Cirque Le Noir - Sydney March 2015

The Sydney premiere of Le Noir, direct from a sold out world tour will see for the first time ever, the Sydney Lyric Theatre transformed to seat audiences around a custom-built circular stage giving a spectacular 360 degree view of the performance and bringing the heart pounding action closer than ever before.

World class acrobats, musicians, specialty acts and comedians are the centre piece of the production and will enthral audiences in this spell-binding theatrical journey. This production is surreal, beautiful, seductive and at times hilariously risqué.

With incredible displays of balance, contortion, stamina, aerial artistry and death defying acts, such as the Colombian Wheel of Death, the skills exhibited by the cast of Le Noir is a show that audiences won’t want to miss.

“Precarious and impossible in ways that defy the imagination...” – The Straits Times

Exclusive Club Lyric presale now on! For details on how to purchase presale tickets email club@sydneylyric.com.au

From 19 March 2015 for a strictly limited season

Tickets: http://sydneylyric.com.au/index.php/whats-on/coming-soon/Le-Noir

Leo Sayer – The Restless Years Tour 2015

From his debut 1973 smash hit The Show Must Go On to his 2006 UK No 1 remix of Thunder In My Heart, Leo Sayer has carved an incredible worldwide career over four decades including selling 80 million albums and a Grammy award.

In the international music charts there have been more than twenty top ten singles and five top ten albums in Leo’s illustrious recording career. Add to this his acclaimed talents as a songwriter with hits written for Tina Turner, Cliff Richard, Roger Daltrey, Dolly Parton, Three Dog Night, Gene Pitney and Jennifer Warnes.

His live performances are legendary and he’s touring Australia for the first time in four years to celebrate the release of his latest CD “Restless Years”. This show will feature his new Australian band performing songs from the new album together with the hits you’d expect such as Long Tall Glasses, You Make Me Feel Like Dancing, When I Need You and More Than I Can Say.

VIP Ticket $99.00 ( includes CD and Pre Show Meet and Greet)

Duration: 120 Mins – 20 min Interval
When: Sat, 21 Mar 2015
Time: Starts 8pm
Where: Ipswich Civic Centre - Limestone St, Ipswich QLD 4305
Tel: (07) 3810 - 7751
Tickets: http://www.ipswichciviccentre.com.au/leo-sayer/

STROBE/SMOKE/HAZER machine may be in use. No photography or video allowed once inside the Auditorium.

Sydney Festival 2015 - The Kitchen Show

Photo credit: KR Vinayan

Sydney Festival 2015
From the creator of the MANGANIYAR SEDUCTION, we welcome THE KITCHEN

A show about the healing power of cooking, The Kitchen is a sumptuous, multi-sensory spectacle of arresting sights, smells and sounds, culminating in something for your taste buds too.

In The Kitchen, a man and woman connect in a wordless drama exploring the ritual of cooking. As the couple prepares payasam, a traditional Indian dessert, letting the fragrant aromas waft over you, 12 drummers provide a vigorous soundtrack on copper mizhavu drums. As this trance-inducing meditation reaches an intoxicating boiling point, it’s your turn to take part in the performance.

In 2010, Indian director Roysten Abel wowed Sydney with The Manganiyar Seduction. Experience his return to Sydney Festival with this flavoursome fusion of folk traditions and theatrical celebration.

Commissioned by Sydney Festival, Auckland Festival and Holland Festival.

Duration: 75mins no interval
Where: Seymour Centre York Theatre
Address: Corner City Road and Cleveland Street, Chippendale
Tickets: Sydney Festival Online Bookings or call 1300 856 876

Source: http://www.sydneyfestival.org.au/2015/the-kitchen?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=websiteclicks&utm_campaign=kitchen

Swan Lake 2015 - The Australian Ballet @ Capitol Theatre Sydney

After standing ovations in New York, London, Paris and Tokyo, The Australian Ballet returns with its most popular ever production. Graeme Murphy’s Swan Lake is a classic reimagined for the 21st century, charged with sensuality and heartbreak. Murphy sets the passionate love triangle of Odette, Prince Siegfried and the Baroness von Rothbart against Kristian Fredrikson’s magnificent designs – massed swans, a darkly sparkling lake, regal ballrooms – and Tchaikovsky’s achingly beautiful score. An overwhelming emotional experience and a dazzling feast on stage, this is Swan Lake as you’ve never seen it before.

After a sell-out season in Melbourne in 2013, this powerful production returns to Sydney for the first time since 2008. This is the company’s most popular and most loved production in history and has elevated the company to international acclaim.

“The Australian Ballet puts fire into the Lake.” - Le Figaro, Paris

• Running Time: 2 hours and 50 minutes including 2 intervals. *All times are approximate and subject to change.
• Playing from: 20 – 28 February 2015 only at the Capitol Theatre Sydney
• Address: 13 Campbell St, Haymarket NSW 2000
• Tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com.au/The-Australian-Ballet-tickets/artist/1057476?tm_link=edp_Artist_Name

Perth Escape Package - Executive Riverview Room

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Looking for the ideal weekend escape? Book this great value Perth Escape from Metro Hotel Perth.

Great value at just $249 per night, this Hot Deal includes:

· Accommodation in an Executive Riverview room, located on the top floors (8-10) with stunning views of the Swan River and Perth city

· 2 x $15.00 Taxi vouchers, to get you around town

· Bottle of sparkling wine on arrival

· Full buffet breakfast daily

· Sleep in with a late check out at 12noon

Book Now: http://www.metro-hotel-perth.bookings.metrohotels.com.au/perth-escape-hot-deal-accommodation

Degustation Christmas Lunch at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

The Ipswich dining scene has raised its game with the presence of international experienced English chef, Guy Farrow. Before arriving in Australia, Chef Guy worked in roles as Sous Chef at the famous five-star Savoy Hotel in London which has accommodated and dined hundreds of celebrity actors, rock stars, politicians and royalty.

Prior to that, Chef Guy worked at the equally famous stately home of Cliveden in Taplow, home of Lord and Lady Astor and also the setting to the world renowned ‘ Profumo Scandal’ that occurred in the 1960’s. Guy is classically trained in cooking and was inspired by his ‘idol’ Raymond Blanc, OBE when Guy started his cooking career at Oakley Court Hotel. The hotel is situated on the River Thames near Windsor where he was trained by Masterchef, Murdo McSween.

At the Metro Hotel Ipswich International this Christmas, Guy brings his diverse experience in fine dining and event catering with a fabulous eight course Degustation Christmas Day lunch. There will be no traditional turkeys with all the trimmings or plum pudding with lashes of brandy custard, instead Guy will use local produce to include vegetables, seafood, salads, beef and a variety of home-made sauces,. Cost of the meal is $135 and a special vegetarian menu is also available.

Chef Guy understands foods that go with the climate and has not forgotten his days growing up in the UK. “I always remember waking up on Christmas morning, going for an early crisp walk to church with the family and the smell of log fires” he says. “When we arrived back home, it was opening of the presents and waiting for the hot traditional turkey complete with the trimmings, followed by huge servings of plum pudding with brandy custard” he adds.

After extensive travelling Guy set up home in Brisbane spending three and half years teaching cooking at the Private Hospitality Training School. His vision as Executive Chef at the Metro Ipswich International is to work even closer with as many local producers from Ipswich to the Lockyer Valle and present special themed meals according to the seasonality of the produce. He is also working on setting up a cooking school to share his passion with as many people who are enthusiastic to learn his culinary skills and techniques.

When asked what his tip was for cooking Christmas lunch, regardless of hot or cold, his reply “Give yourself plenty of time. Prepare as much as possible a couple of days beforehand and have minimum cooking on the day. Keep it simple and use nice flavours” he said. “And relax and enjoy the company around you” he added.

Enjoy a family getaway this summer at Metro Hotel Ipswich International. Terrific value from $150 per night including a full buffet breakfast (for up to 4 guests) in our own Platform 9 Restaurant and accommodation in a self-contained, family-friendly apartment. Featuring a kitchenette with dishwasher, LCD TV with DVD player and Foxtel, minibar and complimentary Wifi, they are the ideal choice for families visiting Ipswich. Complimentary car parking is also available on site.

Bookings can be made at Metro Hotel Ipswich International by calling the toll free Central Reservations line on 1800 004 321 or visitwww.metrohotels.com.au to book online.

View Christmas Day Menu at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

View this Press Release and More at Metro Hotels News

Summer Sizzling Hot Deal at Aspire Hotel Sydney

Book this great-value Sizzling Summer Hot Deal at Aspire Hotel Sydney including:

• Accommodation in Standard room with private balcony
• Bottle of wine on arrival
• Late check out (noon)

*Available from 1 December 2014 – 28 February 2015, subject to availability.

*Must book a minimum of 7 days in advance.

Book This Sizzling Summer Hot Deal at Aspire Hotel Sydney

Brazouka Touring Australia

Narrated by comedian turned Brazilian dance lover Billy Connolly and performed by Brazil's most thrilling new dance troupe, Brazouka is the inspirational story of Braz Dos Santos’ journey from a small Brazilian village to the international stage - it was dance or die for the best freestyle Lambada and Lambazouk dancer in the world.

This must see production is sure to have "the entire audience on their feet, laughing and dancing" (The West Australian) as the striking performers play with the illustrious martial arts dance - Capoeira, Afro-contemporary, Rio Zouk, the cheeky partner dances of the Samba.  They present the most impressive display of the sensual dance languages of Lambada, Lambazouk, mixed with the bouncy Forro style that Australian audiences may ever see.

Off the back of impressive runs in Edinburgh, London and Johannesburg, Brazouka is already stunning Australian audiences, being touted by The West Australian as an "astonishing”, and “seductive spectacle".  Don’t miss your chance to experience the passion of Brazilian dance – limited runs across Australia.

Tour Dates:
- Ticketek is selling for the following venues only -

• Thu 23 - Sun 26 Oct @ Regal Theatre, Perth
• Thu 13 - Sun 16 Nov @ Enmore Theatre, Sydney
• Wed 19 - Sun 30 Nov @ The Palms at Crown, Melbourne

Tickets: http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=BRAZOUKA14#prX1QS4XeR4ZU0jl.99

NELLY plus Lupe Fiasco and B.O.B 2015 Australian Tour

Presented by: Epic Entertainment

Tickets On Sale: Thursday 30th October 10:00am at Ticketek: http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=NELLYBOB15

Three of the world’s biggest names in hip-hop have confirmed that they will be embarking on an arena tour at the start of 2015. Double Grammy award-winning rapper, Nelly will join Lupe Fiasco and B.o.B for a show-stopping concert brought to you by Epic Entertainment. The power-house tour will see each artist play a collection of their greatest hits, both old and new this summer, with concerts in; Sydney, Newcastle, Melbourne, Brisbane, Auckland and Perth.

With over 21 million albums sold, the tour marks Nelly’s first visit to Australia in four years, and his first ever arena tour. Joined by Lupe Fiasco and B.o.B, the trio will perform global smash hits including; ‘Ride With Me’, ‘Hot in Here’, ‘Super Star’ and ‘So Good’ across Australia and New Zealand.

Since jumping on the scene with his infectious debut single, ‘Country Grammar’, Nelly has made a resounding impact in music that can still be felt to this day. Most recently, the multi-platinum, Grammy award–winning rap superstar released his seventh full-length album, M.O., featuring guest appearances by Nicki Minaj, Pharrell, Future, T.I. and 2 Chainz. However, his talent goes beyond music, expanding his brand into other arenas, including acting, fashion and even his own line of energy drinks.

Entrepreneurial rapper, songwriter and producer Lupe Fiasco joins the powerhouse trio on tour. Since blasting onto the scene in 1999, Lupe can be credited for global hits including ‘Superstar’ and ‘The Show Goes On’, whist racking up an impressive 12 Grammy nominations and countless other awards.

Breaking musical barriers, B.o.B redefines the term rapper with an impressive blend of lyrics, vocals and memorable hits; including one of 2012’s biggest hits ‘So Good’, which dominated the charts globally. He has collaborations with some of the biggest names in music, including Chris Brown, Taylor Swift, Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, Eminem, Bruno Mars and even our very own Potbelleez.

Tour details: http://www.qantascreditunionarena.com.au/Events/Events%20Detail/Nelly.aspx
Presenter website: www.epicpresents.com.au

Beards, Live Bluegrass and Belly Laughs

BEARDS, LIVE BLUEGRASS AND BELLY LAUGHS

There’ll be whip-crackin’, wood-chuckin’, log-balancin’ and axe-jugglin’ galore – with live banjo-pickin’ and bluegrass-playin’ thrown in for good measure as Quebec’s Cirque Alfonse brings the joyous Timber! to Australia for the first time.

Timber! combines circus with theatre, physical comedy, live traditional music, folklore and the tools of the lumberjack trade. Expect the circus skills displayed by three generations of this family of circus-performers, including the 67-year-old grandad, to be as sharp as the saw blades.

This is circus with sweat, sawdust, beards and high spirits for the whole family to enjoy.

View Source: http://www.sydneyfestival.org.au/2015/timber

David Byrne’s Musical About Imelda Marcos to Debut at Barangaroo

David Byrne was in Sydney to promote his musical Here Lies Love for the 2015 Vivid festival.Source: News Corp Australia

Former Talking Heads frontman David Byrne announced in Sydney today that his musical Here Lies Love, about the life of former first lady of the Philippines Imelda Marcos, will make its Australian debut at a purpose-built venue in the city’s Barangaroo development next May.

Byrne, who is in Australia for casting of the production, first performed the songs from the musical in Adelaide in 2006, but since then the show has developed into an interactive stage production and is currently showing in London and New York.

“I would never have started on this project if I’d known how long it was going to take,” said Byrne, who co-wrote the musical with English artist Fatboy Slim. The show is set in a disco/nightclub environment, to tell the Marcos story in song.

Byrne was inspired by the idea that the first lady frequented dance venues and had a nightclub in her New York apartment and at her palace in the Philippines. “I’m old enough to remember that she was a larger than life figure,” he said.

“I’m very excited about the show being here and I think Australians are going to enjoy it.”

The show, which will be staged inside a construction made from freight containers called the Millennium, is part of next year’s Vivid Festival in Sydney.

Adam Scott chases triple crown in summer of golf

Adam Scott will be out to avenge last year’s defeat in the Australian Open when he was pipped by a stroke by Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy.

By JASON CLOUT - 12 NOV 2014

The return of Adam Scott will be the highlight of the Australian summer of golf with the world No. 2 looking to replicate his amazing form of 2013.

Scott won two out of three tournaments last year and was only pipped on the last hole at the Australian Open by Rory McIlroy. Had he claimed the Australian championship, Scott would have joined Robert Allenby in winning the so-called triple crown of Australian golf.

The Australian Masters is the first of the three tournaments and will be played at The Metropolitan Golf Club from November 20-23. The Metropolitan is one of Melbourne’s famous sandbelt courses.

It will be Scott’s third successive Masters, should he triumph at the Metropolitan, having won in 2012 and 2013, when he edged out Matt Kuchar of the United States.

The Australian Open to be played at the Australian Golf Club November 27-30 will be Scott’s chance to even the score with McIlroy, as both the young superstars will be in the field.

When he shot 62 in the first round last year, it seemed Scott had the championship in his grasp. But a last round 66 by McIlroy, including some remarkable play on the 18th hole, saw the Northern Irishman take the Australian Open by a stroke.

GOLD COAST DESTINATION FOR CHAMPIONSHIP
The last of the triple crown is the Australian PGA Championship, which will be held at Royal Pines on the Gold Coast between December 11-14.

Golf’s reputation as a sport which attracts the executive market is one reason companies such as Emirates and HSBC are involved. Emirates will once again be the major backer of the Australian Open, alongside its long-standing association with thoroughbred racing and its newly announced sponsorship of tennis in Australia.

Manager for sponsorships at Emirates Roger Duthie says golf is one of the truly global sports.

“Sport is important to the airline and golf is a big part of that,’’ says Duthie

It is also one of the few sports where it is possible to play with the world’s best at pro-ams.

Those days have become a fixture in many tournaments around the world, offering the chance to play a top course in the same group as a pro.

Duthie says golf fans are prepared to travel, another important consideration for the airline: “There’s a tourism impact as well because golfers will travel to play golf.’’

COURSE ALTERATIONS CHALLENGING
Golf officials are delighted about the prospects for the summer. Director of championships at Golf Australia Trevor Herden says one of the aspects of the intriguing clash between Scott and McIlroy at the Australian Open will be how they and the rest of the field deal with course alterations.

Herden says the first hole and the 14th have been converted from par fives to par fours for the championship. “We’ve made it a bit harder, It will be a par 70 course for the event,” he says.

There is good prize money on offer in Australia this year, such as the $1.25 million for the Open. But Herden says it is still a great show of faith that most of the top Australian players will be playing here over the next few weeks.

The overseas golfing tours like the US and Europe. where most of the top Australian players compete, take up most of the year. But instead of resting, most of the high-profile Australian golfers continue to support the local tournaments.

“It was wonderful when Adam Scott decided to play the three events. But it’s not just Adam, we’ve got just about all our best players coming back as well as some top golfers from overseas like Rory [McIlroy] and Jordan Spieth.”

Source: http://www.afr.com/p/lifestyle/life_leisure/adam_scott_chases_triple_crown_in_jpGODL5EVo6yIQND1V7jfJ

This year’s crop of Tropfest short films cover the whole gambit from but most aim to win a laugh

2014 Tropfest finalist, Little Bondi. Picture: Supplied

RUNAWAY brides, clumsy butlers, Bondi hipsters and chocoholic dentists are among the characters Tropfest finalists have used to bring this year’s theme of “mirror” alive.

Now in it’s 23rd year, Australian film critic Mark Fennel today announced the 16 finalists which have been selected out of more than 600 entrants at a conference held at the Sydney Opera House.

Films set to hit the big screen at the world’s largest short film festival, which will be held in Centennial Park on December 7, cast a mirror onto the past, explore challenges or journeys made and how they affect the present, take look at Bondi stereotypes and shine a light on today’s society.

2014 Tropfest finalist, Shotgun Wedding. Picture: Supplied

Without a doubt, comedy is the most popular genre covered among the film makers, ten of which hail from NSW.

Among the celebrities set to make an appearance at the hotly anticipated event next month are Gold Logie award winning Australian television and radio presenter Steve Vizard, award winning actor Pia Miranda, The Little Death’s Alan Dukes, Underbelly’s Roy Billing, The Sapphires Shari Sebbens, House Husbands’ Natalie Saleeba, The Killing Field’s Taylor Ferguson and Australian actor Cassandra McGrath.

And as always, a number of questionable character’s also make an appearance in the films.

That’s no doubt the case in Jackson Mullane’s shortfilm, Red Nuts, which looks at the age old question, what would you change about your life if you found out you were dying?

“It follows a red nut and some of the worries you may have if you have red hair,” Jackson Mullane told Confidential.

2014 Tropfest finalist, Spirit Stones. Picture: Supplied

2014 Tropfest finalist, Untitled. Picture: Supplied

2014 Tropfest finalist, Twisted. Picture: Supplied

2014 Tropfest finalist, Red Nuts. Picture: Supplied

Mullane, who was formally a commercial director and professional Rugby Player, made his foray into the film making business after giving up his two previous passions in the search for “longevity in his life”.

“I have always loved watching films and I used to play professional Rugby, they were my two passions and once I stopped and realised I wanted more longevity in my life I made a decision to look at my other passion, film making,” he said.

Mullane is one of four brothers, his sibling, Tyson Mullane, a model and musician and executive director of the flick.

“We spent time being home schooled by our parents and grew up for a lot of years in a caravan together,” Tyson Mullane said.

“I feel like that had a lot to do with us being creative, it forced us to look things a little differently.

“Maybe that’s why we all chose to go into these expressive industries.”

Jackson Mullane has also enlisted the help of well know faces Saleeba and Ferguson to tell his story.

“Nat, I sent her the script and she liked it and wanted to be a part of it,” Mullane said.

“Taylor I have known for years.

“We also got the Rufus boys do all the music for us.”

2014 Tropfest finalist, Cavity. Picture: Supplied

2014 Tropfest finalist, A Lady and a Robot. Picture: Supplied

2014 Tropfest finalist, Evil Mexican Child. Picture: Supplied

2014 Tropfest finalist, A Bit Rich. Picture: Supplied

Jackson Mullane’s short film “The One That Got Away” was short-listed for Tropfest last year, but is hoping to have more luck this year.

“It is always competitive but I am really happy with what we have brought together,” Jackson said.

“We have a feature we want to get made next year so hopefully we can use this to speak to the right people.”

Tropfest founder and director John Polson said: “It’s been 23 years since Tropfest first began and every year films entered into the competition remind me of why I started this in the first place — to raise the profile of creative filmmakers and to share stories that, without this platform, might not have otherwise been told,” Polson said.

“It’s a privilege to see the world of such incredible talented filmmakers enter our festival, and this year is no exception.

“Tropfest audiences across the world are in for really entertaining evening of film on December 7.”

Source: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/this-years-crop-of-tropfest-short-films-cover-the-whole-gambit-from-but-most-aim-to-win-a-laugh/story-fni0cvc9-1227120846132?nk=0b37bee270a89676325370d660377fa0

2014 Tropfest finalist, FIXED. Picture: Supplied

2014 Tropfest finalist, Granny Smith. Picture: Supplied

Tropfest Winners

 A Lady & A Robot

 Toby Morris, (NSW, Newtown)

 Cavity

 Jacobie Gray (NSW, Cammeray)

 Little Bondi

 Michael Demosthenous, (NSW, Putney)

 Red Nuts

 Jackson Mullane, (NSW, Stanwell Tops)

 INVERSE

 Liam Connor, (NSW, Burringbar)

 Spirit Stones

 Millie Rose Heywood, (NSW, Surry Hills)

 Twisted

 Stuart Bowen, (NSW, Newtown)

 Untitled

 David Karacic, (NSW, South Hurstville) Michael Karacic, (NSW, South Hurstville)

 You wanna order pizza?

 Laura Hughes, (NSW, Birchgrove)

 The Home Video

 Nhu Hoang Dang, (NSW, Pyrmont)

Little Dragon Laneway Festival 2015 Sideshows

Written by Marc Zanotti on 6th November, 2014

Not just content to tour as part of Laneway Festival 2015, Swedish quartet Little Dragon have announced two headlining sideshows to take place in Melbourne and Sydney. Little Dragon will play 170 Russell on Monday, 2nd February before heading up to Sydney for their first-ever performance at the Opera House on Thursday, 5th February.

By the time Little Dragon return it will only have been seven months since the band toured Australia. Visiting in August behind latest album Nabuma Rubberband, both of their headlining shows sold out. While in the country the band dropped in to Music Feeds Studiofor Music Feeds Live to deliver some sweet cuts off their new record.

As part of Laneway 2015 Little Dragon will tour with the likes of Royal Blood, St Vincent, FKA Twigs, and Flight Facilities. You can check out the full festival lineup here. Tickets for Little Dragon’s Laneway sideshows are on sale now. Full gig details below.

Little Dragon Laneway Festival 2015 Sideshows - On sale now:

Monday, 2nd February 2015
170 Russell, Melbourne
Tickets: via 170 Russell

Thursday, 5th February, 2015
Sydney Opera House, Sydney
Tickets: via Sydney Opera House

One Direction On the Road Again Australian tour 2015

Much to the excitement of teenage girls, the world's biggest boy band One Direction have announced they are heading back to Australia next year as part of their On the Road Again tour.

It's just seven months since Liam, Niall, Harry, Zayn and Louis toured Australia, but they are now lining up to play shows in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth next year. The band sold all 190,000 tickets for 18 shows across Australia and New Zealand for the Take Me Home at the end of last year.

"Our Australian fans have been there for us since day one, and we always have such a great time there," Liam Payne said.

"We'll see you all in February next year!"

The band are currently travelling with their mammoth Where We Are Tour which has just visited South America and will hit Europe and the US this year. Sydney boy band 5 Seconds of Summer are supporting.

Since the band were put together by Simon Cowell in 2010, they have been an unstoppable force around the globe, amassing a $US100 million fortune along the way, according to estimates.

Get your tickets from the official Ticket master website: http://www.ticketmaster.com.au/One-Direction-tickets/artist/1645840

On the Road Again 2015 Australian tour dates:
February 7:   Sydney, Allianz Stadium
February 11: Brisbane, Suncorp Stadium
February 14: Melbourne, Etihad Stadium
February 17: Adelaide, AAMI Stadium
February 20: Perth, Patersons Stadium

Source: http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/music/one-direction-heading-back-to-australia-for-2015-tour-20140519-zrgor.html



Need accommodation close to One Direction tour stadiums? 
Metro Hotels have hotels and serviced apartments in most major cities throughout Australia:


Sydney Hotels & Apartments (NSW):

• Metro Hotel Sydney Central
• Metro Hotel on Pitt
• Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour
• Aspire Hotel Sydney

Brisbane Hotels (QLD):

• Metro Hotel Tower Mill

Melbourne Apartments (VIC):

• Metro Apartments on Bank Place

Western Australia:

• Metro Hotel Perth

Darts Invitational Challenge 2015

Simon "The Wizard" Whitlock was pipped in the grand final 2014

Get your tickets now for the exciting Darts Invitational Challenge where fans and dart enthusiasts come together for this huge annual event!

When: 9 - 10th Jan 2015
Where: Etihad Stadium - Docklands, VICTORIA
Tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com.au/Darts-Invitational-Challenge-tickets/artist/1889078

Recap of the 2014 event:

Fans enjoy costume drama of a night at the darts

THOUSANDS of fans - many in fancy dress - transformed Etihad Stadium on Saturday night for the finale of an international darts tournament.

Fred Flintstone, Where's Wally and fans dressed as Australian cricketers sat on white plastic chairs on turf usually reserved for AFL and soccer stars.

But unfortunately the fans were not treated to a local triumph after Dutch master Michael "Mighty Mike" van Gerwen pipped Australian top seed Simon "The Wizard" Whitlock in the grand final showdown of the Invitational Darts Challenge.

Fans dressed as cricketers at the darts tournament at Etihad Stadium 2014

Orange and purple smoke briefly filled the stadium as a rowdy contingent set off flares during the showdown.

Fans cheered, sang and even raised their chairs aloft as the world's best darts players performed on a makeshift stage in the centre of the oval.

Announcer John McDonald - the world's leading darts MC - dubbed the spectacle "magnificent".

"(The crowd) really understand it," he said.

"You could be anywhere in Great Britain now and it would be exactly the same."

Mr McDonald said there had never been a bigger exhibition of darts anywhere in the world.

Etihad chief executive Paul Sergeant estimated the crowd would reach 8000 across the two-day event.

He said the stadium attracted a capacity crowd of 1000 when it held a smaller darts tournament in one of its function rooms in August - a success which gave him confidence to host a bigger event.

"(Darts) is huge in Europe, and it's getting a significant following in Australia," he said.

"People in Australia don't usually get to see top class darts players."

Joining "The Wizard" and "Mighty Mike" at the tournament were English-born world No. 5 Andy "The Hammer" Hamilton and Australian 2012 World Cup finalist Paul "The Asset" Nicholson.

Fans were delighted to see the world's best players in action up close.

"We only get to see this on TV, on the other side of the world," one said. "It's amazing."

"It's a great atmosphere," Angela Parker agreed.

"It's definitely bigger than I thought - I didn't expect this many people."

About 4500 attended Saturday night's event, bringing the total crowd over two days to 8000.

Source: http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/fans-enjoy-costume-drama-of-a-night-at-the-darts/story-fni0fit3-1226799811021?nk=0b37bee270a89676325370d660377fa0

Ricky Martin - Live in Sydney

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

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

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

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

Ticket Prices:

Platinum $169.90
Gold $119.90
Silver $99.90

Event Venue:  All phones Arena

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

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

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

Queensland’s best Irish dancers to present Dance an Irish Dream at Ipswich Civic Centre

Watkins Academy of Irish Dance dancers Jacinta Reberger and Finn Conway are ready to perform at the Ipswich Civic Centre. Picture credit: Peter Cronin

By Rebecca Danslow

Dancers from Queensland’s top Irish dance school will take audience members on a magical journey this month when they present Dance an Irish Dream at the Ipswich Civic Centre.

Almost 60 performers from Watkins Academy of Irish Dance will take part in the end of year performance on November 30 which will offer an afternoon of dynamic music, song and dance.

Principal teacher Sheryl Watkins said the performance tells the tale of a group of young Irish Dancers who are on a journey to become the best in the world.

“The dancers showcase their journey from those first dance steps through to the tough audition process and finally to being part of the world’s best Irish Show,” Ms Watkins said.

Ms Watkins said performers aged from four years to early thirties had rehearsed for many months to perfect award-winning choreographies.

“Our dancers know if they are willing to work for it, they can achieve anything,” she said.

“Dance an Irish Dream is a fitting tribute to the dedication of these committed and passionate dancers.”

Ms Watkins said Irish dance is an innovative and different technique that continues to intrigue.

“It’s such a passionate, athletic yet graceful art form,” she said.

“Our discipline is constantly evolving as new tricks in footwork, jumps and rhythms are introduced, keeping Irish dance fresh.”

Dance an Irish Dream will be held at 2.45pm on November 30.

Tickets on sale from November 11 from the Ipswich Civic Centre Ticket Office, Ipswich City Council Customer Service Centre or online at ipswichciviccentre.com.au

Source: http://www.couriermail.com.au/questnews/south/queenslands-best-irish-dancers-to-present-dance-an-irish-dream-at-ipswich-civic-centre/story-fni9r1nj-1227115897470?nk=0b37bee270a89676325370d660377fa0

DUGONG ISLAND - Now open at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Come & play in the new Dugong Island at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium these school holidays! Great school holiday fun for the whole family.

What is Dugong Island?

Kids and parents young at heart will use their senses to explore the mysterious underwater world of Dugongs in the new Dugong Island. The all-new interactive experience allows guests to walk amongst an underwater shipwreck while admiring the only pair of Dugongs on display in the world! 

Visitors can "Do like a Dugong" plus:

• Hear like a Dugong
• See like a Dugong
• Speak like a Dugong
• Smell a Dugong
• Learn more about these amazing mammals

Who are the only pair of Dugongs on display?

Meet Pig: Affectionately named after his eating habits, Pig was rescued from North Queensland when he became separated from his mother at a very early age. After rehabilitation, Marine Biologists released him into the wild to find him yet again washed ashore so he now calls Dugong Island home.

 

Meet Wuru: Wuru, was also orphaned early. And although she's much younger than Pig, at over 400kg she's actually twice his size - as is the norm for female dugongs.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY DEAL #1

Make the most of our great school holiday activities with a Merlin Annual Pass, on sale now at 30% off!

With a Merlin Annual Pass you enjoy 12 months' unlimited entry to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium plus 10 other top attractions in Australia and New Zealand! Get sorted for summer and grab a Merlin Annual Pass from just $56 per person!

Book this deal now at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium website: http://www.sydneyaquarium.com.au/news/dugong-island-now-open/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Facebook+banner&utm_content=Dugongs&utm_campaign=Sept+School+Holidays

SCHOOL HOLIDAY DEAL #2

Get Sydney's best combo pass deal in time for the school holidays with 5 great attractions for just $63 for adults, $36 for kids and families for $180 - saving up to $382!

You get entry to ALL 5:

• SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
• Madame Tussauds Sydney
• WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo
• Sydney Tower Eye
• Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary

For a limited time, you can get a 4 or 5 attraction pass for the same price as a 3! Plus you get 30 days to visit them all - perfect for school holiday activities.

Book this deal now at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium website: http://www.sydneyaquarium.com.au/news/dugong-island-now-open/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Facebook+banner&utm_content=Dugongs&utm_campaign=Sept+School+Holidays