Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012 - Page 59
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Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer
Independent Theatre: Latest shows ............. Page 61 Fundraiser: Perfect night at Beaumaris ............ Page 61 Radio Confidential: Ratings analysed .................. Page 62 Cheryl Threadgold: Community Theatre news ........... Page 64 Jim and Aaron: Best DVD-film selections ...................... Page 68 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD
PYRAMIDS AND PIMMS More deception, diabolical magic
● Caroline Ferguson, Mike Brady and Yvonne Malik at the opening night of Pyramids and Pimmsat the Butterfly Club, South Melbourne, as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Solo show for audience of one ■ Arts House presents An Appointment With J Dark from April 18 to May 6 at the North Melbourne Town Hall. An Appointment With J Dark is an intimate site-specific work and a solo show for one audience member led through the labyrinthine of the Arts House buildings at the North Melbourne Town Hall, including spaces usually closed to the public. Participants are invited to rendezvous at an appointed hour with an enigmatic stranger named J Dark, where every meeting is a unique and dynamic experience broadly described as playful, confronting, intimate, transgressive, moving and delightful. An Appointment with Dark predicates all participant’s willingness to be engaged and challenged while examining private thoughts and feelings during the encounter with J Dark. The creators of An Appointment With Dark, Katerina Kokkinos-Kennedy and Melanie Jame Walsh, focus on creating intimate, interactive, site-specific and durational performance works allowing strangers to encounter one another intimately. “We’re particularly interested in awkward moments, in the notion of personas and in hijacking existing social structures to bring people face to face ... We see live art as an opportunity for dialogue between people from many different walks of life – and our projects aim at enabling participants to think and speak about the things that deeply matter to them; the things they may not usually talk about,” explained Kokkinos-Kennedy and Walsh. Venue: Arts House, North Melbourne Town Hall, 521 Queensberry St, North Melbourne Season: Wednesday, April 18-Sunday, May 6 Time: Wed – Sun, 3pm, 6pm, 7pm, 8pm and 9pm. 35 – 50 minutes no interval (pending audience engagement). Tickets: Full $20, Conc $15 Bookings: artshouse.com.au or 9322 3713. - Cheryl Threadgold
MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ■ The Butterfly Club is an unusual venue and it is perfect in many ways for what could be a runaway hit for this year’s Comedy Festival. Pyramids And Pimms is a hilarious and thoroughly entertaining romp by two talented and funny women who I suspect have projected a large part of their own life experience into this excellent work. Caroline Ferguson is best known for her work as a traffic reporter, mostly on 3 AW and Magic 1278. Yvonne Malik, Melbourne's only current femaleArab comedienne. They have written and produced Pyramids And Pimms themselves and have enlisted the help of actor and producer Ross Daniels as director. The plot is built around the accidental meeting of the snobbishly eccentric Toorak matron, Davina Smythe-Jones (Ferguson) and the boganesque and socially challenged Lay-lah Wazir (Malik). They become trapped in a wine cellar during a Toorak party where Lay-lah has been booked as a ''Billi Dancer”. Davina sneaks in to raid her host's diminishing supply of Pimms No 1, disturbing Lay-lah who is about to change costume for her next dance. What follows is an uproariously funny exchange of adverse culture and diverse points of view. Reservoir and Toorak collide in a explosion of 'cultural diversity' and boy!, it’s very funny. Davina laments the passing of the 'White Australia Policy' and Lay-lah is happy in her own world of ostentation and trappings of the 'artistic' life she lives. They both discover that, whilst their worlds are light years apart, they share certain things in common that gradually emerge during their 'cellar time' together. Well written, well performed and well thought out, don't be surprised if tickets become hard to get once the word spreads that Pyramids and Pimms is a great piece of comedy and well worth seeing. Excellent! Venue: The Butterfly Club, 204 Bank St, South Melbourne, near South Melbourne Town Hall Bookings: comedyfestival.com or The Butterfly Club, 9690 200. Call after 5 pm. Tickets: Full $22. Concession and groups of 8 or more $18. Tight -arse Tuesdays $15 - Ikem Yarbyd
● Talented magicians Luke Hocking (left), Alex de Rambelje and Vyom Sharmka get plenty of laughs in their entertaining new show A Modern Deception: More Diabolical Magic. Photo: Malcolm Threadgold ■ Three of Australia's most entertaining young magicians, Vyom Sharma, Alex de la Rambelje and Luke Hocking, showcase their talents in the 2012 Melbourne International Comedy Festival with A Modern Deception: More Diabolical Magic, playing until April 14 at the Village Roadshow Theatrette, State Library of Victoria. Their first show sold out in last year's Melbourne's 2011 Comedy Festival and with the latest show recently enjoying rave reviews in the Adelaide Festival, the talented trio has returned to their hometown with a polished, new production featuring cutting edge magic that enthralled last Friday’s large opening night audience. Cleverly using comedy, magical flair and projected images to search for modern deception to please a modern audience, each performer at times becomes a foil for the others' well delivered comedy. The audience laughs loudly when one says "If illusion goes wrong, it becomes a reality". More deception, because these deft-handed magicians are so spot-on that nothing ever does go wrong and we remain captivated with their performance, dexterity, misdirection and time travel. There is also fun interaction with the audience who, even when close to the performers on stage, remained as baffled as the rest of us as to how the magical tricks happen. For instance, one man's signed $50 note was discovered folded inside an uncut lemon! Three illusionists creating deceptive magic in the one show is a triple treat. Add showmanship, wholesome comedy, a slick pace and energizing vitality and the end result is a terrific, entertaining show for all ages. Performances: Until April 14, Wed - Sat at 7.30pm. Venue: State Library of Victoria, Village Roadshow Theatrette, Entry 3, 179 La Trobe St., Melbourne. Tickets: $20 full price, $18 concession, Groups 10 or more $15. Bookings: Ticketmaster 1300 660 013 or at the door. www.comedyfestival.com.au/2012/season/shows/amodern-deception-more-diabolical-magic/ - Review by Cheryl Threadgold
Radio couple’s NT trip ■ Retired radio couple Angela and Keith McGowan are leading John Howie’s Central Australia Music Tour from April 27 to May 11, taking in Adelaide, Port Augusta, Coober Pedy, Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs, The Ghan and Darwin, through Travelrite.
Page 60 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Melbourne Observer
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ShowBiz!
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012 - Page 61
Observer Showbiz The Spoiler
TV, Radio, Theatre Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour
For Those Who Have Lost The Plot
Home and Away ■ 7.00pm. Weeknights. Channel 7. ■ Monday, April 9. Brax and VJ's relationship puts Elijah on the outer. Harvey and Roo's second 'first date' goes awry. John and Gina negotiate moving in again. ■ Tuedsay, April 10. Brax distances himself from Leah and VJ. Heath and Liam fight. Liam discovers Eddie ripped of his lyrics. ■ Wednesday, April 11. April sees Casey and Henri kissing, Colleen encourages Dex to get back together with April. Irene and Eddie part ways. ■ Thursday, April 12. Sasha is rattled at her trial. Ruby is dismayed when Romeo skips the championship. ■ Friday, April 13. Sasha's trial outcome is revealed and Harvey's ex-wife Melissa shows up
JUNGLE BOOK ■ Glenn Elston presents Jungle Book: The Next Chapter until April 14 at the Atheneaum Theatre. Returning from a triumphant season at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Jungle Book: The Next Chapter is a hilarious and energetic musical adventure inspired by the Jungle Book stories. Larger-than-life projected visuals and sing-along tunes invite kids to join in the action when Baloo and Mowgli meet again several years after Mowgli left the jungle. They recall Mowgli's exciting escapades growing up with all the other animals - Bagheera, Kaa, Shere Kahn and the monkeys. In this 'next chapter' Baloo has a surprise for Mowgli - he wants to live in the city and become a Bear Star. But Mowgli has a surprise for Baloo too ... Written and directed by Glenn Elston following his acclaimed success with long running adaptations of The Wind in the Willows and Alice in Wonderland, this concert-style show, designed for kids aged five to 10, is full of surprises and great interactive fun! Performance dates and times: April 5 at 11am, April 7 at 11am and 2pm, April 10 - 14 at 11am. Venue: Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins St, Melbourne. Tickets: $25 single ticket, $90 family of four Bookings: Ticketek or the venue, 9650 1500
PERFECT NIGHT AT BEAUMARIS ● Eddie Perfect Photo: JamesPenlidis ■ Actor, comedian and the bayside suburbs for composer Eddie Perfect this one-night-only will perform at a special fundraising event. Eddie will be supone night only fundraising concert at Beaumaris ported by Bek Chapman Theatre on Friday, April and The Corner Street Society. 27 at 8pm. Comprising multi inEddie is generously donating his time to assist strumentalists Nathaniel the community theatre Poynter and Andrew company to purchase re- Watson, Bek will perform tractable, raked seating. a mix of sultry blues, toeCompany President, tapping jazz, eastern style Janine Chugg, says “We gypsy folk and ballads. With only 120 tickets are thrilled to have an art- available, A Seat ist of Eddie Perfect’s cali- With Eddie Take Perfect prombre appearing at Beau- ises to be an intimate maris Theatre in support evening of comedy, muof our cause.” sic and banter, as award“The seating is desper- winning Eddie performs ately needed for the com- songs from his varied repfort of our patrons, while ertoire, bringing his unique ensuring the auditorium brand of comedy to space remains flexible for bayside audiences. multi-purpose use”. Performance: Friday, Well known for his role April 27 at 8pm in the hit television show Venue: Beaumaris Offspring and with theatre Theatre, 82 Wells Rd, credits including Shane Beaumaris Warne The Musical, Tickets: $50 (all proDrink Pepsi Bitch, ceeds go towards purKeating! The Musical chase of raked-seating) and, more recently, Bookings: www. Misanthropology, Eddie beaumaristheatre.com.au Enquiries: 9583 6896 is kindly donating his time - Cheryl Threadgold free of charge to return to ■ Congratulations to GTV-9 Publicity Director Michelle Stamper and Paul Laver on the arrival of Piper Ashley Laver, 3.3kg, 51cm.
LADDERS BY THE SEA ■ Typefaster Productions presents Ladders By The Sea at the Shirley Burke Theatre, Parkers Rd, Parkdale from April 12 – 15. Kieran Carroll has written this hilarious bayside satiric comedy about two grouchy men keeping real-estate prices down. A clash arises between a greedy trans-gender real-estate agent from the city and the insular men caught in an old world Australia of the 1950s who do not want to move. Directed by Ron Hadley and with music by John Timmerman and Peter Kennedy, Ladders By The Sea will star Valentino Arico, Matt Thomson, Alistair Cooke and Stephanie Bursill. Playwright Kieran Carroll says that there are no swear words in this show which is suitable for all ages. Performances: April 12, 13, 14 at 8pm, April 14, 15 at 2pm. Venue: Shirley Burke Theatre, Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Tickets: $20/$15 Bookings: 9773 1210 or at the door.
Weir Be Dragons ■ Black Apple Theatre presents a new play for children titled Weir Be Dragons! on April 11 and 12 at 12pm and 7pm at the Montrose Town Centre. Presented with the assistance of Yarra Ranges Council, BlackApple’s new Australian play uses Australian Sign Language and spoken English to create a performance which Deaf and Hearing children can enjoy together. Weir Be Dragons! takes its name from the play’s setting, the sleepy country town of Midilahnoo Weir, where10- year-olds Sam and Alice have just mail-ordered a dragon, with hilarious consequences. Weir Be Dragons! stars artists from the Deaf and Hearing communities, who embrace puppetry, animation and original music to bring to life a host of colourful characters, including budgie-breeding grannies, cranky milk bar owners and a dog called Frank. Black Apple Theatre Artistic Director, Cheyney Caddy, explains how the project came about: “We sent a call-out asking mums, dads, children and teachers if they wanted to see more Deaf-accessible theatre for kids
Independent Theatre by Cheryl Threadgold on Aussie stages and their response was a resounding “Yes!” So, we set to work to come up with something really spectacular.” Venue: Montrose Town Centre, 935 Mt. Dandenong Tourist Road, Montrose.Date: April 11, 12 Time: 12 Noon and 7pm Cost: $12, Family (4+) $40 Bookings: 9761 9133
Stockholm ■ Red Stitch Actors' Theatre presents the Victorian premiere of Stockholm from April 27 to May 26 at the company's theatre at rear 2 Chapel St, St Kilda. Written by Bryony Lavery and directed by Tanya Gerstle, Stockholm combines dialogue, narration, movement, design and music, resulting in a forensic dissection of a relationship, which fluctuates between the erotic and the macabre. Todd and Kali are the quintessential couple every couple wants to be. Tomorrow they will be in Stockholm, a city where in summer the sun shines 24/7 and sometimes it's dark all day long. Treading a fine line between tenderness and cruelty and questioning the lines between love and lust, aggressor and victim, Stockholm reveals the destruction that damaged adults in love can cause. It's beautiful, but not pretty. The title is taken from the psychological condition Stockholm Syndrome, where hostages feel sympathy for their hostage takers. Stockholm will feature ensemble member Brett Cousins as Todd and Luisa Hastings Edge as Kali. Previews: April 25, 26 Season: Friday, April 27 - Saturday, May 26 (not Mon. or Tues.). Bookings: www.redstitch.net (discounted tix) or 9533 8083 Tickets: $27- $39 ($20student).
LOCAL THEATRE
● Andrew Bongiorno (Mowgli) and Benedict Kazlauskas (Baloo) in Jungle Book: The Next Chapter at the Athenaeum Theatre until April 14. ■ The TV Tonight reported on Sunday that Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O would host the Logies. Sunday was April Fool’s Day. ■ Channel 9 will use the after-Easter week to launch The Voice, The Block and Celebrity Apprentice.
■ Nova Music Theatre: Miss Saigon May 11 - 26 at the Whitehorse Centre, 397 Whitehorse Rd., Nunawading. Director: Noel Browne; Musical Director: John Clancy; Choreographer: Wayne Robinson. Bookings: www.novamusictheatre.com.au or 1300 305 771. ■ Mornington CEF Players: Cosi (by Louis Nowra) May 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 and 27 at Bellamy Hall, Albert St., Mornington. Directors: Mike Fletcher and Cameron Sweatman. Tickets: $20/$17/$14. Bookings: 5975 5904. www.cefplayers.com.au ■ Phoenix Theatre Company: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum May 25 - June 2 at the Doncaster Playhouse. Director/Choreographer: Renee Maloney; Musical Director: Katie Packer. ● More on Page 64
● Jess Moody (left), Edith the Dragon and Chanelle Sheehan in Black Apple Theatre’s school holiday show Weir Be Dragons!
Page 62 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Observer Showbiz
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Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria
JUKEBOX SATURDAY NIGHT
Country Crossroads
KEN SPARKES HOSTS NEW SHOW ON FOXTEL
info@country crossroads.com.au ● Big Breakfast Show. Southern FM 88.3. Tues. 6am-9am. ● Country Crossroads. Casey Radio 97.7. Wed. 10pm-12 Midnight
taced more than 200 members in modern studios at in less than a week. ‘Wyreena’, Croydon. The Australian Radio members area on Facebook is an open group. Meanwhile, at the aus.radio. broadcast group, one Mebourne member laments: “Do I have to answer my own post?”
Rob Foenander
WARRAGUL 4WD MUSTER
■ The Sunny Cowgirls are the headline attraction at this year’s 4WD muster to be held in Warragul. The family-friendly event will be staged from Friday- Sunday, April 20-22 at Lardner Park and will also feature other local artists Doug Bruce and The Tailgaters along with Pete Denahy . "The primary objective of the event is raising funds for Variety, the children's charity," a spokesman for the organisers said.
APRA COUNTRY NOMINEES
■ Australian country artists are among the thirty contenders for the prestigious APRA Song of the Year award Kasey Chambers, Shane Nicholson Troy Cassar-Daley and Colin Buchanan are all nominees for the highly regarded title. The Awards will be the grand finale to this year's Song Summit, APRA's comprehensive songwriting conference that will run in Sydney from May 26 to 28.
CMC AWARDS
■ Foxtel’s Country Music Channel (CMC) Awards have been announced for 2012. Keith Urban picked up two gongs for International Artist of the Year and Video Clip of the Year for Without You. The ‘Oz Artist of the Year’ went to Jasmine Rae while Peter McWhirter was announced as the ‘New Oz Artist’ of the Year.
DEATH OF EARL SCRUGGS
■ American music pioneer and bluegrass legend Earl Scruggs has passed away at age 88 of natural causes. The banjo playing maestro will always be remembered for his tunes The Ballad of Jed Clampett from the Beverley Hillbillies and Foggy Mountain Breakdown, played in the 1967 movie Bonnie and Clyde along side musical partner Lester Flatt. Scruggs died on Wednesday (March 29). - Rob Foenander
r Observbei z Show
● Ken Sparkes ■ Ken Sparkes is well known in Victoria for his radio work with 3UZ and 3AK ... before becoming the voice for each of the 7, 9 and 10 TV networks. Ken’s radio work took him to a wide variety of radio stations across Australia: 2MG, 2GB, the Macquarie Radio Network, Sky Radio Network, 2SM, 2UW, 2KO, 5KA and 5AD. Overseas, Ken’s voice graced KPOI Hawaii, KGBS Los Angeles, the Storer Broadcasting Network and Ted Randall Syndication. Now, Ken is financing, producting and hosting a nonprofit TV show, aimed at those who enjoy the music of the 1950s to 1980s. Jukebox Saturday Night is being aired on Aurora Channel 183 on Foxtel: 7.30pm Saturdays, 1.30pm and 10pm Sundays. Ken is often heard with Bruce Mansfield and Philip Brady on 3AW’s Remember When (8pm, Sundays). Later this year, Ken is returning to China to complete a TV documentary, Sparkes Fly In Shanghai, looking at that city’s nightlife.
On air today ■ Ray Lawrence and Roy Hampson (The Matinee, 2pm4pm Wednesday, Radio Eastern 98.1 FM) will present an interview with Freemasons Grand Master Bob Jones, and his deputy Hillel Benedykt, in today’s program. Ray is President of the community station which is based
● Roy Hampson
Hinch stir ■ Derryn Hinch (3AW) hit the headlines this week after
releasing the name of man convicted of sexual misconduct with his stepdaughter. “The man's name has been suppressed in NSW but Derryn has made the decision to name him in Victoria,” the 3AW website said. Originally on Monday the website carried the name of the man with the disclaimer: ‘A Warning! Access illegal in NSW’. This was changed to an edited transcript, with the man’s name removed. However, Hinch has named the man on his own website: humanheadline.com. au, saying: “I’m only sorry I am identifying (man’s name) only in Victoria and not in Sydney which he deserves. But we’re working on it.”
Memories of Ella Fitzgerald
Radio group ■ The Melbourne Observer has started an ‘Australian Radio’ group on Facebook. Aimed at people who have worked professionally in the industry, the group has att-
● Whilst preparing for his monthly Sunday show (5pm this Sunday on Radio Eastern 98.1 FM) Ralphe Rickman came across this 1959 photo of a reception for Ella Fitzgerald. Can you identify the Melbourne personalities? From left, Bob Cornish, Jack Little, Bert Newton, Panda Lisner, Ella Fitzgerald, Binnie Lum, Rod McLellan and Ralphe Rickman. Melbourne
Observer
On This Day
Wednesday, Thursday, April 5 April 4
Friday, April 6
Saturday, April 7
Sunday, April 8
Monday, April 9
Tuesday, April 10
■ Psycho actor Anthony Perkins was born in New York City in 1932. He died aged 60 in 1992. Irish comedian and TV presenter Graham Norton was born in Dublin in 1963 (49). Actor Heath Ledger was born in Perth in 1979. He died aged 28 in 2008.
■ Actor Gordon Chater was born in London in 1922. He died aged 77 in 1999. Country singer Merle Haggard was born in 1937 (75). American actor Billy Dee Williams was born in 1937 (75). English singer Julie Rogers was born in 1943 (69).
■ American jazz and blues singer Billie Holiday (Eleanora Fagan) was born in 1915. She died aged 44 in 1959. US actor James Garner was born in 1928 (84). British TV host Sir David Frost was born in 1939 (73). Singer Janis Ian was born in 1951 (61).
■ English singer Julian Lennon was born in Liverpool in 1963 (49). He is son of the late John Lennon. Australian Tv and radio presenter Sami Lukis was born in Brisbane in 1970 (42). Sports presenter Rebecca Wilson was born in Brisbane in 1971 (41).
■ Black American singer Paul Robeson was born in 1898. He died aged 77 in 1976. Australian ballet star Sir Robert Helpmann was born in Mt Gambier, SA, in 1909. He died aged 77 in 1986. US actor Dennis Quaid was born in Texas in 1954 (58). He is brother of Randy Quaid.
■ American actor Harry Morgan (Colonel Sherman Potter in MASH) was born as Harry Bratsburg in 1915. He died last year aged 96. Omar Sharif (Michael Shalhoub) was born in Alexandria, Egypt, in 1932 (80). Actress Jane Clifton is 63 today.
■ US actor Spencer Tracy was born in 1900. He died 67 (1967). Actress Bette Davis was born in 1908. She died aged 81 in 1989. Actor Spencer Tracy was born in 1916. He died aged 87 in 2003. TV newsman Peter Overton was born in Winchester, England, in 1965 (47).
Thanks to GREG NEWMAN of the Birthday Bulletin for assistance with birthday and anniversary dates. Find out more at www.birthdaybulletin.com.au
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012 - Page 63
Page 64 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Observer Showbiz AUDITIONS ■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Life and Beth (Alan Ayckbourn) April 1 at 2.00pm at Bracken Hall, Wilson St., Cheltenham (off Centre Dandenong Rd.). Director: Martin Gibbs. Enquiries: 0411 645003. ■ Malvern Theatre Company: An Evening with Chekhov's Short Comedies (by Anton Chekhov) April 1 at 2.00pm, April 2 at 7.30pm at 29 Burke Rd., East Malvern. Director: John Keogh. Enquiries: 0401 745483. ■ Peridot Theatre Company: One Act Play Season. The Waiting Room (by John Bowen) April 2 at 7.00pm at the Unicorn Theatre, Lechte Rd., Mt Waverley. Director: Annie Blood. Call 9551 9084 for audition bookings. ■ Fab Nobs: Next to Normal April 3, 5 at the Fab Factory, Industry Place, Bayswater. Director: Nicholas Kong; Musical Director: Naomi Osborne. Audition bookings: 0414 367062 or email fabnobs2n@gmail.com ■ Brighton Theatre Company: Calendar Girls (by Tim Firth) April 10, 11 at 7.30pm at Brighton Theatre, Cnr. Wilson and Carpenter Sts., Brighton. Director: Alan Burrows. Audition bookings: 0412 077761 or email aburrow1@bigpond.net ■ Sunshine Community Theatre: Dirty Bird (by Stephen Andrews) April 17 at 7.30pm at Dempster Park Hall, Phoenix St., North Sunshine. Director: Tania Maxwell. Audition bookings: 0407 802165. ■ Monash University Academy of Performing Arts: Return to the Forbidden Planet April 18 at 4.00pm, April 19 at 6.00pm, April 20 at 4.00pm at Normanby House, 100 Normanby Rd., Clayton. Director: Bryce Ives; Musical Director: Adrian Portelli. Audition bookings: 9905 4687 or fred.wallace@monash.edu ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: God of Carnage April 22 at 1.00pm, April 23 at 7.30pm at 2 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Bruce Akers. Audition bookings: 0432 984781. ■ Gemco Players: The Crucible (by Arthur Miller) April 29 from 4.00pm, April 30 from 7.30pm at The Gem, 19 Kilvington Drive, Emerald. Director: Sharon Maine. Audition bookings: email pagetostageaustralia@gmail.com
LYRIC OPERA ■ Lyric Opera of Melbourne will launch their 2012 season on April 19 by bringing together two quirky and rarely performed operas to Chapel Off Chapel - Trouble In Tahiti by Leonard Bernstein and The Red Apple by Jacques Offenbach. Showcasing some of Melbourne’s most talented young up-and-coming performers, the striking new production will take a look at desire and love in a modern metropolis. Nathan Gilkes, director of Lyric Opera of Melbourne, is excited for audiences to see the latest shows. “We are thrilled to be bringing these operatic gems to Melbourne, which have rarely been performed either in Australia or internationally. “Lyric Opera of Melbourne is made up of committed and passionate opera creators who have combined their talents to form a community of artists to bring new operas to Australians.” Trouble In Tahiti by Leonard Bernstein is a touching look at the post war suburban dream and follows Dinah and Sam, a once-loving married couple who now find themselves lost. The opera sees Dinah become trapped in suburban life and retreat to a fantasy island of her imagination, while Sam has difficulty coping with being a father, a husband and his own man. The Red Apple (‘Pomme d’Api’) by Jacques Offenbach is a quirky charade which looks at the extreme lengths two men will go to impress the mistress they share and win her affections. Music director and conductor Pat Miller said, “This vibrant double bill focuses on two women surrounded by men, both in control in The Red Apple and losing control in Trouble In Tahiti. Offenbach and Bernstein bring these women to life with music of great charm and sensitivity that can be enjoyed and understood by everyone from the first time opera goer to the seasoned music lover.” Lyric Opera of Melbourne continues its nine-year streak of producing fresh, new productions rarely seen on an Australian stage. The talented cast for the double bill includes Caroline Vercoe, Matthew Thomas, KateAmos, Michael Lapina, Bruce Raggatt, Kate Macfarlane and Ben Riley. Lyric Opera of Melbourne is a unique opera company committed to performing innovative works rarely staged in Australia, presenting them using non-traditional styles for an eclectic mix of opera and music to dazzle, challenge and entertain. Performances: April 19, 21, 23, 26, 28, 29, including one matinee. Venue: Chapel Off Chapel, 12 Little Chapel St, Prahran. Tickets: $48 adults, $38 concession, $30 for patrons under 30 years of age. Lyric Opera will also hold a $20 Student Night on Monday, April 23. Bookings and Enquiries: 8290 7000 or visit www.chapeloffchapel.com.au
Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold
Melbourne
Observer
DANCING AT LUGHNASA SHOWS ■ Geelong Repertory Theatre Company: Dancing at Lughnasa (by Brian Friel) April 13 - 28 at 8:00pm Thursday, Friday, Saturdays. Matinées 2:00pm Sundays at the Woodbin Theatre, 15 Coronation St., West Geelong. Bookings: 5225 1200 www.geelongrep.com.au ■ Hartwell Players: Macbeth (William Shakespeare) April 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 at 8.00pm, April 14, 21, 28 at 2.00pm, April 22 at 5.00pm at the Ashwood Performing Arts Centre, Vannam Drive, Ashwood. Director: Samuel Chappell. Tickets: $18/$12. Bookings: 9513 9581 or bookings@hartwellplayers.org.au ■ The 1812 Theatre: Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? April 18 - May 5 at The Bakery at 1812, 3-5 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Evenings 8.00pm, Matinees 4.00pm. Director: Libby Procter. Tickets: $25. Bookings: 9758 3984. www.1812theatre.com.au ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Compleat Female Stage Beauty (by Jeffrey Hatcher) April 19 - May 5, Tues- Sat at 8:15pm, Sundays 5pm at 2-4 Albert Street, Williamstown. Director: Chris Baldock. Bookings: www.wlt.org.au or 9885 9678. ■ Malvern Theatre Company: Never the Sinner (by John Logan) April 20 - May 5, 8.15pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, 2pm matinees April 21, 29 at 29a Burke Road, East Malvern. Director: Nicholas Opolski. Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 1300 131 552. www.malverntheatre.com.au ■ Peridot Theatre: The Peppercorn Tree (by Alison Campbell Rate) April 27 - May 12, Wed - Sat at 8.15pm, April 29, May 5 at 2.15pm and May 6 at 4.00pm at the Unicorn Theatre, Lechte Rd., Mt Waverley. Bookings: 1300 138 646 (no mobiles) or 9898 9090 (for mobiles) www.peridot.com.au ■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company: Red Hot and Cole May 4, 5, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19 at 8.00pm, May 13 at 2.00pm at the Williamstown Mechanics Institute, Cnr Melbourne Rd and Electra St., Williamstown. Director: Anna Marinelli; Musical Director: Malcolm Fawcett; Choreographer: Carla Gianinotti. Tickets: $32/ $28. Opening Night Black Tie $35. Bookings: 1300 881 545. www.wmtc.org.au ■ Southern Peninsula Players: Fawlty Towers (John Cleese and Connie Booth) Featuring: The Anniversary, The Psychiatrist and Kipper and the Corpse. May 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19 at 8.00pm, May 20 at 2.00pm at the Rosebud Memorial Hall. Director: Evan Knoble. Tickets: $20/$15. Bookings: 5982 2777 or visit Rosebud Carpets, Pt. Nepean Rd., Rosebud. ■ Warragul Theatre Company: Carmen - The musical, May 18 - 26 at the West Gippsland Arts Centre. Director: Michelle Carrigy; Musical Director: David Williams; Choreographer: Emmalee Meisels. Bookings: 5624 2456 www.wgac.org.au
Sunset Boulevard
● Scott Hili (Mr Manfred) and Mark Doran (screenwriter Joe Gillis) in CLOC Musical Theatre’s Sunset Boulevard, opening on May 4. Photo: Richard Crompton ■ CLOC Musical Theatre presents prepares to launch its 2012 season with the Australasian non-professional premiere of the musical adaptation of the 1950 classic movie Sunset Boulevard. The show opens on May 4 and will run until May 19 at the National Theatre, Cnr. Barkly and Carlisle Sts, St Kilda. With music by Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, and lyrics by composer Don Black and Christopher Hampton, CLOC has assembled a superb cast and a multi-award winning production team to recreate this larger-than-life tale of faded and deluded silent movie star Norma Desmond and her fantasy world as she prepares for her triumphant screen comeback (or as Norma says “I hate that word – it’s a return”!). Tickets: $40 Full Price, $36 Concession, $25 Children Under 16. Bookings: 1300 362547 or online www.cloc.org.au
INDEPENDENT THEATRE FEATURED SHOW
DINGO’S BABY AT LA MAMA
■ La Mama presents Dingo’s Baby as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival from April 4 – 22 at La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St., Carlton. Through burlesque and yarn, Dingo’s Baby asks: when you sing We Are Australian, what the bloody hell are you? Indigenous or imported? What if we’ve all been stolen? On the road to Uluru, an indigenous bogan who doesn’t remember being stolen comes face-to-face with a busload of ‘Dinki Di’Aussies. These degenerating second generation Australians are on a hilarious journey to the centre of a place they didn’t come from to discover who they are and where they belong. Komissar Kabaret is a cutting-edge intercultural cabaret company working with local and international students, indigenous youth, young professionals and established Melbourne performers, musicians and writers. Directed by Ella Filar with special participation from Bruce Langdon, lyrics and text are by Ella Filar and Sarah Barry, Neil Ryan and Mary Gentile. Dingo’s Baby is devised and performed by Sarah Berry, Tanya Heine, Mary Gentile, Linda Coleman, Justin Grant, Peter Condon, Carlos Gutierrez, Uraine Mastrosavas, Greg Fryer, Ian Michael, Robbie Thorpe and Jody Beeton Performance Season: April 4 - 22 Times: Wed, Sun 6.30pm; Thu, Fri, Sat 7.30pm Venue: La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St., Carlton. Running time: 75 minutes. Tickets: $25 Full, $15 Concession.Tickets available online www.lamama.com.au or via the La Mama Booking line, 9347 6142
● In Dingo’s Baby from La Mama
Cheryl Threadgold on 3AW ■ Non-Pro Theatre columnist Cheryl Threadgold is heard weekly on 3AW Melbourne Overnight program hosted by Andrew McLaren. Cheryl presents a segment with the latest community theatre news at 12.45am Wednesdays.
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012 - Page 65
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Page g 66 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, y, g April , 4, 2012 Melbourne
Observer
Lovatts Crossword No 11 Across
1. More droopy 6. Dig 11. Legendary gold city (2,6) 15. Having a poor ear for pitch (4-4) 20. Relations 21. Undue speed 22. Pen name, ... de plume 23. Gleefully chuckles 24. Tent supports (3,5) 25. Jesus' home town 27. Singing with trills 28. Prima donna 29. Writer, ... Thomas 31. The O of PTO 32. A wolf in ... clothing (5'1) 36. ANC hero, Nelson ... 37. Within house 38. Lovely 41. Dutch centre of govt, The ... 44. Fishing-line fibre 45. Sample 48. Way of life 49. Very busy 52. Goose & ... 56. Out-of-vogue star (3-4) 57. Small stone 58. Most uptight 61. Arduous experience 62. Foretold 63. West African nation, Sierra ... 64. Warms 65. Fools 66. Cleaver 67. Without artifice 71. Toadstools 73. Silly 75. Catastrophes 80. Ignore 82. Ice-cream desserts 83. Globes 85. Acting as go-between 86. Treat cruelly (3-3) 88. African disease fly 90. Nourishing drinks (3,5) 91. Bible song 93. Current flow rating 94. Interjectors 95. Ski headwear accessory 96. Military flying facility (3,4) 97. No part 99. Burial vault 100. Removed from power 104. Hoist (flag) 105. Cat cry 106. Of sheep 107. Leaseholders 111. Slightly wet 113. Crab's pinch 114. Have 115. Wrath 117. Pitch tent 118. Should, ... to 121. Tribal post, ... pole 122. Moved slowly 125. Field 126. Jump high 127. The ... of Capri 129. Assistant 131. Opposed to 132. Releases grip (4,2) 135. Among 136. Emerald Isle 139. Hordes 140. Scolded 144. Eagle's nest 145. Chick's call 146. Aimed 147. Disengage (train carriages) 148. Splendid (mansion)
Across
Down
149. Public square 150. Lacking originality 152. Customary 154. Baton races 157. Flying saucers (1,1,2) 158. Blabs 162. Matching outfit 163. Meagre 166. Flag down (cab) 167. Speech defect 169. Butterfly catchers 171. Biblical you 172. US moon rocket 173. Composer, Andrew ... Webber 175. Cloth fold 176. Chock 179. Culminate in (4,2) 180. Wash lightly 182. Recline, ... down 183. Repetitive strain injury (1,1,1) 184. Grind (meat) 186. Powder, ... of Paris 189. Thread 190. Peace pact 191. Sense receptor 192. Said 196. Tenant's payment 197. Bellow 198. Vermouth cocktail 199. Remnants 201. Playing for time 202. Harvesters 203. Roof overhangs 204. Last Russian tsar 205. Entangle 208. To the rear 210. Bridge designer 211. Sector 212. Outdoors (4-3) 213. Sinks in middle 215. Unfavoured horses 219. Lead-in 221. Sunday joint 223. Not perfumed 227. Juvenile 228. Ambassador's office 230. Move with effort 231. Cut wildly 232. Pillages 233. Mutilate 234. Admire 238. Delighted 239. First 240. Meal 243. Approval 246. Loosen 247. Dough ingredient 250. Corn husks 251. Out of style 253. Laughing scavengers 256. Frequent visitor 257. Female betrothed 258. Cease 262. Spy, ... Hari 263. Steak cut (1-4) 266. Ark builder 268. WA wine-growing region, ... River 269. Business income 270. Artist's medium (3,5) 271. Sewer coverings 272. Born as 273. Man-made fabric 274. Raises (the ante) 275. Climbs down 276. London/Edinburgh express, Flying ... 277. Lacy robe 278. Roomy
1. Confronts 2. Holed atmosphere layer 3. Erect (3,2) 4. ... out a living 5. Coming up (of sun) 7. Red pepper spice 8. Brutal 9. Michael Flatley's Lord of ... (3,5) 10. Simple 11. Famous volcano 12. Inclinations 13. Continually (2,3,2) 14. Phenomenal 15. Turrets 16. Actor, ... Sharif 17. Fire fragment 18. Remove from home 19. Misty 24. Pastime 26. Multitude 30. Lounges about 33. Barn dance 34. Distinguished 35. Actor, Sam ... 38. Ringing (of bell) 39. Nudged 40. Drama venue 42. Afresh 43. Unties 46. Junkies 47. Compared to 49. Cooperative 50. Top of head 51. List down 53. Non-believer in God 54. Roman moon goddess 55. Staff schedules 59. Proximity 60. Able to be rubbed out 67. Uncared-for 68. Traffic jam (5-2) 69. Undoes (envelope) 70. Sly suggestion 72. Opening 74. Telling 76. Debatable 77. Energies 78. Copy 79. Siblings 81. Until now 84. Mattress frame 87. Paint thinners 89. Called 91. Autocue 92. Insane lady 98. Fireplace shelf 101. TV host, ... Dingo 102. Egg shapes 103. Give work to 108. Stoat 109. Colloquial language 110. Inspire 112. Inventiveness 116. Feared Mongolian ruler (7,4) 119. Inattentive 120. Grotesquely 123. Small coffee cup 124. Welcoming 128. Clinging gastropods 130. Hero-worship
Down 132. Feebler 133. Fish commercially 134. Survive (3,2) 137. Turn out 138. Disgust 141. Granny Smith fruit 142. Cogwheel set 143. Personal memoirs 151. On dry land 153. Lucky charm 155. Dismiss (from college) 156. Map book 159. Desire for food 160. Tethered (4,2) 161. Pleads 164. Swiftly 165. Fluid unit 168. Laziness 170. Glimmers 173. Unused portion 174. Public referee 177. Filth 178. Coming into view 181. Water (pasture) 185. River flows 186. Allspice 187. Orange/pink shade 188. Libya's capital 193. Afternoon break 194. Vote back into office (2-5) 195. Wanted 200. Uniformity 201. Divide 206. Not either 207. Car horns 208. Takes into custody 209. Type of spanner 211. Appoints 214. Sultan's wife 216. Sissy 217. Austere 218. Disappoints 220. Hobo 222. Conscious (of fact) 224. Held tenderly 225. Subtleties of meaning 226. Infinite 229. Famous US university 232. Army dining room 235. And so forth (2,6) 236. Greek philosopher 237. Coffee drug 241. Legal trade ban 242. Lawsuits 244. Surgical blade 245. Kissing & cuddling 248. Eases off 249. Which 251. Repressed, ... up 252. Postage stickers 253. Hot & damp 254. Gains 255. Proverb 259. Moral principle 260. Eskimo hut 261. Cricket matches 262. Fix 264. Roughage 265. Midday 267. Padlock clasp
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012 - Page 67
Solution on Page 30
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Page 68 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Observer Showbiz A Night To Remember
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Movies, DVDs
With James Sherlock
Reviews by Aaron Rourke
THE HUNGER GAMES (ALSO KNOWN AS ...)
■ With the much-hyped, big budget Hollywood action film The Hunger Games currently setting the box-office alight ($155 million in its first weekend in the US alone), not many people have acknowledged how much the film (and the books by Suzanne Collins, released in 2008) shamelessly rips-off the following movies.
Battle Royale
● Kenneth More stars in A Night To Remember
● The original and rare 1958 five-part comic strip newspaper serialisation of A Night to Remember
■ (R) (2000). 114 minutes. Now available on DVD. ***** This is THE film of which author Collins is obviously a big fan. Controversial and provocative, this highly influential film is both exhilerating and absorbing, giving us a future that is terrifying and all-too-believable. Based on the hugely popular novel by Koushun Takami, the story is set in Japan in the near future, where due to a collapse in the education system (with many students not attending school and running rampant), a new law entitled the BR Act is introduced, where one class will be selected by special lottery to take part in a ruthless program. This program will see high school students forced to fight and kill one another, with the winner allowed to return to society with special privileges (as well as weeding out the undesirables). After a chilling opening scene, the film builds methodically, introducing its characters and the world they live in convincingly, then tightens the screws as these youngsters are put in such a horrifying position. Humanity takes a back seat to selfpreservation, contradicting what the Government supposedly want to teach this new generation. All the performances are natural, allowing the viewer to connect with and experience the fear, horror, and moral uncertainty that these teenagers feel. The cast includes future stars Chiaki Kuriyama (Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill Vol 1), and Tatsuya Fujiwara (the Death Note series), and the head teacher that sends the students into battle is perfectly played by renowned actor/director Takeshi Kitano (Zatoichi / Hana-Bi / Outrage). Legendary director Kinji Fukasaku (Tora! Tora! Tora! / Battles Without Honour And Humanity series) brilliantly balances violent action with social commentary, making Battle Royale (recently re-released by Madman Entertainment) vivid, unforgettable viewing.
Rollerball
● Did You Know? - Facts behind the story of the Titanic used in papers to promote the release of A Night to Remember
■ (M) (1975). 121 minutes. Now available on DVD. *** A slick but not entirely successful blend of sci-fi, action, and satire, Rollerball (based on the short story by William Harrison) is still mildly entertaining, and is at least streets ahead of the awful 2002 remake. Again set in the future, which is now run by global corporations, the film stars James Caan as Jonathan E, the main drawcard of a violent sport called Roller Ball, which is watched and loved by millions of people around the world. Living a life of luxury, Jonathan
● James Caan in Roller Ball discovers that he is merely a pawn in a much larger game, and that the ultra-rich elite (who look down on the players), are the ones in charge. The world will be watching. Caan (The Godfather / Freebie And The Bean / Henry's Crime) is perfectly cast as Jonathan E, and an interesting cast includes John Houseman, Moses Gunn, Ralph Richardson and Maud Adams. The Roller Ball sequences are well-staged, and the film has a largescale look and feel. The action and social satire don't quite gel however (it clicks together better in the 1976 film Death Race 2000, which could also be listed here), and director Norman Jewison (In The Heat Of The Night / The Thomas Crown Affair) allows the story to bog down on too many occasions.
The Running Man ■ (R) (1987). 101 minutes. Now available on DVD. **1/2 Based on a novel by Stephen King (under the pseudonym Richard Bachman), this trashy, low-brow adaptation is certainly amusing, but never reaches the heights it could have. Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as Ben Richards, a troublesome police officer who is framed for a mass murder he didn't commit. As his name is big news, he is forced to participate in an elaborate game where convicted criminals try and kill each other, with the promise that they will be fully pardoned if they win. This game is broadcast on TV (again watched by millions) and is enthusiastically hosted by Killian (hilariously played by Richard Dawson, of Hogan's Heroes fame). Ultra-garish set and costume design definitely gives the film a deliberately cheap-looking, Vegas-style atmosphere, and a sense of humour helps gloss over the second-rate nature of the script. Director Paul Michael Glaser (former star of the Starsky And Hutch TV series) keeps things moving, but never seems interested in the darker, more substantial elements of the story. A good supporting cast includes Yaphet Kotto (Alien / Blue Collar), Maria Conchita Alonso (Colors / Predator 2), and Jim Brown (The Dirty Dozen / Riot / Fingers). As throw-a-way entertainment, The Running Man is watchable, tongue-in-cheek viewing, but it could have been so much more. - Aaron Rourke
Melbourne
Observer
Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. THE HUNGER GAMES. 2. THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL. 3. 21 JUMP STREET. 4. JOHN CARTER. 5. GHOSTRIDER: SPIRIT OF VENGEANCE. 6. MARGIN CALL. 7. PROJECT X. 8. THE RUM DIARY. 9. THE ARTIST. 10. AGENT VINOD. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: MARCH 29: A DANGEROUS METHOD, DR. SEUSS' THE LORAX, MIRROR MIRROR, TOMBOY, WRATH OF THE TITANS. APRIL 5: AMERICAN PIE: REUNION, GOODBYE FIRST LOVE, LOVE IN THE BUFF, PIRATES! BAND OF MISFITS, SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN, THE DEEP BLUE SEA, THE WELL DIGGER'S DAUGHTER, THIS MUST BE THE PLACE, TITANIC 3D. THE DVD TOP SELLERS: 1. THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN - Part One [Drama/ Fantasy/Robert Pattinson]. 2. REAL STEEL [Action/Drama/ Hugh Jackman, Hope Davis, Kevin Durand]. 3. MIDNIGHT IN PARIS [Romance/Comedy/Drama/Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams]. 4. THE DEBT [Thriller/Action/Helen Mirren, Tom Wilkinson, Sam Worthington]. 5. DRIVE [Action/Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, Albert Brooks]. 6. THE HELP [Drama/Viola Davis, Jessica Chastain, Sissy Spacek, Octavia Spencer]. 7. WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN [Drama/Tilda Swinton, John C. Riley, Ezra Miller]. 8. WARRIOR [Drama/Tom Hardy, Joel Edgerton, Nick Nolte]. 9. RED STATE [Comedy/Thriller/ John Goodman, Melissa Leo, Michael Parks]. 10. SHARK NIGHT [Thriller/Chris Carmack, Katherine McPhee, Sarah Paxton]. Also: THE WHISTLEBLOWER, CONTAGION, TAKE SHELTER, IMMORTALS, THE CUP, OUR IDIOT BROTHER, THE TREE OF LIFE, THE HUNTER, I DON'T KNOW HOW SHE DOES IT, PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 3. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: THE IDES OF MARCH [Drama/ George Clooney, Ryan Gosling]. ATTACK THE BLOCK [Comedy/SciFi/Action/Jodie Whittaker, Nick Frost]. JACK AND JILL [Comedy/Adam Sandler, Katie Holmes]. FOSTER [Drama/Richard E. Grant, Toni Collette]. NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: LION KING 2: Simba's Pride [Family/Comedy/Music/Drama]. LION KING 3: Hakuna Matata [Family/Comedy/Music/Drama]. DAYS OF HEAVEN [Drama/Richard Gere, Brooke Adams]. JIMMY HOLLYWOOD [Comedy/ Drama/Joe Pesci, Christian Slater]. Turn To Page 71
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012 - Page 69
Page 70 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012 - Page 71
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport
Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 68
TO BE OR NOT TO BE
■ Just when it appeared everything was going according to Hoyle, Jumps Racing suffered a big blow with the death of Jotilla at Sandown. This helped the drums get louder from the anti-jumping protestors, who were there at Sandown naturally filming everything that was going on. They were extremely vocal after the former New Zealand jumper miscued at the last, and came down heavily, fracturing his off side shoulder. This all comes on the top of the news that the Victorian Government and Racing Victoria were right behind jumps racing. This comes on the eve of the big jumping races at Oakbank in South Australia, and the extremely popular Warnambool three day meeting in May. Racing Victoria Chief Executive, Rob Hines, announced $3.2 million in prize money, an expanded J.J.Houlihan Jumps Championship program and an incentive laden schedule. As well as a 26.5 per cent prize money increase, additional venues, Moe and Ballarat, will host jumps racing. Also there was a $10,000 bonus for any horse that wins its first jumps race, that also happened at Sandown with former international galloper, Above Average, originally purchased to try and win the Melbourne Cup. Above Average proved too good for last year's Australian Hurdle winner, Our Aristocrat, winning by nearly three lengths. Prepared by Anthony Freedman, Above Average has impressed the stable with his jumping ability, and Anthony said he was a natural jumper as proven at Sandown. The Melbourne Racing Club is offering a $200, 000 jumps bonus for any horse that can win three of the following races: The Brierly Steeple or Galleywood Hurdle at Warrnambool, the Australian Hurdle or Steeple or the Grand National Hurdle and Steeple all to be run at Sandown. The Chairman of
Ted Ryan
Observer Racing
pen to them. Let's hope we don't have any more mishaps in a Sport, a number of us love. the MRC, Mike Symons, owns Australia's best jumper, Black and Bent, so he has every reason to love the ups and over's. Black and Bent is due to resume over jumps at Sandown next month, before heading to Warrnambool for the Galleywood Hurdle. The Minister for Racing, Dr. Denis Napthine said that everything is being done to ensure the safety of
the jumpers and was being continually looked at. Despite the tragedy at Sandown, Mr.Hines said the improvements provide the industry with surety and everything that is possible is being done to help the jumpers. I know a number of people connected with jumpers, owners, trainers, jockeys stablehands, you name it, they love their animals and they don't want anything to hap-
Back in the saddle ■ Popular jockey, Darren Gauci, is set to resume race riding after many months out of the saddle after an horrific fall at Mornington some months ago. I was having a chat to Darren and his father Bill, at the Racing Fraternity Day of Reflection and he looked superbly fit. Down to 52.5 kilos he has been riding regular track work and trials at Caulfield for
● Black and Bent Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754 Anthony Cummings I was having a chat and trial at Cran- with Debbie who asbourne. sists CEO Brett His biggest prob- Shambrook at Yarra lem of course has Valley, and she was been getting over the telling me the popular soreness to different racetrack could be parts of the body, nec- open for the gallops by essary when resuming the end of the year. race riding. They certainly He expects to ride have had their share of around a comfortable bad luck with their 54 kilos, when he re- gallops track, mainly sumes, which could due to the fact they are be this week or next. on flat ground and the Darren is one of the water stays around in most likeable blokes in a number of areas as racing and is always it has nowhere to run willing to help with any off. They hope this can charity work and talks with budding young be rectified and will be back and running with apprentices. One of the best the Sport of Kings by judges of pace in the year's end. racing world; let's hope he can some luck on his side for a change, and pick up some good mounts. There is none bet- ■ The final word on ter on and off the race- the Golden Slipper; to be run at Rosehill this track. Saturday. On recent form and after her big run in the Riesling Slipper, Victorian filly, Sama■ I worked at Pak- ready, who is undeenham recently for feated, will be the one their big Cup Day, to beat. However, I am which went extremely well, and was sur- warming to the Gai prised to see some of Waterhouse colt, the Yarra Valley team Pierro. I know he only won helping out. The Pakenham by a head last start, but Club has been a bit he showed plenty of short staffed since ‘ticker’. The 1200 metres Anthony Millican joined Telstra, and it will suit the colt, while was nice to catch up another filly, Husswith Debbie and ousa, was a little unShelley who were lucky last start. - Ted Ryan helping out.
Golden Slipper
Good news in Valley
● Darren Gauci Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754
■ Hundreds of singing enthusiasts flock participate in the 3rd Melbourne Festival of Choirs on April 7 -9. The legendary Choir of Hard Knocks as part of the ‘Why We Sing’ forum in the Great Hall at National Gallery Victoria at 2pm on Saturday April 7 and there will be public concerts including Suade in concert in BMW EdgeTheatre on Sunday 8 at 8pm along with a free Massed Festival Choir concert at BMW Edge on Monday April 9 at 2.30pm that will include the World Music Festival Chorus along with the Men’s and Women’s Festival Chorus.
Top 10 Lists DEAD AGAIN [Drama/Kenneth Branagh, Andy Garcia, Emma Thompson]. DESK SET [Comedy/Katharine Hepburn, Spencer Tracy]. A FAREWELL TO ARMS [Drama/Rock Hudson, Jennifer Jones]. CAPRICE [Comedy/Richard Harris, Doris Day]. KISS ME STUPID [Comedy/Dean Martin, Kim Novak]. STORMY WEATHER [Drama/Music/Lena Horne, Cab Calloway, Bill "Bo Jangles" Robinson. PEYTON PLACE [Drama/Lana Turner, Lloyd Nolan, Lee Phillips]. ANNA & THE KING OF SIAM [Romance/ Drama/Rex Harrison, Irene Dunne]. KISS THEM FOR ME [Comedy/Cary Grant, Jayne Mansfield]. COMPULSION [Crime/Drama/Dean Stockwell, Orson Welles]. THE REIVERS [Family/Drama/Steve McQueen]. THE LAST GRENADE [War/Action/Richard Attenborough, Stanley Baker]. FAR EAST [Drama/Bryan Brown, Helen Morse, Bill Hunter]. A LETTER TO THREE WIVES [Drama/Ann Sothern, Linda Darnell, Jeanne Crain]. NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: GREAT EXPECTATIONS [Drama/TV/Ray Winstone, Gillian Anderson]. SMALLVILLE: The Final Season. TREME: Season 2. TITANIC: 100 Years Below. TITANIC: The Mission. THE VIRGINIAN: Season 2. THE RICH LITTLE SHOW. ALIAS SMITH AND JONES: Season One. MINUSCULE: The Complete Collection. LOONEY TUNES SHOW: Volume One. THE BUNKER [Drama/War/Anthony Hopkins]. TOP GEAR: Series 17. GREAT BARRIER REEF. EARTHFLIGHT. SHIRLEY TEMPLE: Everybody's Little Princess. LUTHER: Series One & Two. SHERLOCK: Series One & Two. SPOOKS: Series 10. TOP BLU-RAY SELLERS: 1. THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN - Part One [Drama/Fantasy/Robert Pattinson]. 2. REEL STEEL [Action/Drama/Hugh Jackman, Hope Davis, Kevin Durand]. 3. MIDNIGHT IN PARIS [Romance/Comedy/ Drama/Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams]. 4. THE HELP [Drama/Viola Davis, Jessica Chastain, Sissy Spacek, Octavia Spencer]. 5. THE DEBT [Thriller/Action/Helen Mirren, Tom Wilkinson, Sam Worthington]. 6. DRIVE [Action/Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, Albert Brooks]. 7. WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN [Drama/ Tilda Swinton, John C. Riley, Ezra Miller]. 8. SHARK NIGHT 3D & 2D [Thriller/Chris Carmack, Katherine McPhee, Sarah Paxton]. 9. WARRIOR [Drama/Tom Hardy, Joel Edgerton, Nick Nolte]. 10. RED STATE [Comedy/Thriller/John Goodman, Melissa Leo, Michael Parks]. Also: The Whistleblower, Contagion, Our Idiot Brother, The Bodyguard, Immortals 2D & 3D, The Cup, The Hunter, The Tree of Life, I Don't Know How She Does It, Paranormal Activity 3. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: THE IDES OF MARCH [Drama/George Clooney, Ryan Gosling]. ATTACK THE BLOCK [Comedy/Sci-Fi/Action/ Jodie Whittaker, Nick Frost]. LION KING 2: Simba's Pride [Family/Comedy/Music/Drama]. LION KING 3: Hakuna Matata [Family/Comedy/Music/Drama]. VAN HELSING - Limited Edition [Action/Adventure/Horror/Hugh Jackman, Kate Beckinsale]. TOP GEAR: Series 17. GREAT BARRIER REEF [Documentary]. EARTHFLIGHT [Documentary]. JACK AND JILL [Comedy/Adam Sandler, Katie Holmes]. FOSTER [Drama/Richard E. Grant, Toni Collette]. - James Sherlock
Page 72 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs
Double at Bendigo ■ Nathan Jack (driving on a stay) chalked up a double at Bendigo when Art Major/Posh Jaccka filly Kensington Palace made a one act affair of the Hygain Feeds Pace for C0 class (mares) over 1650 metres. Trained at Euroa by Danny Thackeray for Lauriston Bloodstock Pty Ltd, Kensington Palace led throughout from gate four to blitz her rivals in accounting for Rhinestone Cowgirl (one/one) and Dance With Mia which trailed the winner in a rate of 1-58.2.
Most disappointing finish ■ Veteran Elmore horseman Neville Welsh combined with son Clinton to land the Buloke Shire 3-Y0 Trotters Handicap over 2100 metres at Charlton on Thursday with Sundon/Wheels To Go gelding Wildenstein in a rate of 2-09.7, much to the delight of owner/breeder Graham Mulhall. Beginning safely from the 10 metre mark, Wildenstein wasn't bustled, settling three back in the moving line with the hot favourite Sunset Tour leading from barrier two. Driven patiently, Wildenstein when eased four wide on the home turn, produced a brilliant turn of speed to gain the day by 1.2 metres running away over Shes A Head Turner (one/one - three wide home turn) and Sunset Tour who was most disappointing.
Settled at tail of field ■ Sedgwick hobby trainer Pam Drechsler chalked up victory number two with 4-Y-0 Western Terror/ Bo Bonita gelding Indifference at Bray Raceway Ballarat on Thursday, taking out the Davis Meats Vicbred Pace for C1 class over 1710 metres. Bred and raced by Pam and husband Brendan, Indifference driven by Chris Alford settled at the tail of the field after starting from the extreme draw, before being set alight with a brilliant turn of speed hitting the back straight on the final occasion. Circling the entire field, Indifference led on turning, holding a margin to the wire in defeating Baracks Angel and Girls Got Rhythm in a rate of 1-59.3.
Squaregaiters devotee ■ Mt Cottrell based Bill Spiteri ,a long time devotee of the squaregaiters, snared the CV Batteries Trotters Mobile for T0 class over 2150 metres at Bendigo on Wednesday with consistent 6-Y-0 Keystone Salute/Cooma Elayna mare Marios Dream. Leading out from gate three, Marios Dream was restrained to allow Man Of The World to assume control giving her a cosy passage throughout. Using the sprint lane, Marios Dream ran home best to tip out the pacemaker by 1.5 metres in a rate of 2-02, with Dartrenzac (one/one - three wide last lap) third. It was Marios Dream's 2nd victory in 49 outings.
Merry tempo set ■ Outstanding Bettors Delight/Frosty Mattina gelding Abettorpunt registered his 14th victory in 28 outings when a brilliant winner of the Schweppes Pace for M1 & M2 class over 2240 metres at Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday in a mile rate of 1-55.8. Trained at Hamilton by part-owner David Lewis, Abettorpunt driven by nephew Caleb Lewis settled at the tail of the field after starting from the extreme draw, with Hung Jury setting a merry tempo at the head of affairs. Gaining a three wide trail on the back of both Toulouse Lautrec and Atlas Alliance in the final circuit, Abettorpunt despite making the home turn very wide, ran home stylishly at his first outing since winning the Charlton Pacing Cup in February to score by 3.5 metres over the roughies Mickey Mac and Jukebox Music. Abettorpunt is likely to have his next outing in a heat of the Mildura Pacing Cup on April 10.
DYNAMIC FINISH BLOWS RIVALS AWAY ■ Four year old Courage Under Fire/Heathvale gelding Classievale resumed from a short let up with an outstanding performance to take out the third heat of the Eastern Challenge for C3 & C4 class over 2150 metres at picturesque Yarra Valley on Monday March 26. Having his first outing since finishing third to The Phantom at Tabcorp Park Melton on Ferbruary 4, Classievale trained at Parwan by Craig Demmler and driven by partner Jodi Quinlan was taken off the gate after starting from outside the front row, to settle a conspicuous last in the capacity field of eleven, appearing to have little chance of winning at the bell on the leader dominated circuit in most cases. Still at the tail of the field halfway along the back straight, Classievale was scraping the outside fence on the home turn, before producing a dynamic finish to blow his rivals away, recording a 3.6 metre victory in 1-59 over National Gallery and The Guardsman who both also finished on from back in the field. Lightly raced, the Kiwi bred was making only his 12th appearance at the races (7 wins to date) and looks to be a potential superstar.
Raceway Ballarat on Thursday March 29 in a mile rate of 2-02.3. Taking a concession for Terang ‘ace’ Glen Craven, Armbro Expo began swiftly from gate two to pounce on the lead and was always coasting at the head of affairs. Bounding away on straightening, Armbo Expo registered an untouched 7.3 metre victory in advance of Mathias who gained inside runs everywhere from last at the bell, with Ess Are Vee third after trailing the winner. Raced by Michael in partnership with parents Philip and Cathy Chircop along with family friend John Lorensini, Armbro Expo has raced 26 times for 6 wins.
Good return
Race debut
■ Former champion juvenile Cullen Bromac Christian Cullen/Classic Blue Jeans) now four, has returned to his best this season, chalking up his 17th victory (5 this season), when greeting the judge in the De Bortoli Pace for C5 & C6 class over 2150 metres at ‘the Valley’ in a rate of 1-57.9. Now in the care of Keith Cotchin at Elmore, Cullen Bromac also driven by Jodi Quinlan who had so much success aboard him as a two year old, raced in the open from gate three shadowing the speedy polemarker Modern Warrior, before racing clear on turning to score narrowly but well from Pete Of Pan along the sprint lane from three back the markers and Ohoka Mach (four wide home turn).
■ Meltonian Peter Earl and partners would have been ‘jumping for joy’ at Charlton on Thursday, when their home bred Mach Three/Triliner gelding Supaliner scored at his race debut, taking out the Robert Nicholls 2-Y-0 Pace over 1609 metres. Driven by Long Forest based Alex Ashwood on loan from Tasmania to Andy Gath, Supaliner showed plenty of speed from gate five to lead throughout in accounting for All The Cards which raced outside him for the final circuit, going down by 1.8 metres after momentarily hitting the front on straightening, with East West Star third after following the winner and using the sprint lane to no avail. The mile rate 200.2.
Given no peace
Melbourne
Observer
len-baker@ bigpond.COM
with Len Baker
it! Overdue win Cracked ■ Bolinda's Chris ■ Parwan trainer Michael Chircop scored a well overdue victory with 7-Y-0 Armbro Operative/ Spicy Expo gelding Armbro Expo in The Lemonade & Trophy Shoppe Pace for C1 class over 2200 metres at Bray
Baker’s Delight
Harness Racing
Alford finally cracked it for a win at start number ten with consistent Bettors Delight/Forest Glory filly Bellasario, taking out the Vinmar Homes 3-Y-0 Pace over 2100 metres at Geelong on Wednesday. Enjoying a cheap pas-
sage mid-field in the moving line, Bellasario was eased three wide to trail the former Kiwi Franco Taima for the final circuit, having to go four wide approaching the home turn. Given full rein on straightening, Bellasario scored by a neck over a death-seating Machin Out in a rate of 2-01, with Lombo Hot Gun (three back the markers) third.
■ Rockbank trainer Joe Bajada's 4-Y-0 Northern Luck/Cammag Girl entire Lucknpower was a huge winner of the Ballarat Mazda Pace for C2 & C3 class over 1710 metres at Ballarat on Thursday. Driven by Bob Butt taking a concession, Lucknpower (gate three) was given no peace in front appearing to be under pressure approaching the home turn. Going into another gear on turning, Lucknpower kicked away at the straight entrance in defeating the favourite Classic Falcon who was desperately unlucky after being badly held up in a tight pocket until too late, with Sidney Shaw (five wide home turn) third. The mile rate 1-58.3.
Bowled along freely ■ Seymour's Bill Morgan snared the Bendigo Equine Hospital Trotters Handicap for T1 or better class over 2650 metres at Lord's Raceway Bendigo on Wednesday with 5-Y-0 Sundon/Scott Pride mare Gioiosa Ionica. Beginning safely from barrier two to lead as the tapes released, Gioiosa Ionica bowled along freely until surrendering the front running when pressured by both Gluteus Major which had been outside her and Xanderxav (three wide) racing for the bell. Using the sprint lane, Gioiosa Ionica ran home best to defeat a game Gluteus Major, with Lelis Boy (four back the markers) taking inside runs to finish third. The mile rate 2-05.9.
Brilliant time Taken into the clear ■ Lemnos duo Russell and Nathan Jack were successful with speedy Bettors Delight/Lombo Streamline 4-Y-0 mare Lombo Sleek Streek in the Apco Service Station Pace for C1 class over 2150 metres at Bendigo on Wednesday. Showing her usual brilliant speed to lead from gate five, Lombo Sleek Streak was allowed to dawdle at the head of affairs, before leaving her rivals standing on straightening to record an easy victory over Latoya Lass (one/one) in 2-02.1, with Mister Pickles running home late from last for third.
Local scare ■ Bolinda duo Kari and Paul Males' top class 4Y-0 Bettors Delight/Bella Aurora mare Bellas Delight registered her eighth victory by taking the Wild Ballarat Pace for C4 to C6 class over 2200 metres at Bray Raceway Ballarat on Thursday. Driven on this occasion by Kerryn Manning, Bellas Delight settled one/ one from gate two, before letting rip to cross the pole mark pacemaker Tara Top Lady after travelling a couple of hundred metres. Bowling along at her leisure, Bellas Delight gave her supporters a scare halfway up the running when Tara Top Lady made a serious bid for victory, failing by a head in 1-58.
■ Eight year old Legacy Of Power/Karamea Minaret gelding Son Of Pariel registered his first victory since August 2010 when successful in the Shepparton Rentravision Pace for C1 class over 1690 metres at Shepparton on Friday. Trained in Kilmore by Rita Burnett for brother Patrick, Son Of Pariel driven by daughter Monique taking a concession possied three back along the markers from inside the second row, with Statelyness leading from gate two. Taken into the clear to be three wide on turning, Son Of Pariel under vigorous driving gained the day by a metre from Heezjusdanny along the sprint lane off the back of the leader which finished close up in third place. The mile rate 1-56.9.
Brilliant start from Gate 6 ■ At Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday, Whittlesea trainer/driver Mark Peace's evergreen 10-Y-0 Kiwi bred In The Pocket/Matter Of Fact entire Cincinnati Kid chalked up his 26th victory in 134 outings by taking the Metro Printing Claiming Pace over 2240 metres. Beginning brilliantly from gate six to lead, Cincinnati Kid gave a bold head of the field display to run out an easy winner in advance of Heathbern Diamond which trailed and a death-seating Pembrook Henry in a rate of 1-57.9, taking his stake earnings to $491,045.
This Week’s Meetings ■ Wednesday - Hamilton/Nyah, ■ Thursday - Melton/Ballarat, ■ Saturday - Bendigo, ■ Sunday - Warragul (Cup)/Echuca, ■ Monday - Birchip@Charlton, ■ Tuesday - Mildura. ■ Victoria's biggest provincial carnival commences at Mildura on Tuesday April 10, continuing through to the huge final night on Saturday April 14, with racing also being held on Thursday April 12.
Horses To Follow ■ Lavish Art, Gluteus Major, Bill Pepperell, Carnley, Marlon Brando, Grins Rendition, Machin Out, National Gallery.
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012 - Page 73
Sport
Page 74 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, April 4, 2012
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport
QUIT WHILE YOU ARE IN FRONT
■ Round 1 is over and another triumph for the AFL with huge crowds attending, although not breaking records, still providing exciting results. This leads me back to the NAB Cup and the experts who want it dumped or changed. It proved the form line except for the Richmond v Carlton result. But the ‘bookies and the same experts’ had Carlton at odds on favourites anticipating the Tigers to tumble. The current NAB Cup format should be retained except for the ‘last touch’ free for out of bounds. I know Adrian Anderson is determined to tinker with the I/C bench and trialled the 2+2 this pre-season and I’d recommend 5+1 next year to see if it helps the ‘fatigue factor’ and injuries. Again I would immediately introduce to the ‘Big League Toyota Cup’ the exhilarating 9 point goal and the 3m gap rule for ruckmen contesting ‘throw-ins and ball-ups’ to eliminate the current wrestle-mania. When you see the AFL’s two best giants, Dean Cox and Aaron Sandilands, both well over 200cms pushing aside the 198cm ‘dwarf’ who is trying to retain his front position and knowing the umpires refuse to pay a free for illegal shepherding ‘AA’ has to step in and do the job for them with the 3m Rule interpretation. The results proved the Top Three Hawthorn, Geelong and Collingwood will be the teams to shift from the ‘Flag Fight’ with the balance of the ‘Top 8’ a real fight for survival led by the interstaters WCEs and Freo, SA’s Crows and the Sydney Swans with Essendon, St Kilda, North Melbourne all legitimate challengers while Port Adelaide and Brisbane are on the improve. What an enthralling season ahead. Rd 2 starts Thursday night when Brisbane meet Carlton at the Gabba. Sydney hosts Fremantle on Saturday so the midfielders should be mindful to wear their ‘cricket protective gear’. It could be argued these accidental lower body tackles are legitimate as they are above the knee and below the shoulders and sometimes into a male’s vulnerable nether region. I wonder when umpires or Freo coaching and player leaders will counsel the highly talented and match winner Hayden Ballantyne re his on-field tactics and antics which could cost him and the Club a severe penalty. My advice is “quit while you are in front!”
Thoughts with Polly Farmer ■ I’m saddened to learn my close friend Graham ‘Polly’ Farmer is not well and in deference to his lovely and loyal wife Marlene, who dislikes the medical terminology, ‘Poll’ is suffering memory loss. My thoughts, prayers and best wishes are with Marlene, ‘Poll’ and the family. I shall always remember our initial meeting in the 1956 ANFC Carnival in Perth where six teams competed for the All Australian Champions Trophy. I had the honour of being the Victorian umpire. The ANFC decided the umpires had to be independent so the WA, SA and VFL umpires were banned from their State’s matches. I umpired three of WA’s four games
Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel and was ineligible for the decider between the undefeated teams WA v VFL. ‘Polly’ at 21 years won the Tassie Medal for the Best Player of the Carnival with 9 votes all awarded by me as he was a brilliant talent. He had no chance in the final game as Roy Wright, Alan ‘Butch’ Gale and Des Rowe team-tagged him and shut him down. He learned plenty from that experience. Six years later after twice winning WA’s B & F Sandover Medal in 1956 and 1960, Bobby Davis enticed him to Geelong. He injured his knee in his first game against Carlton at Princes Park. By sheer determination and hard work he beat the injury and in 1963 dominated in the ruck especially in the Grand Final with a 49 points drubbing of Hawthorn. ‘Polly’ was also runner-up to Bobby Skilton in that year’s Brownlow. There is no doubt Graham ‘Polly’ Farmer changed our game in the 1960s with his ‘palming’ skills and lightning hand-passing as accurate as a 30m stab-pass. He developed hand-ball to an elite skill. ‘Poll’ returned to WA to finish his 392 games record. I took him on the 1968 ‘Galahs’ Tour. He was a sensation in our Gaelic games victories. I watched him practice handball into car windows wound down so the ball could squeeze through when delivered horizontally! ‘Polly’ was my business partner in my Footy Week newspaper for Western Australia. I had him on the highest pedestal when I umpired him and in particular broadcasting his uncanny football ability.
Squad to tour Europe ■ The AIS-AFL Academy Squad departed for a 13-day tour of Europe on Saturday (March 31). Lead by High Performance Coach Michael O’Loughlin, 30 of the country’s best players at Under 18 level are visiting Italy, England and for the first time France. The Australian squad took on Box Hill Hawks at the MCG on Thursday as the curtain-raiser to the RichmondCarlton opening round match. Michael O’Loughlin said it is a
fantastic opportunity for the elite under age players to represent their country. “Our game at the MCG was very special for our young team, giving them the chance to shine on our biggest stage before the team tours Europe. “The Australian squad will experience world class facilities and coaching in Italy when they train at the Australian Sports Commission facility in Varese. “They will put their elite training to the test when they take on Europe’s top players; the European Legion in London and the European Titans in an historic game in Paris. “We are really pleased that the AIS-AFL Academy will have the chance to showcase Australia’s game in Europe, while playing a key role in supporting the AFL’s international development plan. “Following on from the Academy’s visit to Gallipoli on ANZAC Day in 2011, this year's squad will honour the sacrifice made by Australian soldiers during World War I by paying their respect at the War Memorial in Villers-Bretonneux,” Michael said. AIS-AFLAcademy mentors Tadhg Kennelly and Matthew Lloyd, AFL Director of Coaching Peter Schwab, AFL National Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan and AFL Ambassador Robert DiPierdomenico will also be part of the tour. The tour highlights: April 2- 5: Training at the Australian Sports Commission facility in Varese in northern Italy April 7: Australia Under 18 v European Legion following the official European launch of AFL 9's in London April 10: Visit to the War Memorial in Villers-Bretonneux where the Australian squad will hold a football clinic with the local community April 12: Australia Under 18 v European Titans in an historic game in Paris Australia Under 18 Team List: Jordan Bourke (Morningside, Qld), Clay Cameron (Mt Gravatt, Qld), Brodie Murdoch (Glenelg, SA), Aiden Corr (Macleod FC / Northern Knights, Vic Metro), Joe Daniher (Aberfeldie FC / Calder Cannons, Vic Metro), Ben Kennedy (Brighton / Glenelg, SA), Brodie Grundy (Unley / Sturt, SA), Matthew Haynes (Yarrambat FC / Northern Knights, Vic Metro), Emmanuel Irra (Port Noarlunga / South Adelaide, SA),
Jesse Lonergan (Launceston, Tas), Liam McBean (Aberfeldie FC / Calder Cannons, Vic Metro), Sam Mayes (Port FC / North Adelaide, SA), Troy Menzel (Golden Grove FC / Central Districts, SA), Tim Membrey (Traralgon FC, Gippsland Power), Jonathan O’Rourke (Gisborne Rookies JFC / Calder Cannons, Vic Metro), Lachlan Plowman (Macedon / Calder Cannons, Vic Metro), Jason Pongracic (Koo Wee Rup FC / Dandenong Stingrays, Vic Country), Mason Shaw (South Fremantle, WA), Josh Simpson (East Fremantle, WA), Tanner Smith (Kalkee FC / North Ballarat Rebels, Vic Country), James Stewart (Glen Iris JFC / Sandringham Dragons, Vic Metro), Jake Stringer (Eaglehawk FC / Bendigo Pioneers, Vic Country), Shannon Taylor (Claremont, WA), Jimmy Toumpas (Flinders Park / Woodville West Torrens, SA), Jack Viney (Carey Baptist / Oakleigh Chargers, Vic Metro), Nick Vlastuin (Eltham / Northern Knights, Vic Metro), Lachie Whitfield (Mornington FC / Dandenong Stingrays, Vic Country), Laine Wilkins (Peel Thunder, WA), Oliver Wines (Echuca FC, Bendigo Pioneers), Nathan Wright (Berwick FC, Dandenong Stingrays). The AIS-AFL Academy is an element of the NAB AFL Rising Stars Program, which supports grassroots players and football communities and helps young Australians fulfil their dream of playing in the AFL. The NAB AFL Rising Stars program provides recognition and a clearly identifiable direction for a players’ career.
First round ratings winner ■ The first-ever meeting between the GWS Giants and the Sydney Swans for premiership points was a television ratings star, comfortably eclipsing the opening match of the 2011 Toyota AFL Premiership Season. AFL Chief Operating Officer Gillon McLachlan said the opening match of the season at ANZ Stadium drew an average of 1.178 million fans on the Seven Network and Fox Sports nationally for the three-hour broadcast, eclipsing the 951,723 fans that watched the opening match of the 2011 season between Carlton and Richmond. McLachlan said the AFL was extremely pleased the match between the AFL’s newest club, the GWS Giants, and its new cross-town rival had finished as the number one program in Melbourne on the primary Seven channel while it had been number one on the second Seven Channel, 7Mate, in NSW. “The first-ever meeting between the Swans and the Giants showed there was an appetite for the newest cross-town rivalry in our competition, that can join the likes of the estab-
Round 2 Thursday, April 5 Brisbane Lions vs. Carlton (G) (N) Saturday, April 7 Essendon vs. Port Adelaide (ES) Sydney Swans vs. Fremantle (SCG) West Coast Eagles vs. Melbourne (PS) (T) Collingwood vs. Richmond (MCG) (N) Adelaide Crows vs. Western Bulldogs (AS) (N) Sunday, April 8 North Melbourne vs. GWS GIANTS (BA) (E) St Kilda vs. Gold Coast SUNS (ES) (T) Monday, April 9 Geelong Cats vs. Hawthorn (MCG) Round 3 Friday, April 13 Carlton vs. Collingwood (MCG) (N) Saturday, April 14 Richmond vs. Melbourne (MCG) Port Adelaide vs. Sydney Swans (AS) Fremantle vs. Brisbane Lions (PS) (T) Gold Coast SUNS vs. Essendon (MS) (N) Western Bulldogs vs. St Kilda (ES) (N) Sunday, April 15 GWS GIANTS vs. West Coast Eagles (BISP) (E) Hawthorn vs. Adelaide Crows (MCG) North Melbourne vs. Geelong Cats (ES) (T)
lished cross-town matches played in WA and SA, and the developing rivalry between the Gold Coast Suns and the Brisbane Lions in Queensland. “As with these other matches, games between the Swans and the Giants will become a fierce contest for bragging rights in the state,” he said.
AFL apps now available
■ The AFL has announced 18 official AFL Club Mobile Apps are now available to Australian football fans for the first time. Australian football fans can now get closer to their favourite club with free Official AFL Club apps, available now on the App Store for iPhone and iPod touch, and Google Play for Android. In an unprecedented first all 18 AFL Clubs have dedicated apps available; giving fans the opportunity to access a standalone app for their chosen club. As the perfect companion to the AFLLive app, OfficialAFLClub apps provide exclusive news and video from inside each Club, as well as live scores and statistics from every match of the 2012 Toyota AFL Premiership Season. Each of the 18 Official AFL Club apps gives fans unparalleled access to results and video, plus exclusive behind the scenes and insider news and video direct from each Club. The features of the free Official AFL Club apps include: ■ Live in-game scores, team and player stats direct from official sources ■ Video on-demand allowing users to watch the latest match highlights and press conferences direct from your phone ■ Latest news and videos from each AFL Club ■ Team selection announcements ■ Match details for the season - including results, ladder position and upcoming fixtures ■ Team stats - including disposals, kicks, handballs, and more
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