Your essential guide to what’s on in Canberra this week!

HAVE AN EVENT YOU’D LIKE TO SEE LISTED IN THIS WEEK IN THE CAN? SUBMIT IT HERE BY COB WEDNESDAY PRIOR.

11 THINGS NOT TO MISS

FLY HIGH IN THE GOOGONG SKY

From 11am to 2pm this Sunday 14 August let your imagination off its leash as a flock of fantastic creatures soars high in the skies above Googong.

Don’t miss the giant dragon and dolphin kites as they make their first appearance over Canberra, under the skilled guidance of expert flier Ian Burrell.

They’ll set your imagination alight and warm your heart with a spirit of fabulous adventure, myths and legends and the stuff of movies.

The giant kites will make a spectacular appearance from 11am to 2pm, along with a giant cat, a huge flying grub and Googong’s own take on the Sky Whale … a 16-metre blue and white flying whale.

Pack up your loved ones, young and old, and head to Duncan Fields for the high flying event of the year. Just follow the signs from Beltana Avenue.

Bring your own kite – they are easy and fun to make – or just kick back and enjoy the magical free show while our DJ provides the soundtrack.

Don’t forget to bring a picnic or buy lunch fresh and warm from the barbecue. For details visit googong.net.

OLD BUS DEPOT MARKETS – PORTOBELLO ROAD

Browse your way through the aisles of collectables and small antiques at Old Bus Depot Markets‘ third and final Portobello Road event for the year.

Why visit? To fossick through an eclectic mix of quirky and interesting treasures. The fun is in the hunt as you never know what you might find amongst the stalls.

Stallholders and items you’ll find: Rummage through a stack of old suitcases, funky lamp shades, tea cups and saucers and ceramic and glass flying ducks to decorate your home. Retro decorative art blends with antique jewellery, china and art glass, silver, linens and restored pieces.

Happening Sunday 10am – 4pm at the Old Bus Depot Markets, 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston. Free entry.

APPLETON ESTATE RUM TASTING

Don’t know your Appleton from your Bundaberg? Then grab your boarding pass and buckle up for a whirlwind trip through Jamaica at The Highball Express’ tasting masterclass featuring Appleton Estate rum.

The Campari Australia brand ambassador will host the evening, taking you on a journey to learn about Jamaica, rum and Appleton Estate. The Appleton Estate, nestled in the Nassau Valley, Jamaica, is located in the heart of Jamaica and has the distinction of being the oldest sugar estate and distillery in Jamaica in continuous production. The expert care in distillation instills this delicious rum with the warmth, passion and unique spirit of Jamaica as has done for more than 265 years.

Enjoy a cocktail on arrival before you taste your way through a selection of four rums.
This tasting is perfect for anyone from the ultimate rum aficionado right through to the novice, so book your tickets for this special event.

Happening: 11 August 6pm at The Highball Express

Tickets: $30pp. Tickets can be purchased via www.highballexpress.com.au or by calling 0405474367.

GO WITH THE FLOW SANE YOGA EVENT

Please join Adam and the team at PYC for a community yoga event. Yoga and physical fitness is an incredible way to assist with stress management and mental health, so why not enjoy doing something for you whilst supporting others.

SANE Australia is a national charity helping Australians affected by mental illness to lead a better life. SANE is committed to building a world where people living with mental illness have better services, stronger social connections, less discrimination and the opportunity to live longer lives. Through your support, SANE will give 4 million Australians a better quality of life- one where people understand their challenges and help is always available.

All money raised will support SANE’s Services such as; Free-Call Help Centre, Website and information services, Mindful Employer Programs, Aged- Care support and SANE Forums .

Happening 7pm-8.15pm Saturday 13 August at the Power Yoga Canberra Woden Studio, 21 Altree Crescent Phillip ACT 2602.

Donation upon entry. for more information call 0262416166 or visit the website www.facebook.com

FOREIGN LOOKING – MIKE PARR

In the first exhibition to bring together works in all media across Mike Parr’s voraciously experimental practice from 1970 to the present, this installation includes performance, film, sculpture and photography.

Happening daily 10am – 5pm 12 Aug – 6 Nov 2016 at the National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place, Parkes. Free entry.

BIG BOOK FAIR

Whether you are looking for collectibles, coffee table books, fiction or children’s books, you will find them all at the Big Book Fair. Woden Seniors Big Book Fair offers a huge range of quality books, as well as magazines, games, vinyl records and DVDs – all for sale at very reasonable prices. Get in early for the best chance of finding what you want.

For browsers who wish to linger or have a break from searching for their favourite books a coffee shop will be open for morning or afternoon tea.

A gold coin donation on entry would be appreciated.

Happening 12 – 14 August 11am – 4pm at the Woden Seniors, 12 Corinna Street, Woden. Free entry.

TOUGH AND TENDER

Photographs by Warwick Baker, Larry Clark, Rozalind Drummond, Nan Goldin, Robert Mapplethorpe and Collier Schorr reflect the formative identity of young adulthood and complexities of masculinity and gender, composed with sensitivity and candour in Tough and Tender. In ground-breaking performance art documented on video, Chris Burden’s physical trials strip back his own persona and the mythic ethos of manhood.

Specific works have been selected from broader oeuvres to create an atmosphere of revelation of subtle emotion and bodily sensation in portrait-related work.

Happening daily 10am – 5pm at the National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes. Free entry.

LETTERS TO LINDY

From sympathy to abuse, marriage proposals to death threats,
over three decades Australians wrote more than 20,000 letters to Lindy Chamberlain.

Letters To Lindy paints a picture of an Australia that has a surprising warmth and empathy for Lindy Chamberlain. It’s this fascination that has marked her life as the defining legal and human drama of our time.

Do you know what we said to her? Do you know what we sent? Holding the mirror up to our collected response creates a powerful portrait of the heartbreak, wisdom, and resilience of a grieving mother, and a nation that loved and condemned her in equal measure.

Filled with warmth, humour, and intrigue, this new work by award-winning playwright Alana Valentine (Run Rabbit Run, Head Full of Love, Parramatta Girls) puts the letters centre stage and lets us explore our obsession with one of 20th Century Australia’s most iconic figures.

It’s fascinating, it’s heart wrenching, it’s true.

Merrigong Theatre Company in association with Canberra Theatre Centre

Happening Tuesday to Saturday: 8pm; Saturday matinee: 2pm at The Playhouse, London Circuit, Civic Square.

Ticket prices range from $45.00 to $55.00 plus a $4.50 Transaction Fee. Tickets can be purchased via canberratheatrecentre.com.au

FIRESIDE FESTIVAL

Make your winter escape an enjoyable one by joining the Fireside Festival. The Fireside Festival is a series of events celebrating winter… it’s all about curling up by the crackling fire, tasting the best winter cuisine, enjoying glasses of fine wine, discovering new places and experiences, relaxing with friends and family and immersing yourself in winter.

The exciting month of events will include everything from degustation dinners, wine tastings, performances, special exhibitions and packages all with a winter theme. You’ll also enjoy hot chocolates, gluhwein and hearty winter food, even trail riding; the experiences are endless. The Fireside Festival takes place in regional venues across the Hall, Murrumbateman, Bungendore, Lake George and Canberra region.

Happening 1-31 August at Various locations in Hall, Murrumbateman, Bungendore and Canberra region. For a full list of events visit the website.

TRUFFLES AT TWILIGHT – TRUFFLE CANAPE AND CLONAKILLA WINE PAIRING

Celebrate the 2016 Canberra Truffle Festival with French black truffles of Canberra at University House, with our artisan canape selection paired with iconic local district Clonakilla wines. Black Perigord truffles, supplied by The Truffle Farm Canberra, will feature in each of our six canapés , showcasing truffle produce throughout each dish.

Happening Friday 12 August 5.15pm – 9pm at the University House, 1 Balmain Crescent, University House, Acton.

Ticket prices range from $65.00 to $68.92 and can be accessed via www.eventbrite.com.au

BREAKFAST IN THE LOFT 

SUITS & SIPS

TACO TUESDAY

Your choice of chicken, pork, or beef in a soft shell taco with cabbage, shallots & coriander.

Happening every Tuesday from 1pm-5pm at Ostani Bar & Restaurant, Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton ACT. For more information visit the website.

BURGERS & BEERS

A selection of Burgers and tap beer.

Happening every Wednesday from 5pm-10pm at Ostani Bar & Restaurant, Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton ACT. For more information visit the website.

WINE AND DINE WEDNESDAYS

Two course chef’s menu, Chocolate Assiette to share and a bottle of house white, red, or sparkling. Tables of 2 only $75pp.

Happening every Wednesday from 6pm-10pm at Buvette Bistro & Wine Bar, Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton ACT. For more information visit the website.

PIZZA & PALE ALE THURSDAYS

A selection of housemade Pizza paired with a schooner of James Squire Pale Beer.

Happening at 5pm every Thursday at Ostani Bar & Restaurant, Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton ACT. For more information visit the website.

WINTER STIRDOWN – GARDEN BAR

A selection of six classic stirred winter cocktails, available only from the Garden Bar.

Happening every Thursday 5pm-8pm at Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton ACT. For more information visit the website.

CHAIRMAN GROUP: WINTER SPECIALS 2016

EN­KAI BANQUET AT LILOTANG 

En­Kai: small words encapsulating a beautiful idea­ to gather and laugh loudly over a shared meal. We thought this was just what is called for at Lilotang this Winter, a delicious and affordable banquet menu that takes all the hassle out of dinner, so you can focus on the laughs!

Happening every Tuesday – Friday from 6 – 11pm at Lilotang, 1 Burbury Cl, Barton ACT. For bookings phone (02) 6249 6889.

BENTO LUNCH AT LILOTANG

Your choice of a traditional bento main: menu changes regularly, from braised beef to tonkatsu curries, with pop up specials like kaki furai-fried oyster – Yum! Served with sides such as rice, potato salad, green salad and Japanese pickles.

Happening every Tuesday – Friday from 12 – 3pm at Lilotang, 1 Burbury Cl, Barton ACT. Walk ­in or call to make a booking (02) 6273 1424.

MARKET LUNCH AT LANTERNE ROOMS

Choice of a curry (menu changes regularly, at least three options to choose from) served with three sides, such as rice, croquettes, salad and malay pickles.

Happening every Tuesday – Friday from 12 – 3pm at Lanterne Rooms, 3 Blamey Pl, Campbell ACT. Walk­ in or book on (02) 6249 6889.

FIRESIDE FESTIVAL

Make your winter escape an enjoyable one by joining the Fireside Festival. The Fireside Festival is a series of events celebrating winter… it’s all about curling up by the crackling fire, tasting the best winter cuisine, enjoying glasses of fine wine, discovering new places and experiences, relaxing with friends and family and immersing yourself in winter.

The exciting month of events will include everything from degustation dinners, wine tastings, performances, special exhibitions and packages all with a winter theme. You’ll also enjoy hot chocolates, gluhwein and hearty winter food, even trail riding; the experiences are endless. The Fireside Festival takes place in regional venues across the Hall, Murrumbateman, Bungendore, Lake George and Canberra region.

Happening 1-31 August at Various locations in Hall, Murrumbateman, Bungendore and Canberra region. For a full list of events visit the website.

MUSIC, DANCE & THEATRE

LATIN TUESDAYS

Your Tuesday night at Highball just got hotter!

Hosted by amazing people from Salsabor, you can learn how to shimmy and shake like a pro at the free latin dancing taster class every Tuesday from 6.30pm! If you need a little Cuban courage before getting out on the dance floor, we’ll be serving up delicious $10 raspberry mojitos from 4pm.

Be transported to Cuba and enjoy a night of latin dancing you’ll want to keep coming back for.

Happening: Every Tuesday from 4pm at the Highball Express.

Free entry. For more information call 0405474367 or visit the website www.highballexpress.com.au

SHORT+SWEET THEATRE CANBERRA 2016

Short+Sweet Theatre is a ten-minute play festival. Thirty ten minute plays, more than half written by playwrights from Canberra and the Capital Region, are produced and performed by local performing artists each year.

Come along to see Canberra’s creatives at their best. Professional writers, directors and actors take their place alongside our enthusiastic and talented amateurs to impress the judges and their mums.

Thousands of plays are submitted to Short+Sweet each year. Short+Sweet Canberra showcases the best local writing and the best writing from around the world in two heats and a bunch of wild cards.

And the best thing is, if you don’t like what you’re seeing you never have to wait more than 10 minutes for the next play to start!

Top 20 first heats – 9–12 August
Wild Cards –Saturday 13 August, 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Top 20 second heats – 16–19 August
Gala Final – Saturday 20 August, 2.30pm & 7.30pm

There’s something for everyone in Short+Sweet, so don’t miss your chance to be part of the biggest little festival in the world!

Happening 9 – 20 August at the Courtyard Studio, Canberra Theatre Centre, 188 London Circuit, Canberra.

Ticket prices range between $23.00 – $38.00 and can be purchased via canberratheatrecentre.com.au

JOSH WADE – CUNNY’S MODERN LIFE

The rapid fire, potty mouthed Comedian is back with a brand new show!  The debut of Cunny’s Modern Life was a hit at this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival with back to back sold out shows!

Australia has had more Prime Ministers in three years than Josh has had sexual partners in his entire life. It was a thought that sparked his alter-ego ‘Cunny’ into a spiral of weird and wacky realisations on the state of society. If Kanye and Trump have legitimate chances of becoming President of the free world, some horrific facts need addressing.

Happening Saturday 13 August 8pm at The Street Theatre, 15 Childers Street, Canberra.

Ticket prices: $29 if purchased in advance; $34.00 on the night. Tickets can be purchased via au.patronbase.com

GO WITH THE FLOW SANE YOGA EVENT

Please join Adam and the team at PYC for a community yoga event. Yoga and physical fitness is an incredible way to assist with stress management and mental health, so why not enjoy doing something for you whilst supporting others.

SANE Australia is a national charity helping Australians affected by mental illness to lead a better life. SANE is committed to building a world where people living with mental illness have better services, stronger social connections, less discrimination and the opportunity to live longer lives. Through your support, SANE will give 4 million Australians a better quality of life- one where people understand their challenges and help is always available.

All money raised will support SANE’s Services such as; Free-Call Help Centre, Website and information services, Mindful Employer Programs, Aged- Care support and SANE Forums .

Happening 7pm-8.15pm Saturday 13 August at the Power Yoga Canberra Woden Studio, 21 Altree Crescent Phillip ACT 2602.

Donation upon entry. for more information call 0262416166 or visit the website https://www.facebook.com/events/1760190447538213/

STEPHEN CUMMINGS

Stephen Cummings – pop pioneer and founding member of legendary The Sports – treats us to a rare appearance, playing his first national shows for 2016.

Brimming with 40 years of storyteller’s yarns about his musical past, Stephen roots through his vast back catalogue accompanied by master guitarist Shane O’Mara to perform a set of songs spanning all stages of his incredible career. The largely acoustic setting suits both his recent material and his pop hits of the 80s and 90s.

The singer is touring with a new CD, King Of The Rainy Country, a compilation of slow songs available at Cummings shows only. The album reveals this illustrious, passionate craftsman joyfully at ease with himself and his songs.

Caustic commitment and misunderstanding now fuel Stephen’s work. He’s published an autobiography, written two novels, dozens of book reviews and had a feature documentary made on his life. A final album, Great Men in Small Rooms is being recorded and will be available early 2017.

Happening Friday 12 August 7pm at Smith’s Alternative, 76 Alinga Street.

Ticket prices range from $20.00 to $25.00. Tickets can be purchased via www.smithsalternative.com

ROLLING THUNDER VIETNAM

Hailed by the critics as one of the best shows ever – this celebrated production combines personal stories of young Vietnam War soldiers with the great rock songs of the era. This dynamic theatrical concert draws audiences inside the combat, protest and bittersweet homecoming of the world’s first televised war.

Rolling Thunder Vietnam is more than a concert, more than a drama and more than the sum of its parts. It transports audiences to an era of unrest, political turmoil and a generation on the brink of momentous social change. It is also a love story and a work that affirms human resilience and the genius of songwriters in the ‘60s and ‘70s. Backed by Australia’s best known musicians this show gets everyone up in their seats.

The home-grown production is produced by Rebecca Blake, directed by David Berthold, written by Bryce Hallett and has the esteemed musical director Chong Lim at its helm.

Don’t miss this emotional journey.

Happening Wednesday and Thursday 7.30pm at the Canberra Theatre Centre, London Circuit, Civic Square, Canberra.

Ticket prices range from $79.90 to $120.00 plus a $4.50 transaction fee. Tickets can be purchased via tickets.canberratheatrecentre.com.au

ADVENTURES IN PIANOLAND

Known as Australia’s Queen of Boogie Piano, Jan Preston has a reputation as an astonishing piano player with a rich resonant voice who is a magnetic live performer. In this brand new work Preston spin yarns from dives in Soho to the concert halls of Europe, to stealing a piano in broad daylight from a bar in downtown Wellington, New Zealand’s capital and comes clean on her longstanding and sometimes bumpy road to piano stardom.

From Chopsticks to Chopin to Winnie Atwell expect virtuosic playing as Jan candidly she spills the beans on her extraordinary experiences as a longstanding performing musician whilst sharing insights, at turns whimsical and shrewd, into our music and culture of the last fifty years.

Happening 11 – 13 August 7.30pm – 8.50pm at The Street theatre, 15 Childers Street, Canberra.

Entry costs: adults $35.00; concession $32.00; group of at least 4$32; student $29.00. Tickets can be purchased via au.patronbase.com

SLEEPMAKESWAVES

Sydney ambient/melodic post-rockers Sleepmakeswaves have announced a nine-date headline tour of Australia this August, bringing their schedule for 2016 up to a massive 55 dates. The Traced in Constellations Tour celebrates the release of the band’s latest single and video taken from ARIA and J Award nominated album ‘Love of Cartography’ and will see them play 53 shows across North America and Australia from March through September

Happening 11 August 8pm at the ANU Bar, University Avenue, Canberra.

Entry costs: $36.00 plus a booking fee of $5.00. Tickets can be purchased via moshtix.com.au

SYDNEY COMEDY FESTIVAL SHOWCASE

Following two sold out shows at Canberra Theatre, Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase will be tearing up the freeways of Australia for the fourth year in a row to bring the crème de la crème of the Festival right to your doorstep.

Boasting a line-up of the best local and international comics and showcasing some of the freshest emerging talents, this jam-packed night of pure entertainment will leave you sore from belly laughs!

So get ready Canberra, the Showcase Tour is back on the road! Call your pals and grab your tickets to the funniest night of entertainment you will see all year!

Happening 13 August 8pm at the Canberra Theatre, Civic Square, London Circuit, Canberra.

Tickets cost $40.00 plus a booking fee of $4.50 per transaction. Tickets can be purchased via tickets.canberratheatrecentre.com.au

LATIN TUESDAYS

Your Tuesday night at Highball just got hotter! Hosted by amazing people from Salsabor, you can learn how to shimmy and shake like a pro at the free latin dancing taster class every Tuesday from 6.30pm. Add a few $10 mojitos and you’ve got yourself a Tuesday night that’s hard to beat.

Be transported to Cuba and enjoy a night of Latin dancing you’ll want to keep coming back for.

Happening Every Tuesday from 6:30pm at Highball Express, Level 1, 82 Alinga St, Canberra City. To make a booking visit the website.

DARK DISCO

Dark Disco is a casual weekly dance event held in a dimly lit room. The lights are off and the music is up for one hour so that you can dance like nobody’s watching to everything from old stuff to dance, pop, rock, hip hop, Triple J tunes to super cheesy Top 40.

It’s light enough so that you can see the silhouettes of people around you, but dark enough so that you can’t make out their awesome dance moves!

Dark Disco is $5 and held every Monday from 7 till 8pm (except public holidays) on Level 2 of The Griffin Centre, 20 Genge Street Civic.

SPORTS, LEISURE & WELLBEING

BRACE MMA 2016 SEMI FINAL

Brace is Australasia’s largest Mixed Martial Arts Event Series. Brace features the best Australian and New Zealand fighters and will host its semi final MMA event in Canberra this year.

Mixed Martial Arts or MMA as it is known is the world’s fastest growing sport, Brace is the Australasian story, engaging Australian and New Zealand based fighters, fans, business sponsors and partners all working together to build the sport within the Australasian region.

Happening Saturday 13 August 2pm at the AIS Arena, Leverrier Street, Bruce.

Ticket prices range from $75.00 to $125.00 and can be purchased via www.shopbrace.net

CANBERRA RAIDERS V. MELBOURNE STORM

Canberra Raiders v. Melbourne Storm matches are always spirited affairs. Don’t miss the Storms Big three in Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk and Billy Slater up against the Raiders stars Aidan Sezer, Elliott Whitehead, Lima, Blake Austin, Jarrod Croker and Jack Wighton.

The Canberra Raiders are set to prove once again in 2016 that they are the NRL’s most exciting and attacking team. The Raiders will be hoping to return to the finals in 2016, after narrowly missing out last season.

Happening Monday 15 August 7pm at GIO Stadium, 21 Battye Street, Bruce.

Tickets can be purchased via premier.ticketek.com.au

WORKSHOPS, TOURS AND TALKS

SCIENCE IN ACTION

Come and explore Science in ACTion! A fun, interactive day for the whole family as science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) come alive at one of the biggest events in Canberra this National Science Week.

The amazing work of local, national, and international STEM organisations is on show at this fun-filled interactive exhibition.

Take a trip through time to meet Australia’s dinosaurs and discover secrets of Canberra’s archaeology and geology.

Find out where learning to code could take you, experience a virtual reality, and hear about Canberra’s own supercomputer – the fastest in the Southern Hemisphere!

Hear from scientists who work to conserve iconic Australian plants and animals, and learn how renewable energies help protect the earth’s climate.

See model planes, rockets, drones and robots in action, and witness a visit from some infamous alien villains.

Be surprised at what you can learn from Science in ACTion!

Happening 13 August 10am – 4pm at the Former Transport Depot (Old Bus Depot), 21 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston. Free entry.

PROFESSOR BRIAN COX – A JOURNEY INTO DEEP SPACE

Join Professor Brian Cox as he shares what we know and explores some of the great unanswered questions about our Universe. Are we alone in the universe? Will we ever know what happened before the Big Bang? What is the nature of the 95% of the Universe we know to be missing? What was the origin of Life on Earth?

Delving into the most recent scientific research from the European Organisation of Nuclear Research and the great astronomical observatories of the world, Brian Cox is always captivating, continually surprising and forever pushing the boundaries.

Brian Cox is one of the world’s foremost communicator of all things scientific. His innate ability to make highly complex matters entertaining and easy to contemplate, has made his science television shows ground breaking in their audience reach and accessibility.

Joining Brian on stage will be British comedian, actor and writer Robin Ince, Brian’s co-host on The Infinite Monkey Cage.

Happening 9 August 7.30pm – 9.50pm at the Canberra Theatre, Civic Square, London Circuit, Canberra.

Ticket prices range from $80.00 to $195.00. A booking fee of $4.50 applies. Tickets can be purchased via tickets.canberratheatrecentre.com.au

BLACK CHAT: TEN INDIGINOUS ICONS

Indigenous Australians’ recognition by – and role in – society has been mirrored in their depiction as characters on screen. In this discussion, the National Film and Sound Archive look at ten iconic Indigenous Australian screen roles and their contribution to our cultural history.

This event is free but bookings are essential.

Happening Friday 12 August 5.30pm – 8pm at the National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton.

Free entry. Tickets can be accessed via www.trybooking.com

THE WORLD OF COIN DESIGN

Have you always wanted to enter the world of a coin designer? Visit the Mint now to see a pop-up display showing what a typical coin design studio looks like on the inside. Whether sketching in pencil, sculpting and carving in plaster or modelling using 3D software, the age-old skills and craft of creating miniature works of art are alive and well at the Royal Australian Mint.

Entry is free. On now at the Royal Australian Mint, Denison Street, Deakin.Visit the website for more information www.ramint.gov.au.

NGA TALKS AND WORKSHOPS

Talks and workshops cater for a range of different age groups. For full details visit the NGA website.

MARKETS

CANBERRA QUILTERS INC. ANNUAL MEMBERS’ EXHIBITION

A large exhibition of quilts made by members of Canberra Quilters Inc., as well as travelling exhibitions of Australia-wide winning quilts and challenge quilts. There is also the very popular Canberra Quilters sales room, full of high quality items and special gift ideas.

The exhibition is run in conjunction with the annual Craft and Quilt Fair.

Happening 11 – 14 August 10am – 4pm at the Exhibition Park in Canberra, Cnr Flemington Road and Northbourne Avenue, Building C, Mitchell.

Entry costs: $16.00 adult; $15.00 seniors; $14.00 Age and Disability Pensioners; $9.00 children 5-16; $40 family of 4. Cheaper prices if booked online. Tickets can be purchased via www.craftfair.com.au

BIG BOOK FAIR

Whether you are looking for collectibles, coffee table books, fiction or children’s books, you will find them all at the Big Book Fair. Woden Seniors Big Book Fair offers a huge range of quality books, as well as magazines, games, vinyl records and DVDs – all for sale at very reasonable prices. Get in early for the best chance of finding what you want.

For browsers who wish to linger or have a break from searching for their favourite books a coffee shop will be open for morning or afternoon tea.

A gold coin donation on entry would be appreciated.

Happening 12 – 14 August 11am – 4pm at the Woden Seniors, 12 Corinna Street, Woden. Free entry.

OLD BUS DEPOT MARKETS

Lovers of fine hand-crafted wares, clothing collectors, food fanatics and jewellery junkies are just a few of the people who head to Canberra’s award winning Old Bus Depot Markets every Sunday. In a fabulous old industrial building you’ll experience the endless colour, tastes, sounds and atmosphere that is “Canberra’s Sunday Best”.

Not your average market, each week you’ll find over 200 stalls of exceptional quality, featuring items all hand-crafted by local and regional creatives. On every Sunday from 10am to 4pm at the Old Bus Depot Markets building on Wentworth Avenue, Kingston.

CAPITAL REGION FARMERS MARKETS

Visit the largest regional markets in the Southern Tablelands — the Capital Region Farmers Market! Be tantalised by fruits, vegetables, plants, flowers, seafood, cakes, condiments, meats, cheeses and more.

Fresh produce reflects the exciting seasonal characteristics and diversity of the region providing opportunity for you to learn more about the food you’re eating and the region it comes, and discuss what you’re buying with the growers.

On every Saturday from 7.30am to 11.30am at Exhibition Park on Flemington Road.

FARMERS AND FOODIES MARKET 

Farmers and Foodies will feature thirty stalls selling anything from tea to dog treats to organic vegetables and wood-fire sour dough all the way from Adaminaby. There will also be live music and a small bar.

For those who struggle to make it to the Farmers Markets on Saturday or Sunday, come out for some music, food and seasonal shopping at Farmers and Foodies Market!

Happening every Friday evening from 3-7pm at the Kingston Foreshore, within the Old Bus Depot Markets. See the Facebook page for more details: www.facebook.com

SOUTHSIDE FARMERS MARKETS

The Southside Farmers Market is a village market that provides all the fresh food that you need for your weekly shop. The market has a great range of fresh, seasonal produce from around 60 stallholders each week – including fruit, vegetables, eggs, meat, fish, honey, bread, gourmet treats and much more.

Open every Sunday morning from 8am until 11:30am at CIT Southside Campus, corner of Hindmarsh Drive and Ainsworth Street, Phillip. Visit the website for more information.

FOR A GOOD CAUSE

A free program for toddlers and pre-schoolers. At 10am on the last Friday of each month come along for an hour of constructive fun at the National Capital Exhibition, Barrine Drive Commonwealth Park (just off Commonwealth Avenue).

Prams welcome and bookings aren’t necessary. 2016 dates for LITTLE GRIFFINS:  26 August, 30 September, 28 October, 25 November. Click here for more details: www.natcap.gov.au

PLAY UP

Play Up pokes its tongue out at the idea that museums are hands off. Stand up, muck up, dress up, make up, think up and step up in a fabulous space that has turned the traditional idea of what goes on in museums completely on its head.

The exhibition has been developed with children and celebrates the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Play Up celebrates the important role children have in the cultural life of our communities. Most importantly Play Up is a place for fun.

Open from 9am to 5pm daily at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

LEAP INTO YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY

Your local library is a treasure trove…not only are there free books and resources, there are regular amazing events! Giggle & Wiggle with your little ones (up to two years) and help them learn through language play using interactive rhymes, songs, games and stories.

Looking to improve your English and make new friends, then head along to your local library for one of the informal English conversation groups. For more events and info check them out here.

SPIDERS AT QUESTACON

Imagine if you could taste with your fingers and hear with your hair! Spiders – a joint exhibition between Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre and the Australian Museum will help you to unlock the secretive world of these captivating creatures.

Featuring up to 200 spider specimens including live Australian tarantulas, funnel-webs, redbacks and giant water spiders you will learn there is more than meets the eye to these beautiful creatures.

Open every day from 9am to 5pm until 9 October at Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre. For more information see www.questacon.edu.au.

STORYTIME FOR PRESCHOOLERS

Take your little ones along to the Australian National Botanic Gardens for some fun with stories, songs, rhymes and creative activities brought to life by the ACT Storytellers. An engaging treat for pre-school children, parents and carers.

First Friday of the month (different theme each month) and commences at 10am (duration one hour). Tickets are $5 per child and bookings are not required. Visit www.anbg.gov.au for more information

FILM

SHINE SCREENING AND Q&A

Following a screening of the digitally-restored 2K print of Shine (1996), we are joined by cast and crew to talk about the making of the film and the impact it has had on their lives in the two decades since its release.

In Shine, David Helfgott (played by Alex Rafalowicz, Noah Taylor and Geoffrey Rush) is a former child prodigy whose musical genius promises a brilliant career as a concert pianist. In his 20s he suffers a breakdown and spends years in obscurity and isolation, living in a twilight world without music. A chance meeting with Gillian (Lynn Redgrave), an astrologer, develops into an unlikely romance. Gillian’s love brings stability to David’s chaotic world and he returns to concert performance in triumph.

Happening Saturday 13 August 6.30pm – 9.30pm at the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton.

Contact event organiser for details via visitcanberra.com.au

WOMEN OF THE SUN (1981) SCREENINGS

In 1981, Sonia Borg and Hyllus Maris wrote a series of television movies telling the story of Australia’s colonisation through the eyes of four Aboriginal women. The groundbreaking series included performances from the likes of Bob Maza and Essie Coffey, and went on to win the United Nations Media Peace Prize and the Banff Grand Prix in 1983.

We present a special season screening all four films. See the website for more details: www.nfsa.gov.au

Happening 3pm daily at the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, McCoy Circuit, Acton. Free entry. Tickets can be accessed via www.trybooking.com

QUOTE-A-LONG MOVIES AT DENDY CANBERRA

You know all the words… so why not join in with Quote-A-Long Movies At Dendy Canberra?

During Dendy’s season of quote-along films, there’s no shushing allowed! Join cult classics including Anchorman and Wayne’s World, and show off your encyclopaedic knowledge of their legendary dialogue. These are interactive sessions of some of the greatest films of all time every Monday!

• August 8, 2016 – Waynes World
• August 15, 2016 – Anchorman
• August 22, 2016 – Clueless
• August 29, 2016 – The Fifth Element
• September 5, 2016 – The Breakfast Club
• September 12, 2016 – Step Brothers
• September 19, 2016 – Mean Girls
• September 26, 2016 – Princess Bride

Happening Mondays from 6.30pm at Dendy Cinemas Canberra, Bunda Street, Level 2 Canberra Centre.

Entry prices: $12 for adults, $10 for members; $8.50 for students.

FILMS ON FILM

BLACK BOX: LIFE, WALLS AND HOUSES 

Canberra’s Judi Elliott is a distinguished glass artist who has exhibited in more than 120 exhibitions in around 12 countries. Her new solo exhibition—Black Box: Life, walls and houses—is on now. Judi has created this collection of intriguing three-dimensional, highly colourful glass houses in the signature-style she’s developed over many years. Her fabulous art is found in prestigious collections around the world. Judi’s new body of work is a ‘must see’.

On at Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre until 27 August. Free to the public. Level 1, North Building, 180 London Circuit. Tues-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 12pm-4pm.

WILD HISTORIES BY SUSIE DUREAU

In her upcoming exhibition at Suki & Hugh gallery, emerging artist Susie Dureau does not hold back. The drama, tension and grandeur of the scenes she presents are more than literal depictions of the landscape.  And whilst they are bold and confident upfront, they are also restrained and sophisticated in their execution.
The exhibition entitled Wild Histories offers a series of oil paintings showing land and seascapes. The body of work is a continuation of a theme for Dureau who is intensely deep and poetic in her approach to her paintings. They are reflections of the human condition and although there are no humans represented there is certainly a strong sense of soul and feeling. These very human elements are articulated acutely.  6 August to 26 September 2016.

Entry is free. On August 6 from 3pm – 5pm at Suki & Hugh Gallery, Bungendore

Visit the webiste for more information www.sukihugh.com.au

2° EXHIBITION OPENING

2° investigates climate change, it’s effect on the present, and the struggle to avoid environmental disaster by limiting rising global temperature to two degrees. Other than life and death, climate change will be one of the only collective experiences in our lifetime to touch every human on the planet. Engaging audiences through humor, seduction and intrigue, 2° effectively raises awareness and addresses the concerns of climate change. This exhibition features Daniel Bonson, GW Bot, David Buckland, Søren Dahlgaard, Jacky Green, Annika Harding, Timothy James Johnson and Andrew Styan, is curated by Alexander Boynes, and is supported by Climarte.org who promote the arts for a safe environment through their international programs and networks.

Happening Friday 15 Jul – 20 Aug at Canberra Contemporary Art Space, Gorman Arts Centre, 55 Ainslie Avenue, Braddon ACT. For more information visit www.ccas.com.au

TOUGH AND TENDER

Photographs by Warwick Baker, Larry Clark, Rozalind Drummond, Nan Goldin, Robert Mapplethorpe and Collier Schorr reflect the formative identity of young adulthood and complexities of masculinity and gender, composed with sensitivity and candour in Tough and Tender. In ground-breaking performance art documented on video, Chris Burden’s physical trials strip back his own persona and the mythic ethos of manhood.

Specific works have been selected from broader oeuvres to create an atmosphere of revelation of subtle emotion and bodily sensation in portrait-related work.

Happening 15 Jul – 16 Oct at National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT. Entry is free, for more information visit www.portrait.gov.au

BIGGER ON THE INSIDE: COLLECTING DR WHO

Canberra collector Timothy Kirsopp displays his entire collection of Dr Who memorabilia in the exhibition, ‘Bigger on the inside: Collecting Dr Who’.

The exhibition is an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest collection of Dr Who related memorabilia.

Items document everything Whovian from Daleks and the TARDIS to the Doctors and their companions. Explore this cultural phenomenon through a collection that ranges from miniatures and toys to books and board games.

Happening 16 Jul – 20 Nov at Canberra Museum and Gallery, 176 London Circuit, Canberra. Entry is free, for more information visit http://www.cmag.com.au/exhibitions/bigger-on-the-inside-collecting-dr-who

MICHAEL TAYLOR: A SURVEY 1963-2016

Michael Taylor is one of Australia’s best expressionist painters and one of our most significant contemporary artists, with a practice spanning 60 years. This exhibition is the first major survey of Taylor’s practice and includes paintings and drawings from six decades, sourced from major public and private collections in Australia.

He has lived in the Canberra region since 1971 – in Canberra, Bredbo, Michelago and Cooma. The landscape of the region has been a leitmotif in his ebullient, sensuous paintings, which oscillate between abstraction and representation. In Taylor’s painting every mark is electric with energy.

Showing until 2 October at Canberra Museum and Gallery,
176 London Circuit,
Canberra. Entry is free, for more information visit www.cmag.com.au

Faith Fashion Fusion: Muslim women’s style in Australia explores the emerging modest fashion market and the work of Muslim designers and entrepreneurs – from swimwear to denim to red carpet gowns.

Developed by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) in Sydney, with advice and assistance from Multicultural NSW, Australian Muslim organisations and community members who shared stories, loaned objects and took part in the film and fashion shoots that make the exhibition visually and emotionally rich.

The exhibition includes commentary by Sydney’s first, and highly influential, Muslim fashion blogger Delina Darusman-Gala. Delina shares her love of clothing and offers advice on modest fashion, where to buy outfits and accessories, and how to make mainstream fashion trends more modest.

Faith Fashion Fusion also provides a space where Muslim women speak more broadly about themselves, their experiences and their faith, countering misconceptions that exist in Australian society. The women share their opinions, challenges and achievements through photographs, treasured objects and interviews; including author Randa Abdel-Fattah, academic and media commentator Susan Carland, Australia’s first Muslim surf lifesaver Mecca Laalaa and author Arwa Abousamra.

Inspired by the work of photo bloggers such as Scott Schuman of The Sartorialist, the exhibition also captures the diversity and creativity of Muslim women’s style through a street style photo shoot undertaken at locations around Sydney.

Faith Fashion Fusion is on show until 4 September at the National Archives of Australia, Queen Victoria Terrace, Parkes from 9am–5pm daily with free entry.

MEMORIES OF THE STRUGGLE

In 1994 Nelson Mandela became the first democratically elected president of South Africa. He embodied not only the hopes of his long-suffering people, but also the spirit of thousands of anti-apartheid supporters around the world who had worked tirelessly to rid the country of its racist laws.

Among these supporters were many Australians. From as early as 1950, trade unions, the government, sportsmen and women, musicians and many individuals took part in the fight for justice in South Africa. The anti-apartheid movement was diverse and complex, and made up of many different groups and voices.

While Old Parliament House functioned as the federal parliament, important discussions were held and decisions were made there on Australia’s response to the South African government’s discriminatory policy of apartheid. Three prime ministers—Gough Whitlam, Malcolm Fraser and Bob Hawke—made key decisions that put pressure on the South African government to abolish apartheid.

This exhibition features the voices and memories of some of the Australians and South African expatriates who worked hard over decades to bring about the end of apartheid. They often faced bitter opposition, and some were jailed for their actions. Memories of the Struggle pays tribute to the dedication and commitment of everyone who took part in the movement.

The Museum of Australia Democracy is pleased to be a contributing partner to this important exhibition.

On exhibition now at the Museum of Australian Democracy, inside Old Parliament House, Parkes.

AUSTRALIA IN THE GREAT WAR

Australia in the Great War is the Australian War Memorial’s new exhibition in the First World War Galleries. Discover one of the world’s great collections of material related to the First World War.

The First World War Galleries integrate a wide variety of items from this collection, including dioramas, art works; uniforms; medals; technology such as artillery and firearms; photographs; film; and letters and diaries.

On display now until 1 January 2017 at the Australian War Memorial.

ART IS A WEAPON

Art is a Weapon explores how the Eureka story, legend and iconography have been used by groups and causes of all political flavours to spread their message. Alongside the portfolio of works, other objects and artworks using the Southern Cross motif show how the idea of Eureka has been adopted by groups as diverse as young communists and motorcycle clubs.

Showing now at the Museum of Australian Democracy.

MAGNA CARTA – AN AUSTRALIAN STORY

This exhibition celebrates the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta, one of the most famous and significant documents for democracy and human rights around the world. First written in 1215, it set down rules limiting the power of the monarchy and safeguarding basic human rights and freedoms. This exhibition explores the history and relevance of Magna Carta from an Australian perspective.

Showing now at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

KANINJAKU

Kaninjaku explores the history of the Canning Stock Route. Stories of contact, conflict and survival are featured in a striking new exhibition, Kaninjaku: Stories from the Canning Stock Route.

Showing at the National Museum of Australia until 12 August.

BIGGER ON THE INSIDE: COLLECTING DR WHO

Canberra collector Timothy Kirsopp displays his entire collection of Dr Who memorabilia in the exhibition, ‘Bigger on the inside: Collecting Dr Who’.

The exhibition is an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest collection of Dr Who related memorabilia.

Items document everything Whovian from Daleks and the TARDIS to the Doctors and their companions. Explore this cultural phenomenon through a collection that ranges from miniatures and toys to books and board games.

Happening Saturday 16 July – Sunday 20 November at Canberra Museum and Gallery, 176 London Circuit, Canberra. Entry is free, for more information visit the website.

OTHER EXHIBITIONS

For a comprehensive round up of smaller exhibitions around town, visit Capital Magazine.