What's On - Special Events, Previews & Signings

If you would like to have an event promoted in our What's On Guide, please contact us.
Note: Please check details with event organisers before attending.

Pacha Sydney at Ivy NYE
Date	New Year's Eve 2009
Time	6 PM until 4 AM
Sydney's party glitterati are set to celebrate the end of the naughty noughties in a style never before paralleled in the Harbor City. NYE 09 sees the coming together of the world's most glamorous club brand, Pacha, and Sydney's most sumptuous venue, Ivy to deliver an event of unparalleled magnificence. Line Up: Sebastian Ingrosso A Very Special International Guest Claude Vonstroke Sidney Samson Goldfish Streetlife DJ's Grum The Aston Shuffle Goodwill DJ Mo'Funk Johnny Gleeson

New Years Eve Gala Concert
Venue	Concert Hall, QPAC
Date	Wednesday 31st December
Time	at 9.30pm
Fee	$75 Adults, $71 Concession
Book	phone QTIX on 136 246 or visit Qtix.com.au.
Over the last 25 years, the Pop's Orchestra's sellout New Year's Eve concerts have become a New Year's tradition and this year is set to be no exception with tickets to the evening performance already selling fast. Featuring three of the countries most renowned choristers live on the QPAC stage, Virgilio Marino, David Kidd(of the Ten Tenor's), Brisbane talent Jason Barry-Smith and the gorgeous Bella Divas.

David Eastwood and Maryanne Wick
Venue	278 Liverpool St, Darlinghurst, Sydney
Date	7 November - 2 December, 2009
Time	11am-6pm
Book	(02) 9331 6692
David Eastwood: paintings Ulterior/Interior and Maryanne Wick: Paintings Still Life and Saurian

Ash St Cellar's new Film Nights
Date	November 2009-March 2010
Time	every Monday night
Fee	$35 includes a plate of tapas + glass of wine or beer and a front row seat to a great outdoor film night.
For the next five months, the ivy laneway will be transformed into a cozy outdoor cinema, screening a selection of great food-themed art house flicks every Monday night. For November 2009, the theme will be 'big' films - kicking off with the Coen Brothers' black comedy The Big Lebowski, followed by the 1978 surfing classic Big Wednesday, a youthful-looking Tom Hanks in Big, Luc Besson's visually stunning The Big Blue and the steamy New Orleans crime drama The Big Easy.

On Ego
Venue	Red Stitch Actors Theatre, rear 2 Chapel St, St Kilda East (opposite Astor)
Date	Friday 20 November- Saturday 19 December (No show Monday or Tuesday)
Time	at 8pm (Sundays at 6.30pm) (Running time approximately 100 minutes including interval)
Fee	$20-$34 ($15 student rush)
Book	redstitch.net or on 03 9533 8083 (telephone booking fees apply)
Red Stitch Theatre presents the Australian premiere of On Ego, the ntriguing first essay in Mick Gordon's On Theatre series. On Ego questions the construction of the human ego and takes us on a journey into the notion of identity, memory, neurological delusion and the fragile nature of love. If offered the chance of a new life after death, would you choose to share another existence with your partner or would you part at the end of this one and never meet again? An accident during a scientific experiment leads to a neuroscientist's body being duplicated. As he attempts to determine which of his two selves is the most authentic, the greatest scientific and philosophical riddle of all is posed: how does the brain construct a self? On Ego explores whether we are simply skin, bone and a hundred billion brain cells, or feeling, loving, thinking individuals. Co-written by British playwright Mick Gordon and neuropsychologist Paul Broks, On Ego is inspired by Broks' best-selling book, Into the Silent Land a stunning journey into the science of the brain. His numerous research publications cover a wide range of interests, including autism, chizophrenia and acquired brain disorder. Short-listed for the Guardian First Book award in 2003, the book has been translated into ten languages.

One Man Star Wars
Date	Wed Nov 11-Sat 14 Nov
Time	7.30pm
Fee	Adult $52; Concession $44; Family tickets $175
Book	ticketek.com.au 132 849
From off-Broadway in New York to London's West End, from Dubai's resorts to the Glastonbury Music Festival, Charles Ross has performed his one man trilogy over 1200 times in more than 180 cities across four continents. By age 10 Charles had seen the first Star Wars film 400 times and virtually committed every line to memory. "Immediately accessible... It was great" Conan O'Brien Sydney: Enmore Theatre Wed Nov 11 Newcastle: Civic Theatre Fri 13th Nov Canberra: Playhouse Theatre Sat 14 Nov

Julia Morris - Don't You Know Who I Used To Be?
Venue	Metro Theatre 624 George St, Sydney
Date	14th November 2009
Time	7.30pm
Fee	$34.50 Full / $30 Conc
Book	(02) 9550 3666 or Metrotheatre.com.au or Ticketek.com.au
Following a sell-out run during this year's Sydney Comedy Festival, fans will get one more chance to see the Helpmann Award nominated show Don't You Know Who I Used to Be which won 'Best Local (Australian) Act' in Time Out Sydney's 2009 Comedy Awards. The show is a hilarious illustrated journey through the life of the self anointed, ignobly titled 'Lady J-Mo' from the eight year old who wrote her own Logie's acceptance speech to the comedienne we know and love. The show is inspired by the Julia's hilarious memoirs of the same name about moving to the UK, going broke, too many 'overnight romances' and learning the hard way that mojitos are not one of the five major food groups. Julia will be revealing excerpts from the book whilst weaving her special brand of stand up magic and divulging tidbits that were too naughty to print.

Marrugeku's: Burning Daylight
Venue	Arts House, Meat Market: 5 Blackwood St, North Melbourne
Date	Thu 19 - Sun 22 November
Time	Thu - Sat 7.30pm, Sun 4pm (70 minutes no interval)
Fee	Full $25; Concession $18
Book	artshouse.com.au or 03 9639 0096
It's Karaoke night, Broome style, where country meets hip-hop meets Japanese love song. A lone cowboy blows into town, stirring its ghosts for a long and wild night, as past and present dance it out on the street. Performed by the acclaimed Broome based Marrugeku company, Burning Daylight combines the unique performance styles of Western Australian Indigenous dancers and musicians with Malaysian martial arts and the company's visual and acrobatic performance language. This high energy production incorporates old and new forms to conjure an image of today's Broome - the traces of its past as wild frontier town still real, but also mythologised in glossy tourist brochures. Pumping beats and rhymes create a vibrant, contemporary sound live on stage that contrast with gentle guitar strums and melodies evoking outback campfires. Whips crack, geishas perform ceremony, pearl fisherman take to the sea. Karaoke singers croon and a hip hop MC raps, while memories flicker on screen of their grandparents' generation's experiences: White Australia policy deportations, and laws against inter-racial marriage.

Adelaide Craft & Quilt Fair
Venue	Adelaide Showground, Wayville
Date	November 5th - 8th 2009
Time	10.00am - 5.00pm daily
Fee	Adults: $14, Seniors / Pensioners $12, Children (5-16yrs) $7, Children (under 5yrs) FREE, Family (2A + 2C): $33.
Book	Tickets available at the door or online at Craftfair.com.au
In addition to great displays, fantastic shopping opportunities and non-stop classes and workshops; the Fair will bring with it a special guest artist as well as new attractions and features. Plus you'll be able to see the Festival of Quilts 2009 exhibition which is presented by The Quilters Guild of South Australia. The Adelaide Craft & Quilt fair is also an opportunity to meet special guest artist, renowned felt artist and teacher, Wendy Bailye. A display of her work, ranging from wearable arts and decorator items to large framed felt artworks, will be at the fair for visitors to enjoy.

First Look: Shirin
Venue	ACMI, Federation Square, Melbourne
Date	Thu 26 Nov 2009 - Sun 29 Nov 2009
Time	5.30pm
This November the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) brings Melbourne audiences, Shirin (2008), the most recent masterpiece by feted Iranian filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami. Part of the Iranian New Wave of the late 60s, Kiarostami uses poetic dialogue and allegorical storytelling in order to deal with politics and philosophy. Since 1970, Kiarostami has been involved in over forty films, including shorts and documentaries. It was 20 years after his ground breaking debut feature, Report (1977) that he was awarded the Palme d'Or at Cannes for Taste of Cherry (1997). After premiering Shirin at last year's Venice Film Festival, Kiarostami's dramatic essay on spectatorship draws on the endless expressive potential of the human face. Shirin is ostensibly a film about women watching and responding to a film. However, beyond that it is a film exploring the very medium it is working within as it toys with the roles of performer and spectator.

FREE live music, night markets and fabulous food at The Rocks!
Venue	The Rocks
Date	every Friday evening from 6 November 2009 to 26 March 2010 (excluding Christmas Day and New Year’s Day)
Time	5:30pm-10pm
Fee	FREE
Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority has extended the popular The Rocks Markets by Moonlight so you can enjoy the festival for the whole summer - every Friday evening from 6 November 2009 to 26 March 2010 (excluding Christmas and New Year's Days). Friday November 6: Jason Lowe, The Paper Scissors, Friday November 13: Liz Martin, Sui Zhen Friday November 20: Endusk, Melanie Horsnell Friday November 27: Eli Wolfe, Amanda Baker

Premier Heavy Weight Fight Event: Immortality
Venue	Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre
Date	Friday November 13th
Stuart McKinnon brings his well respected name and professional focus to this event. With a gruesome fight card of 30 World Class Fights, Stuart is the Promoter for the momentous fight show Battle of The Big Guns 1 & 2, while Reinhard Badato the 3x Light Weight Current World Champion (who has the very successful fight shows AfterMath & Annihilation), together will turn the Australian fight scene upside down with this exciting Family Event. Invincible is proud to announce the main event for Immortality. The battle is between 4x World Heavy Champion 'Australian Legend' Steve McKinnon. Bolstering an impressive Fight Record of 34 Fights - 30 Wins - 26 by KO VS Croatian K1 European Champion Hrvoje Kisicek (from the World Famous Cro Cop Gym). This will be the Ultimate Challenge for both fighters carrying the Pride of their countries on their shoulders.

Festival of Jewish Cinema
Venue	Australian Centre for the Moving Image & the Classic Cinema, Elsternwick
Date	12-19 November 2009
Fee	Opening Night Film & Party $25.00, Single Sessions $17.00 and Gold Pass $91.00
Book	ACMI Cinemas’ Festival Bookings Line: 03 8663 2222
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in November, the 2009 Festival of Jewish Cinema will bring Melbourne filmgoers a new array of hilarious, moving, challenging and informative films and documentaries from around the world, as well as a special 'retrospective' of Festival favourites from the past 20 years. Opening the festival on Thursday 12 November is comical Israeli film A Matter of Size, which skirts the serious issues of Middle Eastern politics with the story of four heavily overweight friends who finally find their generous girths valued in the world of Israeli sumo wrestling. Other highlights include local documentary Wrong Side of the Bus, French romantic comedy Hello Goodbye and the remarkable story of an unsung WWII hero in American film Killing Kasztner.

One-Man Star Wars Trilogy
Venue	Forum Theatre, Flinders Street, Melbourne
Date	19th Nov-21st Nov
Time	Thursday 19 & Friday 20 November - 7.30pm Saturday 21 November - 5.00pm & 8.00pm
Fee	Adult $52, Concession $44, Family $175
Book	Ticketek.com.au, 132 849 or Forum Theatre Box Office 03 9299 9800
After performing to packed houses around Australia in 2007 & 2008, off Broadway in New York and London's West End, Canadian Charles Ross is returning to Melbourne's Forum Theatre with his international smash-hit, One-Man Star Wars Trilogy in November. This will be the last time he performs the show before Charles switches legends in 2010 to the highly anticipated Australian premiere of One Man Lord of the Rings. The Age Ross, who has seen the trilogy over 400 times, brings to life the characters from the original Star Wars trilogy, including Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Yoda, and Darth Vader- all on stage in a fast, furious and theatrical show. Ross is acclaimed for the sheer energy of his performance as he sings the music, fights the battles and rockets through all three original films in just one amazing hour! Part of a National Tour visiting Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Newcastle and Adelaide as well as Melbourne this show will thrill fans and novices alike.

Spontaneous Broadway
Venue	Comedy Theatre: 240 Exhibition Street, Melbourne
Date	Wednesday 2 - Saturday 5 December
Time	Wednesday- Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday 4:30pm & 7:30pm
Fee	Full: A reserve $42 / B reserve $39 Concession: A reserve $36 / B reserve $32
Book	1300 795 012 or Ticketek.com.au
After record-breaking seasons at the Sydney Opera House, His Majesty's in Perth, and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Spontaneous Broadway returns to the city of musicals to send this decade out in style. At the Comedy Theatre, in the heart of Australia's own 'West End', Spontaneous Broadway will create five brand new musicals in five shows only. Hilarious ditties are spun on the spot from song titles suggested by the audience. Duets, dance numbers and plot lines are improvised before your eyes, and after all the title songs have been performed, the audience votes for the entire Broadway musical that they wish to see.

Melbourne Winter Masterpieces 2010: Tim Burton
Venue	ACMI, Federation Square, Melbourne, Victoria.
Date	Begins on the 24th of June and runs until 10th of October 2010
The largest exhibition to ever be presented in ACMI's Gallery 1 has been curated in direct collaboration with Burton and features artworks and objects drawn from his personal archive, as well as studio archives and the private collections. Also featured are his student and early non-professional films; his long-unseen television adaptation Hansel and Gretel (1983); examples of his work for the flash animation internet series The World of Stainboy (2000); a selection of the artist's oversized Polaroid prints; graphic art and texts for non-film projects, like The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy and Other Stories (1997) and Tim Burton's Tragic Toys for Girls and Boys (2003) collectible figure series; and art from a number of early unrealised projects. The exhibition follows the course of Burton's career, with childhood ephemera, juvenilia, and amateur short films from his youth in Burbank, California; cartoons and drawings from his time at California Institute of the Arts; and examples of his first professional work at The Walt Disney Studios. Burton's artistic output includes shorts Vincent (1982) and Frankenweenie (1984); and 15 feature films including Pee-Wee's Big Adventure (1985), Beetlejuice (1988), Batman (1989), Edward Scissorhands (1990), Batman Returns (1992), Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), Ed Wood (1994), Mars Attacks! (1996), Sleepy Hollow (1999), Planet of the Apes (2001), Big Fish (2003), Tim Burton's Corpse Bride (2005), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005), Sweeney Todd (2007) and Alice in Wonderland (2010); as well as writing and web projects such as Stainboy (2000).

Meet Poppy King!
Date	Thursday 29th October-Saturday 7th Novem
Have your lips 'read' by the Lipstick Queen herself! Thursday 29th October: kit at Myer Melb 1-3pm kit at Myer Chadstone 6-8pm Friday 30th October: kit at Myer Melb 1-3 & 5-7 Thursday 5th and Friday 6th November: kit at Myer Sydney 1-3pm & 5-7pm Saturday 7th November: kit at 140 Oxford St, Paddington 1-3pm

First Look: Julia
Venue	ACMI, Federation Square Melbourne
Date	Thu 19 Nov 2009 - Sun 22 Nov 2009
Time	5.30pm
This November, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) will be screening French filmmaker Erick Zonca's English language debut, Julia (2008), starring Tilda Swinton in one of her most superb lead performances to date. Erick Zonca, the acclaimed French film director of The Dreamlife of Angels (1998) and The Little Thief (1999) has spent the last seven years making Julia, his first American film project. Shot in California and Mexico with American and British actors, with Swinton as the lead, Julia plays as a true American indie film, paying homage to independent American filmmaker John Cassavetes' Gloria (1980).

Premier Heavy Weight Fight Event: IMMORTALITY
Venue	Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre
Date	Friday November 13th
Book	Ticketdirect.com.au
Invincible is proud to announce the Main Event for IMMORTALITY. The battle is between 4x World Heavy Champion 'Australian Legend' Steve McKinnon. Bolstering an impressive Fight Record of 34 Fights - 30 Wins - 26 by KO VS Croatian K1 European Champion Hrvoje Kisicek (from the World Famous Cro Cop Gym). This will be the Ultimate Challenge for both fighters carrying the Pride of their countries on their shoulders. Invincible also brings a huge undercard to the Main Event, with the anticipated return of Super Heavy Weight Australian Champion Shane Meads. In his triumphant return to the World Fight Scene VS Hard Man, New Zealand Champion Erik Nosa returns poised for an exciting slug match.

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2010
Date	registrations open on Friday 2 October
Book	Comedyfestival.com.au
Calling all comedians! Looking for a place to test your chops? Interested in delivering your material somewhere other than your bedroom? Interested in free drinks at the bar on the night of your performance? Ok, that last one's a joke... The Festival will take over the city from 24 March - 18 April 2010 with audiences flocking to see theatre, stand up, music, visual arts, kids' shows, and cabaret, all with a humorous bent.

IF Awards
Venue	Sydney's Luna Park
Date	Wednesday 18th November
Fee	$200 (all food, beverages and entertainment are included)
Book	Ifawards.com Tickets and are for over 18 years only
Ticket holders kick the night off with pre drinks and canape's under the stars, enjoying the picturesque views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. All guests then experience the awards ceremony first hand in the Big Top, where they are seated amongst the who’s who of the entertainment industry for the 90 minute show.

Live in the Studio
Venue	Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI)
Date	From Thurs 1 October- Thurs 3 December
Time	7pm
Live in the Studio is the latest live program from the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, commencing Thursday 1 October. The program presents industry experts and luminaries, academics, aficionados and pop-culture sovereigns for a series of live talks, screenings and performances that revel in TV past and present. On the first Thursday of each month, ACMI's Studio 1 becomes a hub for TV enthusiasts to celebrate the finer points of the tube - a place to indulge your love of the small screen. Thu 1 Oct 2009 Exposing the Underbelly with Andrew Rule MA 15+ Thu 5 Nov 2009 Vampires with Angela Ndalianis R 18+ Thu 3 Dec Watch Me Buy Me with Sue Dodd Unclassified 15+

La traviata
Venue	Sydney Opera House
Date	January 22, 2010
The glorious voice of Russian soprano Elvira Fatykhova is back, and so is a production that has won the hearts of opera goers across Australia. Elijah Moshinsky's ravishing production of Verdi's La traviata opens at the Sydney Opera House on January 22, 2010.

Manon
Venue	Sydney Opera House
Date	January 15, 2010

A Midsummer Night's Dream
Venue	The Arts Centre, Melbourne
Date	December 4, 2010
Baz Luhrmann's magical Dream is back at the Arts Centre with an exciting cast of young singers in the leading roles and Paul Kildea conducting. A Midsummer Night's Dream features Tobias Cole and Lorina Gore as Oberon and Tytania, with Tyler Coppin as the beguiling Puck and Conal Coad who reprises his acclaimed interpretation of Bottom.

The Marriage of Figaro
Venue	The Arts Centre, Melbourne
Date	November 17, 2010
To open the Spring Season in Melbourne, Opera Australia presents a new production of Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro, starring Teddy Tahu Rhodes, Peter Coleman-Wright, Hye Seoung Kwon, Sian Pendry and Tiffany Speight, with conductor Marko Letonja and director Benedict Andrews making their Opera Australia debuts.

Fledermaus
Venue	Arts Centre, Melbourne
Date	May 11, 2010
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers step aside: Yvonne Kenny is set to make a grand entrance as life and soul of the party in the world's favourite operetta, Fledermaus.

La sonnambula
Venue	Arts Centre
Date	April 30, 2010

Bliss
Venue	Arts Centre
Date	April 20, 2010
Bliss is based on Peter Carey's novel of the same name, with music by Brett Dean and a libretto by Amanda Holden.

Puccini's Tosca
Venue	Arts Centre
Date	April 14, 2010
Time	7.30pm.

The Pirates of Penzance
Venue	Sydney Opera House
Date	August 25, 2010.
Pirates is Gilbert and Sullivan's fifth collaboration, and one of their most successful. It had its official premiere in New York in 1879, chiefly with the aim of dodging the theatrical pirates who had copied HMS Pinafore in the US without paying any royalties. After Pirates opened theatrical entrepreneur extraordinaire Richard D'Oyly Carte launched four companies, each rehearsed by Gilbert and Sullivan themselves, to tour the United States for six months. The story is characteristically tongue-in-cheek. Pirates drop anchor in the sleepy English seaside town of Penzance. The police are concerned but the ladies are delighted. Then naive young apprentice pirate Frederic meets Mabel, the beautiful daughter of one of the pillars of society and the swashbuckling begins...

The Girl of the Golden West
Venue	Sydney Opera House
Date	July 14, 2010
Opera meets the Wild West when Puccini's The Girl of the Golden West bursts onto the stage of the Sydney Opera House in a spectacular new production directed by Nigel Jamieson and designed by Michael Scott-Mitchell and Zoe Atkinson. Dennis O'Neill and John Wegner lead a huge ensemble cast, conducted by Arvo Volmer.

La sonnambula
Venue	Sydney Opera House
Date	August 5, 2010
Opera Australia presents its first ever production of Bellini's bel canto classic, La sonnambula. Richard Bonynge conducts, Julie Edwardson is director and the dazzling Emma Matthews makes her Sydney debut as Amina. La sonnambula opens on August 5, 2010 at the Sydney Opera House.

The Marriage of Figaro
Venue	Sydney Opera House
Date	July 23, 2010
Opera Australia presents a new production of Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro, starring Teddy Tahu Rhodes, Peter Coleman-Wright, Rachelle Durkin, Taryn Fiebig and Sian Pendry, with director Benedict Andrews making his Opera Australia debut.

A Little Night Music
Venue	Sydney Opera House
Date	opening on June 28, 2010
A Little Night Music is one of Stephen Sondheim's most sophisticated creations. Inspired by the Ingmar Bergman film Smiles of a Summer Night, the setting is Sweden in midsummer, on the edge of the Arctic Circle, the land of the midnight sun. Sondheim's score is almost entirely written in triple time - the rhythm of the waltz - which gives it a quaint and lyrical air which contrasts violently with the punchy style of, say, Sweeney Todd or Company. To conduct it is Australian musical theatre expert, Andrew Greene.

Faces in the Crowd
Venue	Red Stitch Actors Theatre, rear 2 Chapel St, St Kilda East (opposite Astor)
Date	7 October - 7 November. No show Monday or Tuesday.
Time	8pm (Sundays at 6.30pm) Running time approximately 100 minutes including interval
Fee	$20 - $34 ($15 student rush)
Book	Redstitch.net (discounted tix) or on 03 9533 8083
Young British playwright, Leo Butler's outstanding new play catches the mood of our have-nowpay-later ethos with a raw and devastating account of a couple who get swept along on a tide of easy credit. Dave promised Joanne the world, and she got it in expensive consumer goods. The debts built up, children were put on hold, and then Dave buckled under the pressure and abandoned his wife, his home and financial responsibilities for the lure of a life he'd always wanted. Now, Joanne has sought him out, and she and Dave have very specific business. There are bitter accusations about excessive buying with plastic as they are forced to take an inventory of their actions, accounts owing, and the bonds that define them.

Vincent Lyce's Final Curtain
Venue	Queens Loft,133, Queensbridge Street, Southbank
Date	31st October and 14th of November
Time	7:30pm
Book	03 9698 8011
Vincent Lyce's Final Curtain is a macabre mix of comedy, murder and mystery served with a delicious dinner. Ex wives, illegitimate sons and fans alike will gather to celebrate the illustrious career of Vincent Lyce. Forty years as the star of horror movies as forgettable as 'Dump of Death' and 'When Death Knocks Don't Answer'...

Gerringong Village Monthly Markets - Markets, Exhibitions and Shows
Venue	Gerringong Town Hall: Gerringong, NSW 2534
Date	Sep 19, 2009. Every 3rd Saturday of every month
Time	8am - 4pm
Gerringong Markets for local craft produce and general goods held on the 3rd Saturday of every month at Gerringong Town Hall.

Revolver Designer Market
Venue	229 Chapel St, Prahran
Date	Second Thursday of Every Month (next market date 10th September 2009)
Time	6pm -10pm
Fee	3181 Thursday also features half price meals for local residents, traders and members at Colonel Tan's restaurant, with a brand new Thai menu from the minds behind Cookie.
Book	Revolverupstairs.com.au
Revolver Upstairs will be collaborating with FAZEEK (Curtin House Rooftop Market) to bring high quality local designers to the Prahran people. 3181 Thursdays at Revolver Upstairs will feature The Design Market on the second Thursday of the every month. With all things from clothing to jewellery, print to design. Whatever takes your fancy you will walk out well fed, entertained and with something fabulous to wear! Music from Hans DC, Saucy and guests. Some of the designers you can check out on the night: -All Of The Above -Boski -Fair Weather Friends -Final Outline -Jenni Klitzig -Igheadquarters -Ink Bomb Studios -Little Wave

Advancement of Women in the Workplace Award Applications now open
Date	close on 22 December 2009
Book	Leadershipforwomen.com.au
The Australian Centre for Leadership for Women (CLW), a virtual Centre at Leadershipforwomen.com.au is today launching the national Advancement of Women in the Workplace Award (AWWA) together with Avril Henry Pty Ltd and Diversity Council Australia. This Award will recognise women and men who are leading the way in reducing gender disparity, promoting equity and women's advancement in the workplace. Dr Diann Rodgers-Healey, Founder and Director of CLW, Nareen Young, CEO of Diversity Council Australia and Avril Henry, Director of Avril Henry Pty Ltd will judge the applications and select the winners who will be awarded the prizes on International Women's Day in 2010. Proudly sponsored by Australia Post, PepsiCo Australia and New Zealand and Living Now Magazine, applications for the Award are now open and will close on 22 December 2009.

Brisbane Writers' Festival
Date	9-13 September 2009
Book	brisbanewritersfestival.com.au
HarperCollinsPublishers would like to welcome authors attending the 2009 Brisbane Writers' Festival. The line-up includes a talented array of both international and local writers: Tracy Chevalier, Tobsha Learner, Anna Campbell, Gary Crew, Ross FitzGerald, Peter FitzSimons, Jackie French, Linda Jaivin, James Moloney, Chris Nyst and Matt Peacock.

Spongebob Squarepants Aussie Kids Think Happy Tour
Date	from September to November 2009
A giant smiling statue of the world's favourite sea sponge, SpongeBob SquarePants, will be embarking on an Australian tour from September to November 2009, to spread his lovable optimism amongst Aussie kids - the latest event in a continued celebration of the ever popular animated character's 10th anniversary this year. Activities include temp tattoos, meet-and-greets and Sponge throwing competitions. Tuesday 1st Sept- Big Pineapple QLD: SpongeBob SquarePants Happy Snaps Activities from 10:00am -12:00pm Wed 2nd Sept - Sun 13th of Sept- Nick Central Dreamworld QLD SpongeBob SquarePants Happy Snaps Sat 19th Sept - Wed 30th Sept - Floriade, Canberra, ACT SpongeBob SquarePants Happy Snaps Sat 10th Oct- Stuart Park, Wollongong, NSW SpongeBob SquarePants Happy Snaps Sun 11th October - Fri 16th Oct - Mattara Festival, Newcastle, NSW Monday 12th October is 'Nickelodeon Think Happy Day'! Happy Snaps. Activities from 10am - 2pm including Sat 24th Oct- Tumbalong Park, Sydney NSW SpongeBob SquarePants Happy Snaps Activities from 11:00am-3:00pm: Sunday 1st November - Springfest, Ballarat, VIC SpongeBob SquarePants Happy Snaps Activities from 10am - 2pm including Mon 2nd Nov - Wed 11th Nov, Melborune MELBOURNE, VIC SpongeBob SquarePants Happy Snaps Mon 16th November Sunbury Shopping Centre, VIC SpongeBob SquarePants Happy Snaps Sat 14th November � Sunbury Shopping Centre, VIC Activities from 10am - 2pm

Long Distance Vision: Three Australian Photographers
Venue	The National Gallery of Victoria
Date	28 August 2009 - 21 February 2010
The National Gallery of Victoria will celebrate the work of Christine Godden, Max Pam and Matthew Sleeth in a new exhibition, Long Distance Vision: Three Australian Photographers. The exhibition includes over 60 photographs from the NGV Collection exploring the concept of the 'tourist gaze' and its relationship with the three artists.

Theatresports
Venue	Theatre Works, 14 Acland Street, St Kilda
Date	Sunday nights, 20 Sept- 29 Nov
Time	@ 7:30pm
Fee	$20 full / $15 concession & groups 10+ (grand final $25) + booking fee
Book	Theatre Works 03 9534 3388 or online at Theatreworks.org.au/whatson/
Theatresports is the longest running improvisation comedy show in Melbourne. This ever-popular, all-improvised show brings a thrilling combination of comedy, sports and drama to the stage. Tantalising moments of creative danger abound as scripts are cast aside in favour of quick-witted improvisation. Two teams challenge each other, creating scenes to outdo and outwit. The final word goes to the judges - the teams that please them will make it to the night of nights, the Theatresports Grand Final. Theatresports is an evening of hilarious comedy and inventive story telling. It's unpredictable theatre mixed with the raw excitement of competition. Find out why it's so popular... This season's cast includes Lliam Amor, Rik Brown, Mike Bryant, Simon Dowling, Sean Fabri, Leah Gabriel, Jason Geary, Jenny Lovell, Xavier Michelides, Karl McConnell, Rama Nicholas, Tim Redmond, Anna Renzenbrink, Jamie Robertson, Patti Stiles and Kevin Yank.

Improvisation for Actors
Venue	Community Room, Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers Street Abbotsford
Date	Wednesdays 7 October - 2 December / 09
Time	7.00 p.m. - 9.00 p.m.
Fee	$264 full or $220 with Equity (or other concession)
Book	For all bookings or enquiries please call Sean Fabri: 0417 507 907
A series of workshops run by professional actors for professional actors to explore spontaneous improvisation. For anyone interested in honing their impro skills for: -Auditions -Stage work -Rehearsal techniques -Improvised work for theatre or television Workshops will be responsive to participant needs and will cover: -Impro basics (spontaneity, being present, removing fear) -Scene work (inspiring your partner, using offers, developing a narrative, playing the moment) -Character work (discovery through impulse, offers and response) - Releasing creative blocks (playing the moment with commitment, leaping into the unknown) The Instructor: Jenny Lovell has been performing in theatre, film and TV for over 20 years. She has performed, directed and taught impro in Sydney, Melbourne and overseas in USA, Canada and Hong Kong. Television and film appearances include: Prisoner, Picnic At Hanging Rock, and Gallipoli.

Craft Victoria’s 'Craft Cubed' Exhibition
Venue	Craft Victoria, 31 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
Date	Until 12 September
Time	Monday 12-5pm and Tuesday to Saturday 10am-5pm
RMIT University Industrial Design graduates, Ben Landau and Brittany Veitch, have launched a series of wearable couture jewellery called Bio-Accessories. Bio-Accessories are inventions that mask the unpleasant sights, sounds and scents of the city in an attempt to bring some of the natural world back into city living. Creations that form the Bio-Accessories line include a headpiece with a bird perched on a twig and a wooden mask with herbs growing in front. Each piece of Bio-Accessories incorporates a living organism to accompany the wearer throughout their day, creating a symbiotic relationship. These pieces are a representation of mobile natural environments, framed within a fashionable alternative to become a couture accessory.

Charmaine Wilson - The Spirit Whisperer
Date	22/08/2009-29/11/09
Book	spiritwhispers.org
22/08/2009: The Events Centre, Caloundra, Sunshine Coast 04/09/2009: Empire Theatre Toowoomba - Show starts at 7:30pm 05/09/2009: Redland Performing Arts Centre Cleveland 16/09/09: Tamworth Capitol Theatre 18/09/09: Armidale University of New England 10/10/2009: Ipswich Civic Hall 17/10/2009: Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Gold Coast 22/10/09: Ballina RSL Club 31/10/2009: Roundhouse Theatre Kelvin Grove 14/11/2009: Logan Entertainment Centre 27/11/09: Wagga Wagga- Civic Theatre 24 & 25/11/09: Bendigo RSL 29/11/09: Orange Ex Services Club

Art Month Sydney
Date	1st - 31st of March 2010
Art Month Sydney is an impressive new destination event running from the 1st-31st of March 2010, celebrating the importance and diversity of the Sydney art scene. Art Month Sydney will be staged over multiple locations, with artwork spanning over two hundred years, from Colonial and Landscape painting to the cream of contemporary art. Highlighting the best in photography, sculpture, indigenous, traditional and contemporary art, Art Month Sydney 2010 will showcase a veritable visual feast of creativity and expression. Founders Vasili Kaliman (Kaliman Gallery) and Michael Reid (Michael Reid at Elizabeth Bay) will bring together some 50 art galleries, 3 art auction houses and public art institutions to participate in one large co-ordinated visual art happening. A month of visual art experiences that presents the best Sydney has to offer to all lovers, collectors and practitioners. More than just a visit to your local gallery, Art Month Sydney will be presenting a calendar of FREE, fun and informative happenings including rare viewings of private collections, guest speakers, celebratory evenings and opportunities to meet and mingle with artists that contribute to this vibrant scene. A special 'treasure map' of the event will be published to enable visitors to plot their journey to discover the art world of Sydney. Art Month Sydney 2010 aims to celebrate the private galleries that shape, nurture and grow an artist's career as well as the depth and breadth of the Sydney art scene.

A Dinner to Die For
Venue	The Retreat Hotel, 226 Nicholson Street, Abbotsford
Date	29 Aug, 7 Nov, 5 Dec, 12 Dec and 19 Dec
Time	7.30
Fee	$80pp includes 3 course dinner and show
Book	Tickets available by calling 03 9417 2693
Having written, directed and produced interactive murder mystery events for 10 years in England, Simon Jay is launching his first Australian show as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. The Retreat Hotel in Abbotsford provides the amazing period backdrop for 'A Dinner to Die For'. A venue not unaccustomed to dramatic twists and turns having been the setting for the long running TV series, 'The Sullivans'. Taking full advantage of this beautiful period building 'A Dinner to Die For' gives audience members the unique opportunity to be in the show whilst watching the show all at the same time. Set in 1928, party-goers are the invited guests of Lord Quinten Daventry. The malarkey and mayhem is served up in large helpings of 'carry-on' style humour and double entendres along with a delicious 3 course dinner.

Sensation: 'The Ocean of White'
Venue	Etihad Stadium
Date	New Year's Eve
Sensation: a brand new show that will see the iconic Melbourne venue transformed into a stunning underwater world. Called 'The Ocean of White', this edition of Sensation will show a larger and more expensive show, bigger set up and better than the first, which debuted in Australia in a spectacular fashion last year, presenting 'The Oak of Love' theme, centred around a 32 metre high, inflatable tree in the centre of the stadium, which housed a massive lighting rig and a revolving DJ console. The show boasts a 160 metre stage, covering the length of the football field, and guests will party the night away amongst 48 enormous fountains blasting water against the roof from a raised canal, all to the beats of cutting edge music provided by top international and local DJs. Sensation is an experience like no other, and is fast becoming one of Australia's most hotly anticipated events. The heaving dance floor, this year divided by an 80 metre riff, will be surrounded by an extraordinary dance, lights and special effects show, and creatures from the deep all around, plus the traditional secret highlight, to celebrate the New Year in style. Start planning your white party outfits now, as the on sale date for Sensation 'The Ocean of White' tickets will be announced in the coming weeks.

Tim Minchin
Date	2 December-16 December
Time	7.30pm and 8pm starts. Duration: 120 minutes, inclusive of interval
Fee	$49.95 Full, $45 Concession
Direct from a massive UK tour, a stint at London's legendary Apollo Theatre and record breaking sell-out season in Australia, Tim Minchin returns for a strictly limited encore tour of his award-winning, critically acclaimed Ready For This? 2 December QPAC - The Concert Hall Qpac.com.au 6 December Playhouse Theatre, Canberra Canberratheatre.com.au 4 December Palais Theatre, Melbourne Ticketmaster.com.au 11 December The Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide Venuetix.com.au 5 December State Theatre, Sydney Ticketmaster.com.au 15 & 16 December The Concert Hall, Perth Bcsticketing.com.au

YELLOW on Saturdays
Venue	Ruby Rabbit: 231 Oxford St, Darlinghurst
Date	Saturday 13th June
Time	from 10pm
YELLOW at Ruby Rabbit is the only way to spend your Saturday nights partying across three different levels with three very different vibes, to the diverse mix of electro, disco, house, 80's and hip hop. Be inspired by the all star cast of international and local DJs playing your favourite tracks, with HEY NOW DJs headlining this week, followed by a strong supporting line-up. For those who have not yet experienced Ruby Rabbit's cosmic facelift, this Saturday is the perfect time to check out the newly transformed 'lunar room' on level one - where every dimension, from the walls, floor and ceiling, to bar-top and furniture are swathed in starts, planets and moons, as well as the ever classic De Nom and the newly opened Hound's-tooth speakeasy bar on the ground floor. Hidden in unexpected places are yet more ultra exclusive rooms to be discovered, experienced and sought after. Line-up: Level One - HEY NOW, Joshy Flanagan, Funkt Up Krew, Rogers Room, Crumbs in the Cupboard and Steve Wyllie De Nom - Alison Wonderland, Joy Ride and Daves 4

Harrigan's Irish Pub and Accommodation Hunter Valley
Date	All rates are available from 1st April 2009 until 31st March 2010
Fee	From $169 per person midweek
Book	Harrigan's Hunter Valley and Harrington Waters visit www.harrigans.com.au or call Harrigan's Hunter Valley on 02 4998 4300 or Harrigan's Harrington on 02 6556 0555.
Harrigan's Irish Pub and Accommodation Hunter Valley and Harrigan's Irish Pub and River Lodge in Harrington Waters in the mid North Coast, have announced some fabulous themed winter getaway packages to indulge all the senses and beat the winter blues. Harrigan's Hunter Valley is an easy 90-minute drive from central Sydney. Nestled in the vineyards at the foot of the Brokenback ranges alongside the spectacular Hunter Valley Gardens, it offers award winning accommodation and bistro with 48 beautifully appointed 4-star Studio rooms and suites overlooking some of the Hunter's best wineries. Harrigan's Harrington Waters is the hidden jewel of the picturesque Mid-North Coast, on the mighty Manning River, nestled between popular NSW holiday destinations Foster and Port Macquarie. Harrigan's River Lodge accommodation provides a gorgeous river side abode with 22 rooms that include deluxe features such as king size beds, luxury bathrooms with spa baths, stunning decor and views to the Manning River, surrounding national parks or Harrigan's own meticulously landscaped gardens. Visit: www.harrigans.com.au for more details

Stuck in a rut? Set yourself a mid-year resolution to beat the daily grind with one of these fantastic holidays:
Venue	Egypt, Italy, France, Monaco and Switzerland, New Zealand, San Sebastian and Pamplona, Spain, Phuket, Thailand, Russia, Mauritius, Tasmania, Australia
Date	Departures available until 26 October, 2009-Departures available until 2 February, 2010
Fee	From $539 per person, twin share, land only
Book	Insightvacations.com, Trafalgartours.com.au, Contiki.com, Creativeholidays.com, Aatkings.com, Uniworldcruises.com.au, Newhorizons.com.au or see your travel agent
Insight Vacations' 12-day Splendours of Egypt From $2899 per person, twin share (land only) The ancient relics and intriguing icons of Egypt have to be seen to be believed, and what better time than 2009?! Make it your mid-year resolution to retrace the steps of mystical mummies and majestic pharaohs on this 12-day Egyptian extravaganza. Highlights include: admire the artifacts recovered from the tomb of Tutankhamun in Cairo's Egyptian Museum; tour the awesome Karnak Temple with its vast Hypostyle hall; visit the Temple of Hathor in Dendara with its rare depiction of Cleopatra and her son Caesarian; see the Colossi of Memnon, two giant faceless statues of Amenophis III; travel by motorboat to the Temple of Isis on the Island of Philae; sail on a 'felucca' around Aswan's Botanical gardens; visit the Rameses II statue and alabaster Sphinx in Memphis and see the Sakkara Step Pyramid of King Zozer - the oldest in the world. This hassle-free holiday will also allow you to keep to your save money resolution, by offering fantastic value; deluxe accommodation, all transport, premium highlights and many meals are all included in the one price. Trafalgar's 12-day Gladiators, Gondolas and Mountains From $2499 per person, twin share (land only) Think back to December 31st, 2008, just before the clock struck midnight - what was your new year's resolution? To spend more time with the kids? Travel the world and experience new things? Learn about a new culture? Now halfway through the year how are those resolutions playing out? Don't worry; there is still plenty of time to get cracking. Trafalgar's new Gladiators, Gondolas and Mountains tour is the perfect adventure for everyone. Time with the family - check, experience new and fascinating things - check, learn about different cultures - check! Tailored to suit family travel from kids to grandparents alike, if you are looking for the perfect European family holiday, this is the one. Passengers will have the time of their life with an itinerary that will engross both the young and young at heart. Knead dough and pile a base high with toppings in a pizza making class, do as the rich and famous do and stalk the chic streets of Cannes, and relive the days of true Gladiator combat all on this unforgettable tour. Trafalgar's CostSaver itineraries offers travellers the benefits of escorted touring combined with the flexibility of independent travel, all for around 40 per cent less than doing it on your own! Plus, with great child fares available, this truly is a value for money family holiday. Contiki's seven-day Ultimate Winter Adventure From $1355 per person, twin share, land only This year, it's all about ice-ice baby and one thing is for sure, there's 'snow' place like NZ. So if you have one mid-year resolution this year, it should be to hit the slopes and ski up a storm! This seven-day ski-tastic trip is the perfect way to awaken the ski-bunny within, travelling from Christchurch to Fox Glacier, then onto the crazy adventure capital of Queenstown for four action-packed days, with loads of ski and leisure time incorporated. You'll have an absolute blast on this big chill without spending the big bucks. Price includes accommodation, breakfast daily, some dinners, three-day lift passes and transfers, transport in Contiki's super spiffy snow-worthy coaches, and one of Contiki's expert tour managers who'll give you the low down on all the hottest things to see and do. Busabout Adventures' five-day Pamplona From $539 per person, twin share, land only The maddening dash of crowds, the vibrating thuds of a herd...yep, it's time make like a bull and run! For 354 days of the year, the capital of Navarra, nestled amongst the hills in Northern Spain's Basque region, is a relatively sleepy town. But from the 6th to the 14th July, the rolling green hills really do come alive….with the sound of stampede! So it's not too late to dash, if you dare, as there are still spaces available for this fabulously frenzied festival. Activities on include drinking plenty of sangria, cava (Spanish champagne) and cerveza (Spainish beer) and of course, running alongside the bulls that have been let loose on a course of sectioned off streets. Price includes quality accommodation in central San Sebastian, breakfasts while on tour, shuttles between San Sebastian and Pamplona, welcome drinks and souvenir t-shirt and 'panuelo' (neckerchief), plus a Busabout guide to show you the ropes. This is guaranteed to the best experience of your year, if not life. No bull! Creative Holidays' Thailand air and land packages Priced from $1445 ex Brisbane, $1359 ex Melbourne, $1225 ex Perth and $1375 ex Sydney per person, twin share. As the half way mark approaches, we often find ourselves reevaluating the New Year resolutions we made at the beginning of the year. Not sure where to begin, why not take a holiday to wind down and recharge and where better to relax than idyllic Thailand. This package includes return economy airfares to Thailand flying Thai International Airways, eight nights accommodation for the price of four at the Patong Resort Hotel and an upgrade to a deluxe room. Ex Brisbane includes one night accommodation at the Airport Hotel Bangkok due to flight schedules. Upgrades are also available for the Centara Karon Resort from an additional $92 per person. AAT Kings' 12-day Tasmanian Spectacular Priced from $3685 per person, twin share (land only). Was your New Year resolution to travel, but with your busy schedule you haven't gotten around to doing so. Make this now your mid year resolution and see the sights in your own backyard. Tasmania has a breadth of amazing sights to be discovered, filled to the brim with amazing scenery, culture, history and wilderness. On this tour you will explore Launceston, Freycinet National Park, historic Port Arthur, shop and taste the local delicacies at the Salamanca Markets in Hobart, the amazing three-tiered Russell Falls, cruise along the Gordon River and marvel at the beauty of Cradle Mountain. Uniworld's 13-day Waterways of the Czars From $3360 per person, twin share (land only) 2009 has truly flown by, with a whole lot of 'Russian' around. Stop! Take a breath, relax and catch up on some mid-year much needed 'r & r, on Uniworld's five star Waterways of the Czars river cruise. Unpack your suitcase just once and follow in the footsteps of the legendary Peter the Great who sailed the same route 300 years ago from Moscow, along the stunning Volga River, to the glorious city of St Petersburg. This river cruise is like the pages of a novel unfolding as the history, fine art and architecture reveals itself in its glorious drama. Let the worries of everyday life disappear as you embark on this unforgettable journey into the very soul of Russia. Enjoy the icons of this flourishing country, from Red Square, the Kremlin and the iconic St Basil's Cathedral to the churches, monasteries palaces and the famous Hermitage Museum. New Horizons Holidays five-night Laguna Beach Hotel and Spa package From $1753 per person, twin share including return economy airfare flying Air Mauritius ex Perth Are you in need for a little half-yearly escape? Make your mid-year resolution one to treat yourself to something extra special. Relax your mind and uplift your soul with a tropical getaway to the beautiful Indian Ocean island of Mauritius. Staying in the tranquil Laguna Beach Hotel and Spa, set against the scenic backdrop of the Grand-Port mountain range, New Horizons Holidays' guest will receive American style breakfast and delicious dinner daily, as well as a 30 per cent discount on all luxurious spa treatments including revitalising massages, soothing facials, body treatments and hammam. Enjoy an array of water sports such as scuba diving and undersea walk, unwind next to the pool and dine at any of resorts three restaurants.

Dennis Hopper and the New Hollywood
Venue	ACMI, Melbourne
Date	Thursday 12 November 2009 until Sunday 7 March 2010
In its latest major international exclusive exhibition, ACMI today announced the staging of Dennis Hopper and the New Hollywood, an expansive exhibition showcasing an extraordinary man's life's work, his collaborations and personal art collection, and an amazing insight into a formative era of Hollywood. In the 1960s, a new generation of Hollywood filmmakers changed the face of American cinema with the content, marketing, consumption and distribution of films revolutionised. Creative control shifted from producers to directors, many of whom were young, film-school graduates with a passion for film history, art and the New Wave.

Craft & Quilt Fair
Venue	Exhibition Park In Canberra, Mitchell
Date	August 6 - 9, 2009
Time	10am - 4.30pm daily
Fee	Adults: $14, Seniors/Pensioners: $12, Children (5-16yrs): $7, Children (under 5yrs): FREE, Family (2A + 2C): $33.
Book	Tickets available at the door or online at http://www.craftfair.com.au or call 02 9452 7575.
Australia's favourite craft event, the Craft & Quilt Fair will be held at the Exhibition Park In Canberra, August 6 - 9, 2009. In addition to fantastic shopping opportunities and non-stop classes and workshops, the Craft & Quilt Fair will have fresh new features and some very special displays including the 2009 Canberra Quilters Inc Exhibition. And also in Canberra, coinciding with the Fair is the National Gallery of Australia's Airing of the Quilts - so special, some of the textile artworks will be displayed for the first time in many years. If its inspiration you are looking for, you'll find it at the Craft & Quilt Fair. See the fantasies of Australia's best quilters in fabric in the AP&Q AQC Challenge; the magnificent quilts of the 2009 Canberra Quilters Inc. Exhibition; and the inspirational collection of the Best of Australia Quilts. Aspiring and experienced designers will love EXOTICA and Texstyle. Presented by ATASDA (Australian Textile Arts & Surface Design Association Inc), the original and unique handmade textile artworks of EXOTICA will amaze you. As will the sheer dedication and talent of textile works created by Higher School Certificate students presented in the Texstyle exhibition. And of course, you won't want to miss the shopping opportunities and classes. Stock up on hard-to-find supplies from Australia's best craft retailers and learn all the latest techniques in classes conducted by experts. So come on down to the Canberra Craft & Quilt Fair - it's a great opportunity to see inspirational displays, attend workshops and classes and see, try and buy the best in crafts!

Improvisation for Actors
Venue	The Space, 318 Chapel Street (cnr. Carlton St), Prahran
Date	Wednesdays 29 April - 24 June / 09 or Wednesdays 7 October - 2 December / 09
Time	7.00 p.m. - 9.00 p.m.
Fee	$264 full or $220 with Equity (or other concession
Book	Mobile: 0417 507 907 publicworkshops@impromelbourne.com.au
"It restored my confidence in myself and in impro. It reminded me to be more playful and daring with my craft. I don't think it is any co-incidence that since starting the course I have got 2 different acting jobs." Participant Actors Workshops 2008 A series of workshops run by professional actors for professional actors to explore spontaneous improvisation. For anyone interested in honing their impro skills for: -Auditions -Stage work -Rehearsal techniques -Improvised work for theatre or television Workshops will be responsive to participant needs and will cover: -Impro basics (spontaneity, being present, removing fear) -Scene work (inspiring your partner, using offers, developing a narrative, playing the moment) -Character work (discovery through impulse, offers and response) -Releasing creative blocks (playing the moment with commitment, leaping into the unknown) The Instructors: Patti Stiles is in demand worldwide as an improvisation performer and teacher. Her interpretation, and extension of Johnstone's work and philosophy, combined with her wealth of performance experience has made her a "must have" teacher for performers and companies wishing to create spontaneous theatre with fine skill, strong narrative and style. She has taught at Central School of Speech and Drama and RADA in London. Jenny Lovell has been performing in theatre, film and TV for over 20 years. She has performed, directed and taught impro in Sydney, Melbourne and overseas in USA, Canada and Hong Kong. Television and film appearances include: Prisoner, Picnic At Hanging Rock, and Gallipoli. Lliam Amor is an actor, writer and illustrator. Currently teaching drama at Deakin University he has had over 15 years experience in the world of improvisation. Television and theatre appearances include: Celebrity Theatresports, Late Night Impro, Thank God You're Here, The Micallef Program, Neighbours, MDA and various TV commercials.

Comedy @ Trades
Book	www.comedyattrades.com.au
Comedy @ Trades kicks off its 2009 season with eight hilarious reasons why inside the 150-year-old walls of Trades Hall should be your first stop for belly aching laughs this Comedy Festival. The Birdman is a rare bird indeed, part comedian, part magical escape artist, The Birdman with his show 1 Line will thrill you with death defying lyrical puns, Houdiniesqe conundrums and an absolute shipload of rope. The Colors are back! The Colors Interactive Comeback Show features the New York proto seminal outfit name checked by everyone from The Stones to The Yeah Yeah Yeahs returning after years in the musical wilderness to reap the musical legacy they helped sow. Forget Ramsey, Oliver and Nigella, Danny McGinlay is the Food Dude, the master of the post pub cook up. At 3am, armed only with a knob of butter, a tin can and a used matchstick, McGinlay shines whilst others fall asleep in the neighbour's rose garden. His name is Eric, one man on a lonely mission, The One Man Sketch Comedy Show. Much (well exactly) like the name suggests Eric cares not for large ensembles and supporting cast, just a bag full of honest to goodness sketch comedy that needs to be seen to be believed. Suspicious minds? Phillip Escoffey in his show Six Impossible Things Before Dinner knows exactly what's on your mind. Master of the unexplained, Escoffey will make you question everything you ever thought about reading other people's thoughts. Do you really know what your children are watching? The Soft Toy Mafia takes you on a journey to the seedy underbelly of toddler TV, a world of drugs, has been porn stars and bizarre love triangles, what chance have the children for innocence? Who listens to the radio? Well may you ask, but the real question here is who is running our regional radio stations? On The Wireless big business has moved in to silence the rural airwaves, watch in awe as a bunch of small time radio types dig their heals in to avoid a life working at the local abattoir. Got some fashion skeletons in your closet? A Stitch In Time - The History Of Frocking Up is a sartorially satirical look at the crimes hidden in all of our wardrobes, from satin to sequins, lame to lamé this show is a must for the fashion tragics amongst us all. Want more? Then keep in mind Comedy @ Trades is doing its bit to help us all laugh in the face of the GFC with two free shows in the Bella Union Bar. Scott Edgar (Tripod) and The Universe will put some swing into your step whilst you refresh at the bar on Thursday evenings. On Wednesday to Friday have your inner biscuit revealed as Bert and Betty Bircher sort you out with a nice cuppa.