City Hub 27 February 2020 by Alt Media

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HubNEWS

Big plans for Cockatoo Island (See p.10)

Cooks River clear-up: 14 tonnes of garbage! HubARTS Conchita Wurst and Trevor Ashley: “People can expect a very dramatic evening!” (See p. 14)

Published weekly and freely available Sydney-wide. Copies are also distributed to serviced apartments, hotels, convenience stores and newsagents throughout the city. Distribution enquiries call 9212 5677. Published by Altmedia Pty Ltd. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of content, we take no responsibility for inadvertent errors or omissions. ABN 52 600 903 348 Group Editor & Publisher: Lawrence Gibbons News Editor: Alec Smart Contributors: Alec Smart, Mark Mordue, Pat Sheil, Austin Norman Cartoonist: Sam Mcnair Arts Editor: Jamie Apps Contributors: Erika Echternach, Irina Dunn, Madison Behringer, Mark Morellini, Olga Azar, Renee Lou Dallow, Rita Bratovich, Olga Sedneva Advertising Manager: Georgina Pengelly Cover Photo: Supplied. Giant Dwarf Theatre Co-Founder Julian Morrow Designer: Nadia Kalinitcheva Advertising: sales@altmedia.net.au Mail: PO Box 843 Broadway 2007 Email: news@altmedia.net.au, arts@altmedia.net.au Ph: 9212 5677 Fax: 9212 5633 Website: cityhubsydney.com.au If you have a story, or any comments you’d like to share with us: news@altmedia.net.au @CityHubSydney

13.8 tonnes of garbage was retrieved from Cooks River by a team of volunteers over a 10-day period. Photo: Ian Thomson

by ALEC SMART cean Crusaders, a specialist water-based rubbish removal service and charity, collected almost 14 tonnes of garbage in 10 days from the Cooks River. They focused on a 23-kilometre stretch of the tidal river encompassing Croydon Park to Muddy Creek in Kyeemagh, where the Cooks River meets Botany Bay. The garbage extraction began on 13 Feb and culminated on Sunday 23 Feb in the Cooks River Clean Up and Paddle Against Plastic public event, with around 300 participants in kayaks and on foot combing the ancient waterway for crap. The Sunday volunteers hauled out multiple loads of household rubbish, including plastic packaging and many recyclable items like aluminium cans and glass bottles, while the Ocean Crusaders crew focused on the harderto-access junk buried in the silt. Inner West Councillor Colin Hesse (Greens) was among those picking up the water-borne trash. He said “it’s great

to see so many residents come out, showing concern that they want their river to be a better place… Every person who helped is a valuable advocate for Cooks River and its health.”

 When responsibility stops,

rubbish ends up in the river Ian Thomson, founder of Ocean Crusaders, revealed that the operation commenced with a team of three in a flat-bottomed dinghy, assisted by three volunteers in waterproof suits. They collected both shoreline rubbish, washed down from suburbia by the recent intense rains, and items submerged in the mud, accessible at low tide, but left the mangroves for a more intensive operation in the future. “We collected 12.6 tonnes alone from just spot-cleaning,” he said. “The initial stage involved stopping as much waste as we could from flowing into the ocean. Once the flow stopped we focused on

getting stuff the helpers couldn’t reach, like shopping trolleys, rental bikes, motorcycle engines… We couldn’t get into the mangroves, that’s heavy work cleaning them. “On Sunday we had over 300 volunteers working between Illawarra Road Bridge [linking Marrickville and Earlwood] and Wolli Creek. In two hours of paddling they removed 1.2 tonnes of waste, and most of that was collected on kayaks!” Simon Walkes, president of the River Canoe Club at Tempe, said “We’re planning to organise monthly clean-ups from here onwards. Last May we collected 3 tonnes overall for the 2019 operation. This year the overall was 13.8 tonnes!” Inner West Greens councillor Colin Hesse said “The basic problem is consumption. We need much more serious engagement concerning the lifecycle of products. State and federal governments need to take responsibility, local councils don’t have the power. “When responsibility stops, rubbish ends up in the river.” city hub 27 FEBRUARY 2020

HubNEWS

Inner West’s parking-fine fiasco I By AUSTIN NORMAN n March of 2018, the Inner West Council was celebrated by its residents and those who visit the area for its decision to switch off the parking metres on two of the borough’s busiest areas during evening hours. The two areas affected by this policy change, Leichardt and BalmainRozelle, are two of the busiest nightlife precincts. But while the change was welcomed by the businesses and their customers, the city lost a million dollars of parking fees and fines in the process. Today, some are wondering whether or not the council implemented stricter enforcement over other parking areas in the borough to make up for the lost parking metre revenue. This validity of this question has been backed by data analysed by independent councillor John Stamolis revealing that the Inner West has seen a large 19% increase in parking fines from 2018 to 2019. 111,984 parking fines were issued in 2019, a staggering 18,000 more fines than 2018, the year of the metre policy change.

Inner West is on pace to levy more than 120,000 fines this year. Were these steep increases part of a deliberate move by the council to offset the fees and fines lost by removing the parking metres from downtown? At press time, the council had not responded to City HUb’s repeated requests for comment.

 More than 110,000

parking fines were issued in 2019, a staggering 18,000 more fines than 2018, the year of the metre policy change

Inner West is the highest-fining electorate besides Sydney City for errant car parking. Photo: Pixabay

As a result of this dramatic increase, the Inner West has solidified itself as the borough with the highest parking

fine totals by far outside City of Sydney. To make matters worse, based on the year-to-date data for 2020, the

For parking fines ‘n’ fees geeks, here are some other facts: City of Sydney, the borough with the highest population, levied 279,573 fines in 2019. After the Inner West, the next highest jurisdiction was Waverley, with 67,861 fines. The lowest was Strathfield with 10,550.

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HubNEWS

Racial discrimination by another name By MARK MORDUE aturday 21 March is International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, a day that is supported by the United Nations. In Australia, however, it goes by another term: Harmony Day. Rosanna Barbero, CEO for Addison Road Community Organisation in Marrickville, is outraged by the namechange. “All over the world the 21 March is known as ‘International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination,’ she says. “Only in Australia has it been rebranded as ‘Harmony Day,’ diluting its relevance. “It’s meaningless to do that,” Barbero fulminates, “especially given our history and the treatment of indigenous Australians. So, while the rest of the world is talking about racism and discrimination, in Australia the message is be ‘harmonious,’ keep your head in the sand and don’t make waves.”

Multicultural network

Her group is organising the inaugural Inner West March and Festival for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination to realign the tribute with the rest of the world. The Inner West Multicultural Network contains 120 civil-society organisations, with its secretariat provided by Inner West Council. “We come together in the belief that we must challenge harmful forces that are growing in our society,” Barbero said. “We believe that a unified and diverse community, speaking up and taking action, shows the best way forward at this critical time.”

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Rally against racism

The march and festival start at Enmore Park at 10am. After an Acknowledgement of Country and words from local Indigenous Elders, the crowd will march along Addison Road, with flags, banners, percussion and music. “This means the march can travel in the style of the multicultural street parades held in Marrickville in the 1970s and 80s,” said Mina Bui Jones, Living Museum coordinator for Addi Road Community Organisations. “It will be a visible expression of the diversity of our community.”

 We must counter and reject political

figures who exploit differences for electoral gain Once the march reaches Addi Rd, festivities begin at 11am. Guest speakers include Thinethavone “Tim” Soutphommasane (former Race Discrimination Commissioner at the Australian Human Rights Commission) and representatives from many different groups dealing with racism every day. There will also be music, dance and other entertainment, as well as an Open Mic for poets and performers. Workshops and food stalls will reflect the multicultural and community spirit. The inaugural ‘Inner West March and Festival for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination’ starts at Enmore Park at 10am on Saturday 21 March.

The homeBuyer Whisperer BY MARY MADIGAN

In Sydney’s dog-eat-dog real estate world, the buyers get bitten more than most. JudIth Crawley is here to help.

n a world where avocado on toast at your favourite brunch spot may have to be sacrificed to own a home in Sydney, it is easy to see why the Australian property market is overwhelming and, frankly, at times depressing for everyone. We’ve all been down the rabbit hole of trolling the internet for advice on how to make the perfect home purchase - and ending up more confused than when we started. How does one get a building report? It is not so easy to barefoot invest when you are a lady who appreciates an expensive shoe. Judith Crawley is a buyer’s agent; she makes a living by helping people purchase their homes. You know when you read about how you should always do your research before buying a home, and all you can think is, But what research? What exact research should I be doing, and how should I be doing it? Well, Judith takes care of all the research and all the details.

“Basically, the real estate selling agents are there to help the sellers, and I’m here to help the buyers,” Judith explains. The concept is uncomplicated: If people need help selling their homes, then surely people could also use some help buying their homes. Judith’s mantra is simple: “I want to show people how you can secure your next property in the most straightforward, seamless, and costefficient way.” She also understands how time is such a factor in our modern lives. “Realistically, you’ve got to put in a lot of hours to find and purchase the right home, and people these days are very time poor, so that’s what I’m here to help with. I’ll save you time and money and arrange private inspections at a time that works for you.” If you are someone who works full time often half the battle is finding the time to go to a house inspection. Judith works for Trelease Associates Property Acquisitions and has a

background in economics. She and her team believe in a full-service approach. They also have contacts and access to off-market private houses that that aren’t available to the general public - giving you a higher chance of finding your dream home quicker. Judith and her team will create a purchasing strategy and then implement it. Complete due diligence and property intelligence. Shortlist creation and private inspections. Sifting through contract reviews and negotiations, exchange pre-settlement inspections, and take care of settlement and postsettlement. Ultimately all the buyer has to do is work with Judith to decide where they want to buy, what kind of home they want to purchase, and what their budget is. “I want to make things easy for Australian people; having someone help you buy a home is much more normal in America and in Europe,” she says.

Similar to real estate selling agents, buyer’s agents like Judith are for everyone. “I’m not here just to help out the mega-wealthy. I am here to help anyone that wants to buy a home, no matter the budget.” Judith clarifies. Judith would recommend using a buyers agent, to ensure you buy well. “A buyer’s agent who has a good relationship with selling agents has inside knowledge and networks that can benefit the negotiation process,” she says. Like everything in life, it is good to have an expert on your side. Particularly when you are making a financial decision. If you don’t know much about the property market, it can be overwhelming, particularly when you try and apply general advice to your own specific situation. Judith just wants to help people buy their dream homes without breaking their budgets. Have a house and your avocado on toast too. Says Judith: “I want you to buy well – and I will buy well for you!”

M: 0414 247 301 | E: judithc@treleaseassociates.com.au | W: judithcrawley.com.au @judith_crawley @JudithCrawley_ city hub 27 FEBRUARY 2020

HubNEWS

Game of Drones: One man’s battle by PAT SHEIL n a recent Sunday I found myself in an impossible, but very 21st century, legal conundrum. I was under robotic aerial attack. And yet my only form of defense had been deemed illegal by the government of NSW only two weeks earlier. OK, to the specifics. I live in a 12th-floor apartment in Sydney’s inner west. I was enjoying sitting on my balcony, listening to New Zealand opener Tom Blundell’s heroic attempt to smash an unlikely century and force the Second Test into a fifth day. But then there was a flash of black carbon composite and a whirling of propellers catching my eye, and the buzzing one might expect from a mosquito on amphetamines.

in possession of one of these impertinent contraptions. I was, to put it in polite terms, pissed off beyond measure to have this to me happen again, especially when a Test batsman is on 99 and I and am on the edge of my seat. Test cricket is important to me. So, I fought back.

Drone intrusion

A drone was hovering, five meters or so way, just beyond the dying lemon tree on the corner of my balcony. What looked like a camera lens was pointing at me. The evil robot moved up. It moved down. Checking me out.

Hose solution

A drone intrusion created a quandary of how to drive it away. Photo: The Lazy Artist/Pexels

I was furious. It has happened before - on Christmas Eve 2018, my partner and I (rather scantily clad, shall we say), were enjoying a second glass of champagne early on New Year’s Eve, discreet and invisible, or so we thought. That drone came to within two metres of us, and stared for a lingering moment or three before flying off into the middle distance. I reported it to the police, and to their credit, they found out where it had come

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from, and made the problem go away with stern warnings, etc etc.

yet another Christmas clown was in possession of these impertinent contraptions’ So, it seemed that our privacy was again intact, until that recent Sunday afternoon, by which time yet another Christmas clown in the building had found himself

I grabbed my garden hose, set the adjustable spray setting to the needle-like “jet”, and shot at the intruder point blank. He backed off, and moved in again. I turned the tap to full blast, lined him up, and winged the bastard. He banked, turned, and fled out of sight behind the building. I felt the thrill of victory, and to top it off, actually got to hear Blundell get his ton. This was before our recent water restrictions were eased. My partner pointed out that I was technically violating those restrictions. I’ll defend my water use, just as I defended my privacy, all the way to the High Court if need be. And once again, I will win.

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HubNEWS

Baboons on the loose! by ALEC SMART n Tues 25 Feb three baboons on route to the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Camperdown escaped and went roaming around the grounds of the hospital. A 15-year old male baboon scheduled for an operation, accompanied by two females, managed to open the rear door of the truck transporting them - and made the leap to freedom. The scheduled operation was a vasectomy. Mobile phone video footage taken by Michael Tran and shared across social media show the trio skirting past parked cars and ambulances as they snuck down the side of the hospital.

Baboons bolting

Listeners to talkback radio 2GB were among the first to be made aware of the primates’ bid for freedom when a caller rang the Ben Fordham Live program and announced he’d seen the baboons from a window on an upper level of the hospital. “Mate I’m dead-set serious,” he declared. “I’m at RPA, I’m six floors up and I was just having a gaze out at the

carpark ... and there were three baboons in the carpark – now I’m talking ‘from the zoo’ baboons! So, is there a missing baboon warning out or anything like that?” When Fordham sounded skeptical, Michael continued: “I’m dead-set serious! They even had shiny red bottoms!” Michael continued, “I had a coffee about an hour ago and I thought, ‘What have they put in this coffee?!’ Even the nurses here have gone, ‘My god!’” NSW Minister for Health and Medical Research Brad Hazzard described the runaways as “impeccably behaved”. Hazzard also told The Guardian:

 They even had shiny red

bottoms! “They are quite placid and behaving themselves far better than one would expect.” Hazzard explained that the two female baboons accompanying the male were “there to keep him calm because tomorrow he was due for a vasectomy. He cut loose before the big cut!” Hazzard explained: “The reason they are

Three baboons at RPA Hospital in Camperdown escaped and roamed around the grounds. Photo: Pixabay

doing it [the vasectomy] is to allow him to continue to live his life in peace and harmony with his own family, and they couldn’t have him continuing constantly to breed within the troupe because it presents all sorts of genetic problems. The operation will go ahead and then he will be returned to his colony with the two females.” It’s highly likely the runaways were familiar with the hospital from previous trips. Baboons, which are bred and kept at the National Health and Medical Research Council baboon colony at

Wallacia in Western Sydney, are used for ongoing medical research at RPA Hospital. A NSW Police spokesperson confirmed: “Just after 5.30pm officers from Inner West Police Area Command were called to a car park on Missenden Road and Lucas Street, Camperdown, after reports three baboons escaped while being transported…” The runaway baboons were reportedly sedated by expert primate handlers from Taronga Zoo and returned to the Wallacia colony.

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Coffin Ed’s NAKED CITY

NEW LIFE FOR POSTCODE 2039

ack in 2005, when Sydney’s Cockatoo Island was opening up as a venue for music and arts festivals, Jeff Angel from the Total Environment Centre cast doubts as to the amount of toxic material still remaining on the old World Heritage listed naval dockyard. The site had undergone a considerable clean up since its heavy industrial days but still housed large areas of questionable residue, notably in the vast turbine hall. Some 15 years later and the island presents a far more environmentally friendly appearance, with large areas of lawn and additional greenery as well as little evidence of the layers of dark grey dust from the early 2000s. Much has been done to make it a more attractive destination for visitors including overnight accommodation and glamping. However, despite this post industrial gentrification it’s clear that many Sydneysiders have mixed feelings when it comes to setting foot there. Whilst the venue has worked well for events such as the Biennale and various corporate functions, it’s been a graveyard for the promoters of a number of music festivals as well as the ill-fated Cockatoo Island Film Festival. If you are a history buff and keen to embrace its early convict history or naval dry docking it’s a fascinating excursion. For others it has a somewhat isolating,

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city hub 27 FEBRUARY 2020

Alcatraz like feel to it – after you’ve been there for two or three hours, all you can think about is getting the next ferry off. Even allowing for the family style glamping and amenities like the Marina Café & Bar, it still presents as a somewhat lifeless concrete mausoleum. It was recently revealed that the Federal Government was considering overriding existing planning rules for the island and selling long term leases to private investors. A group calling itself the Cockatoo Island Foundation Limited had put forward a plan to turn the ‘rock’ into a permanent art precinct for Sydney,

taking control from the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust. The proposal involved the Federal Government stumping up the cost of remediation (around $200 million) which the Foundation would match with around $80 million of philanthropic cash. Paramount to the pitch was the granting of an exclusive long term lease over the whole island. The idea of Cockatoo becoming a centre for the arts is not a bad one, but suspicions arise when that suggestion is put forward by a private group wanting complete control of the island. Does their plan for example include facilities that

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would be accessible to all income levels or even the possibility of luxury units? Personally I would love to see the island opened up as a new living suburb for Sydney, with affordable housing offered to not only those in the arts community but a whole range of people interested in making Cockatoo their own unique sustainable community. There is plenty of space on the island to develop low rise apartments and accompanying infrastructure without infringing on the historical elements. It might sound at first fanciful but surely the island could eventually accommodate a permanent population of say four to five hundred, with further greening and community gardens, a sustainable energy source like solar, shops and other community facilities. There are other successful island communities in Sydney like Dangar on the Hawkesbury and Scotland Island in the Pittwater and essentially Cockatoo would be no different, apart from a helluva lot of concrete. A thriving community on the island would surely attract more visitors, as bars and coffee shops opened up and Cockatoo felt less like a prison and more like a friendly, inviting destination. Ferry services would be increased and the island would be very much commutable for those who chose to live there but work elsewhere. Over the years Cockatoo Island has served a number of purposes from its early days as a penal colony, through its conversion to a naval dockyard in 1857, to its current arts, history and tourism destination. The idea of it becoming a living, thriving addition to Sydney’s suburbs, might seem almost utopian but it’s certainly worth a look.

Giant Dwarf Theatre Left Homeless In the wake of a steep rent increase a bastion for young creatives is left without a home

Photo: Supplied by Giant Dwarf Theatre

iant Dwarf Theatre is being forced to relocate due to a massive rent increase, after operating as a vibrant and thriving venue in the heart of Sydney for six years. Co-founders Nikita Agzarian and Julian Morrow set up shop at 199 Cleveland Street in Redfern in 2014 in a vacant run-down property. The pair spent upwards of $200,000 refurbishing the venue - funded by The Chaser team’s TV production company Giant Dwarf - to transform the building into the impressive theatre space now known as the Giant Dwarf Theatre. Co-owner Julian Morrow spoke with City Hub about the theatre’s forced relocation, saying: “In October last year I tried to start up the rent negotiations… initially the landlord proposed a 55% increase, which was ridiculous. When I proposed an alternative increase they basically said they weren’t going to negotiate anymore.”

The stark news came as a disappointment to the Giant Dwarf team, as grants had recently been approved for the theatre space. “We then had to look at what our other options are,” said Julian. “What was disappointing is that we’ve recently gotten a couple of grants which would have resulted in about $60,000 worth of improvements at the location.” The landlord of 199 Cleveland St was contacted for comment, but did not respond by press time. Over the six years Giant Dwarf Theatre has been operating, it has always aimed to be a hub of support and growth for local emerging artists in Sydney. With this in mind, Julian feels the landlord of 199 Cleveland Street has not allowed Giant Dwarf to make this dream a reality, saying, “The bottom line is that it wasn’t a place where you could operate a viable theatre business, at least like the one that we were trying to do. Because the

truth is the way the owners were trying to run it, it wasn’t viable to run something like Giant Dwarf at that property.” Julian went on to say, “It’s a real shame because we really like the room and we’ve built it up. We’ve turned it into something that’s really quite nice, it’s got a nice feel to it.” When searching for a venue for their new project back in 2014, Julian and Nikita were originally on the hunt for a smaller venue, but stumbled across a ‘For Lease’ sign out the front of 199 Cleveland Street by chance. “We kind of fell in love with the location and we stretched more than we were anticipating in terms of both the rent we’d have to pay and also the work that had to be done to get that building into a fit state to operate,” said Julian. Co-founder Nikita Agzarian is also disappointed to be moving on from the venue, saying, “It’s a shame

because we love the venue… It’s got a really special feel and we’re very proud of transforming it from a vacant, rat-infested hall into a beautifully refurbished theatre with a vibrant program and fewer rats.” Giant Dwarf Theatre has become home to many of Sydney’s emerging artists and has housed larger events such as album launches for artists including Angus & Julia Stone and others. Julian is passionate about the importance of venues such as Giant Dwarf Theatre for creatives in the local area. “The importance of theatres like Giant Dwarf is that artists are able to build on their work through trial and error,” he said, going on to state, “it’s important to have spaces like this where the entry bars aren’t too high and you can experiment with audiences and build and grow with an audience over time.” (Continued next page)

Mar 7. Giant Dwarf Theatre, 199 Cleveland St, Redfern. $30+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.giantdwarf.com.au city hub 27 FEBRUARY 2020

Photo: Supplied by Giant Dwarf Theatre

Nip and Kate Mulvany, with more to be announced soon. Despite being forced out of their muchloved space, the team at Giant Dwarf Theatre are intent on continuing to support local theatre and creating a safe space for creativity and experimentation. As to where the team will set up shop next? All will be revealed at the March Final Show. “We’re making an announcement probably at the final show as to where we’re moving to. But the final show is really designed to be a celebration of the venue and the performers who’ve been through it and we really just want it to be a celebration,” shared Julian.

Kristina Keneally, Julia Gillard & Julian Morrow at Giant Dwarf Theatre. Photo: Supplied by Giant Dwarf Theatre

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Heritage Act 1977 Notice of intention to consider listing on the State Heritage Register The Heritage Council of NSW is considering whether to recommend the place below for listing on the State Heritage Register in acknowledgment of its heritage significance. Ultimo Tramways Power House, Ultimo Written submissions on this listing are invited from any interested person by 24 March 2020. Enquiries to Heritage NSW on (02) 9873 8500 or heritage.mailbox@environment.nsw.gov.au

BLZ_SB1110

Moving forward, Giant Dwarf Theatre aims to continue supporting new artists and creating a safe space to showcase their work. “There are very few places in Sydney where you can experiment as an emerging artist. We understand how hard it is as an emerging artist to break into that industry and we will always be looking to support that,” Julian said. A final show will be held at the venue to celebrate Giant Dwarf Theatre and its history at 199 Cleveland Street. The lineup for the March Final Show includes Becky Lucas, Ben Law, Cam James, Ben Jenkins, Alex Lee, Nakkiah Lui, Carlo Ritchie, Montaigne, Freudian

Further details on the nominated place can be viewed at: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/heritageapp/ NominationsOfStateHeritageRegister.aspx Direct submissions to: Heritage Council of NSW Locked Bag 5020, Parramatta NSW 2124 or heritagemailbox@environment.nsw.gov.au

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The Rise and Disguise of Elizabeth R

Laura Murphy Photo: Kate Williams

erry Connolly has been in the business of comedy for a very long time, and for much of that time he’s been impersonating the Queen. So much so that he can reliably speak on her behalf - and he’ll be doing just that when he presents his version of the Queen on stage in his latest show, The Rise And Disguise Of Elizabeth R. “It’s a play on ‘The Rise and Fall of The Roman Empire’ and… it’s one of my disguises,” says Connolly trying to explain the title. “And of course, ‘Elizabeth R’ - Elizabeth Regina,” he adds, pronouncing “regina” to rhyme with “vagina.” It’s an example of his humour; a little bit cheeky, a little bit irreverent, but also affectionate. Connolly feels a special affinity with the Queen. He can empathise with her over the recent decision by Harry and Meghan to quit the Royal Family business. On the other hand, he says, “It’s a nice distraction from the Andrew debacle.” Harry and Meghan’s departure is timely for Connolly’s show. “It plays right into our theme, in that…I’m trying to let her go before she dies; is Scotland trying to let England go and go Photo: Liam Sharp with Europe?…will Australia want to let her go? And all of this has changed perplexion because Harry has decided to go.”

The show has a loose narrative and will reference current affairs as well as being retrospective. Connolly will be joined by a male and female “ensemble.” “The female ensemble is Laura Murphy…And the male is Rob Mallet,” he laughs. He himself will be wearing a fetching ensemble. (RB) Until Mar 1. Hayes Theatre Co, 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point. $60-$65+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.hayestheatre.com.au

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“Instead of describing our show, we want people to come and experience it!”

No Pay? No Way!

ario Fo was an acclaimed Italian playwright whose politically radical but deeply human works eventually won him the Nobel Prize for Literature. His plays referenced the medieval Italian street theatre known as commedia dell’arte - a kind of vaudevillian sketch comedy travelling troupe. The universal themes and relatable characters in his plays means they are readily adaptable; something multi-talented writer, Marieke Hardy has proven with aplomb in her Aussie-fied Sydney Theatre Company production of No Pay? No Way! The action takes place in a block of yellowbrick units, cleverly created on stage with a movable set and cut-away revealing entrance, lounge, kitchen and bedroom. The costumes and decor reflect a 50s aesthetic, though the story could take place at any time. Characters have Italian names and occasionally speak Italian to neighbours, and there’s also heavy use of classic Italian songs. Either it’s set in Italy or they are immigrants - again, it doesn’t really affect the story.

March Dance

he 2020 Sydney March Dance festival will begin its second year running throughout the month of March, featuring 114 dance events in 31 days. A project created by Independence Dance Alliance (IDA), the festival aims to celebrate and showcase independent dance artists in Sydney. March Dance will see 195 artists and over 16 organisations presenting new dance works, engaging in workshops, teaching and participating in dance classes, residencies, screenings, forums and talks throughout the entire month. March Dance celebrates diversity in the growing independent dance community of Sydney and seeks to showcase this to a wider audience. Sydney dance artist Elle Evangelica will present her newest dance solo piece 30THIRTY as part of the festival. Evangelica’s newest performance celebrates turning 30 and the dreams and changes that come along with the milestone.

Evangelica shared the inspiration behind the dance piece saying, “I was thinking about what I wanted to do for my 30th birthday. I realised the only way I truly wanted to celebrate was to be alone by myself in a dance studio, make a solo show and invite everyone to come watch!” Evangelica went on to say: “It’s the ultimate birthday gift to myself, however, it also has a strong choreographic viewpoint and rigorous dancing.” Evangelica is excited to present 30THIRTY as part of the second year of the March Dance festival saying, “The festival highlights just how much dance is happening in Sydney… it’s great that independent dancers from Sydney are able to occupy venues and share their work with the wider community.” Although turning 30 can be a daunting experience, Evangelica hopes to celebrate with the audience and said, “hopefully in a time of uncertainty and

Elle Evangelista 30THIRTY. Photo: Luke CurrieRichardson

discouragement 30THIRTY can be an hour of relief, reflection, fun and joy.” (MB) March Dance Festival Mar 1-31. Various Locations & Prices. Tickets & Info: www.marchdance.com 30THIRTY Mar 20-21. East Sydney Community And Arts Centre, 34 Burton Street, Darlinghurst. $25+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.brandx.org.au

Helen Thomson and Catherine Văn-Davies. Photo: Rene Vaile

Margherita (Catherine Van-Davies) and Antonia (Helen Thomson) are two housewives struggling to make ends meet. They have just been involved in a supermarket protest-cumrobbery and have a stash of groceries that they somehow need to hide from their law-abiding husbands and the ever snooping police. Antonia’s husband, Giovanni (Glenn Hazeldine), is a unionist who does everything by the book. Margherita’s husband, Luigi (Rahel Romahn) is younger and more rebellious. Both are incredibly naive and gullible. Aaron Tsindos plays several roles including a policeman, a sergeant, an old man, an undertaker - the fact that all these characters look similar is one of the self-referential gags in the play. It is highly political and amazingly topical and very, very, funny, with Thomson in particular giving excellent comic delivery. (RB) Until Apr 4. Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. $45-$103+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.sydneytheatre.com.au city hub 27 FEBRUARY 2020

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Conchita Wurst & Trevor Ashley In Concert

ne of the highlights of the Mardi Gras festival is a concert featuring Conchita Wurst and Trevor Ashley and guest starring Kate Miller-Heidke. Individually, these performers pack an immense amount of talent; together they will ignite the theatre. Ashley is an Australian treasure with prolific creative output. He’s recognised internationally for his uncanny drag impressions, monumental voice, and comic genius. Wurst first came to global attention after winning the Eurovision song contest in 2014 with Bond-like power ballad, Rise Like A Phoenix. Her androgynous glamour and stunning voice have

established her as a queer icon. Kate Miller-Heidke is a songwriter and performer who cross-navigates genres with equal prowess. She has conquered pop, opera, stage musical, and has joined the ranks of Eurovision alumni. Each of the performers will have a solo section and will also sing in duo and ensemble. They’ll be backed by a 40-piece symphony orchestra conducted by acclaimed musical director, Michael Tyack. “It’s Trevor and myself and also Kate just singing songs that we love so much,” says Wurst, who is looking forward to returning to Australia. She has performed here with Ashley on previous occasions.

Audiences familiar with these performers will know, to some extent, what to expect, but Wurst suggests it won’t be so predictable. “We try to keep it fresh and [have] some surprises here and there.” But concert goers definitely won’t be disappointed. “This is what people can expect - a very dramatic evening,” assures Wurst. With a combined catalogue that includes songs from Disney, classic diva, power pop, musical theatre, operatic, and esoteric, and an unimaginable wardrobe, this concert will be a unique and enthralling sensory experience. (RB)

Feb 27. State Theatre, 49 Market St, Sydney. $99-$200+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.statetheatre.com.au

66th Blake Prize E Mardi Gras at Paddy’s Markets Haymarket

s the glitter and flamboyancy of the annual Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras sweeps over our city many retailers are joining in with the celebrations. Paddy’s Markets Haymarket are the latest to join in. By making a purchase at any of the participating retailers shoppers will receive a voucher which will entitle them to FREE Mardi Gras glitter or a Mardi Gras themed airbrush tattoo. So why not shop at Paddy’s and pick up the various nick-knacks, party attire or snacks for your own Mardi Gras party and grab a special treat as a bonus. This promotions runs until Feb 29, with customers needing to present the voucher or proof of purchase to redeem their gift.

ntries to one of Australia’s longest-standing and most prestigious prizes are now open. The 66th Blake Art And Poetry Prizes, presented by the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre (CPAC), encourage artists who are exploring the wider experience of spirituality, religion and belief to submit their entries online now. Chris O’Doherty aka Reg Mombassa, Since 1951, the Blake Prize Stations of the Cross No.10 has engaged artists, nationally Emerging Artist Prize which awards and internationally, with ideas the winner with $6,000. Finally there of spirituality and religion. The 2018 is the The Blake Established Artists prize received 769 entries from Residency which gives the winner a across Australia and the world, a residency and solo exhibition to be massive 30% increase from 2016. hosted by CPAC. Past entrants have included the The Blake Poetry Prize winner will legendary Reg Mombasa - with his also be awarded $5,000, and feature piece Stations Of The Cross No. 10 in the exhibition alongside the Art making the finals. Prize Exhibition of finalists. There are three prizes up for grabs Entries close April 3. this year. Firstly there is the top tier Blake Prize which will see the winner To enter head to award $35,000. Next up is The Blake www.casulapowerhouse.com

Christine Webb: Sometimes Real And Imagined

ocal artist Christine Webb’s latest exhibition, Sometimes Real And Imagined, is a joyous and lavish recollection of her time travelling and living throughout Europe. Over the course of 20 years Webb travelled extensively throughout Europe, and even spent 12 of those years living full-time in Italy. This March her exhibition of paintings will recall all of the wonderful colours and memories of those years. With her eighth solo exhibition Webb has created a world of vibrant, happy dreams of places visited and adored. The endless summers of colour wash through 14

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open windows, lavishing the ubiquitous wine bottle and majolica water jug with saturated colour. Thanks to the intense interplay of colour and light passages Webb is able to create strong compositional works of balance and harmony. Be sure to check this one out while you can. In particular, City Hub recommends attending the opening night celebration with Webb on Mar 5. Mar 3-16. Art2Muse Gallery, 357 New South Head Rd and Corner Manning Rd, Double Bay. Info: www.art2muse.com.au

Sansepolcro Harmony

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King Krule Man Alive! By Jamie Apps usic from Asia typically evokes either a traditional or K-Pop, such as Psy’s Gangnam Style, aesthetic for many people. However, the region is thriving with a plethora of artists creating different styles of music. One band in particular is making huge waves in the global rock and roll scene, that being Japan’s ONE OK ROCK. After selling out stadiums all over Japan the group is now looking to take their incredibly impressive live show around the world. With the first stop being here in Australia. With bands Set It Off and Stateside providing support for this tour rock fans are in for an experience like no other when the Eye Of The Storm hits Sydney in March. Prior to arriving in Australia Takahiro ‘Taka’ Moriuchi took some time out of his busy rehearsal schedule to speak with City Hub. “It’s been two and half years since our last tour in Australia, so we’re excited!” said Moriuchi before adding, “Because it’s our second time, we’re hoping that our connection with our fans will be stronger and it will show in our performance.” Since forming in 2005 ONE OK ROCK’s style has fluctuated between

ONE OK ROCK

alternative rock and emo to posthardcore and pop rock. Throughout this process the band has only ever had one focus though, put rock music back in the spotlight that it once was. This ethos was most noticeable during the creation of their latest record, Eye Of The Storm. During this process Moriuchi and his bandmates realised that rather than making big drastic changes all that was required was a “more simple way of thinking” and approach to the music. By taking this approach ONE OK ROCK have created an album which will appeal to die hard rock and roll fans around the world. When asked what fans can expect from

this run of shows Moriuchi remained rather tight lipped. “Instead of describing our music or show, we want people to come to our shows and experience it!” In closing Moriuchi also had a heartfelt message for Australia as a whole, “All of us have been deeply heartbroken by the massive bushfire crisis in Australia. We will give it our best on stage in hopes to make everyone feel a little brighter. We look forward to seeing you there!” Mar 7. Enmore Theatre, 118-132 Enmore Rd, Newtown. $89.90-$149+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.enmoretheatre.com.au

Honey Boy

oney Boy portrays a young boy, Otis (Noah Jupe & Lucas Hedges), struggling to reconcile with his father’s unpredictable behaviour while attempting to create a future for himself. The film is directed by Alma Har’el, while Shia LaBeouf wrote the script based on his own childhood, and plays the father. Honey Boy takes the audience on an emotional rollercoaster with LeBeouf’s joking humour and poor treatment of his son. A touching soundtrack helps draw viewers into the story as Otis experiences mental agony fighting

his father, both as a child and a recovering adult. FKA Twigs makes her acting debut in the role of a neighbour who bonds with Otis, taking his mind away from the difficulties of home. The contrast of innocence and the harsh reality of life helps us empathise with Otis as he undergoes therapy and works through his painful past. Honey Boy is filled with surprises that evoke profound emotions and eye-opening reactions which create an all-around powerful movie to remember. (JS) WWWW

an Alive! - the latest album from the English singer and songwriter King Krule - has recently been made public. The album features undertones of darkwave instrumentals layered with trip hop and punk jazz components. This new collection of songs is extremely on brand fro King Krule, remaining true to his signature style of minor chords and melancholy lyrics. Airport Antenatal Airplane and The Dream both stand out as the most mesmerising singles on the Man Alive! album, each drawing listeners in with soft, mystical vibes and subdued vocals. Although the album falls into a rather niche category, loyal King Krule fans will certainly not be disappointed with his most recent work. (EE) WW

Guns Akimbo

uch like the video games from which Guns Akimbo is unmistakably inspired, this actionpacked comedy flick is a heartracing affair throughout. Daniel Radcliffe plays Miles, a stereotypical gamer who lives alone in his action-figured-adorned apartment. Miles deals with an obviously traumatic split from his girlfriend Nova (Natasha Liu Bordizzo) and being bullied by his overly macho boss at work by spending his evening ‘trolling the trolls’ of the internet. One evening while sparring with a viewer of Skizm, a live online murder gameshow, Miles messes with the wrong person. Subsequently Miles is drafted into Skizm as the next combatant for its current champion, Nix (Samara Weaving). The action sequences of Guns Akimbo are something to behold, and would easily fit amongst the blockbuster moments of modern video games. This connection is heightened through the use of flashy

neon graphic overlays - health bars, character names, ammo capacity, text messages, etc - making the film feel like a video game or comic brought to life. To help break up the action set pieces slightly, the film uses lots of cheesy comedic lines and humour. Miles, for example, ends up with two guns bolted to his hands, essentially rendering them useless for any other use and causing many a clumsy or comedic moment (most notably when he’s using the toilet). Guns Akimbo is a non-stop, hyperviolent cat-and-mouse game of a movie that offers an enjoyable, albeit superficial, experience for the viewer. (JA) WWW city hub 27 FEBRUARY 2020

PHOTO: Matt Osborne / CRICOS Provider Code 00586B / OOM0664899

Study where learning is never boring.

At the University of Tasmania, our whole island is your campus. Apply now to study in 2020. utas.edu.au/study

city hub 27 FebruARY 2020

Bushfire assessment by environmental economic sudents, Derwent Valley, Tasmania.