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This Week in The Can

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Winter is here to stay for another two months but rather than hiding away in the warmth of your home, embrace the cold season and explore all that our city has to offer. From the Canberra Symphony Orchestra’s Icon Water Opera Gala to the heart rending classics of Etta James, Canberra will be alive with the sound of music this week.

The school holidays are just around the corner but don’t despair as we’ve begun the round up of activities that the kids or the whole family can enjoy including the NFSA’s 100 Years of Australian Animation, Skate in the City or the free family friendly films screening at the National Portrait Gallery.

For the business minded and fitness fanatics, don’t miss your opportunity to hear from the woman who revolutionised Australian fitness wear, Lorna Jane Clarkson, at this month’s Business Chicks breakfast.

There’s also an array of markets and festivals taking place for the market dwellers, exhibitions galore for the art lovers and plates are plenty for the foodies. Here’s what’s happening this week in The Can!

YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS…

Get along to Reconciliation Place between 11am and 4pm on Sunday 5 July for the the Canberra and District NAIDOC Committee Family Day! There’ll be Aboriginal artists, free rides, fruit, popcorn, face painting and dot painting, fabulous Torres Strait Islander food and a full day of entertainment on stage! All the details below.

family

Improvisation Festival After Party

Following conversation with the Director of Canberra’s very own International Festival for Improvisation, Nick Byrne brings actors, comedians, dancers and musicians to Canberra every year but never before has there been a party! And hey, who doesn’t love a good party? Fortunately, Hotel Hotel and the Molongolo Group love parties too and so this Saturday night, you’re invited to one very awesome dance party that is sure to run into the wee hours of the morning. The theme is Improvision: Eurovision mixed with improvised acting, comedy, dancing and music. The band will keep pausing for improv actors – the audience can even influence what they do too! Most of the performances will take place on the Nishi Grand Stair, a very special venue and one that the organisers hope to do justice with a number of production surprises. It’s free and you can catch all the fun from 10pm to 2am on Saturday 4 July at Nishi. More information here.

Skate in the City

Enjoy a winter wonderland in the heart of Canberra and Skate in the City on an open air ice skating rink. This month long event features cultural Sundays and dress up nights for the whole family. Other attractions include Family Markets with food and kid’s activities, snow box, winter themed photo booth, real snow and Come and Try Days for ice hockey and broom ball. Different skate sessions available. Tickets start at $15 for children and $18 for adults. Visit the website for full details and session times. On now until Sunday 26 July at Ice Rink in Garema Place, Canberra City.

CSO Icon Water Opera Gala: Puccini

Two of Australia’s most accomplished operatic stars, James Egglestone and Olivia Cranwell, join the Canberra Symphony Orchestra (CSO) to perform a program of opera’s most enduring selections in the newly named Icon Water Gala, conducted by Nicholas Milton. The program delves into Puccini’s greatest works including selections from La Bohéme, Tosca, and Madama Butterfly. Two-time Helpmann Award winner tenor James Egglestone says that it’s a program of the best duets and arias Puccini has to offer, and some of the greatest in the repertoire. Tickets $50 adults and available online. On Saturday 4 July from 7.30pm at Llewellyn Hall, ANU.

Whisky Degustation 2015

Held at the National Press Club of Australia, this is a night of beautiful food and whisky. Members price $95 per person, non-member $130 per person. Book online. On Monday 29 June from 7pm at the National Press Club.

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. In Play Up it is visitors to the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House (MOADOPH) who are the curators – 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. At the MOADOPH and open from 9am to 5pm daily until June 2015.

MARKETS, FESTIVALS & EXPOS

NAIDOC Festival day

Join the National Museum of Australia for NAIDOC Day as they celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This festival day includes tours, entertainment and activities for the whole family, including performances by Canberra singer Alinta Barlow, Sydney hip-hop girl duo Majik Honey and Indigenous performer Warren H Williams. Entry is free (costs apply to some activities). For more information visit the website. On Sunday 5 July from 11am-3pm at the National Museum of Australia.

Made by Hand @Bungendore

Made by Hand @ Bungendore is the first Bungendore market devoted entirely to products that are handmade by the stallholder. Head along for a great day in the country and explore the village of Bungendore and it’s first Made by Hand Market! Browse through a wide variety of stalls selling everything from candles, jewellery, pet toys and beds to preserves, clothing and artwork. There’ll be a variety of light lunches and snacks available from the kitchen, along with great coffee. Entry is by gold coin donation to the Hall Restoration Fund. On Saturday 4 July from 9am to 3pm at Bungendore War Memorial Hall, Bungendore.

Old Bus Depot Markets

Canberra’s national award winning indoor Sunday market focuses on the talent and creativity of regional arts and craftspeople. Discover 200 stalls within a fabulous old industrial building offering unique handcrafted items, gourmet take home food, regional wines, and freshly ground coffee. Visitors can browse all kinds of items including funky lamp shades, tea cups and saucers, retro decorative art, antique jewellery, china and art glass, silver, linens and restored pieces.

The Old Bus Depot Markets are easy to access, have ample free parking and a wide range of food stalls to enjoy a multicultural meal, a coffee or a quick bite to eat – while watching talented musicians and taking in the hustle and bustle of the markets. On every Sunday from 10am to 4pm on Wentworth Avenue in Kingston.

Capital Region Farmers Market

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.

FOOD & WINE

Fabulous Ladies Wine Soiree

The Fabulous Ladies Wine Society has teamed up with one of their favourite wine brands, – Willunga 100 – to bring you your first Fabulous Ladies Wine Soiree of 2015! As usual, they’ll be chatting about these fabulous wines throughout the night, so you can learn more about their style, flavour profile and origins. But there’s not too much formality – as this is no ordinary wine dinner! The focus is on facilitating fun, fabulous wine discussion at your table, so you can leave with as little or as much wine knowledge as you like. Tickets from $95 and available online. On Thursday 2 July from 6.30pm to 10.30pm at Parlour Wine Room.

From paddock to plate: Truffle Festival

The 2015 Truffle festival will put the focus on truffles from paddock to plate, with growers working with a variety of talented chefs and industry professionals to bring their tasty and aromatic truffles to the people. A major addition to the festival program this year is a range of cooking demonstrations at Westfield Woden and Westfield Belconnen.Held fortnightly at 11am on Sundays the demonstrations put the spotlight on the talented chefs in the region allowing the public to sample creative truffle dishes for free. Discover Alaine Chanter (Foodish) at Westfield Belconnen and Jack Walker (Pulp Kitchen) at Westfield Woden on Sunday 5 July from 11am. More information available at www.trufflefestival.com.au.

The Truffle Festival Canberra Region

Discover the magic of black truffles at The Truffle Festival Canberra Region. Learn from celebrity chefs and other truffle experts. Join a truffle hunt, take a cooking class, or indulge in the special flavours and intoxicating aromas of truffle dishes at local restaurants, cafes and wineries. Try breakfasts and lunches or immerse yourself in the grandeur of this exquisite delicacy with sumptuous truffle degustation dinners at various fine dining restaurants. With more than 60 participating venues, there is much to explore! Celebrate the local harvest of these highly prized gems until late August. Visit the website for information and event times.

Canberra Truffle Hunts

Rug up for a wintery experience and take a Canberra Truffle Hunt in the oak forest on Canberra’s only trufferie; Ruffells Estate. Follow the truffle dogs as they sniff out prized black Perigord truffles. These exceptionally talented dogs roam amongst the farm’s 2,500 trees to find a piece of ‘black magic’. Once the perfect truffle is found, head back into the warmth of the truffle shed to discover the secrets to using this highly prized delicacy. Choose from Truffle Hunts, A Twilight Hunt and Cook or the Weekend Hunt and Cook. Hunts: Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays & Sundays. Brunch, Hunt & Cook: Saturdays. Lunch, Hunt & Cook: Saturdays & Sundays. Twilight, Hunt & Cook: Fridays. Tours available until 14 August. Book online.

COMMUNITY

Rockabilly by Day, Swing by Night!

The Canberra Swing Katz, Connexion Big Band and CanberraComm.Unity are joining forces to bring the Canberra winter to life with a Rockabilly and Swing festival day and ball at the iconic Albert Hall. With a day of family friendly celebrations and a swinging Ball (a great way to meet people!) with supper and bar provided by Rotary to cap off the evening, there’s something for everyone!  All the details available online. Tickets are $35, available online or at the door. On Saturday 4 July from 7pm to 11pm at Albert Hall, Commonwealth Avenue.

‘Leg up for Local’ Bronwyn Ibbotson

Silver Fox Bar and Grill are hosting an Auction Night to benefit Special Olympian Bronwyn Ibbotson in her bid to the Special Olympics World Games. Local and interstate businesses can provide sponsorship for auction items to assist in reaching the cost of $8,000 for Bronwyn’s trip. Bronwyn has been saving each week from her wages received through work at a child care centre as the responsibility for funding the trip lies with the athlete. Silver Fox Bar and Grill is committed to hosting  ‘Leg up for a Local’ annually in an effort to bring a community spirit, awareness and contribution to a local cause each year. For more information contact Michelle Cochrane or phone 0430 441 883. On Wednesday 15 July at 6.30pm, Silver Fox Bar and Grill, Curtin.

Sunday Assembly Canberra Trivia Night Fundraiser 2015

Back by popular demand!  This year’s trivia night will be held in the first week of July, and you and your trivia-hungry friends are invited. The theme for this year’s trivia night is Local, National and International and pays homage to the Sunday Assembly itself, which represents a growing community around the world. It was packed out last year so get in quick. A great way to meet people and win sweet local prizes. Tickets $15 each plus booking fee (via email). On Wednesday 1 July from 6pm at Eastlake Football Club, Kingston.

Cancer Council ACT: Canada Day Fun Run 2015 

The Canada Day Fun Run volunteer committee are running their annual run/walk (10km run or 5km walk) for cancer research. All money raised at this fun, family event goes directly to the Cancer Council ACT to help fund research, education and support services in the ACT region. To register or for more information, please visit the website. The Lions Club of Belconnen will provide all participants with a delicious free pancake breakfast with maple syrup. There will also be plenty of fresh fruit, tea and coffee on hand. On Sunday 5 July from 10am at Stromlo Forest Park.

OUTDOORS & TOURS

Not the usual suspects: Canberra’s backyard heroes

Beyond the environmental headlines that concern us and the leaders that we look to for advice, there are a group of dedicated individuals quietly embarking on big environmental endeavours in their backyards. The Canberra Environment Centre will be highlighting the efforts of these everyday Canberrans in their sustainability networking event, Backyard Heroes. Join a free open panel discussion hosted by Gardening Australia’s Costa Georgiadis. From the vertical garden masters to the chicken coop chiefs, the spotlight will be on Canberra’s unsung and unlikely environmental heroes. For more information, visit www.ecoaction.com.au. On Thursday 2 July from 6pm to 8pm at Food Coop Shop and Cafe, 3 Kingsley Street, Canberra City.

 afterDARK Lantern Tours

afterDARK Lantern Tours are a wonderful way to spend a winter evening in the nation’s capital. Participate in a lantern making workshop then embark on a fascinating night tour of the Australian National Botanic Gardens with your own ranger guide. Bookings are essential by phoning (02) 6250 9588. Not suitable for children under five years. On Saturday 4 July and 1 August from 6.30pm at Australian National Botanic Gardens.

Family Sunday Sessions: Escape into the Gardens

Get along to the Australian National Botanic Garden to their guided storytelling experience exploring the themes of ‘Fire and Light in the Australian bush’. The adventure begins with a tasty morning tea before families head out with their hosts from the ACT Storytellers and Gardens’ education team, finishing their journey in the Red Centre Garden toasting marshmallows over a fire. Suitable for families with primary school aged children. Bookings essential with tickets $20 adults and $15 concession and children. Phone (02) 6250 9588. On Sunday 12 and 26 July, and Sunday 30 August from 10.30am.

Gallery Tours: All the fall highlights

See highlights of the exhibition All that fall: Sacrifice, life and loss in the First World War on a daily tour. All that fall: Sacrifice, life and loss in the First World War is the National Portrait Gallery’s contribution to the Anzac Centenary. On now until 26 July at National Portrait Gallery.

FAMILY

Lah-Lah’s Big Live Band

Lah-Lah is Australia’s premier band for children and their families; a band like no other! The stars of ABC4Kids and CBeebies will have the whole family up singing and dancing! Lah-Lah introduces children and their families to the wonderful world of music and musical instruments. Meet Mister Saxophone, Squeezy Sneezy the piano accordion, Tom Tom on drums, Buzz the Band Leader, Lola the Dancing Double Bass and the ever loveable Lah-Lah! Tickets available through Ticketek. On Friday 1 July from 10.30am at Southern Cross Club, Woden.

100 years of Australian animation at NFSA

The National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA) is celebrating 100 years of locally-made animation with a special program of the best Australian animated features of the last 25 years, these school holidays. See beloved characters like Blinky Bill, Bill Barnacle (The Magic Pudding), Mumble the dancing penguin (Happy Feet and Happy Feet 2) and The Lego Movie’s Emmet Brickowski come to life on the big screen. The whole family will love this selection of Australian animation! Tickets are $5 each and are available online. On from Tuesday 6 July to Friday 17 July at Arc Cinema, NFSA, Acton.

Family Films @ National Portrait Gallery

Head to the National Portrait Gallery this winter and enjoy some free family friendly film made possible with funds donated by Tim Fairfax AC. Catch Paper Planes G (2014) on Saturday 4 July and Saturday 18 July (with subtitles) at 3pm followed by 20 minutes of paper plane folding. Sing along to Frozen PG (2013) on Sunday 2 August at 11am and 2pm as part of the NPG’s Winter Festival. Entry is free.

Story time at the Memorial

Hear stories of brave animals, extraordinary people, and faraway places brought to life through puppets, uniforms, and educational toys at the Australian War Memorial. This program is suitable for pre-school-aged children, but older brothers and sisters are also welcome. Meet in the lower galleries, free event. On every Friday from 10.30am to 11.30am until 28 August at the Australian War Memorial, Campbell.

Family Sunday Sessions: Escape into the Gardens

Get along to the Australian National Botanic Garden to their guided storytelling experience exploring the themes of ‘Fire and Light in the Australian bush’. The adventure begins with a tasty morning tea before families head out with their hosts from the ACT Storytellers and Gardens’ education team, finishing their journey in the Red Centre Garden toasting marshmallows over a fire. Suitable for families with primary school aged children. Bookings essential with tickets $20 adults and $15 concession and children.Phone (02) 6250 9588. On Sunday 12 and 26 July, and Sunday 30 August from 10.30am.

Little faces

Little children and their parent (or carer) are invited to join an experienced Learning Facilitator at the National Portrait Gallery for playful activities in the galleries exploring faces, colour, sound and movement in the portraits with the Little Faces program. This 30-minute event is ideal for children from the ages of 6 months to 3 years. It’s followed by morning tea in the cafe. Bookings essential. On until Thursday 5 August (9.30am and 10.30am) at the National Portrait Gallery.

Winter magic at the library

Libraries ACT is offering bundles of events, classes, regular activities and, of course, their extensive movie, magazine, book and audio book collections to keep everybody entertained this winter. One-on-one digital literacy training: Book in for a personalised 30-minute session on a topic of your choice. Topics include email, eBooks, internet and computer basics, tablets, and privacy and security. From 2pm to 4pm until Thursday 27 August at Belconnen, Tuggeranong and Gungahlin libraries.

Maintaining your bicycle with CycleJam: Want to learn the basics of bicycle maintenance? Join a workshop run by the skillshare group CycleJam and learn how to fix small problems on your bike. Various times until Monday 17 August at Woden and Dickson libraries.

Perception Deception

Does your brain play tricks on you? Is one person’s reality the same as yours? Answer these questions and more with the Perception Deception exhibition at Questacon. Surprise your senses and challenge your mind with over 60 hands-on and multimedia exhibits featuring perceptual test and illusions.  This family-friendly exhibition reveals how our brains process information from our senses to form our perception of the world around us. Sometimes all is not as it seems! On now until 30 September 2015. For entry prices visit the website.

Questacon

There’s always heaps for people of all ages to do at Questacon – check out their list of events here.

National Dinosaur Museum Weekend Tours

The National Dinosaur Museum holds tours every weekend. Join one of their expert staff to experience a journey through time. Take your camera, your friends, those burning dinosaur questions and join the knowledgeable staff for a fun and educational tour suitable for all ages. Tours are free with admission. Tours are 30-minutes and run every weekend at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm until 27 December.

Family Space

The National Portrait Gallery has something for everyone to enjoy this school holidays in the Portrait Gallery Adventure Family Space. Explore the lives of Australia’s greatest adventurers through interactive art carts, dioramas and dress ups. Make your own portrait that expresses your spirit of adventure using fun art materials and the photo booth. All materials provided and free for all to enjoy! From 11am to 4pm daily.

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 2 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.

Friday 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 10 am (duration one hour). Tickets are $5 per child and bookings are not required. Visit the website for more information.

SPORT & LEISURE

Polestar Pilates: Instructor course

PilatesCan Manuka and Woden will be hosting a Polestar Pilates Instructor course at their Woden studios across the first weekend of July. Additionally, they are also offering internship and scholarship opportunities for university students undertaking relevant degrees such as Exercise/Sports Science and Physiology. On Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July at PilatesCan. For more information visit the website or email Jaymie Collins.

WORKSHOPS & TALKS

Business Chicks: Lorna Jane Clarkson

Activewear is not just for the gym anymore; it’s perfectly acceptable to sport your tights and sneakers anywhere from the office to Sunday brunch. It’s become one of the biggest (and in our opinion, the best) fashion trends the world has ever seen. And it started right here in Australia by one woman with a very big dream. In a rare opportunity, meet the woman, Lorna Jane Clarkson, who singlehandedly revolutionised women’s fitness clothing and built a cult brand, learn her new business secrets, how to live a bigger life and chat with Business Chicks over a yummy (and healthy, of course) brekky. Tickets from $109 and available online. On Thursday 2 July from 7am to 9am at Hyatt Hotel.

Drawn In

Let your creative juices flow at the National Portrait Gallery! Pick up a pencil and enjoy the experience of drawing while listening to local musicians. Free. Ideal for all ages and abilities. All materials are provided. On Sunday 28 June with Anton Wurzer, piano accordion; and Sunday 9 August with Carlos Perez, classical guitar at the National Portrait Gallery. Free entry.

National Gallery of Australia talks and workshops

The National Gallery of Australia has an extensive program of talks and workshops run in conjunction with their current exhibitions. Hear about local and international artists or specific techniques. Be inspired by the greats and create your own artworks. Talks and workshops cater for a range of different age groups. For full details visit the NGA website.

STAGE & FILM

Mister Maker

Mister Maker’s first ever national Australian tour is back due to popular demand. The Mister Maker Live theatre tour is sure to thrill and delight, bringing together exciting live entertainment values coupled with inspirational ideas for Mini Makers to go out there and be creative. Appealing to parents and mini makers alike, the show will be packed full of fantastic makes, and a vast array of songs and dances with Mister Maker and his sidekicks The Shapes!. Mister Maker’s national tour will bring a touch of crafty sparkle to Canberra! Tickets $40.65 and available through Canberra Ticketing. On Saturday 4 July from 10am to 11.30am at Canberra Theatre Centre.

At Last: The Etta James Story

The sensational Vika Bull stars in this smash-hit narrative concert that tells the story of soul legend Etta James’ turbulent life. Hear songs including: Tell Mama, Something’s Got A Hold On Me, Pushover, the heart rending I’d Rather Go Blind and the iconic hit At Last. Etta James won six Grammy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame. She’s influenced artists from Diana Ross, Janis Joplin, Stevie Wonder, The Rolling Stones and Rod Stewart and is acknowledged as inspiring Christina Aguilera, Joss Stone, Adele and the late Amy Winehouse. Tickets $69 and available from Canberra Ticketing. On Saturday 4 July from 8pm at Canberra Theatre Centre.

Head Full of Love

The Annual Alice Springs Beanie Festival is fast approaching and Tilly Napuljari is running out of time to finish her new creation and enter it for judging. Nessa Tavistock, a Sydneysider, has run away to the Red Centre to escape her own problems back in the big smoke. Head Full of Love is the story of these two remarkable women and the unlikely but inspiring friendship which forms between them. Wesley Enoch directs this intricate, warm and wisely told tale by Australian playwright Alana Valentine (MP., Run Rabbit Run, Parramatta Girls). Tickets start from $29 student, $37 concession and $39 adult. On Friday 3 and Saturday 4 July from 7.30pm at The Street Theatre, Canberra City.

John McCrae’s War: In Flanders Fields

On Canada Day (1 July), you are invited to view a documentary about the life of poet John McCrae – John McCrae’s War: In Flanders Fields. Hear about McCrae’s childhood in Ontario and on to his years in medicine at McGill University, and his service in the First World War battlefields of Belgium. Generations of schoolchildren have recited McCrae’s iconic poem In Flanders Fields but McCrae and Alexis Helmer — the young man whose death inspired the poem — have faded from memory. This film seeks to revive their stories through a vivid portrait of a great man in Canadian history. Free entry. On Wednesday 1 July from 1pm to 2.30pm at the Australian War Memorial.

Comedy Club at the Civic Pub featuring Tom Gibson
Check out the a host of local and interstate talent including Tom Gibson, Chris Ryan, Emo Parsonson, Hamish Hudson and Shane Addison during July with the Comedy Club. Tom Gibson is a comedy renegade who has been blasting his way across Australia for the last decade, leaving comedy rooms in tatters and audiences rolling on the floor in hysterics. Now, at the direct request of King Harald V of Norway, Tom is back to smash up the Civic Pub once again with his outrageous joke improvisation and signature wit. Watch this maverick unleash his dynamic brand of comedy magic on his home ground where he has raised the roof so many times. Tickets are $15 online or $18 at the door on the night. On Wednesday 1 July with doors open at 7.30pm for a 8pm start at the Civic Pub, Braddon.

MUSIC, DANCE & MORE

The Australian Burlesque Festival

The Australian Burlesque Festival is a night of glamorous classic tease and modern neo-burlesque that will dazzle, delight and stimulate the senses! Shake-O-Rama consists of some of the best and most entertaining international and local burlesque performers. Celebrate traditional Bump n’ Grind, vintage-flavoured tease, sizzling cabaret and variety entertainment! Be delighted, tantalised and pleasantly entertained as you experience jaw-dropping glamour and high quality shows from leading stars of the stage. Visit the website for tickets. On Friday 3 and Saturday 4 July from 6.30pm to 11pm at The Abbey, Nicholls.

Weekly Dance Party for the Over 30s

30+ Dance Event will be hosting weekly Dance Parties every Saturday night at The RUC where you will be provided with an entralling and relaxed atmosphere to meet new people at your own leisure. A fun, safe and comfortable atmosphere to dance, meet new or other likeminded persons, romance, flirt or socialise and make friends. These are popular weekly Saturday night evens and the ideal night out for fun-loving socialable 30+s with pulsating music from the 60s, 70s, 80, 90s plus much more. Visit 30 Plus Dance Event for details. On every Saturday from 8pm onwards at The RUC, Turner and $20 per head.

The Front Room

Explore Australia’s TV, radio and music collection at your leisure in the National Film and Sound Archive’s latest screen and sound experience in Acton – The Front Room. Discover the history of sound, music and broadcast in comfort. Listen to radio broadcasts on a 1950s radiogram, watch classic TV in the lounge space or play CDs on one of the listening posts. Whether you’ve got five minutes or five hours, there’s always something to see, hear or do in The Front Room. Free entry. Open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm until 24 December at National Film and Sound Archive.

No Lights, No Lycra

There is no light, no lycra, no teacher, no steps to learn, no technique, just free movement. NLNL is a space where you can completely let go, shake out the stresses of the week, and lose yourself in the music and the physicality of your body. NLNL is a daggy, non-pretentious place to completely be yourself. NLNL takes place in two locations across Canberra: Monday nights from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at Mugga Mugga Scout Hall in Red Hill, and Wednesday nights from 7.30pm to 9pm at St John’s Anglican Church Hall in Reid (corner of Constitution Ave and Anzac Park West). Lots of free onsite parking available, and admission still just $5 on the door.

Vinyl Lounge at NFSA

The popular Vinyl Lounge is back for 2015 at the National Film and Sound Archive. Join other vinyl lovers for nibbles then spin the turntables with your favourites records from 5.30pm. The NFSA’s Vinyl Lounge is on the first Friday of every month and is the perfect way to end the day (and working week). Reminscent of record clubs of the 1970s, enjoy a diverse selection of pop, rock, folk, world, funk and lounge music from the Golden Age of vinyl. Bring your own LPs and groove into the Vinyl Lounge. On the first Friday of each month from 5pm.

Live Local Music

This post isn’t long enough to list all the various gigs around town, but if you’re into live music, we heartily suggest you check out what’s on offer at The Phoenix, Transit Bar, The Front, The Abbey, and BMA’s gig guide.

ART

Streetwise: Contemporary Print Culture

Streetwise: Contemporary Print Culture presents more than 40 of Australia’s current contemporary printmakers at the National Gallery of Australia’s newest space for art in Canberra; NGA Contemporary. The exhibition is bright, colourful, graphic and surveys the last 15 years of exciting Australian printmaking. Digital prints, video, zines and textiles are some of the many techniques on display from artists including eX de Medici, Mike Parr, Heather B Swann, Sarah Contos, Minna Gilligan, Brent Harris and Marian Tubbs. On until 8 August at the National Gallery of Australia.

Bespoke

As part of DESIGN Canberra, Craft ACT: Craft + Design Centre is thrilled to partner with the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House (MoAD), to bring you an exciting exhibition Bespoke: Design for the people. In this stunning exhibition, six Australian craft and design practitioners have created new works that reflect and respond to the iconic designs of the original furniture at Old Parliament House. Each artist was given unprecedented access to the rooms and collections, and the freedom to create a personal response. Informed by their own artistic backgrounds, each artist considered notions of political perspective, change, accountability and power in their pieces. The result is a thought-provoking collaboration between design, creativity and Australia’s political history. Artists include Canberra artists Jennifer Robertson, Niklavs Rubenis, Julie Ryder, Caren Florance, in collaboration with Melinda Smith; and Sydney-based artist Cecelia Heffer. The exhibition will run until November 2015. To view the full DESIGN Canberra program of events visit their website.

Norforce: Tony Albert

Tony Albert works in a number of art forms, including drawing, painting, photography, and installation. A founding member of Queensland’s indigenous art collective proppaNOW, Albert’s art explores political, historical and cultural issues relevant to indigenous people in Australia today. Albert exhibits internationally and nationally and has been the recipient of numerous awards and prizes. Most recently Albert won the City of Sydney commission to create a public artwork in Hyde Park. Titled Yininmadyemi – Thou didst let fall the artwork honours the military service of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service men and women. Open until 3 November 2015 at the Australian War Memorial.

Other exhibitions

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

EXHIBITIONS

If I made you a mountain – Shellaine Godbold

If I made you a mountain is a new series of works on paper by Shellaine Godbold which explores the artist’s relationship of self to place. Having recently returned from a trip to her grandmothers’ home town in western Queensland, Godbold has created a series of large scale drawings which are a deeply personal record of her connection to this area. While the work references elements of a known landscape the drawings are not easily identifiable landscapes. Creating mountains that are divorced from their surrounds and left floating in a white space, a fragment of memory drawn out onto the paper. Shellaine uses subtle watercolour washes to suggest not only rivers and streams but also blood, vessels and veins. Visit the website for full details www.ccas.com.au On Wednesday 1 July until 1 August at Canberra Contemporary Art Space, Corner of London Circuit and Hobart Place, Canberra City.

Australian Ceramics Triennale

M16 Artspace invites you to a round of three exhibitions in conjunction with Stepping Up, the prestigious Australian Ceramics Triennale. The exhibitions open next week, while the Triennale will take place over the final weekend of the exhibitions, from Thursday 9 to Saturday 11 July. Visit m16artspace.com for full details. The Gallery is open 12pm to 5pm Wednesday to Sunday at 21 Blaxland Crescent Griffith.

sPIN – miniature wearable artworks

ANCA Gallery invites you to the opening of sPIN. It’s ANCA Gallery’s fifth annual exhibition of miniature  wearable artworks, featuring over 200 works by more than 65 artists from Canberra and around Australia! All works are for sale. Exhibition starts Wednesday 24 June 2015 through to Sunday 5 July 2015. Opening event is being held from 6pm – 8pm on Wednesday 24 June 2015.

Protean

Defined as the potential to assume many forms, Protean is a metaphor for the material of clay and the current culture of ceramic practice in Australia. This exhibition will push deeper into the practice, ask questions and re-consider the potential of clay. To coincide with the Australian Ceramics Triennale in Canberra from Thursday 9 to Saturday 11 July, this exhibition will showcase contemporary ceramic artworks from members of the Canberra based artist collective, Claybodies. On from Saturday 4 July to Sunday 19 July at Nishi Gallery, NewActon.

Aarwun Gallery Winter 2015

Aarwun Gallery welcomes three new artists to the gallery: Archibald Finalist Margarita Georgiadis, Sydney-based Susie Sierra and local artist and designer Athi Lamech. Aarwun Gallery would like to warmly invite you to join them for an evening of wine, cheese and conversation with the artists on Friday 26 June from 5.30 pm onwards. Exhibition is open until 17 July 2015 at Aarwun Gallery, Federation Square, Nicholls.

The story of Rama Indian miniatures from the National Museum, New Delhi

Now on at the National Gallery of Australia, The story of Rama: Indian Miniatures from the National Museum, New Delhi exhibition explores one of the world’s great epics, Ramayana, a tale of love, loyalty, betrayal and victory of good over evil. It follows the story of the hero Rama, an exemplary prince, admired for his honour, valour and compassion. Great adventure unfolds when Rama’s beloved wife Sita is abducted by Ravana, the ten-headed demon king of Lanka. On display until 23 August at the National Gallery of Australia.

Canada’s Arctic: Vibrant and Thriving Photographic Exhibition on display at the High Court of Australia

The High Commission of Canada is pleased to announce the photographic exhibition Canada’s Arctic: Vibrant and Thriving will be on display at the High Court of Australia in Canberra. This bilingual exhibition of contemporary photographs of the Canadian Arctic from Canadian Geographic Magazine gives a glimpse into the lives of Northerners, and offers perspectives on the environment and activities that help shape and influence the diverse circumpolar region. Canada’s Arctic: Vibrant and Thriving Photographic Exhibition is on until 2 July

and open Monday through Friday from 9.45am to 4.30pm and admission is free.

Slowing Down Time

Starting with the premise of slowing down time, four artists (Louise Curham, Michele Elliot, Sue Healey and Jo Law) use installation, sculpture, choreography and moving image to construct new work. Each week of the project, one artist takes over the gallery, adding to what the artist before them has left behind. Over the four weeks, unexpected new works emerge, created together by the four artists. Slowing Down Time is a project rather than an exhibition, offering visitors an experience of the artists’ process. Opens Wednesday 10 June and runs until 5 July in the centre foyer of Belconnen Arts Centre, Emu Bank, Belconnen.

Traceries: Paintings and drawings by Jenny Gibson

Continuing her preoccupation with the Australian bush, Jenny Gibson extends her interest in its linear qualities by exploring its complex calligraphy. This concern is central to her paintings of eucalypts, wattles and grasses on Mt. Ainslie after la Niña, as well as to the oils and charcoal drawings of reeds, rock-fissures and reflections in Central Australia. Her work emphasises the irregular growth patterns in nature in contrast to the geometry of the built environment of human beings. Open until 5 July  in the Centre Gallery of Belconnen Arts Centre, Emu Bank, Belconnen.

X-rated: the sex industry in the ACT

Since the 1980s Canberra has been synonymous with sex in the minds of many Australians. Twenty years have passed since it became legal to sell X-rated videos in the Australian Capital Territory. The adult industry has gone through periods of growth, boom and, many would argue, bust. This exhibition explores the evolution of Canberra’s sex industry over the past 50 years. The public is warned that some material displayed in this exhibition may cause offence. Persons under 18 years of age may not enter this exhibition. On until 20 September at Canberra Museum and Gallery.

Revealing the Rothschild Prayer Book (c.1505–1510 from the Kerry Stokes Collection)

An acknowledged masterpiece of Renaissance manuscript illumination, the Rothschild Prayer Book has remained the preserve of a privileged few. With its recent acquisition for the Kerry Stokes Collection, this historic book of hours will be on public display with a selection of the National Library of Australia’s medieval and Renaissance treasures. Open until 9 August from 10am to 5pm every day at the National Library of Australia. Visit the website for ticket prices.

Colour my world: Australian photography

Colour My World is the National Gallery of Australia’s first exhibition dedicated to the handcoloured photograph. It draws together new acquisitions and rarely seen works from the National Collection. These photographs challenge the medium’s technical sameness by personalising the print and imbuing it with individuality and uniqueness as well as an intimacy, warmth and fallibility. On until 30 August at National Gallery of Australia. Free entry.

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.  The Australian War Memorial presents the story of Australia in the First World War chronologically, covering all major theatres of operations: Gallipoli, the Western Front, Sinai and Palestine and the war at sea. On display now until 1 January 2017 at the Australian War Memorial.

William Edwin Pidgeon (1909–1981), war correspondent and artist

William Edwin Pidgeon was a painter, cartoonist, illustrator, and newspaper critic. This exhibition presents a selection of the over 400 works by William Pidgeon held in the Australian War Memorial’s Art collection. The works relate to Pidgeon’s Second World War experiences in Darwin, New Guinea, Borneo and Morotai between 1943 to 1945. On display in the Second World War Galleries until 7 March 2016 at the Australian War Memorial.

The Home Front: Australia during the First World War

Commemorating the centenary of the First World War, The Home Front looks at life back at home and the pride, sorrow, passion, wonder and joy experienced by those far from the battlefields. Through 23 personal stories, this exhibition explores Australians’ choices, opportunities and challenges in a time of heightened emotions. See the effects of war on those at home. Rediscover Prime Minister Billy Hughes’s determination to impose conscription on a divided nation, Basil Watson’s thrilling and ultimately tragic aerobatic displays in his homemade biplane, May Gibbs’s quaint postcards that carried messages of joy to soldiers and more. On display at the National Museum of Australia until 1 January 2017.

Crisis 1914! The call to arms

Crisis 1914! The call to arms explores the political events which led to Australia’s involvement in the First World War, from outbreak of war in August to the first convoy’s departure in November 1914. In Australia’s first crisis as a new nation, we went willingly, even enthusiastically, into the war. See the original cabinet table used in 1914, along with other memorabilia from the era which help to tell the story of Australia’s political journey. This exhibition contributes to the Anzac Centenary, marking 100 years of service by Australian servicemen and women, and the experience of war by all Australians. At the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House until 5 August 2015.

Without Consent

Without Consent: Australia’s past adoption practices is now open at the National Archives.  An exhibition of moving experiences of heartbreak and resilience, shared by people impacted by Australia’s past adoption practices. This project has been assisted by the Department of Social Services. Open now until 19 July at the National Archives, Parkes.

Art is a Weapon

Art is a Weapon takes you back to an Australia gripped by the Cold War. Amid propaganda for and against communism, artists turned to an image familiar to most Australians; the Southern Cross flag of the Eureka Stockade. The portfolio contains fourteen works from ten artists, including three from prominent Melbourne artist Noel Counihan. Counihan was a Social Realist who was heavily involved in the Communist Party, and was well-known in the Melbourne art community. The works reflect both the Eureka rebellion itself and, more broadly, the themes of workers’ rights and struggles against the established authorities.

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. Open now at the Museum of Australian Democracy. Visit their website for more information.

Behind the Lines 2014

Superheroes. Battle axes. Death stares. Who said politics was dry and dull? Highly anticipated and scorchingly honest, Behind the Lines 2014 celebrates the best political cartoons of 2014. The exhibition – one of the most anticipated of the year for politic tragics is now open at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. In the 2014 exhibition, cartoonists wryly comment on Tony Abbott’s first year in government. They see the Coalition attempting to deliver strong and stable leadership, as well as fulfilling their election promises to stop the boats, axe the tax, fix the budget and reduce red tape. Meanwhile, a restless Australian Labor Party waits for its Leader to ditch the past, move forward and say something. Each year the exhibition acknowledges a cartoonist as the Behind the Lines Political Cartoonist of the Year. Open until November 2015.

Afghanistan: The Australian Story

Afghanistan and the Middle East are now linked to Australia’s national story. Australia’s mission is clear: to combat international terrorism, to stabilise Afghanistan, and to support Australia’s international alliances. Yet a mission statement cannot capture the challenges, the successes, and the comradeship of the Australian men and women who pursue it. Nor the joys and heartbreaks, or the loneliness and the dedication of those who wait at home. Some of these experiences, set against the powerful imagery of a modern war, are told in this exhibition. Over time, the display will change and evolve as more veterans share their stories. Open until 3 November 2015 at the Australian War Memorial.

Enterprising Australians

An insight into how great ideas happen, hear the inspiring stories of Australia’s modern-day innovators. Discover the unique journey that inventors take from idea to product in this exhibition featuring video stories, product displays and interactive stations that explore the origins of products from a range of fields, including mining, agriculture, medical, automotive, and food science. Showing until 30 June 2016 at The Ian Potter Technology Learning Centre.

Power of 1: Does your voice count?

Discover the changing nature of Australian democracy and the power of your voice within it. Power of 1 is a ground breaking interactive exhibition shaped by the answers you share, about what matters to you. Step back in time to remember the events, people and experiences that have shaped each generation of Australians. Have your say about the state of democracy and help to create a new kind of museum experience curated by the voices of the Australian people. It’s time…have your say and be heard. Open until 12 November 2015 at Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

Ben Quilty: After Afghanistan

After spending over three weeks talking to Australian servicemen and women in Afghanistan, Ben Quilty felt an overwhelming need to tell their stories. He went there in October 2011 as an official war artist, commissioned by the Australian War Memorial and attached to the Australian Defence Force. His task was to record and interpret the experiences of Australians deployed as part of Operation Slipper in Kabul, Kandahar, and Tarin Kot in Afghanistan and at Al Minhad Airbase in the United Arab Emirates. Quilty’s work employs a wide range of genres, including portraits, figurative subjects, still-lifes and landscapes. On display until 14 August 2015.

Menzies: By John Howard

Former Prime Minister John Howard has curated this Menzies exhibition and shares his unique and personal insights, reflections and stories on the intense first term of former Prime Minister Robert Menzies. The exhibition marks the 75th anniversary of Robert Menzies’ first term as prime minister (1939-41) and features objects never before seen by the public, including personal items on loan from the Menzies family. Open now until 3 September 2015 at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

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