Sydney Opera House and YouTube to Live Stream Events

The Sydney Opera House will live stream 20 performances over a two-year period straight to YouTube, thanks to a new partnership.

Over 1.4 million people pass through the doors of the Opera House each year. Billions of video streams are served via YouTube, so the partnership promises a global reach for performances. Shows will be streamed on their own dedicated channel, though the list of performances has yet to be announced; expect the first live-streamed show to be announced in early 2013.

This is not the first time that the global icon has teamed up with Google's video site. In 2011, the YouTube Symphony Orchestra called for auditions from across the globe to perform live on-stage at the Opera House. Earlier this year, as part of the Vivid Live festival, a performance by the Temper Trap was streamed straight to YouTube simultaneously during the performance.

Top Sydney Festivals in December

Apart from the fun, festive Christmas celebrations that are guaranteed to rock Sydney, there are a number of quality festivals on to see out the final month of 2012. If this is anything to go by, Sydney will be in for a fantastic 2013. 

Image: Mud Run Sydney website

For Some Family Fun...

Then you're in luck with the Coogee Family Fun Day that kicks off on the 1st of December at Goldstein Reserve at Coogee Beach. Expect an array of 80 different market stalls, yoga classes, a free petting zoo with special appearances from Santa and over five hours of live performances, including the Scooby Doo Ghostology Show. Further information on this event can be found by clicking here.

I am feeling a bit sporty, and in need of a challenge...

The annual Bridge to Bridge Water Ski race from Dangar Island to Windsor spans 112kms along the length of the Hawkesbury River. The qualifying event is on the 1st of December, while the finals are on the 2nd of December. Furthermore, you might have remembered the game of 'stuck in the mud' while at primary school. Let's take that to another level and literally get stuck and run in the mud. If you like TV shows such as Double Dare and It's a Knockout with a knack for adventure, then put on your oldest running shoes and get prepared and get wet and muddy for the annual Mud Run at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre at Horsley Park. Known as the best fun you can have with your pants on, and within good reason too. Twists and turns with hill climbs and mud jumping are also included in the program. Of course, the annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race starts on boxing day.

Give me some fast beats at Olympic Park...

Your wish is my command. In addition to Homebake, Bass Control is on yet again. Hard core dance for a new generation of dancers, and is guaranteed to break a sweat. Outdoor rides, promo girls, market stalls and chill out areas are also provided.

Can I buy some crafts for Christmas?

With the Hornsby Craft Fair on the 13th of December, you most certainly can. Special baby clothes, toys and gifts are available to purchase. The organisers promise that the items on sale here cannot be purchased in any shopping centre. Held quarterly at the Hornsby RSL.

What about that major Christmas Carols event in the city?

Oh yes, the Carols in the Domain is on yet again. A variety of musical entertainment will be on for the whole family. Arrive as early as you can. Why? The Domain gets crowded really quickly at this popular annual event. Showbags are only around $10 containing over $100 worth of groceries. A great way to get into the Christmas spirit and help charities such as The Salvation Army simultaneously.

Furthermore, there will be a number of other Christmas and New Years Eve events on to see out the last month of 2012 in Sydney as well. Another top suburban Christmas event is the Carols at Burwood Park. This article has been designed for adults in mind for many of these festivals. For assistance in sourcing out a number of kid friendly events, you're more than welcome to click here to read and discover more. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Sydney.

Simple Minds, Devo, The Church - Sydney Entertainment Centre Friday 7th December 2012

They defined a generation, are revered by critics and adored by fans. In an epic career spanning 30 years and more than 60 million albums sold, Simple Minds travelled from the streets of Glasgow to become one of the world’s biggest bands with a musical majesty that still inspires awe.

Devo’s pioneering sound, style and philosophy had a profound effect on the new wave movement. Influential, subversive and downright entertaining, Devo’s cult status quickly spread to the mainstream.

In what promises to be one of the most captivating tours of the year, Simple Minds and Devo will perform indoor shows and the popular a day on the green winery series later this year.

Joining them, and adding another highlight to savour, will be one of Australia’s finest, the church. Simple Minds, Devo and the church all in one night – now that’s what we call a concert not to be missed!

The tour is the first announcement for the next a day on the green summer season, the event’s 12th year. Eclectic 80s popsters Models, led by Sean Kelly, will open all a day on the green shows.

Simple Minds has had a lengthy love affair with Australia since tasting success here for the first time anywhere in the world with their first hit single ‘Love Song’ and first Gold album ‘New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84)’. A stellar array of hits followed like ‘Don’t You (Forget About Me)’, ‘Alive and Kicking’, ‘Love Song’, ‘Promised You A Miracle’, ‘Glittering Prize’ and ‘Waterfront’ spanning eight Top 20 albums.
Lead vocalist Jim Kerr says: “Australia holds a very special place in the heart of Simple Minds. It was the first country anywhere in the world to embrace our music and we have wonderful memories of the tours we’ve done. We’re extremely excited about playing in Australia again.”

In the live concert arena, Simple Minds have few peers. This is a band that has played countless sold out stadium tours including three times at Wembley stadium, has been voted the prestigious Q Magazine’s ‘World’s Best Live Act’ and has retained an enviable reputation as one of THE great live concert bands.

Simple Minds commence a lengthy European tour in late June in support of their just released box set “Simple MindsX5” which features their ground-breaking first five albums ‘Life in a Day’, ‘Real to Real Cacophony’, ‘Empires and Dance’, ‘Sons and Fascination/Sister Feelings Call’ and ‘New Gold Dream (81–82–83–84)’ as well as a bonus disc of rare and previously unavailable B-sides and remixes.
According to the UK Guardian Newspaper “Simple Minds are suddenly alive and kicking again” whilst the Metro says: “It’s official, Simple Minds are cool again.”

There’s no denying the influence Devo – brothers Mark and Bob Mothersbaugh and Gerald and Bob Casale - have exercised over a new generation of artists. Invitations to play the Livid Festival (1997) and Splendour In The Grass (2008) on past Australian sojourns is testimony to their currency with music fans.

Devo was an extension of a multi-media exploration of the concept that mankind's progress had ceased, and the process of de-evolution had begun. Their early work from the visionary debut ‘Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo’ caught the attention of such icons as Brian Eno and David Bowie, and with hits like ‘Whip It’ and ‘Girl U Want’ and the accompanying revolutionary music videos, the group became one of the defining acts of the 1980s.

Devo’s surrealist and highly innovative stage shows have been an influence on artists from Rage Against the Machine to Lady Gaga. Kurt Cobain once said, "Of all the bands who came from the underground and actually made it in the mainstream, Devo is the most challenging and subversive of all."

In 2010 Devo released their first album in 20 years ‘Something For Everyone’ and have re-ignited their passion for live performance They are about to tour the US with Blondie so will be in fine form when they hit Australian shores again. DEVOtees..... expect the unexpected!
Having recently celebrated their 30th anniversary, the church continue to redefine what it is to be a band, evolving without compromise.

From the debut album ‘Of Skins and Heart’ through to 2009′s lush, organic masterpiece ‘Untitled #23’, lead vocalist and bassist Steve Kilbey, guitarists Peter Koppes and Marty Willson-Piper and drummer Tim Powles (now an active member of the band for 17 years), continue to pleasure their fans with a combination of chemistry, talent and a desire for excellence, unique and distinctive guitar sounds and thought-provoking lyrics.

Models induction into the 2010 ARIA Hall Of Fame was recognition of the status this pioneering Melbourne band has always held. Led by Sean Kelly and James Freud and emerging from the post new wave scene, Models’ produced ground-breaking albums ‘The Pleasure Of Your Company’ and ‘Out Of Mind Out Of Sight’. Kelly has continued to work as a producer and performer with his solo combo and leading various Models reunions.

 Sydney Entertainment Centre Friday 7th December 2012
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Voice of Ireland” Tommy Fleming May 2013

Artist Network presents the “Voice of Ireland” Tommy Fleming, returning to Australia in May, 2013.

Tommy brings his own beautiful interpretation of classic and contemporary songs such as Bridge Over Troubled Water, The Isle of Innisfree, Something Inside So Strong, “the best version of Danny Boy - bar none” (Eric Clapton), and many others you know and love.

His recording and performing credentials speak for themselves; with over 32 platinum albums under his belt and has already brought his mesmerising voice to audiences around the world, performing in prestigious venues such as New York’s Carnegie Hall.  Returning to Australia for his third tour will delight his legion of Aussie fans with a reputation of drawing capacity crowds during his previous Australian tours.

A Tommy Fleming concert is a musical experience not to be missed. He has a universal appeal to all ages and backgrounds with a fan base that is growing stronger worldwide year by year.  Give your loved one a very special Christmas present they will never forget.

Tickets to Tommy’s concert will make a fabulous 2013 Mother’s Day gift for every Ipswich mum!

Tickets on sale now!

SHOW DETAILS Dates: Sunday 12 May 2013  Time: 7.00pm Tickets: Adult $49.00  Concession/Student $47.00 Child $30.. Group 10+ $47.00   More Info: Music Concert Send To A Friend: Think someone else will enjoy this show? Then forward this to your friends.

HOW TO BOOK Phone: 3810 6100 (Credit Card Only) Monday - Friday 8.00am - 4.30pm In Person: Visit the Ticket Office located at: 143 Brisbane Street, Ipswich. (Ipswich City Council Customer Service Centre) Monday - Friday 8.30am - 4.30pm If you order online, you can now select your seat or let us choose the best available for your group

Ipswich Boy to Play Pugsley in The Addams Family Musical

THEY'RE creepy and they're kooky, mysterious and spooky, and an Ipswich boy has joined them; the Addams Family.

Which character from the Addams Family are you most like? Click here to vote
 
Young Ipswich Grammar School student Jaxon Graham-Wilson has been chosen to play Pugsley in Sydney's Capitol Theatre production of The Addams Family - The Broadway Musical.

Landing the role came as an early birthday surprise for Jaxon, who turns 14 tomorrow.
"I've know for a while, but I had to keep it quiet until Sunday, when it was properly announced," Jaxon said. "I flew down to Sydney to audition after my mum found out about it, and we went back down last Monday to do the photo shoot with the other Pugsleys."

Jaxon will star alongside well-known actors John Waters and Russell Dykstra in the show.
The Collingwood Park boy said he would have no trouble getting into the character of Pugsley, Gomez and Morticia's son and brother to Wednesday.

"I've watched all the movies and TV shows and I saw the original cast on Broadway," he said.
Jaxon said he loved the "creepy" nature of the family.

"Pugsley is a bit devious and loves torturing his sister, so I'm basically always in character when I'm annoying my own sister," he joked.

The Addams Family production opens next March, and Jaxon will move to Sydney for nine months with his mother and sister.

"I'll be doing distance ed and my sister will go to school," he said.
"I want to travel and do shows when I'm older so this is exciting."

Family Facts

• The Addams Family was created by American cartoonist Charles Addams.
• It was first developed into a television series in the 1960s, and has since inspired films, books, videos and a musical.

See original article from QT

Chitty Chitty Goes Off With a Bang Bang

THERE are live dogs, lots of children and a strong cast but the star of the musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is the amazing car of the title. 
 
It really is a fantasmagorical machine that draws gasps of delight when it flies, in a genuinely magical moment.

Based on the 1968 film, the stage adaptation makes some judicious changes bringing in the Vulgarians, who are intent on stealing the car, right from the start - and adding jokes for the adults.
As the crackpot inventor Caractacus Potts, David Hobson reins in the eccentricity, giving a gently endearing performance.

Rachael Beck is lovely as Truly Scrumptious, Alan Brough and Jennifer Vuletic are thoroughly entertaining as the tantrum-throwing, toy-loving Baron Bomburst and his Baroness, while George Kapiniaris and Todd Goddard are a hoot as the bumbling Vulgarian spies.

Roger Hodgman directs, using Anthony Ward's clever, eye-catching design, with its set inspired by the idea of invention and machinery.

Energy-wise, the production could go up a gear at times and Dana Jolly's choreography lacks a little oomph but it's a fun show that clearly charmed the children around me and had the audience clapping along with the title song.

Mundine V Geale - Rivalry Set for Sydney

Minister for Tourism and Major Events, George Souris, welcomed the announcement that Sydney will host the IBF World Middleweight Title Fight between bitter rivals Anthony Mundine and Daniel Geale on Wednesday 30 January, 2013, at the Sydney Entertainment Centre.

“The announcement reinforces Sydney’s position as a global events city, with the NSW sports events calendar fast becoming the benchmark for other states,” Mr Souris said.

“The IBF World Middleweight Title fight between Anthony Mundine and Daniel Geale is expected to draw more than 2000 interstate visitors and generate almost $4 million in overnight visitor expenditure.”

Minister for Sport and Recreation, Graham Annesley, said: “This is the first time two Australians have fought for the IBF World Middleweight title.

“Danny is the current IBF and WBA World Champion after unifying the titles in May and September this year becoming only the 4th Australian to achieve such a rare feat.

“Anthony is a former WBA and IBO world champion in middleweight and super-middleweight divisions.

“Everyone is aware of the intense rivalry between the pair and it promises to be an adrenaline-charged match between two great champions,” Mr Annesley added.

Anthony Mundine said he was honoured to be fighting in his home town in front of his fans.

“I'd like to thank Destination NSW for their assistance in ensuring this fight remains in Sydney and look forward to putting on a show for everyone to see on January 30.”

Daniel Geale said “This is the fight Australia wants to see and having the NSW Government’s support was a huge coup for this event and more importantly, for boxing in this country.”

Destination NSW CEO, Sandra Chipchase, said: “The fight between Anthony Mundine and Daniel Geale will be a ‘cannot miss’ contest. Boxing fans across the country will be eager to seeing this extraordinary fight between two world champions held in NSW, the home of world class sport.”