct will progress in the future.

Ride the G:link to Surfers Paradise (or park at the Bruce Bishop Carpark), then catch a free water shuttle from the Cavill Avenue pontoon to the event. Limited parking is also available onsite at The Arts Centre Gold Coast.

Enjoy GLOW on Saturday 30 April from 5pm until 10pm at Evandale Lake.

ISSUE SIX CULTURE 33

Image: Antonio Duarte, pastel drawing of Farmer Greg Foster, January 2016. Photo by Mark Warne

EVENTS

Parkrun Every Saturday morning, The Arts

Live drawing at the market

Centre has become a second home

A welcome addition to Bundall Farmers'

for many runners and walkers who

Market has been the 'live drawing'

participate in Parkrun from 7am.

sessions in Gold Coast City Gallery on

Parkrun is a worldwide phenomenon combining fitness with interactive technology. Started in 2010 in London by Tim Oberg, and brought to the Gold Coast in 2011, parkrun is unique in that it allows participants to have their personal times electronically scanned and saved, making them accessible for future use at any other parkrun course.

The highly inclusive, free community event, that commenced last November, is just one of many new attractions as part of the continued development of the Cultural Precinct, the Gold Coast’s future cultural and social hub.

The Cultural Precinct aims to offer something for everyone on the Coast, and parkrun brings the lake and surrounding parklands to life each Saturday morning. Local residents are enjoying the convenience of regular exercise and forming new friendships so close to home.

More information about the Surfers Paradise parkrun is available at www.parkrun.com.au/surfersparadise.

the first Sunday of each month.

Market goers have been thrilled to witness local talented artists from the Royal Queensland Art Society bring to life wonderfully unique interpretations of farmers who volunteer to sit each month.

For one hour, a stall holder sits for artists who use a variety of mediums to draw, including paint, ink, charcoal, stencil work, pencil and pastels.

Live Drawing Coordinator, Melissa Bates, from the Royal Art Society of Queensland Gold Coast says, ‘Live drawing involves everybody working, with a model, within the same time frame – in this case one hour to produce our finished pictures.The artist learns to communicate and the public learns to make connections.’

‘As the artists depict all the nooks and crannies and folds from the tip of the toe to the top of the head, they will find various ways to describe the mood and the moment. It is really interesting to watch how various mediums and textures are used to create different effects,’ says Melissa.

For the farmers, as the subjects, it’s a unique experience too. ‘The subjects are interested in the artists' different perceptions and excited to see themselves portrayed in each unique style,’ says Melissa.

If you’re at the Bundall Farmers’ Market on the first Sunday of the month (3 April, 1 May and 5 June), pop in to the Gallery to watch the live drawing from 9am. If you are interested in participating as an artist, please contact Sally Wright at wright@theartscentregc. com.au – places are limited.

34 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

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Moving ahead The construction phase is underway on the $37m Stage 1 of the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct.

With the doors now closed on Council's empty Surfers Paradise Administration Building, the project has moved from the early works phase which focussed on salvage, reuse and recycling.

More than 1500 pieces of furniture has been rehomed to Council offices across the city, with The Arts Centre Gold Coast being a key recipient of kitchen and office furniture to assist with the expansion of the centre’s administration.

The Upper Coomera and Albert Waterways community centres have also been furnished.

Historic items have been gifted to the Local Studies Library and community groups have also benefitted including the Gold Coast Historical Society and Surf Life Saving Australia.

Some key sculptures have found a new home at the city’s Botanic Gardens.

Steel, copper wiring and timber will also be salvaged for recycling in line with best sustainable demolition practice.

The scene is now set for Evandale to be transformed into the city's heart for civic, cultural and artistic celebration.

By July this year, the site will be cleared and earthworks will follow in preparation for construction to commence in October on the focal point of Stage 1 – the city’s new outdoor amphitheatre with sweeping concert lawn, along with artscape works. Work will also start in July on refurbishing the Riverside Hub for an expanded AA rated gallery for local, national and international visual art exhibitions, artists working spaces and new cafe.

The project will bring many long term benefits to the city, increasing visitor numbers, boosting jobs, and creating a stronger arts and cultural sector. Of the 120 jobs during construction, a minimum of 80 per cent will be delivered to local businesses and employees.

When finished, Stage 1 is expected to attract almost 300,000 visitors annually from 2018, generating $11.4 million in direct tourism expenditure.

New Gallery Director Appointed Mr Kerry Watson, Chairman of the Board, recently announced Tracy Cooper-Lavery as the new Gallery Director of Gold Coast City Gallery.

'I am pleased to announce this new appointment,’ said Kerry Watson. ‘Tracy joins us from the Rockhampton Regional Gallery where she was Gallery Director for fourand-a-half years and where she has tripled audiences and increased sponsorship support for their gallery program.’

Tracy Cooper-Lavery originally started her career at the Gold Coast City Gallery as a curator back in 1992. She then went on to take up the position of Senior Curator at Bendigo Art Gallery, which is considered to be one of the shining examples of regional galleries in Australia.

‘I began my arts career at Gold Coast City Gallery and I have keenly watched the Gallery’s development and progress over many years. To lead the gallery in Queensland’s second-biggest city is the dream of a lifetime!

I am excited to be working with the Arts Centre Board, Management and the City Council to drive the forthcoming development to a new space and refurbishment of the current Gallery spaces in preparation for the Commonwealth Games,’ said Tracy Cooper-Lavery.

Her addition to the already immensely talented gallery team comes at a transitioning time for the Gallery that is set to move to a new space, Riverside.

‘I am looking forward to working with the Gallery team to broaden the focus of exhibitions and programming, increase visitation through engagement and accessibility, and highlighting the Gallery’s collection.

The Gold Coast City Gallery has an incredible collection of Australian art, and coupled with the development of the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct I feel

there is no better time to be part of the evolution of the Gold Coast into a destination for art and culture.’

Tracy Cooper-Lavery was appointed as Director of Rockhampton Art Gallery in August 2011 where she has been responsible for transforming the Gallery’s profile on a local, state and national level. She has worked in the regional art museum sector for more than twenty years. She was appointed President of the Regional Galleries Association of Queensland in 2014 and was recently selected as a Board Member of Museums & Galleries Queensland.

She has curated numerous exhibitions on Australian and international art and was instrumental in presenting high-profile international exhibitions at Bendigo Art Gallery, including The Golden Age of Couture: Paris and London 1947-1957 (Victoria and Albert Museum, London) and Cecil Beaton: Portraits (National Portrait Gallery, London). Her projects at Rockhampton Art Gallery have included the national touring exhibition Cream: Four decades of Australian art, The Prince: Michael Zavros, Dreaming of Deco: Style in the modern age and the development of Queensland’s richest art prize, The Gold Award.

Tracy holds a Masters in Creative Arts from James Cook University as well as a post-graduate degree in Museum Studies and a Bachelor of Visual Arts. Tracy will commence as Gallery Director, Gold Coast City Art Gallery on 4 April.

ISSUE SIX CULTURE 35

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Talking space As we plan for the future art gallery, it is timely to reflect on the past.

Board Director, Dr Patrick Mitchell, highlights some of Gold Coast City Gallery’s achievements with former Gallery Director, Francis Cummings.

The prospect of a new art gallery, an arts centre or an arts precinct raises many opportunities in the community for which any of these might be intended. The opportunities can revolve around what this new creative infrastructure might offer the community, what could it look like, how and where might it be built. Alongside these opportunities also run concerns such as, who will it be for? How will the broader community, not just the artistic one, engage with it? Will it have any impact on local arts practice? For me, there is also a strong interest in how the new infrastructure will acknowledge and build on what has gone before. Indeed, these articles have been designed to not only explore some of the artistic and cultural achievements of the Gold Coast’s past, but also to consider how they might inform present and future arts and cultural activities.

An important contributor to the region’s rich creative heritage is Frances Cummings.

She was inaugural Director of the Gallery at The Arts Centre in 1986.The Gallery took the title of Gold Coast City Art Gallery and in the ten years that Cummings was its director, the Gallery was established as a leading regional gallery with a developing national reputation.

Cummings and the Gallery attracted and exhibited work of the highest calibre from national and international sources as well as stimulating strong engagement from all sections of the local community. This local support was not only evidenced by the strong financial and in-kind support from the Gold Coast City Council and, significantly, local business, but also through the engagement of 36 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

a large number of community members who volunteered to support the Gallery activities by participating in a dynamic ‘Friends of the Gallery’ program.

In talking to Cummings, it becomes clear that the first ten years of the Gallery’s operation were not only about its establishment, but also about achievement on a local, national and international scale. For example, in 1992, the City Gallery enabled the Gold Coast community to see an exhibition of portfolio prints and working models from Henry Moore who, as Cummings put it, was ‘arguably the greatest sculptor of the 20th century’. Audiences from the community and schools flocked to such a rare opportunity on the Gold Coast.

Another significant achievement was the purchase of what is and continues to be a centre piece of the Gallery’s collection. This was The Rainforest, a painting by William Robinson that won the 1990 national Wynne Prize for Landscape. As with one-time Prime Minister Gough Whitlam’s contentious purchase of Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles for the National Gallery, there was a great deal of community controversy surrounding the purchase of the Robinson work. Initially, the local Council was supportive of the purchase, but adverse media publicity made it very difficult for the councillors to find agreement on the expenditure of public funds on a painting. However, in a vigorous and inventive campaign, Cummings convinced a significant part of the Gold Coast’s corporate and private sector to provide the funds to purchase the painting work and relieved the Council from making a contribution. Like

Pollock’s Blue Poles, Robinson’s Rainforest has increased in value over time and now brings increasing prestige to the Gallery and its collection.

Another example from Cummings' time was an exhibition in 1987 called The Art of Ramingining. This venture brought together diverse art works produced in the Northern Territory’s central Arnhem Land. It set a precedent for recent exhibitions such as the extraordinary We Don't Need a Map. This 2015 exhibition brought the desert to the city to celebrate the lively and enduring culture of the Martu – the traditional owners of a vast area of WA’s Western Desert.

Similarly, the Stradbroke Project in 1992 saw Cummings recruit seven regional artists and take them to South Stradbroke to explore and interpret the island’s landscape through their own art forms. This 1990s project also resonates strongly with the present through the South Stradbroke Island Indigenous Artist Camp, where gallery staff work with indigenous artists in a project that combines exploration, reflection and creative work on the island.

A further significant and long-term outcome of the Cummings era was The Evandale Sculpture Walk. Conceived as Australia’s first integrated park the Walk combined sculptural, environmental and recreational facilities on the island-shaped grounds of the Evandale area. This project was possibly the first time the word ‘precinct’ was used in relation to this site. As with the planned precinct, the Walk brought together Evandale’s unique views of Surfers

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Image One: Francis Cummings at the opening of Gold Coast Art Prize 1993. Image Two. Francis today. Image Three: Patrick Corrigan, Francis Cummings and Peter Hallinan, taken from Gold Coast City Gallery’s Annual Report 1990 - 1991, Courtesy of Gold Coast Bulletin.

Paradise, the Nerang River, a stand of original mangroves, impressive houses on the river and a series of outdoor sculptures. For many years it has offered Gold Coast residents and visitors an experience of art outside the walls of the Gallery in a physical context that is both stunning and quintessentially Gold Coast. The Walk will continue to offer a unique experience of the Gold Coast for the many that will visit during the Commonwealth Games.

The IndyCar Grand Prix demonstrated Cummings’ and the Gallery’s capacity to connect the arts to the varied interests of the broader community. A major joint initiative between Tourism Queensland and Local Government, this event provided an important financial boost to the Gold Coast and broadened the area’s appeal for tourists.

Joe Furlonger, a nationally acclaimed Gold Coast artist was invited by Cummings in 1992 to be Artist-in–Residence for the trials and races of the 1992 event. He successfully captured the energy, the toil, the movements and visual rhythms of the experience through a series of drawings, paintings and etchings.

Nor was this a one-off project, as Cummings invited artist / photographer Susan Leeway to follow Furlonger in 1993. Projects with similar aspirations, such as the very recent Flesh: the Gold Coast in the 1960s, 70s and 80s exhibition by photographer Graham Burstow, continue to be a significant part of the Gallery’s program to record and reveal aspects of what life on the Gold Coast can involve.

At the local level, Cummings’ emphasis on building relationships with local artists, art

lovers, friends of the Gallery, local businesses and the local council gave the Gallery a broader set of relationships with the community.

Cummings sought ways for the arts and the artist to engage and reflect life on the Gold Coast. She even commissioned an event where local city councillors selected works from the Gallery Collection to exhibit in a very popularly received display.

Cummings is a passionate and forthright arts person and she offers some thoughts with regard to the role and design of a new central art gallery on the Gold Coast. One essential first step for her is that the gallery must have its own space separate from The Arts Centre. In this way it can begin to form its own particular identity. In terms of what that identity might be, Cummings points to other regional galleries around Australia and how successful they have been in providing their host communities with dynamic and substantial artistic and cultural experiences. As examples, Cummings points to the Tweed Regional Gallery and those in such places as Bendigo and Albury as exemplars of successful regional art galleries.

These are significant examples of regional communities making successful decisions and investments in cultural infrastructure that have and will bring tangible benefits to their communities. These benefits can be found not only in these galleries establishing reputations that attract art work of national and international significance not usually available to regional communities. There is also the capacity of this infrastructure to act as an incubator or nurturer of the Gold Coast, its

arts and cultural life.

It is intriguing to note that the director of the new art gallery and museum in Albury, Jacquie Helmsley, is not only formerly from the Gold Coast but was a volunteer of the Gold Coast City Gallery in its early days. As a further example of Gold Coast’s heritage, Cummings points to Tracy Cooper-Lavery, our new Gallery Director, who went on from volunteering with Cummings for six years to securing a senior curator position at Bendigo. There is also Damian Hackett who went from being a graduate from Southern Cross University, to working at the Gallery with Cummings and now is in partnership in one of the best auction houses in the country, Deutscher and Hackett Auctioneers. Of this period Cummings says, ‘We all were part of an amazing flowering of talent which in retrospect was serendipity at its best’.

In basing this article on some of the high marks of Frances Cummings' period as the Director of the Gold Coast City Gallery, I wanted to highlight some of the rich artistic heritage of this region. This past record of achievement provides some very clear signposts for the future, and affirms that a new City Gallery will have a very significant role in the community’s life. Indeed a new Gallery will provide the Gold Coast with an opportunity to engage in what Helmsley described recently as the ‘amazing success’ that has recently rewarded government and community investment in cultural infrastructure in Regional Australia. (2015).

Words by Dr Patrick Mitchell.

ISSUE SIX CULTURE 37

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38 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

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Lakeside dinner under the stars

When Gold Coast Business Events was seeking unique and world-class experiences for some of China’s most influential decision makers for incentives and corporate meetings, The Arts Centre Gold Coast was one of the venues selected.

Delegates from the 2015 Post Dreamtime Educational enjoyed an eclectic mix of arts, cuisine and entertainment in a meticulously crafted event beside Evandale Lake under the stars last December.

The Arts Centre Gold Coast’s Events team created a contemporary ‘street food’ experience, serving up casual local cuisine with seating under a tipi provided by Gold Coast

Tipis. Roving entertainment included stilt walkers, fire artisans and an acrobatic feature act in a bubble orb on the lake, as well as entertainment from local act, Rhydian Lewis.

If you’re interested in holding an event your guests or delegates will love, talk to our Events team today on (07) 5588 4000 or events@theartscentregc.com.au.

ISSUE SIX CULTURE 39

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A place for the people As an independent, not-for-profit organisation, The Arts Centre Gold Coast is guided by a highly experienced Board. Board Director, Christine Lohman, talks about marketing strategy and the Cultural Precinct. universities, will increase awareness and boost our local reputation as a regular place to visit regardless of age or family dynamic.

Christine Lohman has an extensive background in corporate communication and strategic planning and brings to the Board a high level of marketing communication and corporate governance expertise. She owned and operated one of Queensland’s leading public relations companies which formed part of a national group advising major ASX listed companies and government.

Christine, as people’s attention shifts from newspapers to online platforms, what opportunities does this create for The Arts Centre?

The Arts Centre has embraced recent research findings that underpin a greater understanding of our audience and the need to innovate. By recognising that a majority of our audiences have shifted focus from offline to online, it is clear that we do not see this as a challenge, but more of an opportunity to reach our target audience via the mediums they prefer.

The majority of people source their entertainment information from digital platforms and respond positively to Facebook feeds and conversations, so this is where 40 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

audiences congregate and where we can have a positive influence in targeting new markets.

The Arts Centre’s Facebook page currently has 19,000 followers who enjoy well-managed story-telling, giveaways and notification of what’s on. However, now is the time to ensure we are taking every opportunity to make the most of our online platforms to ensure Facebook is working to our strategic advantage in promoting engagement online, sharing and booking of events. By refining our target audience to maximise online activity and integrating our website to be a (mobile) hub for information and immediate bookings, we will meet audience expectations in all facets of marketing and advertising.

Our digital future will see us continue to build a loyal following that translates into an optimised sales funnel for our ideal customer, by creating valuable industry knowledge and entertainment through social media, eNewsletters, articles and information on other websites, case studies, videos, profiles and place stories on partner websites. Aligning our marketing with similar industries and those marketing to the same demographic, ie

How important will the new Cultural Precinct be in growing new audiences?

To create a cultural destination, ‘A Place for the People’ to visit and immerse themselves in art and artistic performance, requires differentiating our Cultural Precinct in the market place. Our competitive advantage is our location and a vibrant and brash personality; we must continue the leisure theme and offer exceptional cultural experiences unavailable elsewhere.

Attracting a new, younger audience will require changes not only to our marketing but of course to the products and services on offer.

Younger mainstream audiences value a more contemporary style of art with cultural pursuits incorporating the outdoors. If the setting allows them to meander through bright attractive popup outlets offering the latest in food trends and unusual market purchases, they will return to take advantage of other more traditional offerings. Visitors, regardless of their budget, always have money to buy food and a drink.

People need a reason to visit, a strong draw to something unusual and entertaining.

Southbank did it in Brisbane. That precinct is alive and buzzing seven days a week and it all began by attracting people to the area through outdoor markets, sports events and live entertainment. MONA is another perfect example of how to create a world-renowned destination through exemplary architecture and art. No-one travels to Hobart without a visit to the museum and to enjoy a ‘Flight of Wines’.

The Cultural Precinct can deliver a ‘mustvisit’ option for all audiences. Our magnificent setting, nuzzling the river and lagoon with a dramatic Surfers skyline in the background, will be a short ferry ride from Surfers or Broadbeach to watch a free concert and buy great food and sip an exotic cocktail.

All of the famous museums and galleries around the world have positioned themselves strategically as must-see destinations because they offer a new experience, something that sets them apart from other attractions.

PLAN YOUR NEXT BUSINESS MEETING WITH US AND WE'LL SEND YOU TO THE MOVIES

Choose a fresh venue for your next business meeting with The Arts Centre Gold Coast. With three stunning rooms on offer, sensational views and onsite catering, you’re in good hands.

Our suggested business meeting package is $68.00pp* and includes: • • • • •

Meeting room hire Functions and events staff Tea and coffee on arrival Morning tea Lunch

• • • • •

Afternoon tea ** Projector and screen Lectern and microphone WiFi Access Writing pads and pens

• Registration desk • Whiteboard and flip chart • One movie pass to the Arts Cinema per delegate

LET US TAILOR A PACKAGE TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS. Contact us now on (07) 5588 4000 or events@theartscentregc.com.au * Valid Monday to Friday and must be booked by 30.06.2016. Rooms subject to availability. ** Projector and screen applicable for Panorama Suite and Lakeside Terrace only. Office Boardroom is equipped with a plasma screen for presentations. No technical staff member will be on hand for your presentation, this is set up only.

CALENDAR

April M O NDAY

T U E SDAY

WEDNESDAY

TH U RS DAY

S ATU RDAY

Comedy (p.14)

Sankofa (p.16)

Farmers Market (p.34) Gallery: Live Drawing (p.34) Yscreen: Landfill Harmonic (p.23)

1

2

3

Flood, 7.30pm (p.10) Comedy (p.14)

parkrun (p.34) Flood, 7.30pm (p.10)

Farmers Market (p.34) Gold Coast Film Festival closes (p.28)

8

9

10

Comedy (p.14) GC Jazz & Blues (p.17)

parkrun (p.34)

Farmers Market (p.34) Ross Noble, 8pm (p.13)

15

16

17

Comedy (p.14)

parkrun (p.34)

Farmers Market (p.34) Making Something Beautiful, 2pm (p.11)

22

23

24

Sugarland, 7.30pm (p.7) Comedy (p.14)

parkrun (p.34) GLOW (p.33) Sugarland, 1pm and 7.30pm (p.7) Entries close for JUAWS Photography Award (p.2)

29

30

Gold Coast Film Festival opens 31 March (p.28)

parkrun (p.34)

29 and 30 March School Holiday fun (3 - 8 years)

Songs in the Key of Peggy Lee, 11am (p.17)

YScreen: Hip-Hoperation, 3pm (p.23)

4

5

YScreen: Pop Up Pictures: Babe, 6pm (p.23) Registrations for Project Rossini close (p.25)

6

S U N DAY

SCHOOL HOL IDAYS CON TIN UE

Don't forget!

THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET PRESENTS STORYTIME BALLET: THE SLEEPING BEAUTY

F RIDAY

YScreen: April and the Extraordinary World, 10am (p.23) Spirit of Latin, 1pm (p.18) Flood, 7.30pm (p.10)

7

B ACK TO SC HO OL !

11

18

12

19

13

20

14

21

Movie Review Club, 10.30am (p.26)

A NZ AC DAY

25

Banff Mountain Film Festival, 7pm (p.27)

26

27

28

The Arts Centre Gold Coast and Asanti Dance Theatre present

Raw energy and exhilarating dance moves DATE Saturday 2 April, 7.30pm COST Adult $48.00, Concession $42.00, Friends $42.00, Student / Child (U15yrs) $26.00, Adult Group 6+ $42.00, Student Group 6+ $21.00, BOOK NOW theartscentregc.com.au | (07) 5588 4000

42 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

CALENDAR

May M O NDAY

T U E SDAY

WEDNESDAY

TH U RS DAY

F RIDAY

S ATU RDAY

S U N DAY

Farmers Market (p.34) Gallery: Live Drawing (p.34)

30

31

1 Motherland, 7.30pm (p.8) Comedy (p.14)

Farmers Market (p.34)

6

9

8

Melbourne Comedy Festival, 8.00pm (p.14) GC Jazz & Blues (p.17)

parkrun (p.34)

Farmers Market (p.34)

13

14

15

parkrun (p.34) The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, 10.30am and 2pm (p.20)

Farmers Market (p.34)

20

21

22

Comedy (p.14)

parkrun (p.34)

Farmers Market (p.34)

27

28

29

Best of Brass, 1pm (p.18) Motherland, 7.30pm (p.8) Comedy (p.14)

2

3

9

10

4

11

5

12

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, 10am, 11.45am and1.15pm (p.20) Comedy (p.14)

16

17

18

19

Movie Review Club, 10.30am (p.26)

23

24

25

26

The Arts Centre Gold Coast presents

A play about three remarkable real women based on an incredible true story WINNER Best Independent Production, Matilda Awards DATE Fri 6 May and Sat 7 May, 7.30pm COST Adult $48.00, Concession $42.00, Group 6+ $42.00, Student $26.00 Student Group 6+ $21.00 BOOK NOW theartscentregc.com.au | (07) 5588 4000

ISSUE SIX CULTURE 43

CALENDAR

June M O NDAY

T U E SDAY

WEDNESDAY

13

20

7

14

21

F RIDAY

S ATU RDAY

S U N DAY

The Gamelon, 1pm (p.18)

Comedy (p.14)

parkrun (p.34)

Farmers Market (p.34) Gallery: Live Drawing (p.34)

2

3

4

5

Comedy (p.14)

parkrun (p.34)

Farmers Market (p.34) Last day to see How to Make a Monster (p.30)

9

10

11

12

parkrun (p.34) Mary Poppins , 1pm and 7.30pm (p.4) Allen, 7.30pm (p.11)

Farmers Market (p.34) Mary Poppins , 3pm (p.4)

Allen, 7.30pm (p.11)

Mary Poppins , 7.30pm (p.4) Allen, 7.30pm (p.11) Comedy (p.14) GC Jazz & Blues (p.17)

15

16

17

18

19

Movie Review Club, 10.30am (p.26)

Mary Poppins , 6.00pm (p.4)

Mary Poppins , 7.30pm (p.4) Comedy (p.14)

22

23

24

1

6

TH U RS DAY

8

parkrun (p.34) Mary Poppins , 1pm and 7.30pm (p.4)

25

Farmers Market (p.34)

26

SCHO O L H OL IDAYS Applications close for The Space Season 2017 (p.25)

27

28

29

30

The Arts Centre Gold Coast with JWR Productions Australia and Michael Sieders present

DATE 20 – 21 May COST Adult / Child / Concession $25.00, Family (2A+2C) $69.00 BOOK theartscentregc.com.au | (07) 5588 4000 44 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

This event is part of our 2016 Family Series, proudly presented by

Explore the G:old Coast on board the

DOWNLOAD MY G:

Trams operate between 5am and midnight weekdays and 24 hours during weekends and stop at each of the 16 stations on the coastal strip.

midnight to 5:am

5:am to 7:am

weekdays

no

15:

7.5:

15:

weekends

EVERY

EVERY

EVERY

EVERY

service

30: mins

EVERY

mins

15: mins

7:am to 7:pm

EVERY

mins

10: mins

7:pm to midnight

EVERY

mins

15: mins

To ride the G: get your go card or Gold Coast go explore card at selected outlets, online or by calling TransLink on 13 12 30.

SNAPPED

Snapped at Summer at the Cultural Precinct

Be a part of bringing Mary Poppins to the Gold Coast You can support The Arts Centre Gold Coast to present Mary Poppins in June by sponsoring one of our cast members. By contributing to the production, you are providing the opportunity for local performers to showcase their talent.

Have your photo taken with your chosen performer and be acknowledged in the program for your support. Choose from: Mary Poppins — $1,000 Mr George Banks — $250

Bert — $750 Jane — $500 Michael — $500 Mrs Winifred Banks — $250 The Bird Woman — $200

All funds raised will be used to stage the musical, including helping to ‘make Mary fly’. To book your character or make a general donation to the campaign, please call Wayne Evans on 5588 4062 or email evans@theartscentregc.com.au.

46 CULTURE ISSUE SIX

Support Us

SUPPORT US

Can you help an aspiring young performer?

There are many young people in our community who have amazing talent and the potential to grow into exceptional performers if they are given the opportunity to learn skills to advance their careers.

Supporting young talent is just one way in which funds contributed by our Benefactors improve the cultural life of the Gold Coast.

A great example of this support was the recent No Difference disabilityinclusive dance workshop. As 21-year-old participant Kayah’s mother Leanne says, ‘Words cannot express what it meant for Kayah to be a part of the workshop No Difference at The Arts Centre Gold Coast. We feel truly blessed that Kayah was given the opportunity to participate in this inclusive workshop.’

‘These opportunities do not come about often and certainly not on the Gold Coast. To be given the chance to be a part of something bigger in the arts is an absolute gift. So much growth is gained through being included and involved in the arts. He has dreams and desires just like anyone and would love to be able to be involved in the process and dedication of a performance,’ says Leanne. As Kayah says, ‘This is my passion.’

For supporters who would like to see their funds used in a more tangible way, we are always looking to expand our collection of art work, and, with the new AA rated gallery in the existing Riverside Building, we will be able to display even more of the collection.

If you would like to make a difference by supporting the arts in your local community, then you might consider joining our Benefactor Program. Along with other like-minded people, you can make a difference. For as little as $85 per month or $1,000 annually, your tax-deductible donation will give you membership of this special group of people.

For more information regarding our Benefactor Program, please contact Wayne Evans on 5588 4062 or evans@theartscentregc.com.au.

Image: The No Difference participants (Kayah featured in front). Photographer Kate Holmes.

Benefactors The Board and Management of The Arts Centre Gold Coast would like to acknowledge and thank our donors for their continued support.

It is only through the generosity and support of these individuals and corporations that the sustained development and enhancement of the arts will become a reality for the future generations of the Gold Coast.

Life Benefactors • Patrick Corrigan AM & Barbara Corrigan • Win Schubert AO on behalf of The Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Foundation for the Arts Perpetual Benefactors The following donors have made significant and sustained contributions of artwork to the Gold Coast City Gallery Collection: • Adam Knight • Dr Colin & Elizabeth Laverty • Tom & Sylvia Lowenstein • Evan Lowenstein • Adam Micmacher • Ken McGregor • Denis Savill Diamond Benefactors • Jock McIlwain OAM & Beverly McIlwain

Platinum Benefactors • Barry & Maureen Stevenson Gold Benefactors • Philip Bacon • John & Susan Barr • Prof. Emeritus Ray Byron & Carole Byron • Pauline Ewers • Richard & Ann Glenister • Hecand PAF • Ray & Jill James • Tomas & Fiona Johnsson • Christine Lohman • Morgans Financial Limited • NAB Private Wealth • Paradise Point Community Bank Branch, Bendigo Bank • The Pemberton Family • Kathy Martin Sullivan AM • Arthur Waring Silver Benefactors • Australian Decorative & Fine Arts Society, Gold Coast Inc. • Lucy Cole Prestige Properties • Kerry & Lena Crawford • Dr Norman & Mrs Margot Davies • The Follent Family • John & Alison Kearney • Anna-Lisa Klettenberg • Peter & Moira Lockhart • Alan & Barbara Midwood • Peter & Annette Minck • Leonard & Glenda Neilsen

• • • •

Pamela Railey-Mitchell Maxine Semple Dr Roger Welch Betty Wheeler

Bronze Benefactors • Penelope Jane Anderssen • John & Bonnie Bauld • Kylie, David & Ryan Corrigan • Kevin & Jane Doogan • E.C.Pohl & Co • Paul & Maureen Fitzgerald • Gold Coast Eisteddfod • Jacqueline Green • Jackie Hughes • André & Eva Jaku • Bruce & Bennie Johnston • Lyn & Gerry Keogh • Roger & Jenny Mayfield • Rhona McKay • Graeme & Patsy Meyer • Doug & Yvonne Moorhead • Richard & Rosemary Munro • Mark & Elizabeth Niall • Michael & Jennifer Pinter • Barry & Karen Plant • Destry & Poppy Puia • John Punch OAM & Dr Renée Punch • Christene Pye • Don Robertson • John & Julie Romanin • Steve Romer • Dr Nerida Smith • Peter & Wendy Spencer • Kerry Watson

Special Acknowledgement • Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast • The Late Roma Blair • The Late Elaine Bermingham Plus1 Project In 2015, The Arts Centre Gold Coast received support from Creative Partnerships Australia's Plus1 program*. This project relied on contributions from a collection of 10 supporters, which were then matched by Creative Partnerships Australia for a total of $72,100. The Arts Centre Gold Coast gratefully receives funds from Creative Partnerships Australia and the following Plus1 Project supporters: Founding Partner • McLaughlins Lawyers Leading Advocates • Richard & Ann Glenister • Ray & Jill James • Tomas & Fiona Johnsson • Christine Lohman • Morgans Financial Limited • The Follent Family • Steve Romer • Kerry Watson • Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Society (ADFAS) ISSUE SIX CULTURE 47

Enriching your life

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COMMON GROUND UNCOMMON VISION Southport Office Cnr Hicks & Davenport Sts Burleigh Office McDonald House, Level 2, 37 Connor St Telephone +61 (07) 5591 5099 PO Box 2067, Southport Qld 4215 Email ikennedy@mclaughlins.com.au Serving the Gold Coast community since 1958

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Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast Join the Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast!

The Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast is a not-for-profit organisation of around 2000 members who share a common interest in the arts. The organisation maintains an active interest in promoting and developing The Arts Centre Gold Coast.

The Friends makes donations to the Centre for various projects, including youth theatre, using funds raised through membership fees. A Gift Fund established in 2006 provides grants to talented local individuals to aid them in pursuing a career in the arts.

The Friends hold frequent social events for members, catering to a variety of interests. Members of The Friends receive discounts to movies, the Arts Café and selected shows.

By joining The Friends, you will help young artists and support the Centre, while enjoying social events and the benefits of discounts to Members.

Annual Membership Single $35 Double $50 Includes: • Invitations to social events • Discounted cinema tickets • Discounted food and beverages • 1 complimentary cinema ticket To join, visit the Box Office or phone (07) 5588 4000, email friends@ friendsoftheartscentre.com.au or visit www.friendsoftheartscentre.com.au

Centre Information Getting Here To plan your bus journey please visit www.translink.com.au. To book a taxi, phone 131 008 or visit www.gccabs.com.au. A designated taxi set-down and pick-up area is located out the front of The Centre. Patron parking, including wheelchair-accessible parking, is located out the front of the building. We recommend arriving one hour before a performance as parking is limited.

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Patrons with Individual Needs We are committed to providing access to the performing arts for visitors with special needs. If you require mobility assistance, please call Box Office on (07) 5588 4000 to book your tickets and notify the staff at this time. We will then arrange for Front of House staff to assist you when you arrive. The Arts Theatwre and Arts Cinema are both wheelchair accessible. If you require wheelchair access and seating at the Arts Theatre, please notify Box Office when you book your tickets. We don’t require advance notice for wheelchair access to the Arts Cinema.

Opening Hours Box Office Hours Mon – Sat 9am-9pm, Sun 10am-8pm Gallery Hours Mon – Fri 10am-5pm, Sat / Sun 11am-5pm eNews Sign up to the fortnightly eNews on our website.

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Bookings Visit www.theartscentregc.com.au or phone (07) 5588 4000.

Transaction fees apply to phone and internet bookings.

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Partners

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The Arts Centre Gold Coast and Paradise Point Community Bank® Branch Bendigo Bank present

THE ARTS CENTRE GOLD COAST’S PRODUCTION OF

A Musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney Film Original Music and Lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman Book by Julian Fellowes New Songs and Additional Music and Lyrics by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe Co-Created by Cameron Mackintosh By arrangement with Hal Leonard Australia Pty Ltd Exclusive agent for Music Theatre International (NY)

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Fri 17Jun — Sat 25 Jun www.theartscentregc.com.au PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

MAJOR PARTNER

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