Melbourne Observer. 120509C. May 9, 2012. Part C

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012 - Page 51

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Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer

Independent Theatre: Laet reviews .............. Page 53 The Spoiler: Next week’s ‘soaps’ plotlines ........ Page 53 Radio Confidential: Radio ratings released ........... Page 54 Jim and Aaron: Best DVD-film selections ................. Page 57 Cheryl Threadgold: Community Theatre - it’s a wrap ...... Page 60 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD

RUSSIAN, GREEK TREASURES ‘Lieder of the pack’: Ashlyn Timms

First-class cast of musical all-rounders

● Ashlyn Tymms ■ Young Melbourne soprano Ashlyn Tymms has plenty to smile about after winning the National Liederfest singing competition in Melbourne.

Ashlyn, 23, beat a strong field of finalists to win the Robert Salzer Foundation Scholarship, the Henkell Brothers Award and the Goethe-Institut Australien Award.

The National LIederfest celebrates the art of lieder singing, which is normally beautiful foreign language songs performed with piano accompaniment.

The focus is on the simplicity and beauty of the singer's performance and the way the singer works with the accompanist.

Ashlyn performed with pianist Rhodri Clarke, who won the Best Accompanist Award, while Ashlyn and Robert were together awarded the Alan McArthur MemorialAward for best ensemble of voice and piano.

They performed a recital of Korngold, Straus and Grieg, and Ashlyn has just finished a semester of German at the Lyceum Learning Centre and is delighted to be able to continue her studies at the Goethe Institut.

"I'm also currently planning an around the world trip for November/December. Singing is such an expensive path that I'm so pleased I can put the money towards further study, as this is my first year 'out in the real world," Ashlyn explained.

Some readers may have seen Ashlyn as the lead role of Eurydice in The Opera Studio Melbourne's Orpheus and Eurydice at the National Theatre last year.

The National Liederfest is a prestigious competition conducted by the Lieder Society of Victoria and attracts entrants from all around Australia.

- Julie Houghton

● Michael Bingham (Cole Porter) and Cassandra Beckitt (Linda Porter) in Red Hot and Cole at the Williamstown Mechanics Institute until May 19.

Photo: Gavin D. Andrew ■ The Williamstown Mechanics Institute transforms into the stylish 1930s Ritz nightclub for Williamstown Musical Theatre Company’s latest production, Red Hot and Cole, which runs until May 19.

Celebrating the life and music of the great American songwriter Cole Porter, this show comprises an excellent balance of biographical narrative and musical entertainment.

The wonderful smorgasbord of more than 30 of Porter’s songs, includes Anything Goes, You’re The Top, Just One Of Those Things, Don’t Fence Me In and True Love,.Red Hot and Cole is expertly directed by Anna Marinelli, with music rendered by Malcolm Fawcett’s terrific seven-piece band.Williamstown Musical Theatre Company shows traditionally impress with strong singers, so it is not surprising that a first class cast of musical theatre allrounders has been assembled for Red Hot and Cole.

Michael Bingham is well-cast as the enigmatic, talented Porter who, after joining the French Foreign Legion, meets his future wife, Linda Lee Thomas, beautifully portrayed by Cassandra Beckitt.

Space limitation prevents mentioning all performers, but standouts for me were Mark Monroe (Noel Coward), Philippa Chalke (Ada ‘Bricktop’ Smith) and Bianca Giorgetti’s (Elsa Maxwell) powerful vocals.

Choreographer Carla Gianinotti’s dance routines sparkle on stage, particularly the well-rehearsed, entertaining tap numbers.

Norm Cassidy-Anderson’s 1930s art deco set helps establish the elegant atmosphere, as do Suzanne Eltt’s colorful costumes and authentic hairstyles for the period.

The highs and lows of Cole Porter’s life, including familiar names such as Hedda Hopper, Ethel Merman and Clifton Webb, combined with Porter’s marvelous music (he wrote both the lyrics and music for his songs) presented by highly talented performers, musicians and production team, make for a very enjoyable theatre experience.

Season: Until May 19.

Venue: Williamstown Mechanics Institute, Cnr. Electra St. and Melbourne Rd., Williamstown.

Tickets: $32/$28.

Bookings: 1300 881 545. www.wmtc.org.au - Cheryl Threadgold

● Deacon Vladimir Bigdan ■ Melbourne's St Paul's Anglican Cathedral will echo with the glorious sounds of historic Russian music and some modern Greek treasures, on Saturday (May 12).

The Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Choir will sing Tchaikovsky's beautiful 1878 The Divine Liturgy of St John Chrysostom - and while it's an Anglican cathedral, the RMP is bringing a real-life Russian Orthodox cantor, Deacon Vladimir Bigdan with his big bass voice to fill the cathedral.

RMP Music Director Andrew Wailes is passionate about the importance of this music.

“The Divine Liturgy of St John Chrysostom is rarely performed in this country, and what's so special is that as well as being sung in Old Church Slavonic, we will have Deacon Vladimir Bigdan with his glorious bass voice and understanding =of the Russian Liturgy to our performance,” Wailes said.

This Tchaikovsky work is considered one of the finest choral masterpieces of the Russian Orthodox Church, so should be a deeply moving musical experience for the listener.

The Greek section of the program will be a new work by Australian-Greek composer Stefan Cassomenos, the RMP's official accompanist, called Hieratikon, which takes its inspiration from the words of St John Chrysostom.

Cassomenos is a celebrated solo pianist and composer and has been selected as a finalist in the prestigious Sydney piano competition.

To add more Greek flavour, Australian-Greek bass-baritone Nicholas Dinopoulos will bring his fine voice to the work - something that won't be difficult for him as part of his workload is as a cantor in the Greek Orthodox Church.

Acclaimed Australian soprano Merlyn Quaife completes the soloist line up.

The final work on the program is Anastasis, by Australian composer and Jesuit priest Christopher Willcock, which is a setting of a mystical poem of the same name by fellow Catholic priest Anthony Kelly.

There will be professional string players and percussionists and the recorded sounds of authentic Russian Cathedral bells.

Bookings: www.ticketmaster.com.au or 136 100. Enquiries: 0427 028 096.

- Julie Houghton

Page 52 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012

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ShowBiz!

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012 - Page 53

Observer Showbiz

YTT tour in July

TV, Radio, Theatre Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour

NAKED BOYS SINGING

The Spoiler For Those Who Have Lost The Plot

Neighbours

● Lil Banditz Krew will join the YTT tour ■ Young Talent Time grand final winners Lil Banditz Krew will join Rob Mills and the YTT team on its tour in the July school holidays.

Tickets are now on sale through Ticketek for the Melbourne shows to be staged Friday-Sunday, July 1315 at the Palms At Crown.

The YTT team comprises Georgia-May Davis, Lyndall Wennekes, Adrien Nookadu, Tia Gigliotti, Tyler Wilford, Sean Emmett, Serena Suen, Michelle Mutyard, Michelle Mutyora, Nicolas Di Cecco and Aydan Colatiore.

JYM show sell-out

● Sam Anderson (left), as Princeton, Courtney Krulis (Lucy the Slut) and Emma Harris (Kate Monster) in JYM Theatre’s production of Avenue Q. Photo: Des McMillan ■ A show season rarely sells out before opening night, but this happened last week for JYM Theatre’s production of Avenue Q - testament to the quality production currently on offer at the Phoenix Theatre, 101 Glenhuntly Rd., Elwood.

The good news is that JYM Theatre has just announced two additional shows on Wednesday, May 16 and Thursday, May 17 at 8pm.

This was the first Avenue Q production I had seen and the songs are great, with the toe-tapping music beautifully rendered by musical director Philip Setton’s orchestra.

Pip Mushin’s extensive directorial experience is evident in this polished production and the clever, twostorey urbanised set is designed by Yossi Torbiner.

The cast are not only competent actors, singers and movers, but many also skilfully operate puppets for the duration of the show. Very well done.

There is of course much more to these lovable characters than just looking cute – the social commentary in their dialogue covers issues such as racism, homosexuality, homelessness and temptation.

There are also positive messages about finding love, helping others and the philosophical message that “Everything in life is only for now … “ There are adult situations and contemporary adult language, so this is not a show for children. However, if you would like to enjoy an entertaining show with endearing characters, heaps of heart and soul and centrally located in Elwood, then don’t delay booking seats for the two additional performances.

Congratulations to JYM Theatre, whose shows go from strength to strength.Tickets: $38/$33 Bookings: www.jymtheatre.com - Cheryl Threadgold

● Naked Boys Singing at the Beckett Theatre, The Malthouse ■ Malthouse Theatre presents Naked Boys Singing until May 12.

This long running, Off-Broadway musical comedy revue stars the original 2012 Australian cast and features an original score and celebrates male nudity.

Nothing is hidden in the title or in

by Cheryl the show. Eight young men are featured in the program, and the seven Threadgold gentlemen that we saw perform the 14 numbers in the 80-minute one-act Skilful writing like this makes for show, are extremely multi-talented a good play and needs actors with the and exceptionally brave.

They ask us to throw away our in- experience ofWayne Pearn and David hibitions and explain that their nudity Passmore to bring it to life - and they is another window to the soul as they do.

They play Arthur and Liam duelperform very funny, show stopping ling with words as they unfold the songs such as the cheeky, clever and brilliantly choreographed Jack’s Song story, moving around the set, chang(I Beat My Meat) and the poignant ing places like two men sizing up each other.

Window To Window.

The story tempts the audience to This is not a show for prudes, and if you are bothered by nudity, it is not figure out where it is leading right up to the last two minutes. a show for you.

It is an intriguing story that had me The ‘boys’ sing a song called Grahooked from the beginning and it sped tuitous Nudity, and at times, that is exactly what it is, and you can’t help up to a great denouement.

The language and action becomes wondering if some things should be savage but with accidental humour left to the imagination.

However, if you are looking for occasionally breaking up the somesomething quite different, with very times sadistic goading of one characexplicit themes then you will find this ter of another. Michael Finney’s diproduction tantalisingly bold good recting is tight and lean, allowing two experienced actors to use their skills adult fun.

Naked Boys Singing is on at and go for it.

They use Henderson’s taut and Beckett Theatre at Malthouse Theatre, 113 Sturt St, Southbank until economical language with strength Saturday, May 12 at 8pm on Wednes- and full meaning.

From the back of the raked seatday and Thursday, and 7.00pm and ing, it was difficult seeing some of 9.15pm on Friday and Saturday. the crucial action which was downTickets are $48-$75.

Book tickets by calling the Box Of- stage close to the first audience row fice 9685 5111 or www.malthouse and which you would not want to miss. theatre.com.au Carmel Iudica’s office furniture - Debbie Keyt, guest reviewer design against a black backdrop forms the setting.

Together with Lindon Blakey’s lighting and effects, they create and add more pieces to the jigsaw.

To give anything more away would ■ An Unseasonable Fall of Snow,

by New Zealand writer Gary spoil what is essentially a whodunit Henderson, premiered in Victoria last and the audience has to look for the clues. week.

Considerate warning notices of strobe lighting and some coarse language were in evidence in foyer.

Performances: until May 19, Tuesday to Saturday 8pm. No performances Sunday, Monday.

Venue: Mechanics Institute Performing Arts Centre, cnr Sydney and Glenlyon Rds, Brunswick East.

Running time: 75 minutesTickets: $30 full/ $25 concessions and groups of 10+/ $20 . Tuesday performances.

Bookings: www.trybooking.com/ 23212 and enquiries: (03) 9005 6734. ● Unreasonable Fall of Snow - Rita Crispin, guest reviewer

Independent Theatre

An Unreasonable Fall Of Snow

■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven.

■ Monday, May 14. Andrew is annoyed to discover that Karl’s band have a gig at Charlie’s; Summer invests in her romance with Griffin.

■ Tuesday, May 15. Chris lets his fears get the better of him and betrays Aidan; Andrew negotiates with Summer for Chris’s sake.

■ Wednesday, May 16. Chris, still scared of telling his father the truth, lies to Tash about inviting Aidan to his family birthday celebration; Lucas learns that Sonya and Toadie are expecting a baby.

■ Thursday, May 17. Feeling on the outer with Callum and Rani, jealous Sophie invites the ‘couple’ around; and Paul’s quest to boost his profile leads him to hire an intriguing PR manager.

■ Friday, May 18. Toadie worries that Callum’s heading for heartbreak despite Sonya’s best intentions; Kate’s torn about her feelings for Kyle but will she make a play for him?

Home and Away ■ 7.00pm. Weeknights. Channel 7.

■ Monday, May 14. Romeo is at risk of losing a leg after his knee injury, Indi becomes distracted on her date with Logan and Heath makes it clear that he wants to be a part of his baby's life.

■ Tuesday, May 15. The doctors deliver some bad news to Romeo which forces him to reassesses his future. Jett targets Colleen as Gina tries to protect him. And Bianca takes in Heath's fatherhood joy.

■ Wednesday, May 16. Dex tries to improve his physique as April and Lottie vie for his affections.

Xavier suspects that Jett is responsible for Colleen's burglary. Casey takes it a step too far with Mr Townsend.

■ Thursday, May 17. Townsend retaliates against Casey, Sasha encourages Dex and Lottie to get together and Brax is surprised to find that Hayley is still in Summer Bay. ■ Friday, May 18. Liam struggles to help Hayley and Harvey faces pressure leading up to his court case. When Colleen is feeling down, Marilyn assures her that the universe works in mysterious ways.

Funds for arts disabled

■ Arts Access Australia, the British Council and Accessible Arts NSW are pleased to launch a new professional development opportunity for Australian artists and artsworkers with disability.

Unlimited UK will subsidise a group of Australians to travel to London in September to attend the Festival of the World, part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad.

This international arts and disability gathering will showcase Unlimited, the largest program of work by artists with disability ever commissioned.

Whilst in London, participants will also be able to attend a range of panel discussions, meetings and workshops.

Participants will then share their experiences at the Arts Activated Conference in Sydney on October 3031.

“Unlimited UK will give local artists and artsworkers the chance to learn from and interact with their peers from all over the world,” said CEO of Arts Access Australia, Kate Larsen.

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer this once in a lifetime opportunity for Australian artists to experience this incredible festival,” said Director of British Council Australia, Nick Marchand.

“Furthermore, we know the conversations, opportunities and collaborations, inspired by these works in September, will have a profound effect on the arts around the world for years to come,” he said.

Applications close on June 1.

An application form is available on the AAA website or by contacting Emma Brown on emma@artsaccessaustralia.org or 0478 803 920 (voice / text).

Page 54 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Observer Showbiz

Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria

3AW ON TOP IN RATINGS

Country Crossroads 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

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Rob Foenander

GLEN, KENNY IN MELB.

■ Country superstars Glen Campbell and Kenny Rogers will perform at the Palais Theatre on August 23.

The Grammy legends combined have sold multi million albums worldwide and will share the Palais stage for a sensational hit filled concert with their own bands.

A public disclosure was made last year that Glen was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease and so far, this has not affected his performances although this tour Down Under may be his last.

Tickets went on sale this week through Ticketmaster.com.au

McCLYMONTS: NEW RELEASE

■ The McClymont sisters - Brooke, Mollie and Samantha have released their third album Two Worlds Collide.

The group spent much of 2011 touring the USA and ended the year on a high, winning the CMA (Country Music Association, America) Global Artist Award.

The multi award-winning artists will be touring around Australia and America extensively this year.

ADAM HARVEY ON TOUR

■ Australian country music star Adam Harvey will perform at the Hallam Hotel on June 21.

Adam's 10-year career has been rewarded with three Gold albums, total sales upwards of 300,000 albums and seven Golden Guitar Awards; including two for Album of The Year and 2 more for Male Vocalist of The Year.

Amber Lawrence will also join Adam on the tour.

LIONEL RICHIE TUSKOGEE

■ Music legend Lionel Richie has joined forces with some of the biggest names in country music on his new album release titled Tuskogee.

All his hits are there including Dancing On The Ceiling, All Night Long, Easy, amongst others and feature duets with Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson, Shania Twain and The Rascal Flatts etc.

Tuskogee Alabama is Lionel's birth place.

- Rob Foenander

r Observbei z Show

Wednesday, May 9 ■ Sir Sidney Kidman, pastoralist, was born in South Australia in 1857. He died aged 78 in 1935.

Scottish author J M Barrie was born in 1860. He died aged 77 in 1937.

British actress Joan Sims was born in Essex, England in 1930. She died aged 71 in 2001.

● Ross Stevenson and John Burns ■ 3AW won the third radio ratings survey, announced yesterday (Tuesday) with a 15.2 per cent market share of the Melbourne audience, Monday-Sunday, 5.30am-12 Midnight.

Then came: Fox FM, 10.2. ABC 774, 9.6. MMM, 7.7. Nova, 7.3. Gold, 6.5. Magic, 5.9. Mix 101.1, 5.7. JJJ, 5.1. SEN, 4.9. 91.5, 4.3. Radio National, 2.8. ABC FM, 2.6. Newsradio, 1.6.

Ross Stevenson and John Burns won their 3AW breakfast timeslot, increasing their listenership share to 15.2 per cent.

Then came: Fox FM, 10.6. ABC 774, 9.7. MMM, 8.1. Gold, 6.3. Mix, 5.7. Magic, 5.6. JJJ, 5.2. SEN, 5.1. 91.5, 4.5. Radio National, 2.7. ABC FM, 2.4. News Radio, 1.6.

It was an encouraging survey for Magic 1278. Industry sources say there was concern that the newly-revamped MyMP 1377 (which took over from MTR) could have taken a slice of the adult contemporary ‘easy listening’ audience.

My MP was not included in this survey.

Magic 1278, MyMP will compete for the Easy Listening market with a third competitor, Smooth FM, when 91.5 changes formet on Monday, May 21.

Eddie McGuire continues to grow his MMM Hot Breakfast show audience, now 8.1 per cent. Nova 100’s Dave Hughes and Kate Langbroek, which once rated 10 per cent, keeps dropping incremently, and is now 7.6 per cent.

Gold 104.3 took yet another slip in its breakfast show ratings with the audience dropping 0.4 per cent Anthony Lehmann and Brigitte Duclos to 6.3. The programming, since the departure of ‘Grubby and Dee’ has seen a dumbing down, with segments such as the boys-are-better-than-girls ‘Gender Warfare’ pap, and endless phone-in competitions.

Neil Mitchell (3AW) triumphed in the morning timeslot with a 18.4 per cent share, measured 9am-Midnight. He bettered the 10.2 pewr cent attained by Jon Faine (ABC 774), closely followed by Fox FM with 8.8.

Denis Walter (3AW) won the afternoon slot with 11.6 per cent, besting Fox FM’s 10.4 per cent.

Derryn Hinch (3AW) went close to first position, with a 12.4 per cent share, in the slot measured 4pm-7pm. He is on air between 4pm-6pm. Fox FM’s Fifi Box and Jules Lund were just in front with 12.9 per cent.

Bruce Mansfield and Philip Brady 93AW) scored 15.4 per cent in the evening slot, which is measured between 7pm-Midnight. Their audience increases after Sports Tonight finishes at 8pm. Lindy Burns (774) has held a respectable 11.1 per cent of the audience, after the departure of Derek Guille.

3AW also dominated the weekend audience with 15.1 per cent, followed by 774 (9.4), and Fox (9.0).

IndependentTheatre One Show Only ■ One Show Only is a new work from award-winning dancer, director and choreographer Byron Perry and a collaboration with Frontier Danceland (Singapore) that explores how complex systems and patterns can emerge from a multiplicity of relatively simple interactions.

The work is a meditation ● Byron Perry on the rhythms of the cellular and the systematic as well as life cycles and social patterns.

As part of the Arts House Green Tix for Nix initiative, tickets are free for audience members who do not drive to the event at the 3pm performance on Saturday, May 12..\ Venue: Arts House, North Melbourne Town Hall, 521 Queensberry St, North Melbourne Season: Wednesday, May 9 – Sunday, May 13 Time: Wed - Fri, 7.30pm; Sat 3.00pm and 7.30pm; Sun, 5.00pm.

Duration: 40 minutes, no interval.

Tickets: Full $25, Conc $20 Bookings: artshouse.com.au or 9322 3713

Persona ■ Fraught Outfit presents Persona from May 18 – 27 at Theatre Works, 14 Acland St., St Kilda.

Persona is based on the film by Ingmar Bergman and translated by Keith Bradfield. The story tells of an actress falling silent during a performance of Elektra and from then on, refusing to speak.

The nurse assigned to her recovery takes her to a remove seaside cottage. Very quickly, this safe house transforms into a site of terror and isolation, as patient and nurse grow dangerously close.

Directed by Adena Jacobs, Persona will be performed by Karen Sibbing and Meredith Penman.A nightmarish poem about identity, intimacy and the limits of the spoken word.

Warning: Adult themes, sexual references and smoking on stage Season: May 18 - 27. Times: Tue to Sat 8pm, Sun 5pm, Sat matinee May 26 at 2pm. Venue: Theatre Works, 14 Acland St., St Kilda. Preview: Fri May 18 at 8pm / $18 plus booking fee. Price: $28 full, $20 conc, groups 8+ [plus booking fee]. Bookings: www.theatreworks.org.au 9534 3388/

Photo: Richie Lipp

● Meredith Penman and Karen Sibbing Melbourne

Observer

On This Day Thursday, May 10

Friday, May 11

Saturday, May 12

Sunday, May 13

Monday, May 14

Tuesday, May 15

■ American actor and dancer Fred Astaire was born Frederick Austerlitz in 1899. He died aged 88 in 1987.

S i n g e r- s o n g w r i t e r Donovan (Leitch) was born in Scotland in 1946 (66).

Lead singer with Irish rock band U2, Bono (Paul Hewson) was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1960 (52).

■ US songwriter Irving Berlin (Israel Baline) was born in Russia in 1885. He died aged 101 in 1989.

Actor Frank Thring was born in Melbourne in 1926. He died aged 68 in 1994.

US Phil Silvers was born in 1911. He died aged 74 in 1985.

■ Nurse Florence Nightingale was born in Florence, Italy, in 1820. She died aged 90 in 1910.

She was known as “The Lady With The Lamp’.

English comedian Tony Hancock was born in Birmingham, England in 1924. He died aged 44 in 1968.

Songwriter Burt Bacharach is 83.

■ Mothers Day. US actress Beatrice Arthur (Bernice Frankel) was born in New York in 1923. She died aged 86 in 2009.

Blind American singer Stevie Wonder was born in 1950 (62).

Newsreader Chris Bath was born in Auburn, NSW, in 1967 (45).

■ American singer and actor Bobby Darin was born in New York in 1936. He died aged 37 in 1973.

Australian TV presenter David Reyne was born in Africa in 1959 (53).

Actress Cate Blanchett was born in Clayton, Vic. in 1969 (43).

Actress Ada Nicodemou is 35 today.

■ Former TV presenter Bill Peach was born in 1935 (77).

US singer Trini Lopez was born in Texas in 1937 (75).

Actor/director John Orcsik was born in 1945 (67).

Singer-dancer Rhonda Burchmore was born in Sydney in 1960 (52).

Thanks to GREG NEWMAN of the Birthday Bulletin for assistance with birthday and anniversary dates.

Find out more at www.birthdaybulletin.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012 - Page 55

Page 56 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012

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Observer Showbiz DVD & Blu-Ray Recommendations

â—? Robert Downey Jnr as the legendary Sherlock Holmes and Jude Law as Dr Watson return in the fun-filled action-adventure Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows FILM: SHERLOCK HOLMES - A GAME OF SHADOWS: Cast: Robert Downey Jr, Jude Law, Noomi Rapace, Jared Harris, Stephen Fry. Genre: Crime/Action/Adventure.

Year: 2012.

Rating: M. Running Time: 129 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: **** Verdict: Rousing follow-up to the 2009 box office hit this time has our delightfully eccentric super sleuth Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Dr. Watson join forces to outwit and bring down their fiercest adversary, Professor James Moriarty. Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law punch a hole right through the screen, clearly having a great time and as a result everything clicks right into place, an outrageously fresh, funny, energetic, stylish tour-de-force that will not disappoint fans of the original thanks to the extraordinary and visually breathtaking and exhilarating imagination of director Guy Ritchie (Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Snatch and Rocknrolla). Supporting cast are all superb, most notably Noomi Rapace (The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo) and a scene stealing performance from Stephen Fry as Sherlock Holmes brother, Mycroft Holmes. Flawless set and production design, spectacular action sequences and effects all seamlessly combine to deliver an intelligent, thrilling, edge-of-your-seat, eye-popping adrenaline-pumping adventure full of thrills and punch that explodes with shattering impact from the first frame to the last. a wild ride, and will shake, rattle and rock your senses right to the core. Don't miss this one, it's a blast!

FILM: 5 FINGERS: Cast: James Mason, Michael Rennie, Danielle Darrieux.

Genre: Drama/Thriller.

Year: 1952.

Rating: PG. Running Time: 108 Minutes.

Format: DVD. Stars: **** Verdict: Screen legend James Mason gives a compelling performance in this outstanding thriller based on an extraordinary true story set during WWII of an ambitious and highly efficient valet for a British ambassador who tires of being a servant and devises a plan to promote himself, with the help of a refugee Countess, by selling top secret information to the Nazis, after which he plans retire with the Countess as his wife. James Mason gives a breathlessly balanced and seemingly effortless performance that ranks with his best including North by Northwest, A Star is Born, Lolita and his masterpiece Odd Man Out. Superb direction by legendary eight time Oscar nominee and two time winner Joseph L. Mankiewicz (The Ghost and Mrs. Muir, All About Eve and Sleuth, to name a few) from a standout screenplay by Oscar winner screenwriter Michael Wilson (A Place in the Sun, The Bridge on the River Kwai, Lawrence of Arabia and Planet of the Apes, among others) all come together make this is one of the most intelligent, captivating and enjoyable spy thrillers ever made!

FILM: SHANGHAI: Genre: Drama/Mystery/Romance.

Cast: John Cusack, Ken Watanabe, Chow Yun Fat, Gong Li, Jeffrey Dean Morgan.

Year: 2010.

Rating: MA15+.

Running Time: 105 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: *** Verdict: An atmospheric 1940's period piece which revolves around an American who returns to Shanghai shortly before the attack on Pearl Harbor only to become embroiled in a corrupt political Japanese occupied Shanghai and discover the suspicious death of a friend, and while trying to unravel the mysteries of the death, in the seedy underbelly of the city he discovers a much larger secret that his own government is hiding. This is a well executed contemporary film-noir reflective mix in the vein of such classics as The Third Man, Casablanca, Odd Man Out, and many others, but sadly, misses the mark and does not reach anywhere near the status of those, however, it does have plenty to offer and should not be passed by. From mysterious clandestine meetings, dark rainy streets, spies and an impending world war, Shanghai has an excellent cast who all deliver with great vigour (it's great to see Japanese and Hong Kong screen legends Ken Watanabe and Chow Yun Fat on screen together), a beautifully filmed romantic-war-drama with well staged period detail, exciting action sequences, a good solid mix of thrills and chills, and sting in its tale.

Melbourne Observer - www.MelbourneObserver.com.au - Page 57

Movies, DVDs

With James Sherlock

Reviews by Aaron Rourke

THE DEVILS

â– (R) (1971). 107 minutes. Two Disc Special Edition available through BFI on U.K Region 2 DVD. Explosive in its subject matter and dazzling in its execution, The Devils is one of the most cinematically enveloping experiences ever made, created by a visually flamboyant filmmaker working at the peak of his powers.

Causing outrage when released in 1971, the film, after long studio and censor battles which still continue to this day, has finally been given a deluxe DVD release, allowing moviegoers to see what is undoubtedly a masterpiece.

Set in 17th-century France, we are introduced to a turbulant time in the country's history, where church and state united to destroy the authority of smaller local governments, so they could have almighty, unquestioned control of the nation.

The church meet resistance in the town of Loudun, where Father Urbain Grandier (Oliver Reed) uses his newly appointed power to stop their protective walls from being pulled down.

Locking horns with Officer of the Crown Baron de Lanbardemont (Dudley Sutton), who is working for Cardinal Richelieu (Christopher Logue), Grandier (who has also been abusing his position for self-gain) will see his career, life, and faith changed forever, especially when convent head Sister Jeanne (Vanessa Redgrave), obsessed with the handsome priest, is used by the Church and Crown to bring the increasingly honourable Father down, making Loudun an easy target.

Working from the highly acclaimed play The Devils by John Whiting and the meticulously detailed 1952 historical novel The Devils Of Loudun

by Aldous Huxley, screenwriter/director Ken Russell (Billion Dollar Brain / Women In Love / The Music Lovers / The Boy Friend / Altered States) has combined period fact with wild-eyed style and flair to incredible effect, allowing us to experience the complete hysteria that surrounded these welldocumented events.

Showing political and religious corruption, how people can be brainwashed and manipulated, and seeing one person rise above his own failings to find an honest voice, Russell intertwines these themes beautifully, making a richly textured story that works on both a personal and political level.

Only previously available on VHS in a terrible pan-and-scan transfer, this new DVD release is a revelation, showing viewers what a lavishly mounted production The Devils actually is.

Presented in its proper aspect ratio of 2.35:1 with a clean, clear transfer, the look of the film is truly eye-popping (the extraordinary stain-glass lighting in some scenes is completely lost in the video version).

The massive sets (which took up the entire backlot at Pinewood Studios) designed by the late Derek Jarman (who became a director himself, helming films such as Edward II and Jubilee), are majestic and imposing, vividly bringing this world to life, but also perfectly working in with Russell's surreal atmosphere.

Being able to see these sets in their entirety helps make the director's

large-scale vision feel satisfyingly complete.

Also standing out are the costumes

by Shirley Russell, an exquisite blend of vibrants colours and striking blackand-white.

All this is exceptionally well-captured by cinematographer David Watkin, whose brilliant work can now be fully appreciated with this release.

An immersive, highly effective score by Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, and split-second perfect editing by Russell regular Michael Bradsell is work of the highest order, making this one of the most magnificently crafted films to ever come out of Britain.

Performances are outstanding, with Reed in career-best form, and Redgrave is easily as good here as she was in Julia (1977), for which she won her Oscar.

The only downside is that this is not the complete, uncut version originally envisioned by Ken Russell.

While noticeably longer (by several minutes) than the butchered U.S version, this is still shorn of two scenes that were re-instated in the restored Director's Cut, which was screened in the U.K in 2004 (there is also footage missing that Russell had to cut back before the movie was released in 1971).

However, to have the film at least back in its original U.K theatrical version is a blessing in itself, and it will definitely do until we are able to see Russell's 2004 cut.

BFI deserve special mention for getting this version released at all, and enormous praise for the quality of the film's presentation, as well as for the large number of extras.

These include an entertaining audio commentary from director Russell (who sadly died in November 2011), U.K presenter Mark Kermode, editor Bradsell, and documentary filmmaker Paul Joyce; an involving 1971 making-of running 22 minutes; 8mm footage showing the construction of the massive sets which runs 8 minutes; an excellent 2002 documentary (made by Joyce and presented by Kermode) that goes into thorough detail about the film's production and subsequent controversy, running 48 minutes; a 12 minute Q & A session between Russell and Kermode filmed before the screening of the 2004 Director's Cut; and both the U.K and U.S theatrical trailer, showing two very different advertising campaigns between the two countries.

There is also a 26-minute short film made by Russell in 1958 entitled Amelia And The Angel, which deals with religious themes in a much sweeter and whimsical manner.

Also included is an informative 40page booklet. One of the most unfairly criticised and attacked films in cinema history, The Devils has finally received the kind of DVD release it deserves, and can now be seen in a wonderful transfer accompanied by numerous, well-detailed extras.

Once maligned, this truly artistic film should now be regarded as a genuine classic. All we need now is for the Director's Cut (along with all the footage cut from the film as a deleted scenes extra) to be released on BluRay. (Note : A multi-region DVD player is required).

RATING : ***** - Aaron Rourke

Melbourne

Observer

Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. THE AVENGERS. 2. THE LUCKY ONE. 3. THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL. 4. THE HUNGER GAMES. 5. AMERICAN PIE: REUNION. 6. BATTLESHIP. 7. DR. SEUSS' THE LORAX. 8. TITANIC 3D. 9. WISH YOU WERE HERE. 10. SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: MAY 3: ACT OF VALOR, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST 3D, DELICACY, KING OF DEVIL'S ISLAND, LAST REEF 3D, MY AMERICA, THE FIVE YEAR, ENGAGEMENT, THE WOMAN IN THE FIFTH, W.E. MAY 10: ANTON CHEKHOV'S THE DUEL, DARK SHADOWS, IRON SKY, SAFE, TRISHNA. THE DVD TOP SELLERS: 1. WAR HORSE [Drama/War/Jeremy Irvine, Peter Mullan, Emily Watson].

2. WE BOUGHT A ZOO [Drama/ Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson].

3. THE ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN [Family/Animated/Jamie Bell, Andy Serkis, Daniel Craig].

4. MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: GHOST PROTOCOL [Action/Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner].

5. STRAW DOGS [2011/Crime/ Drama/James Marsden, Kate Bosworth].

6. THE IRON LADY [Drama/Meryl Streep, Jim Broadbent].

7. HAPPY FEET TWO [Family/Animated/Robin Williams, Elijah Wood, Matt Damon].

8. THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN - Part One [Drama/ Fantasy/Robert Pattinson].

9. TOWER HEIST [Action/Comedy/ Matthew Broderick, Ben Stiller, Casey Affleck, Alan Alda].

10. PUSS IN BOOTS [Animated/ Family/Antonio Banderas, Selma Hayek].

Also: REAL STEEL, ATTACK THE BLOCK, DRIVE, THE EYE OF THE STORM, DOLPHIN TALE, MIDNIGHT IN PARIS, MONEYBALL, THE IDES OF MARCH, MACHINE GUN PREACHER, MELANCHOLIA. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS [Adventure/Robert Downey Jr, Jude Law].

SHERLOCK HOLMES + SHERLOCK HOLMES: A Game of Shadows.

THE DESCENDANTS [Drama/Comedy/George Clooney, Amara Miller, Shailene Woodley].

SHANGHAI [Drama/John Cusack, Kem Watanabe, Chow Yun Fat, Gong Li].

THE BANG BANG CLUB [Action/ Ryan Phillippe, Taylor Kitsch].

NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: THE FIVE FINGERS: [Mystery/ Crime/Drama/James Mason].

THE ADVENTURES OF SHERLOCK HOLMES: [4 Movies + entire 39 Episode U.S. TV Series/Crime/Mystery/Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce].

Turn To Page 63

Page 58 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012 Melbourne

Observer

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Lovatts Crossword No 19 Across

1. Able to be modified 6. Run away (4,3) 10. Crumpling 16. Drunkard 17. Canary Islands port, ... Palmas 19. Endure 20. Sheep fibre 21. Brass instrument 22. Snatched 23. Wallop 26. Church senior 28. Alliance 30. Smiles 31. Recite 33. Composer, Sir Edward ...

35. Serviceable 37. Wild grass 38. Fork point 39. Espionage agents 41. Mountain call 43. Supplement, ... out 44. Fragrant flower 45. Scornfully disobey 46. Corrosive substance, ... soda 48. Aquatic mammals 50. Contributes 51. Devout 52. Small fenced-in area 53. Sore secretion 55. Ice-cream server 57. Respectful 60. Ethnic bigots 62. Young man 64. Fire-fighting fixtures 67. Mass 68. Damages (bodywork) 69. Public pool 71. Achiever 72. Endorse (motion) 74. Camouflage colour 75. Italian farewell 77. Naked rider, ... Godiva 79. Bravery badges 82. A single entity 83. Peruses 85. Betray, ... on 87. OK (informal) 89. Tennis barrier 90. Ashen 91. Epsom annual horse race 92. Actor, ... Gibson 94. German Mrs 96. Distort 98. The N of NB 99. Synagogue scholar 100. Send back 102. Sort (through) 104. Cut (timber) 106. Gets 107. Tout 109. Cargo 111. Be unfaithful to (3-4) 112. Nothing 113. Milkshake ingredient 114. Ship's spine 116. Fraud 118. Frog relatives 119. ... of Carpentaria 121. Incursion 123. Woodwind instrument 125. Fibbed 127. Can metal 128. Excursion 130. Sunbeams 132. Truck compartment 134. Palm cereal 136. Tanzania's ... es Salaam 137. Squalid 139. Large racing yacht 140. Tennis ace, ... Nastase 141. Fishing-line fibre 143. Convict's ball & ...

Across 145. Mortuary table 147. Lawyer's charge 148. Wound with dagger 149. Ready for picking 150. Pledge 152. Put strain on 154. Writer, ... Blyton 156. Basketball shot, ... dunk 158. Flavouring herb 159. Oxlike antelopes 161. Acorn bearer 163. Prince Edward, ... of Wessex 165. Spicy lentil dish 167. Hunger pain 169. Restate 171. Fabric join 173. Cropping up 175. Silver bars 177. Pet's parasites 179. Ills 181. Nipples 182. Lion's neck hair 183. Honey wine 185. Positive replies 187. Dismiss 189. ... & downs 190. Kitchen flooring 191. Female opera singer 192. Cloth remnant 194. Security lapses 196. Non-clergy 197. Antarctic inlet, ... Sea 198. Judo level 199. Beijing's former name 202. Deplete 204. Cycled 205. Fast planes 206. Counterfeited 208. Auction 210. Knight's mount 212. Filled pastries 213. Sports team 214. Infant babble (4,4) 216. Happily ... after 217. Contactable (2,4) 219. Realms 221. Devonshire tea cake 223. Red-rind cheese 225. Perform 226. All-in fight 227. Open tart 230. Long films 232. Snowfields elevator (3,4) 235. Shopping precincts 236. Mother 238. Smash into 240. Anaesthetic gas 242. Exclusive group 243. Dispatches 244. Town plan 245. Physician 246. Attacked (3,2) 247. City, ... Angeles 248. Nursemaid 249. Ring-throwing game 251. Hallucinogenic drug (1,1,1) 253. Electricity power source 255. Greener 256. Revise (text) 258. Cash disc 259. Cases 260. Belonging to us 261. Beer 262. Divorce order (6,4) 263. Gizmos 264. Armless (dress)

Down 1. Marriage cheat 2. Vibrates 3. Pixie 4. Very eager 5. Radiant 6. Destines to grim fate 7. At summit of 8. Smoke vent 9. Tale 11. False pretences 12. Push for 13. Unrefined 14. Partook of liquor 15. Aphrodite & Athena 16. Moved to & fro 18. Regrettably 24. Clue 25. Low platform 27. Swollen heads, big ...

29. Yes vote 30. Tile mortar 31. Potatoes 32. Even so 34. Stretch 36. Alias (1,1,1) 38. Cheap booze 39. Indian gowns 40. Drink delicately 42. Windies batsman, Clive ...

45. Pasture 46. Desert plants 47. Kill selectively 49. ... & Gomorrah 51. Dried plum 52. Jerks 54. Voyage 56. Primp & ...

58. Peeper 59. Black wood 60. All set 61. Neck warmer 63. Date of offensive (1-3) 65. Cosmetics boss, Elizabeth ...

66. Israeli city, ... Aviv 68. Sheikhdom, Abu ...

70. Dedicatory verses 72. Cloyingly sweet 73. Duress 74. Roadway edgings 76. Rowing aids 78. Jabbers 80. Vaporised 81. Removes whiskers 83. Resist openly 84. Half 86. Fox brush 88. High temperature 91. Actor/singer, Sammy ... (5,2) 92. Fade (away) 93. Touch with tongue 95. Flying saucers (1,1,2) 97. World Wide Web (1,1,1) 99. Cheese skin 100. Entertainer, ... Harris 101. Layers 103. Mexican food shell 105. Carol, The First ...

107. Common seasoning 108. Afternoon meal 110. Gentle strokes 113. Humdrum 115. Lawful 117. Groaning 118. Close-fitting 119. Cunning 120. Polishes (car) 122. Tibet's ... Lama 124. Pyramids country 126. Blowpipe missiles

Down

129. Commercials 130. British flying force (1,1,1) 131. Produce 133. Overalls, ... & brace 135. Bullfight cry 137. Big cricket hit 138. Unique model (3-3) 142. Persona ... grata 144. African anteater 146. Inclination 148. Clever 149. Betrothal token, engagement ..

151. Scrutinising (accounts) 153. Every day 155. Sketched 157. So! 158. Provides with personnel 159. Squall 160. Obtain (support) (4,2) 162. Bend to pray 164. Mekong valley nation 166. Holidays owed, time in ...

167. Coal mines 168. In attendance (2,4) 170. Abated 172. Breakfast or dinner 174. Enervates 175. Forbids 176. One, numero ...

178. Browns (meat) quickly 180. Disfigure 182. Feel the loss of 184. Michaelmas ...

186. Skim on ice 188. Environmental treaty, ... Protocol 190. Plenty 191. Challenged 193. Midges 195. Filter 197. Cotton spool 198. Avoid 200. Age 201. Candied 203. Requires 205. Abandon (lover) 206. Financial penalties 207. Shady tree 209. Flee to wed 211. Duck's mate 212. Agreement 213. Window ledges 214. Confused 215. Fuses (of bones) 218. Coffee lounge 219. Surfer, ... Slater 220. Sailors 222. Troop formations 224. Flour factory 226. Yacht's principal canvas 228. Antiquated 229. Crooner, ... King Cole 231. Hardens 233. Leo animal 234. 'Tis (2'1) 235. Death in Venice author, Thomas ...

236. China's ... Zedong 237. Pacify 239. Portable 241. Horse-riding show 243. NE US state 244. Corpse repository 248. Fixes with hammer 250. Ayatollah's land 252. Former Italian currency 253. Castle ditch 254. Model, ... Macpherson 257. Used spade

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012 - Page 59

Solution on Page 39

MEGA

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www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 60 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Observer Showbiz AUDITIONS ■ Peridot Theatre: Me and Jezebel (by Elizabeth Fuller) May 20 from 3.00pm by appointment only at Unicorn Theatre, Lechte Rd., Mt Waverley. Director: Helen Ellis. Audition bookings: 0429 355 465 or ellisproductions@me.com

Local Theatre

PERIDOT’S PEPPERCORN TREE SHOWS

■ Beaumaris Theatre: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat May 11 at 7.30pm and May 12 at 10.00am at 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Debbie Keyt. Audition bookings: 0401 450979.

■ Peridot Theatre: The Peppercorn Tree (by Alison Campbell Rate) Until May 12, Wed - Sat at 8.15pm 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: Disney's High School Musical, May 18 - 21 at MDX Dance Studios, Unit 2/ 1 Akuna Drive, Williamstown. Directors: Ang Cuy and Stuart Dodge. Audition bookings: 1300 881 545.

■ Croydon Parish Players: A Murder is Announced (Adapted for the stage by Leslie Darbon from the book by Agatha Christie) Until May 12 at the Croydon Uniting Church, Tallent St., Croydon.

Director: Jen Gay. Performances: May 8, 10, 11 at 8.00pm, May 12 at 6.00pm. Tickets: $20/$18, Ch.U15 $15. Bookings: 0447 014 584 www.croydonparishplayers.com

■ Altona City Theatre: Sweeney Todd May 20, 22, 24, 27 at the Hobsons Bay Community Workshop, 280 Queen St., Altona. Director: Dean Mitchelmore; Musical Director: Ian Nisbet. Audition bookings: 9398 5508.

■ Croydon Parish Players: HMS Pinafore May 28, 29 at the Croydon Uniting Church Hall, Tallent St., Croydon. Director: Phillip Crompton: Musical Director: Andrea Crompton.

Enquiries: cromptstar@aanet.com.au

SHOWS ■ Torquay Theatre Troupe: Rabbit Hole (by David Lindsay Abaire) May 17 - 26 at 16 Price St., Torquay. Director: Gay Bell. Tickets: $19/$15. Bookings: 5261 9035.

■ Sunshine Community Theatre Inc: Breathing Corpses (by Laura Wade) May 17 - 19 at 8.00pm at the Dempster Park Hall, 82 Phoenix St., North Sunshine. Director: Tess MauriciRyan. Tickets: $15/$12. Bookings: 0407 802165 www.sunshinecommunitytheatre.webs.com ■ Mansfield Music and Drama Society: Footloose the Musical May 18 - 26 at the Performing Arts Centre, View St., Mansfield. Director: Michael Isbister. Tickets: $20/$15. Bookings: 0413 740069.

■ 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 ■ 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 ■ 1812 Theatre: I Hate Hamlet (by Paul Rudnick) May 24 June 16 at 3-5 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: John Mills. Tickets: $25. Bookings: 9758 3964 or www.1812theatre.com.au ■ Brighton Theatre Company: Three Days of Rain (by Richard Greenberg) May 24 - June 9 at Brighton Theatre, Cnr. Wilson and Carpenter Sts., Brighton. Director: Doug Bennett.

Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 1300 752 126 www.brightontheatreco.com ■ Moreland Theatre Company: Twelfth Night (by William Shakespeare) May 24 - June 2 at the Mechanics Institute, 270 Sydney Rd., Brunswick. Director: Sam Browne. Tickets: $20/ $15. www.moreland.org.au ■ Eltham Little Theatre: 10 Minute Quickie Play Festival May 24, 25, 26 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre,1603 Main Rd., Research. Tickets: $20/$30 Gala Night. Bookings: 9437 1574.

■ 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. Bookings: ■ Werribee Theatre Company: Busybody (by Jack Popplewell) May 25 - June 2 at the Crossroads Theatre, Cnrs.

Synnot St and Duncans Rd., Werribee. Tickets: $20. Bookings: 0401 800 196 www.werribeetheatrecompany.org.au ■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: MASH May 30 - June 16 at 39-41 Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Adrian Carr. Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: 9735 1777 www.lilydaleatc.com

Melbourne

Observer

With Cheryl Threadgold

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Heiress (by Ruth and Augustus Goetz) Until May 19 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Vicki Smith. Tickets: $24/$22/ $20. Bookings: 9587 5141.

■ Gemco Players Community Theatre Inc: A Season of Ken Purdham (Three plays on love, life and death written by Ken Purdham) May 10, 11, 12, 18, 19 at 8.00pm and May 13, 19 at 2.30pm at the Gem Performing Arts Centre, Kilvington Drive, Emerald. Bookings: 0411 723530 www.gemcoplayers.org ■ 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.

■ 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 305771.

■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Scrubbers (written and directed by Cenarth Fox) May 31 - June 9 at the Strathmore Community Hall, Loeman St., Strathmore. Tickets: $20/$15. Bookings: 9382 6284.

■ Swan Hill Theatre Group: Oliver! May 31 - June 16 at the McCrae St. Theatre, Swan Hill. Director: Nikki Holt. Evening performances: 7.30pm, matinee at 2.00pm. Bookings: 0438 006274.

Bullshot Crummond

● Pictured rehearsing a standoff scene for The Basin Theatre Group’s production of Bullshot Crummond are Zane Kelly (Bullshot Crummond), Simon Ulrich (Professor Rupert Fenton) and Peter Fowler (Otto Von Brunno).

Photo: Sally Larwood ■ The Basin Theatre Group presents Bullshot Crummond from May 11 to June 3 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin.

Directed by Cameron South, this is a hilarious parody of the adventures of the intrepid war hero, Bulldog Drummond, immortalised in the books by ‘Sapper’.

The season starts with a Gala Chicken and Bubbly Opening Night on Friday, May 11 and continues Thursday to Saturdays at 8.00pm and Sundays at 2.00pm until June 3.

Tickets: $22 include complimentary parking, programme, refreshments and supper with the cast.

Group bookings of 10 or more attract a discount price.

Book online (without fees) at www.thebasintheatre.org.au of phone 1300 784 668 (between 7pm and 9pm only).

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.

INDEPENDENT THEATRE

‘C’EST SI BON’ CABARET

■ Cabaret chanteuse Rebecca Morton will bring a touch of Paris to South Melbourne’s Butterfly Club this month with an exclusive evening dedicated to love, life and romance.

Funny and heartwarming C’est Si Bon (It’s a Wonderful Life) is a story about embracing life, in spite of everything and finding love the second time around.

Morton performs songs from the 1930s through to the 70s and guarantees to touch the hearts of audience goers.

Showcasing her sophisticated singing and acting skills with C’est Si Bon, Rebecca incorporates songs from artists as diverse as Judy Garland, Jacques Brel, Kurt Weill (Pirate Jenny) and Joni Mitchell.

C’est Si Bon is a creative collaboration between Morton and show director Deborah Sonenberg.

Sonenberg, a Victorian College of the Arts graduate, has previously operated in numerous creative formats including film and theatre.

A WAAPA graduate, Morton has worked in theatre for more than 15 years in Australia and abroad, from rural Victoria to Hong Kong.

Career highlights include singing for The Victorian State Opera Company and The West Australian Opera Company.

She recently appeared at Chapel-off-Chapel in Prahran and the Castlemaine State Festival in The Sparrow and the Showgirl, her own cabaret show about Edith Piaf and Marilyn Monroe.

Venue:, Butterfly Club, South Melbourne Date: May 22-27 Times: 8pm Tues/Weds/Sun. 9pm Thurs/Fri/Sat Tickets: $28 Full, $25 Conc, $23 group of 8 or more For more information visit: www.thebutterflyclub.com, www.rebecca.morton.net.au - Cheryl Threadgold

● Rebecca Morton

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012 - Page 61

Real Estate News

Page 62 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Horses

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012 - Page 63

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

CHAMPIONS ALL ■ I can't remember in my time having so many champions racing at the one time here in Australia.

Plus on top of this, three of those I am about to refer to, are unbeaten in all their starts.

Black Caviar needs no introduction as she continues on her merry way, with 20 wins from as many starts, then brilliant filly, Atlantic Jewel, seven from seven, and the top two year-old, Pierro, six from six.

Collectively, they have won approximately $9 million between them, and don't forget two of them are only two and three years of age.

Black Caviar, the oldest at five years, tops the charts, with just under $5½ million..

Many racegoers label a horse a champion because of certain attributes, but to declare a horse a champion, everything has got to fit in the puzzle.

The above three you could never question.

On top of these three stars, you have the mighty mare from Sydney, More Joyous, who has won 19 races from only 26 starts, with over $ 4 million in stake money, also a five year old- mare.

All up, four real champions, have won more than $13 million.

Now it could be that three of them, could clash in the richest weight for age race in the world, the Cox Plate, at Moonee Valley in October.

In an early market released by TAB Sportsbet, they have the brilliant filly, Atlantic Jewel, who will be four on August 1st, favorite at $ 2.50. (6-4 in the old), from More Joyous at $5.50, then another great filly Mosheen at $7.00, the

Ted Ryan

at Morphettville.

The gloss was taken off the good win, because of the appearance of the wonder mare, Black Caviar, but the threeyear old filly was most impressive.

Prepared by leading Sydney trainer Clarrie Connors who now has a satellite stable at Geelong, Invest, patiently ridden

by Mertens, got the chocolates from another Victorian trained filly, Our Miss Jones, trained by Mick Kent at Cranbourne.

Invest; the daughter of leading sire, Dehere, won her second race from 13 starts with five minor places.

It was great to see Peter Mertens break through for another Group One on top of his last, which was on Sirmione, in the Australian Cup for the master trainer, Bart ■ It was great news Cummings. recently when popular Of late, things jockey, Peter Mer- haven't been going too tens, booted home the smoothly for Peter winner of the Group with personal probOne Australasian lems, but you wouldn't Oaks over 2000 metres find a nicer bloke in the jockey ranks.

It's great to see some of our senior riders getting back into the action, with Darren Gauci, recently winning a double at Mornington.

Peter Moody trained stayer, Manighar, is short at $7.50, while Pierro is on $ 12.00.

Another interesting acceptor is All Too Hard, a half brother to Black Caviar, who has only had three starts, for two wins and a second to Pierro, in the Sires Produce Stakes.

This was after winning the Sires at Flemington the start before, at only his second race start.

At present he is being quoted at $ 17.00, but there is a lot of water to flow under the bridge before the Cox Plate in October.

However, no matter which way you look at it and who goes around, it will be one of the best fields ever in the great race.

Change of luck

A fine gesture ● Louise Cooper

■ A fine gesture by the owner of top filly, Mosheen, Phil Sly, at Caulfield recently,

Observer Racing

when he donated $5000 to the National Jockeys Trust.

Phil, who is battling cancer, and is in remission, has always supported racing, despite his battle with the dreaded disease.

Chief Executive of the Victorian Jockeys' Association, Des O'Keefe, is doing a great job as top man, and is always on the ball in his discussions with the Media.

Des organises many functions throughout the Racing Season, always looking for ways to help jockeys who may suffered a bad injury, or have fallen on bad times.

The last race at Caulfield recently was named in honour of a young lady rider, Louise Cooper, a Camperdown based jockey, and mother of two young boys, whose life changed forever when she fell in a race at Edenhope nearly two months ago.

Louise was airlifted to the Alfred Hospital, and transferred to the Austin Hospital's spinal unit, where it was clear she had done significant damage to her spinal cord, as well as sustaining other worrying injuries to her vertebrae, neck and ribs.

Louise still has no movement form above her waist down, and unfortunately the best medical advice, is that this condition may not change.

This is what the National Jockeys' Trust is all about, trying to help people like Louise and others, asking for support not only for those of us in the racing industry, but anyone who can help on the outside.

● Atlantic Jewel Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754 funds for local causes.

Since 2003, the tour has travelled 270,000 kilometres, ■ The Victoria Rac- and given thousands ing Club's Emirates the chance to see the Melbourne Cup tour iconic trophy in more will celebrate its10th than 210 tour Anniversary this places across New year, as it highlights the Zealand.

Winning jockeys, contribution the Melbourne Cup has owners and trainers made to Australia's so- and raceday officials, cial, sporting and rac- have accompanied the trophy as tour ambasing culture.

Over three months sadors to share their in to the great from August, those on insights race. the tour with the The VRC plotted $175,000, 18-carat this year's course, havgolden trophy will en- ing called for cities gage in events in rural, and towns across regional, and metro- Australia and New politan locations and Zealand, to tender for other community visit. groups, councils, Applications for loschools, tourism, and cations closed last racing bodies, a month, and host destichance to unite in cel- nations will be anebration and raise nounced next month.

10th Cup tour

● Peter Mertens Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754

Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 57

Top 10 Lists NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: HERE'S LUCY: Season 5.

WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? Series 4.

BONANZA: Season 1.

THAT'S MY BOY: The Complete Series.

HOME TO ROOST: The Complete Series.

INSPECTOR REX: Series 1 to 8 - Each Season Sold Separately.

THE KILLING: The Complete Series 2.

THE SONGS OF PATSY CLINE. TOP BLU-RAY SELLERS: 1. WAR HORSE [Drama/War/Jeremy Irvine, Peter Mullan, Emily Watson].

2. MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: GHOST PROTOCOL [Action/Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner].

3. WE BOUGHT A ZOO [Drama/Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson].

4. THE ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN - 3D & 2D Blu-ray [Family/Animated].

5. HAPPY FEET TWO - 3D & 2D Blu-ray [Family/Animated/Robin Williams].

6. STRAW DOGS [2011/Crime/Drama/ James Marsden, Kate Bosworth].

7. PUSS IN BOOTS 2D, 3D + DVD [Animated/Family/Antonio Banderas, Selma Hayek].

8. THE IRON LADY [Drama/Meryl Streep, Jim Broadbent].

9. TOWER HEIST [Action/Comedy/Matthew Broderick, Ben Stiller, Casey Affleck, Alan Alda].

10. THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN - Part One [Drama/Fantasy/Robert Pattinson] Also: Drive, Attack The Block, Machine Gun Preacher, Real Steal, Midnight in Paris, The Ides of March, Moneyball, The Eye of the Storm, Dolphin Tale, Melancholia.

NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS [Adventure/Robert Downey Jr, Jude Law].

SHERLOCK HOLMES + SHERLOCK HOLMES: A Game of Shadows.

THE DESCENDANTS [Drama/Comedy/George Clooney, Amara Miller, Shailene Woodley].

SHANGHAI [Drama/John Cusack, Kem Watanabe, Chow Yun Fat, Gong Li].

THE BANG BANG CLUB [Action/Ryan Phillippe, Taylor Kitsch].

- James Sherlock

Jazz winners named ■ Schools from three states shared in awards at Generations in Jazz.

A combined total of 145 school bands and vocal ensembles from around Australia including Queensland, Western Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and Northern Territory, totalling 2500 participants , it was a weekend of playing, performance and entertainment The No 1 band position in the country went to Marryatville High School when they were awarded first place in Division 1 after being adjudicated by overseas guest Gordon Goodwin and Australia's world renowned musician James Morrison.

Playing one of Mr Goodwin's charts the Marryatville Big Band pulled out all stops knowing that this was a chart Gordon Goodwin played with his own Big Phat Band.

Music Director Rob Chenoweth, Marryatville High School, was extremely proud and excited for his students who had also taken out the coveted award in 2011.

Victoria also had strong representation with Scotch College and Blackburn High School taking out second and third place respectively in the Division 1 section of the Stage Band Awards - the most experienced bands in the country.

Music Director from the Riverland Band, Alan Geddie, was recognised as the Music Director who reflected the "spirit of jazz'.

Mr Geddie has been attending Generations in Jazz for many years and on some occasions will do so even if he doesn't have a band to continue to see his skill base grow.

- Contributed

Page 64 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs

Redwood tour ■ All harness followers will be excited to know that the Metropolitan & Country Harness Racing Association (MACHRA) is taking a first ever coach tour to ‘The Redwood’.

The coach will depart Moonee Valley Tabaret car park at 8.45am and Tabcorp Park Melton at 9.15am on Sunday July 15 for this famous all trotting afternoon at Maryborough, returning around 7.30pm.

The cost of the tour is $65, which includes a threecourse luncheon, afternoon tea, admission and a racebook.

For bookings , and they will go fast, contact myself (0401 679 745) or John Muller (9743 5507).

Raid The Stakes ■ Melton's Graeme Lang combined with son Gavin to land the Dan O'Grady Memorial 2-Y-0 Pace over 2180 metres with Raid The Stakes, a colt by Mach Three from the former handy race mare Soky Rose.

Starting from the extreme draw, Raid The Stakes spent most of the race at the rear of the field, with the first starter Witzend leading from the pole.

Weaving between runners in the last lap, Raid The Stakes gained a split on straightening and finished at a great rate to nose out the hot favourite Goodtime Mike (one/one) in a rate of 2-03.4, with Quads On The River a head away in third place after moving three wide solo at the bell.

Treble for stable ■ The Charlton meeting on Monday April 30 belonged to astute Coimadai trainer Adam Kelly who chalked up a stable treble, with Just The Guardian, Smooth Freddy and Shifting Sand all winning their respective races.

Just The Guardian (Holmes Hanover/Cape Mirany) led throughout from gate three to land the Buloke Shire Claiming Pace over 2100 metres in a rate of 1-59.1 from Touch My Pocket which trailed and Heathbern Diamond (one/one).

Smooth Freddy (Our Sir Vancealot/Mindpower) did similar in the Charlton Community Newsletter Pace for C0 class over 2100 metres in accounting for Superbarby (one/two) and Mister Seelster which raced in the open. The mile rate 2-00.8.

Shifting Sand (Jennas Beach Boy/Princess Kenru) moved forward to park in the open, before outstaying his rivals in the VHRCSC Pace for C3 & C4 class over 2100 metres in 2-01.6.

Dashing clear on turning, Shifting Sand defied all challengers in defeating Saint Flash (one/one) and Johny Rondo which used the sprint lane after trailing the weakening leader Tejay Cullen.

Scored by half-head ■ Echuca's Lindberg family (Peter, Phyllis and Steve) landed the Choicehotels.com.au Pace for C1 & C2 class (mares) over 2100 metres at Charlton with 4-Y-0 Kanyapellasunshine, a home bred daughter of Dawn Ofa New Day and I Like Sunshine.

Trained jointly by Peter and Phyllis, Kanyapellasunshine driven by Steven led throughout from gate three to score by a half head in 2-01 from the hot favourite Please Dont Talk along the sprint lane from three back the markers, with Shards Of Ice third after facing the breeze.

This Week’s Meetings ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Wednesday - Shepparton/Ararat, Thursday - Melton/Geelong, Friday - Kilmore/Melton, Saturday - Bendigo, Sunday - Cranbourne/Robinvale @ Mildura, Monday - Hamilton, Tuesday - Echuca.

Horses To Follow ■ Majestic Swan, Driving Withtess, Urban Icon, Clarrie Stone, Guesturestar, Quads On The River.

MELTON MAGIC AT TABCORP PARK ■ Friday's Tabcorp Park Melton fixture was huge for the Melton area, with the Bacchus Marsh trained Brunelleschi winning the $50,000 Vicbred Super Series Three Year Old Trotters Final and bonny mare Bellas Delight the $100,000 Vicbred Super Series Four Year Old Mares Final, both over 2240 metres.

Brunelleschi (Tennotrump/Box Brownie) a $4000 purchase trained and driven by Amy Tubbs for mother Kate, was eased at the start from gate three, settling closer to last than first before circling the field racing for the bell to park outside the hot favourite Shes An Image.

Taking a slender lead on the final bend, Brunelleschi defied all challengers on straightening to score a meritorious victory in advance of the much improved El Paco and Waikare Patricia in a mile rate of 2-02.3.

Bellas Delight (Bettors Delight/BellaAurora) bred and raced by Melton resident Rob Auber and partners, driven by local reinsman Greg Sugars and trained at Bolinda by Kari and Paul Males, drew awkwardly in gate four on the second line and as expected, settled well back in the field.

Sent forward four wide racing for the bell to park outside the pacemaker Lively Moth, Bellas Delight took a narrow lead approaching the home turn with the South Australian Repelem (three wide last lap) in hot pursuit, joining her on turning.

Showing a ‘never say die’ attitude in the straight, Bellas Delight fought on like a caged lion to score from Repelem which ran the race of her life, with Shakchloe (three back the markers) third. The mile rate 1-57.8.

29th win ■ Evergreen 12-Y-0 Albert Albert/Byatross gelding Mister Douglas chalked up his 29th victory when making his 210th race appearance, to land the SEW-Eurodrive Claiming Pace over 1720 metres, much to the delight of Melton based partowner/trainer Joanne Justice and reinsman brother John.

Starting from the extreme draw, Mister Douglas' chances looked forlorn at the bell when last in the three wide line, however when taken five and six wide running into the final bend, motored home at 100 miles an hour to score running away in advance of Heathbern Diamond off a three wide trail

Baker’s Delight

Harness Racing

Success at Geelong

Melbourne

Observer

lenbaker@ bigpond.net.au

with Len Baker

on the back of the third placegetter Karlsruhe.

Tradition ■ The traditional Terang harness meeting during the famous Warrnambool three day galloping carnival took place on Tuesday May 1, with several classes being catered for.

Armstrong trainer Brooke Hansen does a fine job with her small but select team of standardbreds and was rewarded when Modern Art/ Flourescent Lombo gelding In The Frame Lombo scored in the Noir Rover 3-Y-0 Pace over 1680 metres at Terang on Tuesday May 1.

Driven by Kerryn Manning, In The Frame Lombo led throughout from the pole in accounting for El Grande (one/ two - three back the markers last lap) in a rate of two minutes even, with AmberluAngus (one/one) third.

Too strong ■ Terang's Marg Lee snared a winner on her home track, when Rustler Hanover/Sayaka 4-Y-0 gelding Keayang Rustler greeted the judge in the Phonse Hickey Memorial Pace for C2 & C3 class over 2180 metres.

Driven by son Jason, Keayang Rustler began fast from gate five, but was unable to head off Dee Millane immediately inside him, being left in the open.

Gaining cover shortly after when Princess Fiona moved forward, Keayang Rustler ended up three back in the moving line with a lap to travel as Narra Operative circled the field from near last to park out at the bell.

Despite being three wide for the final circuit, Keayang Rustler proved too strong over the concluding stages for Nicola Jaccka which followed him home, with Djibouti third after trailing the pair.

The mile rate 2-01.8.

Dad, girl ■ Bacchus Marsh father and daughter Alan and Amy Tubbs took the honours for the night, chalking up a stable double with Blazeaway Macray scoring a good win in the 2nd Heat of the Empire Stallions Vicbred Super Series for 3-Y-0 Fillies over 2180 metres and 3-Y-0 gelding Barkers Hall the Dick Benger Memorial Pace for C1 class over 1680 metres.

Blazeaway Macray (Rustler Hanover/Kano Blaze) bred and raced by Ian Kitchin along with Brian and Paul Dobson showed blistering speed to lead throughout from outside the front row.

Challenged strongly by the hot favourite and Victoria Oaks winner Beauty Secret approaching the home turn which had enjoyed a sweet trip one/one, Blazeaway Macray dug in deep on straightening to score by 1.9 metres in a rate of two minutes, with Jilliby Daphne 11.7 metres away in third place after trailing the winner.

Barkers Hall (Blissful Hall/Charming Lombo) raced by a enthusiastic group of owners Paul and Brian Dobson, Ken Adams, Les Joslyn, ‘Mickey’ Spillane and breeder Keith Semmens, also showed great speed to lead all of the way from gate six in defeating Rosharni which trailed and Palazzo Bromac off a three wide trail in 2-04.9.

Led all way ■ Inverleigh hobby trainer/driver Bob Kuchenmeister sent punters home from Terang on a sour note after winning the Terang Co-Op Trotters Handicap for T0 or better class over 2180 metres with $19.20 chance Illawong Magic.

Placed twice in 15 outings going into to the race, Illawong Magic (Kadabra/Kwik Kiss) raced by Martin and Kaye Hartnett led throughout from the pole to win in a breeze over Strapperama and eleven year old Master Kiesey in a rate of 207.4.

■ At Geelong on Wednesday, Sedgwick trainer Pam Drechsler was successful with 6-Y-0 Christian Cullen/Bo Bonita mare Flaming Sambuca in the Next Race Meeting 10th May Pace for C1 class over 2100 metres.

Given a soft trip from gate three by John Caldow trailing the leader Justabitoffun (gate five), Flaming Sambuca using the sprint lane scored by 1.1 metres in 2-03.7 over Justabitoffun, with Ronal Lad running home late for third.

Used sprint land ■ Junortoun's Roma Pocock combined with Bendigo based Ellen Tormey to land the Barooga Lions Club Pace Final for C1 class over 1670 metres at Cobram on Thursday with 8-Y-0 Village Jasper/ Lumatrol gelding Village Patrol much to the delight of the students and administrators of the Bendigo Harness Racing Industry Training Centre Board Of Management.

Given a lovely passage from gate two trailing the pacemaker River Breeze (gate four), Village Patrol finished best along the sprint lane to gain the day by a nose over the leader in 1-59.4, with Falcon Doors (one/two) also using the sprint lane for third.

Little difficulty in leading ■ Kialla trainer/driver Stephen Boyington has injury plagued 7-Y-0 Our Sir Vancelot/Classic Suzanne gelding Mohican War Drum airborne at present, chalking up his 7th success (6 this season) in only 13 outings when greeting the judge in the Moira Shire Pace for C3 to C5 class over 2170 metres at Cobram.

Having little difficulty in leading from gate three, Mohican War Drum coasted at the head of affairs, running out an easy winner in advance of Reefs Achievement which trailed from the pole in 2-01.2, with Essene third after racing in the open.

Overcame backmark ■ Another Shepparton winner on the day was 5Y-0 Wind Cries Maori/Olefairy gelding Makemcry Maori who overcame a daunting 40 metre equal backmark to land the Cobram CWATrotters Handicap for T0 or better class over 2170 metres.

Driven by Leigh Sutton, Makemcry Maori trained at the Kialla complex by Dean Pattison ran home strongly three wide in the final circuit to score from his co-backmarker Sun Samurai and Lord Deville which trailed the weakening pacemaker Yankee Avenue. The mile rate 2-04.3.

Victorious at home track ■ Bendigo's Trevor Monk was victorious at his home track Lord's Raceway on Thursday, with 4Y-0 Red River Hanover/River Radio gelding Red Riverbed taking the Bendigo Bank Pace for C1 class over 1650 metres.

Working from gate two to cross the polemarker Baywatcher, Red Riverbed was then restrained to take a trail on the free running Pelling, receiving a sweet passage.

Using the sprint lane, Red Riverbed finished best to score from Aristotleonassis off a three wide double trail from last, with Wolfgang (one/one) third. The mile rate 1-57.8.

Six-metre victory ■ Elmore's Keith Cotchin was also a winner at Bendigo, when smart Bettors Delight/Galleons Bud filly Rubeelee greeted the judge in the Apco Service Stations 3-Y-0 Pace over 2150 metres.

With John Caldow in the sulky, Rubeelee from gate three was sent forward shortly after the start to park outside the pacemaker Ruby Slippers trained on the track by Bruce Morgan.

Surging clear prior to the home turn, Rubeelee registered a 6 metre victory in 2-00.1 over Gesturestar (three wide last lap from last) and Twindet which trailed the leader.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012 - Page 65

Saej stops traffic Models From Left: Sofia,Belinda,Ainslie,Jodie,Joanne,Paris,Chandra,Kristen,Carolina and Tania

IT might be gloomy outside but SAEJ Design knows how to turn up the heat on the street.

A group of Glamorous Girls took to the streets of Hampton recently modelling the latest designs by SAEJ Design. With the experience skills of Creative Director Terri Svoronos and Fabulous Photographic work by Mad Dame Photography, Hair by Hair Stylist Leanne Ciantar/BIBA ,the Beautiful girls strutted their stuff in colourful dresses designed by Ellen Loutas.

"Its not about what’s in fashion right now, it's about how you wear it in style and feel comfortable in your own skin."

Ellen has been involved in the Clothing Industry for over 20 years both as Designer and Fashion Consultant, having worked with many influential design houses in and around Melbourne as a Freelance Designer/Patternmaker, Ellen says she loves what she does , anyone can dress up and look glamorous , it begins with having good self esteem.

Ellen has shared her fashion knowledge over the years and has helped younger up and coming designers with their own brands.

Award Winner SAEJ Design specialises in all areas of Garment construction, having won awards three years in a row, for Australian Achiever Awards, Melbourne's Fashion's and Clothing Services and supplies category, Ellen says we offer Made To Measure Designs, Industrial Pattern making and more recently an Alteration Service. We can create a style for that Special Occasion or make a costume for your child’s next concert.

SAEJ has worked with not only in Women's wear but Men's and Children swear too. Customer Service is of utmost importance in SAEJ Designs philosophy in providing excellent turnaround times, quality workmanship, building excellent rapport with clients and customer satisfaction.

For further information, contact saejdesign@hotmail.com by Appointment only or call Ellen on 0419 310 821.

Checkout www.saejdesign.com.au and like our page on FACEBOOK SAEJ DESIGN.

Page 66 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

AFL HAS TOUGH FIGHT AHEAD

■ We knew there would be many one-sided results with GCSuns and GWS but we expected improvement from Melbourne, Bulldogs, Port Adelaide, Richmond and Brisbane.

The Tigers appear to have the best chance of winning some games but only Adelaide, Essendon and North Melbourne are genuine challengers to change the regular Final Eight places.

Andrew D, his Commissioners and his management team knew when expanding to 18 teams they had a tough fight ahead to hold crowd and supporter interest.

The media coverage is mammoth.

It is like a giant octopus with tentacles stretching out and strangling every detail, major or minor, of players, clubs, administration, rules and governance of our game both on and off the field.

Competiveness, like Courage, Contest, Challenge, Combat, Conflict, Control is high on the essential ‘C’s’ list because a successful AFL is like the steel chain – it is only as strong as its weakest link.

And for the next three years there will be at least three weak links.

Study on footballs

■ The AFL this week released details of an unprecedented research project involving the in-depth analysis of the footballs used across all levels of the game.

For the first time in the AFL’s history, a research study will evaluate the

Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel performance characteristics of Australian footballs and assess potential innovations that may further develop the game.

The AFL in conjunction with Victoria University’s Institute of Sport, Exercise and Active Living (ISEAL) will be working closely with stakeholders across the industry, including the support of all Australian football manufacturers, as part of this project.

Andrew Dillon,AFL General Manager – National and International Development, said that the football was such an integral and unique part of

the game that it deserved a careful assessment to ensure quality, consistency and affordability into the future.

“This research project aims to examine a fundamental element of the game that has never before been subject to detailed analysis across every level of the code,” Mr Dillon said.

“As part of the AFL’s charter we have a responsibility to gather in-depth knowledge about all aspects of the game.

“This joint research will closely examine the performance characteristics of Australian footballs to see how we can maintain, or even enhance,

both the playing and viewing experience.

“For example, we know there is a natural variance in the specifications of AFL footballs - such as dimensions and different inflation levels - and via this research we plan to analyse these characteristics to work towards greater consistencies.

“It will also provide us with important information around the development of football technology, manufacturing and accessibility at the community level and the variation of performance within and across different brands.”

Mr Dillon said the AFL was constantly balancing the need to safeguard the code’s proud heritage with the modern demands of new technology and advances in manufacturing.

“Research and development are constants in our game and by undertaking this initiative we’re seeking a detailed understanding of Australian footballs to ensure our players and fans continue to participate and enjoy the game as much as possible,” Mr Dillon said.

Round 7 Friday, May 11 Melbourne vs. Hawthorn (MCG) (N) Saturday, May 12 GWS GIANTS vs. Gold Coast SUNS (MO) Adelaide Crows vs. Geelong Cats (AS) Richmond vs. Sydney Swans (MCG) (T) Essendon vs. West Coast Eagles (ES) (N) Brisbane Lions vs. Collingwood (G) (N) Sunday, May 13 North Melbourne vs. Western Bulldogs (ES) (E) Fremantle vs. Port Adelaide (PS) (T) Monday, May 14 St Kilda vs. Carlton (ES) (N)

Research will consist of two phases with the initial stage identifying key physical and performance characteristics of Australian footballs through a literature review and interviews with a range of industry stakeholders.

This will provide a baseline for performance and subjective testing and involves Australian footballs from Auskick sessions right through to the elite AFL level.

A second phase will involve a series of objective and subjective tests to a range of Australian footballs under varying circumstances.

These tests will provide a performance variation comparison between balls within the same brand and across different brands, to identify the main differences in ball performance against each characteristic. Potential innovation and current technology, such as GPS ball-tracking, may also form part of this testing.

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 9, 2012 - Page 67

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

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