Cats - Coming Soon to Capitol Theatre Sydney

Following its triumphant return on the West End, the acclaimed revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical CATS is set to have audiences purring with pleasure when it comes to the Capitol Theatre from 30 October.

DELTA GOODREM is confirmed to play the coveted role of Grizabella in Sydney and will sing Memory, one of the most well-known songs of all time.

Receiving outstanding reviews from critics and bloggers alike, this new production extended its London season due to overwhelming public demand.  Now audiences here will see the 2015 Olivier Award-nominated revival, which reunited the original creative team and brought CATS back to the West End after a 12 year absence.

Based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the show is alive with highly entertaining feline characters and wonderful witty verse, as the Jellicle Cats come out to play in a larger-than-life junkyard on the night of the Jellicle Ball.  One by one they tell their stories for the amusement of Old Deuteronomy, their wise and benevolent leader, who must choose one of the Cats to ascend to The Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a new life.

One of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history, CATS has enchanted more than 73 million people in over 300 cities around the world, winning numerous awards including Olivier and Tony awards for Best Musical.

Featuring a fantastical set, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s magnificent score that includes the poignant hit song ‘Memory’, dazzling choreography and stunning costumes, CATS is a brilliant song and dance spectacular – you won’t believe your eyes!


‘Simply purrfect’. Daily Mirror, UK


From 30 October 2015 for a strictly limited season

View the Capitol Theatre Website for More Information

Nearby accommodation from Metro Hotels:

Aspire Hotel Sydney
Metro Hotel Marlow Sydney Central
Metro Hotel on Pitt
Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour
Metro Apartments on King

An Evening With Oprah - 2015 Australia Tour

Oprah Winfrey comes to Australia this December 2015 to headline a multi-city arena tour "An Evening With Oprah", presented by Swisse. Oprah will take to the stage, bringing her personal story and insights to life in a one-of-a-kind intimate evening.

"I can't wait to see everyone again in Australia," said Oprah Winfrey. "It is hard to believe it has been five years since I was there, and I look forward to being reconnected, rejuvenated and reinspired about what is possible for our lives. I am also excited to visit New Zealand for the very first time!"

TOUR DATES:

• Wed 2 Dec Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne VIC 
• Fri 4 Dec Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide, SA 
• Mon 7 Dec Perth Arena, Perth, WA 
• Thu 10 Dec  Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane, QLD 
• Sat 12 Dec Allphones Arena, Sydney, NSW

Get Tickets at Ticketek
 

ABOUT THIS EVENT:

 

Oprah Winfrey fans will have the chance to watch the talk show mogul dish out self-help advice in the flesh when tickets to her Australian arena tour go on sale at 1pm today. But it won't come cheap.
The 61-year-old last month announced she would return to Australia after a five year absence for her headline show An Evening With Oprah, which is due to tour the country in December.

Pre-sale tickets sold out within hours last week and fans hoping for cheap tickets will be disappointed to hear the most affordable seats ($99) have already been snapped up.

In Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne the cheapest seats available when general admission tickets go on sale this afternoon will set fans back $264.

If money is no object, then Oprah fans can fork-out a staggering $2499 for the the "'O' VIP Photo + Soundcheck Experience" which includes a seat in the first 10 rows, a group photo with Oprah and a 15-minute group Q&A session.

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Doctor Who Festival Sydney November 2015

The official Doctor Who Festival is coming to Australia for the first time, and will provide fans of all ages with exclusive access into the magic and the secrets behind your favourite program.

The Festival will be held on the 21st & 22nd November 2015 at the Royal Hall of Industries and Hordern Pavilion, the Doctor Who Festival promises fans a unique insight into the imagination and skills put into bringing an episode of Doctor Who to you. This includes exclusive access to the people that make it happen, giving you the chance to get inside the adventure.

What is the difference between the Cybermen and Dalek tickets?

The difference is simply the times at which you will go into the theatre for the three theatre sessions included in your ticket. This allows everyone the opportunity to see the cast and to make the most of their visit.

Event Dates:

Saturday:

• Cybermen
• Darlek

Sunday:

• Cybermen
• Darlek

MEET THE CAST*

Your chance to attend a Q&A session which will get you closer than ever before to Twelfth Doctor, Peter Capaldi, with more cast yet to be announced.



MEET THE WRITERS*

Hear from the experts who create the storylines of your favourite programme, including lead writer and executive producer, Steven Moffat and find out how the Doctor’s many adventures are developed from script to screen.



MEET THE MONSTERS*

Experience the work that goes into creating iconic Doctor Who monsters right in front of your eyes, with live monster make-up demonstrations and interactive monster workshops.



MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED

As we get closer to November, more cast and activities will be revealed. Register here to sign up to the newsletter for more information, and like the official Doctor Who Facebook page to keep up to date with the latest announcements.

Get Tickets at Ticketek 

Blur Live in Sydney - July 2015

It has been 18 years since blur, one of the most successful British bands of the last two decades, has graced our shores. Together, Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, Alex James and Dave Rowntree,  have won a total of five BRIT Awards, and were twice nominated for the Mercury Music Award.

And now blur  are back with their eighth studio album ‘The Magic Whip’ and in July will make their way to Australia, fresh from headlining British Summer Time Festival in London’s Hyde Park, to play three huge arena shows in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.

Joining the band will be very special guest Jamie T, one of the most distinctive voices to come out of the UK in the past decade.

Event Details:

DATE: Saturday 25 July, 2015

TIME: Start time 7:45pm

More Details about this event and ticket purchasing

Matilda the Musical Lyric Theatre Sydney - Pre Sale Tickets Available Now

Matilda The Musical is the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl. With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda The Musical is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.

Winner of 50 major international awards, including 12 for Best Musical, Matilda continues to delight audiences of all ages both in London and on Broadway before arriving at the Sydney Lyric Theatre from July 2015.

“ONCE IN A BLUE MOON, A SHOW COMES OUT BLAZING AND RESTORES YOUR FAITH IN BROADWAY. MATILDA THE MUSICAL IS THAT SHOW.” - New York Post

Matilda Cast Announced: 

Stephen Anderson – Sergei / Ensemble
Reece Budin – Doctor / Ensemble
Rachel Cole – Ensemble
Andrew Cook – Ensemble
Danielle Cook – Dance Captain / Swing
Eli Cooper – Ensemble
Cristina D’Agostino – Acrobat / Ensemble
Glenn Hill – Escapologist / Ensemble
Travis Khan – Rudolpho / Ensemble
Nadia Komazec – Ensemble
Zoe Komazec – Assistant Dance Captain / Swing
Leah Lim – Swing
Mitchell Mahony – Swing
Cle Morgan – Mrs Phelps / Ensemble
Daniel Raso – Michael Wormwood / Ensemble
Clay Roberts – Swing - See more at: http://au.matildathemusical.com/cast-creative/cast-team/?j=623302&l=86989_HTML&u=26979563&mid=1359293&jb=0#sthash.2Fbtetia.dpuf

Stephen Anderson – Sergei / Ensemble
Reece Budin – Doctor / Ensemble
Rachel Cole – Ensemble
Andrew Cook – Ensemble
Danielle Cook – Dance Captain / Swing
Eli Cooper – Ensemble
Cristina D’Agostino – Acrobat / Ensemble
Glenn Hill – Escapologist / Ensemble
Travis Khan – Rudolpho / Ensemble
Nadia Komazec – Ensemble
Zoe Komazec – Assistant Dance Captain / Swing
Leah Lim – Swing
Mitchell Mahony – Swing
Cle Morgan – Mrs Phelps / Ensemble
Daniel Raso – Michael Wormwood / Ensemble
Clay Roberts – Swing

See full cast information

Stephen Anderson – Sergei / Ensemble
Reece Budin – Doctor / Ensemble
Rachel Cole – Ensemble
Andrew Cook – Ensemble
Danielle Cook – Dance Captain / Swing
Eli Cooper – Ensemble
Cristina D’Agostino – Acrobat / Ensemble
Glenn Hill – Escapologist / Ensemble
Travis Khan – Rudolpho / Ensemble
Nadia Komazec – Ensemble
Zoe Komazec – Assistant Dance Captain / Swing
Leah Lim – Swing
Mitchell Mahony – Swing
Cle Morgan – Mrs Phelps / Ensemble
Daniel Raso – Michael Wormwood / Ensemble
Clay Roberts – Swing - See more at: http://au.matildathemusical.com/cast-creative/cast-team/?j=623302&l=86989_HTML&u=26979563&mid=1359293&jb=0#sthash.2Fbtetia.dpuf

Stephen Anderson – Sergei / Ensemble
Reece Budin – Doctor / Ensemble
Rachel Cole – Ensemble
Andrew Cook – Ensemble
Danielle Cook – Dance Captain / Swing
Eli Cooper – Ensemble
Cristina D’Agostino – Acrobat / Ensemble
Glenn Hill – Escapologist / Ensemble
Travis Khan – Rudolpho / Ensemble
Nadia Komazec – Ensemble
Zoe Komazec – Assistant Dance Captain / Swing
Leah Lim – Swing
Mitchell Mahony – Swing
Cle Morgan – Mrs Phelps / Ensemble
Daniel Raso – Michael Wormwood / Ensemble
Clay Roberts – Swing - See more at: http://au.matildathemusical.com/cast-creative/cast-team/?j=623302&l=86989_HTML&u=26979563&mid=1359293&jb=0#sthash.2Fbtetia.dpuf

View more information about Matilda at Lyric Theatre Sydney

Club Lyric's Matilda Presale!

As a Club Lyric member, you can access tickets to performances from Wednesday 28 October - Sunday 1 November before they go on sale to the general public! Book now using codeword MINCHIN to access this presale via the link below. 

GET TICKETS

Backstreet Boys Australia Tour May 2015

Backstreet Boys Australia Tour May 2015

It's time to clear your schedule for May – Backstreet's back and they're bringing Kevin!

One of the most successful groups of all time - BACKSTREET BOYS - are bringing their ‘In A World Like This Tour' to Australia this autumn.

After reuniting with original member Kevin Richardson in 2013, all five original members recorded a new album, In A World Like This, filmed a revealing documentary ‘Show ‘Em What You're Made Of', while embarking on a sold out tour across Europe and North America to rapt crowds celebrating 20 years making music… and now it's Australia's turn!

Last spotted on our shores in 2012 as a four-piece, this time all of the boys are back live onstage, doing what they do best, entertaining the fans with smash hit after smash hit including ‘Everybody (Backstreet's Back)', ‘Incomplete', ‘I Want It That Way' and ‘Larger Than Life'.

Selling more than 130 million albums worldwide, Backstreet Boys have been dominating the music scene for two decades. True entertainers, masters of some of the greatest pop songs ever recorded, their concerts are not to be missed!

Backstreet Boys - Tour Dates:

- Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Fri 8 May

- Allphones Arena, Sydney Sat 9 May

- Brisbane Entertainment Centre Sun 10 May

- Perth Arena Fri 15 May

Get Tickets and Find out more

About the Backstreet Boys:

The Backstreet Boys (sometimes referred to as BSB) are an American vocal group, formed in Orlando, Florida in 1993. The group consists of A. J. McLean, Howie Dorough, Nick Carter, Kevin Richardson, and Brian Littrell.

The group rose to fame with their debut international album, Backstreet Boys (1996). In the following year they released their second international album Backstreet's Back (1997), and their U.S. debut album which continued the group's success worldwide. They rose to superstardom with their third studio album Millennium (1999) and its follow-up album, Black & Blue (2000).

After a two-year hiatus, they regrouped and released a comeback album Never Gone (2005). After the conclusion of the Never Gone Tour in 2006, Richardson left the group to pursue other interests. The group then released two albums as a quartet: Unbreakable (2007) and This Is Us (2009).

In 2012, the group announced that Richardson had rejoined them permanently. In the following year they celebrated their 20th anniversary and released their first independent album, In a World Like This (2013). The group also released their first documentary movie, titled Backstreet Boys: Show 'Em What You're Made Of in January 2015.

The Backstreet Boys have sold over 130 million records worldwide, making them the best-selling boy band in history, and one of the world's best-selling music artists. They are the first group since Sade to have their first nine albums reach the top 10 on the Billboard 200, and the only boy band to do so. They also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 22, 2013.

CATS to Return to Australia in 2015

CATS the show to Return to Australia in 2015

Following its triumphant season in London’s West End, the acclaimed revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking musical CATS comes to Australia for a strictly limited season, opening in Sydney on 30 October 2015 then touring to Hobart, Melbourne and Brisbane. Tickets go on sale on Friday 24 April. CATS is touring to Adelaide and Perth in 2016 with dates and booking information to be released at a later date.

The hit revival, which was reworked for the most recent season in the West End by the original creative team - Director Trevor Nunn, Choreographer & Associate Director Gillian Lynne, Set Designer John Napier and Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber – received excellent reviews and extended its season due to overwhelming demand.

The 2015 Olivier Award-nominated CATS introduces a rapping ‘street cat’ in the famous Rum Tum Tugger role, who performs some serious breakdancing moves.

“I’ve come to the conclusion that having read Eliot again, maybe Eliot was the inventor of rap”, says Lloyd Webber.

Based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the show is set amongst a larger-than-life junkyard playground and is alive with our favourite feline characters including Rum Tum Tugger, Mr. Mistoffelees, Macavity, Jennyanydots, Old Deuteronomy, Grizabella and Skimbleshanks.

The Jellicle Cats come out to play on one special night of the year – the night of the Jellicle Ball. One by one they tell their stories for the amusement of Old Deuteronomy, their wise and benevolent leader, who must choose one of the Cats to ascend to The Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a whole new Jellicle life.

CATS, one of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history, received its world premiere at the New London Theatre in 1981 where it played for 21 record-breaking years and almost 9,000 performances. The production was the winner of the Olivier and Evening Standard Awards for Best Musical. In 1983 the Broadway production became the recipient of seven Tony awards including Best Musical, and ran for 18 years.

Since its premiere, CATS has been presented in over 30 countries, has been translated into 15 languages and has been seen by more than 73 million people worldwide. Both the original London and Broadway cast recordings won Grammy Awards for Best Cast Album.

The musical score composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, includes the hit song ‘Memory’, which has been recorded by over 150 artists from Barbra Streisand and Johnny Mathis to Liberace and Barry Manilow.

CATS Australian Tour 2015

Sydney, Capitol Theatre from 30 October, 2015
Hobart, Derwent Theatre from 10 December, 2015
Melbourne, Regent Theatre from 18 December, 2015
Brisbane, Lyric Theatre from 29 January, 2016

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#Cats #showsaustralia #theatre #stageshow #capitoltheatre #showaccommodation #metrohotels

Sydney Family Show - Easter in Sydney 2015

Put on a smile, but prepare to be grinning after you see all the excitement the Dodo Sydney Family Show has in store for you in 2015! The show will return over the Easter school holidays from 2 to 12 April, at the Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park.

From cheering on the racing pigs, to enjoying the free Looney Tunes stage show, and meeting the life-size stars of the hit movie, Cars, in the Disney Zone, there will definitely be something for everyone!

Don't forget the numerous show bags to choose from and many delicious treats to fullfil your appetite. Plus, the best thing is, it's free entry, that's right, free! Grab the kids and prepare yourselves for a fun-filled family day at the show!

LOCATION: Sydney Family Show - Moore Park

EVENT DATES:

• Thursday 2nd April                                        10:00am - 5:00pm
• Friday 3rd April - Monday 6th April                   10:00am - 6:00pm
• Tuesday 7th April - Sunday 12th April               10:00am - 5:00pm 

Find More Information about this Free Event

Glenn Miller Orchestra Concert Spectacular | Sydney Melbourne

The Glenn Miller Orchestra returns by overwhelming popular demand for this concert spectacular, to honour the year of the ANZAC Centenary.

Featuring America’s finest musicians together with the Moonlight Serenade Singers and The Broadway Swing Dancers, the concert will pay tribute to the spirit of ANZAC including a special feature of music and songs from the years of the Great War.

All the famous Glenn Miller classics will be performed by the Orchestra playing the original music arrangements; timeless icons of American culture such as Chattanooga Choo Choo, A String Of Pearls, Tuxedo Junction, Moonlight Serenade, Little Brown Jug and the greatest Miller hit of all time, In The Mood.

Remembering the Centenary of Anzac

It is fitting that the Glenn Miller Orchestra is returning in 2015, the year of the Centenary of Anzac.

Major Glenn Miller served in the United States Army Air Force from 1942 until his untimely death on December 15th 1944 when he was travelling to entertain US troops in France; his aircraft disappeared in bad weather over the English Channel.

Glenn Miller recorded many memorable hots from the 1914 to 1918 period which the orchestra will perform in tribute to the ANZACS.

‘My Buddy’ – ‘Over There’ – ‘Pack Up Your Troubles In Your Old Kit Bag’ – ‘If You Were The Only Girl In The World’ and many more.

THE UNFORGETTABLE MUSIC OF THE 1940’S FROM THE GOLDEN ERA OF SWING

“An evening of nostalgia…unforgettable music; an absolutely brilliant concert”
– The Australian Stage

Show Venues and Dates:

May 31st, 2015 WIN Entertainment Centre, NSW 2PM Glenn Miller Orchestra

June 20th, 2015 State Theatre, Sydney, NSW 2PM Glenn Miller Orchestra

June 20th, 2015 State Theatre, Sydney, NSW 7.30PM Glenn Miller Orchestra

Friday June 05, 2015 Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall 7.30PM Glenn Miller Orchestra

Saturday June 13, 2015 Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall 2.30PM Glenn Miller Orchestra

Find out more and purchase tickets to this event at Ticket Master

Counting Crows Add Brisbane Show To 2015 Australian Tour

American rockers Counting Crows have blessed their Aussie fans, with a Brisbane show now part of the group’s 2015 Australian headline tour, which is taking place around their Bluesfest 2015 appearances. The one-off Brisbane concert is slated to take place on Sunday, 12th April.

Having just wrapped up a US tour, Counting Crows are ready to return down under with their renowned live shows. The tour will see performances of hits from the band’s 20-plus years in the business, including Mr. Jones, Accidentally In Love, Big Yellow Taxi and Colourblind.

Counting Crows last performed headline shows in Australia in 2013, around their last Bluesfest appearance. This time around, the group will also be showing off material from their latest full-length release, Somewhere Under Wonderland. The album, which was released in September last year, marked the band’s first new material since 2007.

Counting Crows’ 2015 Australian Tour

Fan Club pre-sale available from midday Thursday, 19th February until 9am Friday, 20th February.
My Live Nation & Ticket agent pre-sales available from midday Friday, 20th February until 5pm Sunday, 22nd February.

Tickets for all other shows are available now:

Saturday, 4th April 2015
Palais Theatre, Melbourne
Tickets: Live Nation

Sunday, 5th April 2015
Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide
Tickets: Live Nation

Tuesday, 7th April 2015
Concert Hall, Perth
Tickets: Live Nation

Thursday, 9th April 2015
State Theatre, Sydney
Tickets: Live Nation

Sunday, 12th April 2015 – NEW SHOW
The Tivoli, Brisbane
Tickets: Live Nation

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Backstreet Boys in Sydney with Special Guests

It’s time to clear your schedule for May – Backstreet’s back and they’re bringing Kevin!

One of the most successful groups of all time - BACKSTREET BOYS - are bringing their ‘In A World Like This Tour’ to Australia this autumn.

After reuniting with original member Kevin Richardson in 2013, all five original members recorded a new album, In A World Like This, filmed a revealing documentary ‘Show ‘Em What You're Made Of’, while embarking on a sold out tour across Europe and North America to rapt crowds celebrating 20 years making music… and now it’s Australia’s turn!

“This last year and a half of touring with my bandmates again couldn't have been any better, but I'm so excited to finally get back to Australia and play for our Aussie fans. It wouldn't feel complete without spending time in one of our favorite places!" - Kevin Richardson

Tickets will go on sale at midday on Monday February 23.

Telstra Thanks is bringing an exciting 48-hour pre-sale just for Telstra customers from 10am Wednesday February 18 until 10am Friday February 20. For more information and to register, visit: telstra.com/music

My Live Nation members can also be among the first to secure tickets during the pre-sale beginning next Friday, February 20 at 3pm. For complete tour and ticketing details, visit: www.livenation.com.au

VIP Packages, including Meet & Greets, are also available at:www.backstreetboys.com

Last spotted on our shores in 2012 as a four-piece, this time all of the boys are back live onstage, doing what they do best, entertaining the fans with smash hit after smash hit including ‘Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)’, ‘Incomplete’, ‘I Want It That Way’ and ‘Larger Than Life’.

Backstreet’s documentary, ‘Show ‘Em What You're Made Of’, is appearing as a limited release in cinemas across the world, debuting in the US last month and slated for an Australian release from March 28. Watch the trailer here.

Selling more than 130 million albums worldwide, Backstreet Boys have been dominating the music scene for two decades. True entertainers, masters of some of the greatest pop songs ever recorded, their concerts are not to be missed!

EVENT TIME: SATURDAY 9 MAY 2015, 8:00PM

Presented by: Live Nation

Tickets On Sale: Mon 23 Feb 2015

Allphones Arena Sydney

Related Links:

www.backstreetboys.com
www.livenation.com.au

Say ‘Konichiwa’ to the Japanese Festival!

Say ‘Konichiwa’ to the Japanese Festival!

We’ve been to Nepal, Malaysia, Brazil and Myanmar, we’ve even celebrated Christmas in Poland, and now our Culture Beats festival program is heading to the Land of the Rising Sun, with the Japanese Festival (or ‘Matsuri’) on 13 December!

Celebrating an ancient culture and a modern society, the Japanese Festival will bring the nation’s best food, drink and entertainment right to the heart of Sydney in Tumbalong Park.
Eat, Drink

Indulge in delicious, fresh Japanese delicacies with food stalls from some of Sydney’s finest. Colotakoinvite you to enjoy their trademark takoyaki (fried octopus served with tempura, pickled ginger and green onions), ebiyaki (prawn), or kaniyaki (crab, with the claw attached!). Momiji is serving up the noodle dish yakisoba straight off the teppan, and skewered fishcakes. 

Sushi Samurai will have crispy karaage (fried chicken), gyoza and okonomiyaki (savoury pancake) plus icy cold kakigori (shaved ice with syrup and condensed milk), perfect for a sunny summer Saturday! At Big Crunch Sushi you’ll have the choice of sushi rolls, uramaki and ‘sushi munch’ boxes in a variety of flavour options like teriyaki chicken, tuna, spicy tuna, salmon or vegetarian. Bao Dao Taiwainese Kitchen are dishing up Asian-style pancakes, and Kiyamachi Tei have okonomiyaki, yakisoba, and karaage.

At Thanks Foods you’ll find okonomiyaki, yakisoba, Japanese curry rice and karaage, while Thanks Martwill be selling Ramune (Japanese lemonade), Japanese ice popsicles, rice crackers, sticky rice with soy flour and brown sugar syrup, and rice balls. Sydney Okinawan Club is offering up Okinawa soba (an authentic noodle dish specific to the Okinawa prefecture), udon, Okinawa curry, rice ball, and ramune. As a special treat, every customer at their stall will go home with a small but very precious gift – Okinawa star sand. 

Tall Grass Cane Juice return to Tumablong Park to sweeten and refresh, and Maryu will be serving up Ebisen (a crunchy, shrimp-flavoured snack food) and onions rings, as well as selling drinks like ocha (green tea) and ramune, plus souvenirs like slippers, handheld fans (tradition manual fans and modern electric fans) and beauty products like hand cream and face cream!
Be Merry

Onstage, we’ve got some incredible performances in store, from traditional music and dance to modern performance; from sushi-making demonstrations to karaoke and sumo wrestling! The Anime Sydneyband, a collective of university anime clubs from across Sydney, will be doing covers of well known anime songs for local fans. 

Yo-yo wizard Wayne X will show why he is the best in the business, Shiho Sparkle Hooper will show off her special hula-hoop dance routines, and Master Sushi Chef Hideo Dekura will show how it’s done in a demonstration presented by Kikkoman. Singer Makoto Tanaka will perform a blend of Japanese folk songs and western classics, calligraphy artist Renclub will give a unique performance, and local cosplayers will give an insight into the subculture with a cosplay show. 

The Australian Sumo Federation will delight with displays from a sport that is both athletic and performative, dance group Team ACE will amaze, and the Live DAM Karaoke system from Japan is back for another year to thrill the audience and pit competitors (will you be one?) against each other.

And that’s just the start of it! All this and so much more will be on offer this weekend at the Japanese Festival. Don’t miss out!

EVENT DETAILS:
Japanese Festival
Tumbalong Park
10am – 7:30pm, 13 December
Full program and getting here

Ricky Martin - Live in Sydney

THE GRAMMY WINNING GLOBAL SUPERSTAR AND CURRENT COACH ON THE VOICE WILL MAKE HIS HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED RETURN TO ALLPHONES ARENA IN APRIL 2015.

Nine Live and Sony Music Entertainment are proud to announce that GRAMMY winning music superstar Ricky Martin will return to Allphones Arena next year for his One World Tour.

Ricky Martin delighted sold-out audiences with his first Australian tour in more than 10 years last October, and fans will sure to be delighted with the One World Tour.

“I am so excited to bring my new One World Tour back to Australia next year and see all of my loving & loyal Aussie fans once more,” says Martin. “I am looking forward to playing some new material that I have been working on this year, some of my classics and perhaps a few surprises!”

Ticket Prices:

Platinum $169.90
Gold $119.90
Silver $99.90

Event Venue:  All phones Arena

ALLPHONES ARENA is situated in Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney’s newest suburb (created within Homebush Bay). It is located in the geographic and demographic heart of Sydney, approximately 17km west of Sydney’s CBD.

It is on Olympic Boulevard and is well sign posted when you reach Sydney Olympic Park.

Buy Tickets - http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=RICKYMAR15&v=SSD

Matilda The Musical | Lyric Theatre Sydney

The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Matilda The Musical will make its Australian Premiere at Sydney Lyric Theatre in August 2015.

Matilda The Musical is based on the beloved novel by best-selling author Roald Dahl (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Fantastic Mr. Fox). It is the story of an extraordinary girl who dreams of a better life. Armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, Matilda dares to take a stand and change her destiny. 

Featuring music and lyrics by Australian comedian, musician and composer Tim Minchin, Matilda The Musical has proven an enormous success in London’s West End and on Broadway, where productions continue to play to packed houses and capture the imagination of young and old alike.

Matilda The Musical is directed by Tony Award® winner Matthew Warchus (God of Carnage), who helms this production with a book by Tony Award®-winning playwright Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. The production has sets and costumes by Tony Award® winner Rob Howell, with choreography by Tony Award® winner Peter Darling, orchestrations, additional music and musical supervision by Christopher Nightingale, lighting by Tony Award® winner Hugh Vanstone, and sound by Simon Baker.

Matilda The Musical is the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by the incomparable Roald Dahl. 

With book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda The Musical tells the tale of an extraordinary girl who is determined to change her own story, even if it means being a little bit naughty... 

Winner of 50 major international awards, including 12 for Best Musical, Matilda continues to delight audiences of all ages both in London and on Broadway. 

American Express Pre-sale on Now

“ONCE IN A BLUE MOON, A SHOW COMES OUT BLAZING AND RESTORES YOUR FAITH IN BROADWAY. MATILDA THE MUSICAL IS THAT SHOW.” - New York Post

Australian Garden Show Sydney 2014

A stylish event celebrating Australia’s love of gardens and outdoor spaces, held over four days from 4 – 7 September, 2014 at Centennial Park, Sydney.

The Show will explore new ideas in gardening techniques and design, showcasing spectacular displays and a wide variety of lifestyle products.

Gardening:

The timing of AGSS enables the AGSS to be a leader in launching new plant species which promotes consumer learning and engagement with plant breeders internationally. 

The AGSS will be a centre for exploring new ideas in gardening techniques aimed at a wide range of gardeners from the amateur to the professional.

Design:

A key feature of the Australian Garden Show Sydney is that it looks to present the future of horticulture and outdoor environment design.

Designers and landscapers from across Sydney, Australia and the world will create display gardens that extend the boundaries of the imagination. 

Other exhibitors such as florists and artists will create inspirational displays and retailers will see the AGSS as the place to launch new ideas and products in gardening and horticulture. AGSS will proactively seek out new design products and fresh ideas to showcase annually.

Wellbeing:

The wellbeing information presented at the AGSS will be of benefit to attendees as they will be presented with ideas that will encourage them to live a healthier, more informed and productive life; the AGSS will link garden design to wellbeing and will be the platform for presenting cutting edge wellbeing talks by leading professionals in this field.

OPENING TIMES: Open daily 10am – 5pm.

Vivid Sydney - Details and Transport Information

Friday 23 May to Monday 09 June 2014

• Sydney CBD
• North Sydney
• Circular Quay & The Rocks
• Darling Harbour
• Carriageworks, Redfern

Installations open (times may vary): 18:00
Installations close (times may vary): 24:00

Transport details

Event Website: Vivid Sydney

Use the Trip planner to plan your trip with up-to-date train, bus, ferry and light rail information. You can also use one of the many real-time apps to track your service.

Special information

• Vivid Sydney is a free, unticketed 18-day festival of light, music and ideas.
• Large crowds are expected in the city throughout the event, especially on Friday and Saturday nights and over the June long weekend.
• Significant road closures and clearways will be in place every weeknight from 19:00 and on weekends (including the Monday 9 June public holiday) from 17:00 to manage congestion and keep pedestrians safe.
• Traffic will be heavy, parking will be limited and you won’t be able to see most Vivid Sydney events from a vehicle.
• There are many events and installations across the city, so you don’t need to see it all in one go. Plan your Vivid Sydney experience over a couple of nights, leave the car at home and take advantage of extra public transport services.

Train

• All Vivid Sydney precincts are within walking distance of train stations.
• The best stations for accessing Vivid Sydney events are Central, Town Hall, Wynyard, Martin Place, Circular Quay, St James, Museum, North Sydney, Milsons Point and Redfern.
• Extra trains are running into the city and around the City Circle on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights to help get you around the Vivid Sydney precincts.
• Circular Quay will be extremely popular during the event so on Saturday nights and the long weekend Sunday, trains will not pick up passengers at Circular Quay Station between 18:00 and 22:00.
  • If you are travelling to Circular Quay on these days, please alight at Wynyard or St James.
• For train information, visit Sydney Trains timetables.

Trackwork

• Trackwork is taking place during Vivid Sydney and may affect how you travel. For the latest information, check trackwork service updates or use the Trip planner.

Bus

• Plenty of extra buses are running in and out of the city during Vivid Sydney.
• Some buses will be diverted and have changed stops due to road closures. Check signage on the bus route and use the Trip planner before you travel.
• Daily changes: Bus services to the Rocks and Millers Point will be diverted when road closures are in place.
• Fridays:
  • From 19:00, buses that normally start at Circular Quay will begin from temporary terminals on George Street at Wynyard Station or Martin Place near Elizabeth Street and Castlereagh Street.
• Saturdays, Sundays and long weekend Monday:
  • From 17:00, buses to and from the CBD will be moved from Circular Quay to temporary terminals at:
    • Elizabeth Street near Martin Place
    • Castlereagh Street near Martin Place
    • Castlereagh Street near Market Street
    • Clarence Street near Margaret Street
    • York Street, Queen Victoria Building

Sydney Ferries

• Ferries will be in high demand during Vivid Sydney, especially on the weekends and public holiday.
• Services will reach capacity and there will be long queues, so consider taking one of the frequent trains or buses instead.
• Due to the high demand, customers will be required to exit the ferry once they reach their destination. You will not be able to stay on the ferry and take the return trip. This is to make sure that everyone gets the chance to access ferry services.
• There are no free ferry services during Vivid Sydney.

Road

• There will be significant road closures and special event clearways in place in the Sydney CBD, The Rocks and Walsh Bay throughout the 18 days of the event.
• Roads will be closed from 19:00 on weekdays and 17:00 on weekends and the June public holiday.
  • On Saturdays and Sundays, George Street will be fully closed from the Rocks to Hunter Street, and closed to northbound traffic from Hunter Street to Market Street.
• Special event clearways will also be in place across the Sydney CBD between 15:00 and midnight depending on the day, so check signage carefully before parking.
  • Special event clearways are no parking zones, even for residents and businesses with parking permits and Mobility Scheme permits.
  • Vehicles left in special event clearways will be towed and a fee applies.
• For an interactive map showing road closure dates, times and locations, visit Vivid Sydney.
• For a list of all road closures and clearways as well as information on general traffic conditions visit Live Traffic NSW.
• You can also download the free iPhone, iPad or Android app or call the Traffic Information Line on 132 701.

Taxi

• Demand for taxis will be high and queue times may be lengthy, so please be patient and considerate of others.
• Due to road closures, there will be some changes to taxi rank locations:
  • The taxi rank at the Four Season Hotel on George Street will be moved to Bridge Street (southern side) between Pitt Street and George Street on Fridays, Sundays and the long weekend Monday.
    • On Saturdays and the long weekend Sunday it will move to Harrington Street (eastern side) between Essex Street and Grosvenor Street.
  • The taxi rank on Alfred Street (northern side) at Circular Quay will move to Pitt Street (western side) between Reiby Place and Dalley Street on Fridays, Sundays and the long weekend Monday.
    • On Saturdays and the long weekend Sunday it will move to Pitt Street (western side) between Bridge Street and Curtin Place.
  • The Darling Harbour taxi rank on Darling Drive behind Harbourside Shopping Centre will operate as normal.
• There will be managed taxi access to Sydney Opera House and Walsh Bay for show ticket-holders.
• For details of taxi networks servicing the Sydney area, visit NSW Taxi Council.

Accessibility

Parking

• Patrons with accessibility needs are encouraged to visit Vivid Sydney on weeknights, when crowds are expected to be smaller.
• Limited accessible parking will be available in Walsh Bay, on Hickson Road north of Pottinger Street on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Accessible set-down and pick-up points will be available at:
  • Walsh Bay on Hickson Road north of Towns Place
  • Circular Quay on Macquarie Street north of Albert Street.
• Vehicles will not be permitted to park in these locations and wait for patrons to return.
• A valid Australian Disability Parking Permit must be displayed in the windscreen to gain access to accessible parking and accessible set-down and pick-up points.

Public transport

• Accessible transport options can be found on the Trip planner by checking 'Mobility options'. Only trip plans with accessible train platforms, ferry wharves and buses will be presented. Seeaccessible travel in NSW.

Trains

• Central, Town Hall, Wynyard, Martin Place, Circular Quay, St James, Museum, North Sydney and Milsons Point stations are all wheelchair accessible.
• Redfern Station is not wheelchair accessible.
• See accessible trains and stations.

Buses

• Nearly all of Sydney Buses’ services are wheelchair accessible. Features of wheelchair accessible buses include wider doors and aisles, and space for two mobility aids such as wheelchairs, some ride-on scooters and prams or strollers. See travel on accessible buses.

Sydney Ferries

• The entire Sydney Ferries fleet is wheelchair accessible via wheelchair accessible ferry wharves (pending tidal and safety conditions). See accessible ferries and wharves.

View Transport NSW official site

Jason Derulo Tatoos Tour Sydney

Australian songstress RICKI-LEE is thrilled to be joining superstar JASON DERULO when he returns down under for his ‘Tattoos’ national tour kicking off in less than two weeks time.

Talented pop star JASON DERULO, makes his triumphant return to Australia for a national tour starting April and ending in May 2014. Derulo will perform at the QANTAS Credit Union Arena on May 5.

‘Tattoos’, the album celebrates one of pop’s thrilling comeback stories. ‘Tattoos’ is lead by the double-platinum smash ‘The Other Side’, whose official video has already notched more than 28 million YouTube views, and current top five hit ‘Talk Dirty’ which debuted at #1 on the ARIA singles chart and #2 on the Australian Airplay chart.

Armed with numerous multi-platinum hits, incredible dance moves and great vocal ability, Jason wowed audiences during his 2009 sold-out Australian tour and was set to conquer again with his Future History World Tour in 2012, before a serious accident during tour rehearsals lead to the cancellation of the tour.

Despite his forced hiatus during 2012, the 2011 Pop Songwriter of the Year has amassed impressive sales of more than 15 million tracks in the US and 25 million worldwide, including massive top 10 hits: ‘Whatcha Say’, ‘In My Head’ and ‘Ridin’ Solo’ from his ARIA #4 self-titled debut album plus ‘Don’t Wanna Go Home’, ‘It Girl’, ‘Breathing’ and ‘Fight for You’ from the top 10 album ‘Future History’.

Jason Derulo is back at the top of his game, with an incredible new album, new hit singles and an insatiable desire to thrill his fans with a memorable live show.  He is excited and looking forward to an unbelievable touring experience with his great Australian fans.

DATES/TIME

Mon 05 May 2014

Ticketed Start 7:30pm
Support Act: 7:30pm-7:45pm Fresh
Interval: 7:45pm-7:55pm
Support Act: 7:55pm-8:35pm Ricki Lee & Titanium
Interval: 8:35pm-9:05pm    
Main Act: 9:05pm-10:20pm JASON DERULO
Finish: 10:20pm

Find out more on the Qantas Credit Union Arena Official Website

Big Picture Film Festival 2014

The Big Picture Film Festival will upend your expectations of a film festival. It is a unique, boutique collection of the most exciting new documentary and fiction films from around the world.

The Festival showcases those who have taken a stand against social inequality. It is about those who have, and are, making change in society. It’s about showing how involvement, passion and commitment can bring about positive change and it encourages you to get involved.

Each of the carefully selected films are stimulating, provocative and persuasive in their examination of issues important to us all. So be part of a movement for change by seeing The Big Picture Film Festival.

See. Think. Change.

EVENT SCHEDULE:

 Wednesday 19 March 20147:00 PM Event Cinema CityBelle | Opening Night

Thursday 20 March 2014 6:30 PM Event Cinema CityThe Missing Picture

8:30 PM Event Cinema CityBlue Caprice 

 Friday 21 March 2014 2:00 PM Event Cinema CityBelle

 6:30 PM Event Cinema CityDormant Beauty

 8:45 PM Event Cinema CityTrap Street

 Saturday 22 March 20141:00 PM Event Cinema CitySneezing Baby Panda

 6:00 PM Event Cinema CityIf You Build It

 8:30 PM Event Cinema CityMetro Manila

 Sunday 23 March 2014 2:00 PM Event Cinema CityGideons Army

 4:00 PM Event Cinema CityBeatriz's War

6:30 PMEvent Cinema CityAL Helm Martin Luther King in Palestine

Monday 24 March 20142:00 PMEvent Cinema CityThe New World

6:30 PMEvent Cinema CityHalf of a Yellow Sun

8:30 PMEvent Cinema CityBlood Brother

 Tuesday 25 March 2014 2:00 PM Event Cinema CityDormant Beauty

6:30 PMEvent Cinema CityNo Evidence of disease

 Wednesday 26 March 2014 6:30 PM Event Cinema LiverpoolRise Of The Eco-Warriors

 8:30 PM Event Cinema LiverpoolMiss Nikki and The Tiger Girls

Thursday 27 March 2014 11:00 AM Event Cinema LiverpoolBelle

 6:30 PM Event Cinema LiverpoolAL Helm Martin Luther King in Palestine

 8:30 PM Event Cinema LiverpoolBlood Brother

 Friday 28 March 2014 11:00 AMEvent Cinema LiverpoolHalf of a Yellow Sun

6:30 PM Event Cinema LiverpoolThe Missing Picture 

8:30 PM Event Cinema LiverpoolMetro Manila 

 Saturday 29 March 2014 1:00 PM Event Cinema LiverpoolSneezing Baby Panda

 6:30 PM Casula Powerhouse Arts CentreIf You Build It

 Saturday 22 March 2104 4:00 PM Event Cinema CityMiss Nikki and The Tiger Girls

View the official Big Picture Film Festival Website

Metro Hotels is an official sponsor of the Big Picture Film Festival