The Arts Centre Gold Coast — Culture Magazine (Issue Three)

CULTURE The Arts Centre Gold Coast

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Gold Coast City Gallery

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Evandale Parklands

A Portrait of the

Martu +

All that Glitters It’s festival time Deadly sins with Natalie Weir Off the hook with Dylan Moran

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Intimate and evocative contemporary theatre

THE FORWARDS

ALL MY LOVE

THE CONFIDENCE MAN

FOOTY, FRIENDSHIP AND RECKLESS BEHAVIOUR

THE STORY OF HENRY LAWSON AND MARY GILMORE’S LOST LOVE

AN INTERACTIVE THRILLER

Thu 9 Jul — Sat 18 Jul

Thu 22 Oct — Sat 24 Oct

Wed 16 Sep — Sat 19 Sep

www.theartscentregc.com.au

Issue 3 — July 2015 Credits Chairman Kerry Watson Deputy Chair Richard Munro Directors Dr Patrick Corrigan AM Cr Jan Grew Tomas Johnsson Christine Lohman Dr Patrick Mitchell Steve Romer Executive Staff Destry Puia, General Manager Anna Carroll, Precinct Transition Manager Sue-Anne Chapman, Communications and Visitor Services Manager Megan Connors, Development Manager Michael Foster, Commercial Services Manager Ante Krajinovic, Precinct Services Manager John Walsh, Gallery Manager Lynda White, Corporate Services Manager Culture Team Natalie Faulkner, Marketing Supervisor Michelle Macwhirter, Marketing Coordinator / Culture Editor Chris Bouffler, Designer and Brand Coordinator Virginia Rigney, Senior Curator – Program and Audience Development Contributors: Stephanie Pickett, Anastasia Scott-Myles, Wendy Kessell, Sam Worboys

Welcome to Culture The extraordinary cover photo by Tobias Titz is just one of the many artworks that will immerse you in Martu life of the western desert in We don’t need a map (p.5). Don’t miss this and other exhibitions in Gold Coast City Gallery.

Our Independent Season kicks off in July with some awesome local talent in The Forwards (p.6). We’re offering disability-friendly dance workshops (p.19) and the first ever all-inclusive Glitter Festival begins with a fabulous mix of performances and events this September.

See you at the show.

Destry Puia — General Manager

Contents STAGE – Event 04 All that glitters is Gold Coast STAGE – Theatre 06 Stepping forward 08 Theatre in ten minutes 09 Secret literary love stories STAGE – Dance 10 Deadly sins STAGE – Music 12 The Fabulous Singlettes 13 Channelling popstars 14 Jazz and blues

Contact PO Box 6615, GCMC QLD 9726 (07) 5588 4000 www.theartscentregc.com.au

STAGE – Comedy 16 Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase 17 Off the hook with Dylan Moran 17 Superwog 18 Comedy in The Basement

Editorial contributions or comments can be sent to macwhirter@theartscentregc.com.au.

OPPORTUNITIES 19 Disability no barrier to dance

Culture is published by The Arts Centre Gold Coast. The publication of editorial does not necessarily constitute endorsement of views or opinions expressed. The publisher does not accept responsibility for statements made by advertisers.

SCREEN 20 Coming to the Arts Cinema

Acknowledgement of Country We acknowledge and pay respects to the traditional Aboriginal people of the Gold Coast and their descendants. We also acknowledge the many Aboriginal people from other regions as well as Torres Strait and South Sea Islander people who now live in the local area and have made an important contribution to the community.

ART 22 23 24 25 28 28 29 29

EVENTS 34 Dining in the Dark 34 Melbourne Cup OFFSTAGE 35 Balancing art with business 36 Towards the Riverside Gallery 37 Talking space with Dr Patrick Mitchell 38 Corporate Christmas parties made easy 39 Recipe of the season 41 Calendar Jul-Sep 44 Snapped!

48 Support Us & Benefactors 49 Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast 50 Partners

Get social with us

Border art abounds Celebrating traditional crafts Creativity at Stradbroke Island We don’t need a map Regions of alienation Watershed GLOWS Collection Highlight PhotoFun at the Gallery

KIDS & TEENS 30 A springboard for talent 32 Cranky Bear goes cabaret 33 Marvellous magic

Cover Image: Tobias Titz, Portrait of Muuki Taylor 2012, large format Polaroid 665 film, printed as archival inkjet print. Courtesy Fremantle Arts Centre.

The information in this magazine is correct at the time of printing (June 2015).

STAGE EVENT

All that glitters is Gold Coast Cabaret, theatre, film, horse racing, art and a pool party… the first-ever Glitter

Festival will celebrate the sparkling LGBTIQA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer and Allies) communities on the Gold Coast.

Get ready for a week-long, inclusive celebration of arts and culture, featuring: Glitter Highlight – LIZA (on an E) Following several sell-out seasons in the West End and Australia, Trevor Ashley channels the iconic Liza Minnelli in Liza (on an E). Raucous, ruinous and just the right (or wrong) side of risqué, Ashley delivers Liza’s greatest hits in a power-packed performance. Don’t miss it on Friday 2 October at 7.30pm in the Arts Theatre.

Glitter Race Day One of the most sought-after tickets on the Gold Coast will be the Glitter Race Day to be held at the Gold Coast Turf Club. Frock up for what is destined to be a signature Glitter event.

Glitter Cabaret Laugh, cry and guffaw with some of the most popular cabaret and comedy artists in the country. From the sublime to the ridiculous, our cabaret program will have something camp and fabulous for everyone.

Glitter Community Day Sunday is fun day and will bring all communities together in a day of lusciousness by the lake. Evandale Parklands will provide the perfect location for pop-up food stalls and markets. In the family-friendly environment we’ll deliver

an entire day’s outdoor activities. Designed to bring community together, this is a celebration of the incredible network of organisations supporting the LGBTIQA local communities.

Glitter Film Be uplifted, challenged or inspired with a range of LGBTIQA film programming.

Glitter Wine Bar – Tell Me A Story Join us in the Glitter Wine Bar for poety slams, sing-a-longs and intimate personal stories that will inspire and entertain.

Glitter Pool Party The final Monday recovery event (on Labour Day weekend) will showcase the spectacular venue Catalina’s at the Southport Aquatic Centre. Be prepared to get wet!

Glitter Art Artists explore LGBTIQA themes in an evocative exhibition. Become involved in community projects and activities.

The festival is committed to bringing together our diverse communities through quality arts and culture activities. It will celebrate everything that is wonderful about Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer and Allied Communities.

The Arts Centre Gold Coast’s Performing Arts Manager Brad Rush said

‘The gay and lesbian community on the Gold Coast needs an event like this. The community has provided enough anecdotal feedback to warrant the event. They have been looking for something to bring them together.’

‘The Festival will offer a variety of performances and social events so people can pick and choose what they like. We are passionate about providing unique programming platforms and opportunities for both artists and community. The Festival is also supported by City of Gold Coast and numerous industry and community stakeholders. It has a solid foundation for growth and support,’ said Brad.

Glitter is not just for the gay and lesbian community. It's an all-encompassing, inclusive community event. Ultimately it’s about belonging, and art is a gift for all. With no boundaries of social status, age, race, or sexual identity, this festival will be an incredible celebration for everyone.

Glitter Festival runs from Monday 28 September to Monday 5 October. The full program will be available from Monday 3 August at www.theartscentregc.com. au.To keep up-to-date and to join in the conversation around this fabulous festival, sign up to our eNews and follow Glitter Festival on Facebook and Instagram @glitterfestivalgc.

Image: Trevor Ashley stars in Liza (on an E) Photo: John McRae

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STAGE EVENT

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When the Pintoon Parrots make it to the grand final, they are challenged by grog and jealousy as mateship gives way to anger and violence. The Forwards is an unforgettable theatre work about the pressures on young people to balance their sporting skills, hopes and dreams, with a culture of binge drinking, racing cars and small town rivalries.

Image: Sam Foster, Hayden Jones and Ellen Bailey star in The Forwards. Photo by Saffron Jensen

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Stepping forward Local theatre-makers Sam Foster and Hayden Jones brought us the edgy, sold-out season of The Pillowman last year. Before they resurrect The Pillowman for Brisbane Powerhouse, they team up with writer and director Stefo Nantsou to bring us The Forwards, which kicks off our Independent Season this July.

What inspired The Forwards?

Stefo: Sport plays a big role in country towns.

It can be the glue that holds so many people together. With sport comes many associated themes which are the great stuff of drama.

For the players, it’s love of the game, rivalries with other teams, the glory of victory, bitterness of defeat and a possible career path for those talented enough.

For the spectators, it's a social gathering, an opportunity to scream and shout, a diversion from the day-to-day 'grind', to get together with a few mates and get pissed. For a town, it's pride, having a badge of honour, being a winnerand being represented on a unique cultural level.

Country towns are struggling to keep their young people. Jobs are scarce, career paths are few and far between. Boredom is rife, binge drinking is a huge problem, and so too is the attraction to hard drugs like ice.

The play came about from workshops I did with numerous high school students in regional towns. The stories came from the community, the issues came from the young people, and the characters came from my observations and the fictionalising of certain storylines. So it's not a 'personal' play as such, though as a young bloke I played lots of sport (growing up in Newcastle) where suburban rivalries, 'macho' selfrighteousness and binge drinking were the norm. It repulsed me as a lad but as an adult theatre-maker, it's as epic as Shakespeare.

How does Zeal’s style of theatre work?

Stefo: The Zeal style of theatre is based on the multi-skilled performer bringing to life a range of characters, getting into the physicality of a performance and being true to its audience. The piece is 'lifted' by its theatricality. It's not a bunch of characters sitting around talking about 'their problems'.

It's people doing what they do… kicking a ball, dancing to a band down the pub, going to parties, being in dangerous situations, holding secrets, cheating, gambling, raising

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hopes and disappointing loved ones.

I think the mobile phone and social media mania has magnified the theatre experience. People are just not used to live performance anymore and their place in it, that they are a participant. People are so disconnected from the reality around them that when they see a live performance on stage it can be very confronting and a powerful experience.

Who is the piece written for?

Stefo: The Forwards is for anyone and everyone. It works in regional towns, small communities, central Australia and coastal centres. Every town has its sporting history.

The code might be different but the issues and themes are the same. When the play was produced in Budapest in 2006 they changed the code from Australian Rules to football, and they changed little else, the storyline was equally applicable to their situation and easily relatable to their audience.

Where else have you taken The Forwards?

Stefo: The original production toured extensively throughout Victoria and New South Wales between 2004-2007. The Zeal team first mounted the show in 2009 and toured throughout Queensland high schools.

This new production will be an extended ‘director’s cut’ format with a larger storyline, new characters, and a bigger cast. The set will be awesome and the scale of the show will be a surprise.

How do you decide your roles?

Sam: It’s always decided on a show-byshow basis. When you are running your own company you have to wear many hats.

We look at the long list of things that need to be done, including the creative roles like directing and share them out. We work democratically and all the decisions are shared 50-50.

Once we work out our roles, we make sure we don’t step on each other’s toes or

double up. Generally it’s a pretty collaborative process.

Obviously with The Forwards, it’s Stefo’s show and we definitely wanted to get him up here to direct it. It’s a great opportunity to work with him again. He has a wealth of knowledge and is very inspiring to be in the room with. As an emerging director myself, I always learn so much from watching Stefo work. As an actor it’s always an added bonus when the director is also the writer of the piece.

Do you always get along in rehearsals?

Sam: Rehearsals are the playground where you get to explore the characters and themes of the play and work out the best way to communicate that to the audience in an exciting and engaging way. You can’t be too precious, it’s about what works best for the show. You’re always under the pump to a certain degree, pulling all the pieces together.

What is the future of Zeal Theatre?

Sam: Zeal Theatre Queensland will continue to produce and tour shows throughout the state. The Forwards schools-touring version will tour in 2016 as well as The Apology and a new work. We will also continue to offer school workshops as we have done for the past 10 years.

Any additional comments?

Sam: This is an exciting collaboration between Zeal Theatre, Shock Therapy Productions and The Arts Centre Gold Coast.

We have always toured school shows as Zeal Theatre but now that Hayden and I have established Shock Therapy Productions it allows for more opportunities such as scripted works, a web series and short films.

The Forwards hits The Space from Thursday 9 to Saturday 18 July. Adult tickets are $27, Concession $24, Groups of six or more are $24 and Students are $15. Book at www.theartscentregc.com. au or (07) 5588 4000.

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Theatre in ten minutes Short+Sweet is the biggest little play festival in the world, presenting exciting and contemporary works in ten-minute bites. Short+Sweet Gold Coast’s Assistant Festival Manager Peter Murphy talks about this year’s festival.

What has the interest been like this year from writers, directors, actors and independent theatre companies?

We’ve had such an incredible response from our local artists, as well as national and international artists. We’ve set a record again for the number of applications and the standard has just been out-of-this-world!

What can we expect from the drama strand?

My favourite thing about the drama strand this year is how diverse and brilliant the scripts have been. They range from witty satire to heartbreaking drama, via pant-wetting comedies and confronting developmental works. It really is a stunning blend of styles, ideas and genius.

Are there any particularly thoughtprovoking pieces?

It’s a bit early to tell at this stage, with our team of Directors trying to choose which works to produce from the vast selection.

There are certainly some dark stories ready to be told and some complex pieces that will definitely make you think! That’s the best thing about Short+Sweet: On any night, there will be moments that will hit you in the face, moments that tear your heart out, and moments that will make you laugh out loud.

The cabaret strand was popular last year – can you tell us about this year’s program?

I’m really excited about cabaret this year…

Cabaret has been growing, changing and expanding world-wide and we have so many performers who have found brilliant new ways to approach their shows and are really helping to redefine our understanding of what ‘cabaret’ can be.

Is the Gold Coast season separate to Brisbane?

The Gold Coast, Brisbane and Townsville strands are all considered for the same competition. Twelve of the best works of theatre and cabaret from throughout

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Queensland will be shortlisted and presented again on Friday 28 August. At least one work per strand will make it into this list – meaning that at least three Gold Coast acts will be sent to the finals. Despite this, it’s not really about the competition – we’re looking forward to Gold Coast and Brisbane artists working together and sharing their creativity and energy.

What do participants get out of Short+Sweet?

We have so many passionate performers and Short+Sweet provides them with a unique opportunity to meet their peers, develop their skills, practice their craft, or explore an idea with equally passionate and talented artists. It levels the playing field and brings together professional, emerging and recreational artists in a low-stress, high-fun festival atmosphere.

For some, they find themselves with brilliant, new artworks and the festival is just the beginning. Others will just have a fantastic time and will grow together as artists. At the end of the day, it’s all about two things... ten minutes and a stage.

Are there any professional performers or creators out there who got their start in Short+Sweet?

There are loads! The one that gets mentioned the most comes from 2009, when Dead Puppet Society got their start by winning the first ever Short+Sweet Festival in Queensland. Since then, they’ve gone on to present national tours, main stage works at La Boite, and now they’re developing a new show off-Broadway.

Short+Sweet launches and advances countless careers. The winners of last year’s festival (Dirty Sexy Politics) are about to present their first season at Queensland Cabaret Festival. Also, playwright Claire Christian is among a number of playwrights who started with Short+Sweet. David Stewart (NIDA) and Julia-Rose Lewis (La Boite) fall into this category too.

Why should audiences come to see Short+Sweet?

This is a tasting plate of local theatre and cabaret. For one really affordable ticket, you get a diverse line-up of shows, featuring some of the best talent the Gold Coast has to offer, that you would never get the chance to see anywhere else. It’s awesome local theatre and brilliant cabaret in delicious, bite-sized pieces!

Short+Sweet festival will run a Drama strand and a Cabaret strand from 30 July until 8 August at various performance times in The Space and The Basement.

Check the website for the full program and to book www.theartscentregc.com.au.

About Peter Murphy Peter has performed in musical theatre throughout Australia and the world for the past 20 years, including Thriller – Live (UK, Europe and Australia), Australian productions of Les Misérables, Rent and Shout! He played Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar (Scandinavian Tour), and was a featured vocalist in Burn the Floor (Atlantic City).

He also starred in We Will Rock You on London’s West End. Behind the scenes, he headed the Entertainment Team at Jupiters Hotel & Casino, tour managed for The Veronicas, has worked on numerous developmental arts projects and festivals, and is a highly-regarded vocal teacher right here on the Gold Coast.

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Secret literary love stories Don’t miss the story of Henry Lawson and Mary Gilmore’s lost love in All My Love.

Still revered across Australia, Henry Lawson is one of the nation’s favourite writers and poets. His contemporary, Mary Gilmore, was a literary icon and radical socialist. Both were heroes of literature who had enormous influence over each other. Both were later the face of Australia’s currency. Both were secretly betrothed to each other.

At the end of the 19th Century, Mary Gilmore was introduced to the young Henry Lawson. As their friendship developed, Mary found herself caught in the midst of an intense relationship between Henry and his formidable mother. What followed was the beginning of a love affair, soon thwarted by a devastating deception.

While researching Henry Lawson’s life, writer Anne Brooksbank came across some little-known facts about his relationship with fellow poet Mary Gilmore. This led her to unearth some fascinating information about

the true nature of this relationship.

Anne was given access at the Mitchell Library to a typescript copy of Henry Lawson and I, a memoir by Mary Gilmore, which showed that there was an affair or a betrothal between her and Henry Lawson – a story that some Henry Lawson historians had, apparently without reading it, patronisingly dismissed.

Anne Brooksbank then wrote what became a highly-regarded book on the subject: All My Love. Subsequently, Anne, a successful screenwriter as well as novelist, began to work on a dramatisation of the book. She soon saw it as a potentially potent play focusing on the relationship between these two famous people.

Don’t miss the first professional production of All My Love from Wednesday 16 to Saturday 19 September in The Space.

Adults are $32, Concession or Group of six or more is $28, and Students are $17.50.

Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

STAGE DANCE

Deadly Sins Artistic Director of Expressions Dance Company, Natalie Weir, talks about creating her latest work, 7 Deadly Sins.

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STAGE DANCE

Natalie Weir’s career achievements could cause envy in any aspiring dancer or choreographer. She has created over 170 professional works in her 30-year career, for companies like the Australian Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Queensland Ballet, Australian Dance Theatre, Hong Kong Ballet, Royal Ballet School London and Dance North.

Natalie’s signature works with Expressions Dance Company, as Artistic Director, include R&J, When Time Stops and where the heart is, which won a 2011 Australian Dance Award and a 2011 Helpmann Award. Natalie is internationally known for her highly physical partner work, organic movement style and touching insight into human nature.

look like as a physical interpretation. ‘They each explored the seven sins, and from that each dancer then was cast as a specific sin.

Composer Darrin Verhagen was present for much of this development, playing with sound ideas, responding to what was being created in the room,’ says Natalie.

She then worked with designer Bill Haycock to develop a storyboard and design concept, and lighting designer David Walters to discuss light and colour. ‘We then had a five-week creation process to make the work,’ she says. ‘The dancers bring a lot to the creative process, movement and development of characters. It is very collaborative.’

are dangerous, some are quite humorous, but each are powerful in their own way. It has been interesting to look at the sins in a more ancient time and then bring them into a contemporary context.’

The cast The seven EDC dancers are joined by guest dancer, Thomas Gundry-Greenfield, who takes on the role of man who is affected by the sins. ‘All of the EDC dancers are very unique.

They are incredible dancers and artists, and each really brings their sin to life,’ says Natalie.

The deadliest sin When asked which is the most destructive sin, Natalie replies ‘wrath, as it brings about violence, destruction, and self-destruction.

But they all have their moments. Greed is very destructive, as is gluttony and envy.

Sloth is deadly: if someone sees something terrible happening, but is too slothful to help or intervene. Lust can be deadly, when it goes too far, while too much pride is perhaps the most deadly!’

We are greedily awaiting this performance Natalie and have so much pride in presenting it to the Gold Coast.

The inspiration Natalie loves to tell stories through dance and felt the ‘deadly sins’ concept lent itself to be developed into an original story. ‘Not in a biblical sense,’ says Natalie, ‘but I was interested in the crossover of the sins from ancient times into modern times, and how these sins might be part of a modern life.’

As an Artistic Director, Natalie is always looking for ideas for new works that will give each of her dancers a role to sink their teeth into. She says ‘7 Deadly Sins had the potential for specific, strong roles and was full of human themes. Mostly, I thought the idea of each dancer depicting a sin through physical theatre was very enticing!’

The story Like many of Natalie’s previous works, 7 Deadly Sins is a rollercoaster of emotion and drama. ‘The work starts very quietly inside a box and as the sins are unleashed the stage fills, with very exciting, physical ensemble sections. We go on quite a journey as we meet each of the sins and feel their effect emotionally,’ says Natalie.

In development During a four-week creative development, the dancers examined what these sins might

The sins Natalie describes the sins as different but just as strong as each other. She says ‘Some

The costumes ‘The sins emerge in stunning costumes that evoke an ancient/modern feeling,’ says Natalie. ‘Through the work, the costumes are stripped back to simplicity so the movement can be explored thoroughly. The work is mostly in gold, inspired by the paintings by Giotto di Bondone. The stage will look very striking, with quite a few surprises!’

Plunge into a wicked tale of mortal sin and the modern world with 7 Deadly Sins on 11 or 12 September at 7.30pm in the Arts Theatre. Tickets are $54 for Adults, $47 for Concessions, $45 for Groups of six or more or $30 for Students. Book at www. theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

Expressions Dance Company (EDC) is one of Australia’s most exciting contemporary dance companies and is committed to helping Queensland educators deliver quality dance programs in their schools.

Are you a dance teacher?

Intensive teacher workshop

Are you a dance student?

Are you considering a career in dance?

FOCUS, EDC’s professional development program, provides tailored classroom strategies for primary and secondary school dance teachers to explore best practice dance methods and ideas for the classroom.

The workshop will give you practical tools, phrases and exercises for contact and partnering work. You will also learn selected EDC repertoire that can be used back in your classroom.

7 Deadly Sins – School Workshop for Students

Aspire Contemporary Dance Workshop

This workshop is designed to enhance the experience of students attending a 7 Deadly Sins performance. Your students will learn repertoire from 7 Deadly Sins and enjoy a relaxed Q&A session with the dancers. This workshop provides a unique insight into the choreographic processes used to create the production and supports the extensive Teachers Notes supplied.

Do you want to follow your passion for contemporary dance? Led by the EDC dancers, this workshop is perfect for dancers aged 14-17, RAD Intermediate and above, and will focus on contemporary dance technique, task work, learning repertoire and building your confidence!

DATE Wed 9 Sep, 4.00pm – 6.00pm COST Workshop only $75.00, Workshop + ticket to 7 Deadly Sins $100.00 CAPACITY 30

DATE Thu 10 Sep, 12.30pm – 2.00pm COST Workshop only $30.00, Workshop + ticket to 7 Deadly Sins $50.00 CAPACITY 30

DATE Sat 12 Sep, 11.00am – 12.30pm COST Workshop only $75.00, Workshop + ticket to 7 Deadly Sins $100.00 CAPACITY 30

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A Morning With…

The Fabulous Singlettes The 60s and 70s brought the world a countless number of memorable songs, many of which are still enjoyed today.

For almost three decades, performers Naomi Eyers, Melissa Langton and Diane Dixon have travelled the country and world as The Fabulous Singlettes, entertaining audiences with some of the greatest hits from the 60s and 70s.

While it is one thing to simply listen to a song by itself, these ladies go the extra mile to deliver an authentic and nostalgic experience befitting the era. Covers from girl groups including The Ronettes, The Supremes, The Chiffons, The Shangri-Las and Dusty Springfield are part of their repertoire, all of which are complemented with fitting dance routines, humour, beehives and frocks aplenty.

The Fabulous Singlettes’ latest 75 minute show is set to move away from their earnest beginnings. The show will see the trio better reflect each era through multiple costume changes, as they shift from the ‘frocks and beehives’ characteristic of the 60s into the ‘Farrah flicks’ which were popular in the 70s.

Enjoy some nostalgia with The Fabulous Singlettes on Tuesday 4 August at 11am in the Paradise Showroom. Tickets are $19 and include a light morning tea starting at 10.15am. Book at www. theartscentregc.com.au or phone (07) 5588 4000.

Complete your day!

Morning tea A complimentary light morning tea from 10.15am.

Gallery tours Experience the Gallery with a complimentary guided tour at 9.30am or 12.30pm.

COST Free – Bookings essential Lunch Enjoy a delicious lunch (choice of three hot dishes) after the show!

COST $12.50* – Bookings essential High Tea Enjoy a premium selection of finger sandwiches, mini pastry desserts and tea and coffee after the show.

COST $12.50* – Bookings essential.

Only available with purchase of an A Morning With… ticket.

*

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STAGE MUSIC

Channelling popstars

Australia’s fastest-rising cabaret star Naomi Price returns by popular demand with a double-bill of the little red company’s celebrated original pop culture cabarets

Wrecking Ball and Rumour Has It. The Matilda Award-winning Rumour Has It sees Price channel global superstar Adele, belting out all of the Grammy winner’s biggest hits in a 70-minute tell-all that seesaws between MTV stadium concert and intimate bedroom lament.

Wrecking Ball is inspired by pop’s most controversial and colourful headline-stealer Miley Cyrus, set in Nashville at the funeral of Miley’s alter-ego Hannah Montana.

‘These two characters are worlds apart and I am equal parts thrilled and terrified to be tackling them both in one evening of scathing satire, sass and soul-baring vulnerability,’ 31-year-old Price says of the world-first double-bill.

‘Rumour Has It is set to an incredible soundtrack of Adele’s genre-defying original songs - big, profound vignettes about great loves lost and found. It takes audiences on a really moving journey, full of big laughs and a tremendous amount of heart.

‘Wrecking Ball has been described as surprisingly emotional

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and compassionate; our treatment of Miley’s story is an unexpected one, fuelled by an eclectic musical catalogue of dirty American country, gospel and blues.’

For both shows, Price is backed by a big band of Australia’s most sought-after musicians, guaranteeing an unforgettable night of worldclass entertainment.

‘This is undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges of my performance career to date... but I say bring it on!’ says Price.

Join us for an exclusive double-bill of Wrecking Ball at 7pm, followed by Rumour Has It on Saturday 26 September in the Paradise Showroom. Meals will be available from 6.30pm and throughout the performances. Single show - Adult tickets are $32, Concession tickets are $28. Double bill (both shows) $51.20 Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

Images by Dylan Evans. Recommended 15+

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Jazz in The Basement Mal Wood brings us another smooth selection of jazzy sounds with Jazz in The Basement.

Gold Coast Jazz & Blues Club The Gold Coast Jazz & Blues Club draws acclaim for its selection of bands, singers and musicians drawn from all over Australia.

Cakewalk Into Town with the Braben-Jenner Hot Five DATE Friday 3 July The Braben-Jenner Hot Five will take us back to the birth of jazz in the USA playing the ragtime of Scott Joplin and the New Orleans jazz of Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, Jelly Roll Morton, Bix Beiderbecke and Fats Waller.

Swingtime America featuring the music of Glenn Miller DATE Friday 7 August Celebrate the sheer exuberance of the swing era and the music made famous

by Glenn Miller featuring the Mini-Miller band with vocals from Alan Western and Cherryn Lomas. Dance the night away to In The Mood, Moonlight Serenade, Little Brown Jug and others.

Feel the Manouche with the George Washingmachine Quintet DATE Friday 4 September Manouche is a term derived from the Romany gypsies of Europe and was made famous by Django Reinhardt. Feel the Manouche has a 'world music' feel.

Through its use of double bass, guitar, accordion and fiddle, the band achieves a strong melodic groove and is known as gypsy jazz.

All performances are staged in the Paradise Showroom. The bar and bistro open at 6.00pm and the show starts at 7.30pm. Members tickets are $23 and Visitors are $28. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

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American Songbook presented by Mal Wood Stunning jazz vocalist, Tamara O'Callaghan, invites you to share with her some of the most beautiful American melodies ever written. This performance includes music by composers such as George Gershwin, Rodgers and Hart, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Cole Porter, Jerry Herman and more.

Featuring an all-star cast of jazz heavyweights including Leo McFadden on guitar, please join us for a magical evening of timeless classics such as Somewhere over the Rainbow, Hello Dolly, I Got Rhythm, Almost Like Being in Love, Night and Day, Puttin' on the Ritz, Summertime, You are Too Beautiful, Stormy Weather and more.

Celebrate the stars and the stripes on Independence Day, Saturday 4 July in The Basement from 7.30pm. Adults are $29 and Concessions are $22. Purchase on (07) 5588 4000 or at www.theartscentregc.com.au.

Swing into Spring presented by Mal Wood Swing on in and catch the infectious sound of The Calibre Cats at this free event! Lead singer ‘Dollface’ has the pleasure of being supported by some of Brisbane’s finest musicians, who are bound to get you up and dancing! The Cats’ repertoire ranges from neo swing to traditional jazz and blues. Whether you are a dancer or a music lover, this is a show for those who want to let their hair down and jump and jive.

Get swinging on Saturday 12 September on The Terrace from 7.30pm.

This is a free, non-ticketed event.

John Reeves Quintet With a diverse musical background stretching from classical piano to jazz improvisation to the rhythms of Africa, John Reeves offers a jazz experience like no other. John will perform a set of his own compositions, combining the familiar sounds of the roots of jazz, with African rhythms and European harmonies.

John was classically trained in piano at the Royal College Music in London, before immersing himself in London’s jazz scene. He performed with various jazz groups including Mark Sholtez and award-winning jazz vocalist, Ingrid James.

An Arts Queensland grant allowed John to study music in Ghana, and he performed extensively with African groups before returning to jazz improvisation. John is the pianist for The E.M.O Big Band notably performing in the 2015 Brisbane International Jazz Festival.

See the John Reeves Quintet on Saturday 10 October in The Basement from 7.30pm. Adults are $29 and Concessions are $22. Purchase at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

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It’s $1 million poured back into the community.

But it’s bigger than that.

Be part of something bigger.

Owned by local people, Paradise Point Community Bank® Branch delivers all of the products and services you need – from home loans, personal loans, credit cards and insurance, to business banking, financial planning, investments and more.

We’re not a big bank, but, in the things that matter, we’re bigger.

Because being bigger is about more

than just size. It’s about being bigger with your actions.

That’s why our branch invests profits back into the Paradise Point and Gold Coast communities for the benefit of local people.

Why? Because we think banking is about more than just money. We’re about the good that money can bring.

It’s an approach we’ve followed for years – and it works.

Bigger than a bank.

So if you’re not banking with us already, it’s time to join us and be part of something bigger.

Drop by and see the team at Paradise Point Community Bank® Branch. We’re open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and on Saturday from 9am to noon.

Paradise Point Community Bank® Branch, 42 The Esplanade, Paradise Point • Tel 5577 4199

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Paradise Point Community Bank® Branch

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited, ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 237879. S48164-16 (216056_v5) (4/06/2014)

STAGE COMEDY

A unique take on comedy Comedian Corey White features in the Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase, coming to our stage in July.

Winner of the 2015 Best Newcomer Award for Melbourne International Comedy Festival as well as the 2015 Sydney Comedy Festival Best Newcomer Award, Corey White’ s dark humour and unique take on life’s challenges have positioned him at the forefront of the industry. He was one of a select few Australian comedians invited to audition for Montreal’s Just For Laughs.

Corey’s career achievements are impressive, but when you consider his life’s challenges, they’re downright jaw-dropping.

The son of a heroin-addicted mother and a violent alcoholic father, Corey grew up in foster care. He won a scholarship to St Joseph's Nudgee College then studied a Bachelor of Computer Science at the University of Queensland. After leaving university he began experimenting with drugs, culminating in an ice addiction. Burnt out from years of alcohol and substance abuse, Corey went clean and started doing stand-up comedy in 2008.

Corey’s humour is a dark, uncompromising and brutally funny look at the way lives go wrong – and right. Corey tells us a bit about himself.

When did you know comedy was your thing?

The first time I got a laugh on stage. I knew then that I'd be chasing that feeling for the rest of my life. Six years later and I'm still hustling for chuckles from strangers.

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Best gig ever?

The Sydney Opera House. Incredible venue, amazing audience.

What makes you happy?

A combination of neurochemicals including endocannabinoids, dopamine, oxytocin, GABA and serotonin.

Most valuable piece of advice you were given?

You try to be nice and caring towards others so why wouldn't you be nice and caring towards yourself?

What do you want to do when you come to the Gold Coast?

Get a coffee in Surfers Paradise and watch tourists get sunburnt.

What are you working on right now?

These questions. Also a TV show, book and my next festival show.

See Corey White at the Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase on Friday 31 July at 8pm in the Paradise Showroom. Boasting a line-up of the best local and international comics, the festival showcases some of the funniest and freshest emerging talents.

Tickets are $35. Recommended 15+. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

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STAGE COMEDY

Off The Hook

Superwog

With funnyman Dylan Moran

The comedy duo making millions laugh

Dylan Moran has entertained audiences worldwide through his standup comedy tours and television shows, including the BAFTA Best Situation Comedy award-winning Black Books on the ABC. He is once again set to draw plenty of laughs with the Off the Hook tour, headed to The Arts Centre Gold Coast this August.

Renowned for his cynical, observational comedy and standup rants on topics such as ageing, religion, youth and the general absurdities of life, Moran manages to turn life experiences shared by many (the good and the bad) into something genuinely entertaining.

Moran has had a successful career spanning more than two years, earning him many accolades in the process. Near the beginning of his career, Moran became one of the youngest comedians to ever win the Edinburgh Festival’s Perrier Comedy Award in 1996. In addition to his stage performances which have been seen worldwide, he has also held several television and film roles, with experience as an actor, a creator and a writer.

Moran has been described by Dominic Cavendish of The Telegraph as ‘intelligent, perceptive, subtle’ and ‘one of a kind’.

During its tour in the United Kingdom, Moran’s Off the Hook tour also received strong acclaim. Brian Logan from The Guardian gave the show four stars, while other outlets including the Manchester Evening News and Herald Scotland gave it a full five stars.

Taking full advantage of their Greek-Egyptian heritage, the Australian comedy duo Theo and Nathan Saidden launched the Superwog Youtube channel in mid-2008. The pair are particularly renowned for their The Difference Between Wogs & Aussies video series, a satirical and often exaggerated look at the differences between their heritage and homeland with regards to topics including soccer, clubbing and weddings.

To date, they have managed to amass an impressive 430,000 subscribers and over 69 million views from around the world. This is in addition to a partnership with Adult Swim, and extra episodes being commissioned by the ABC. What started as poking a bit of fun at their heritage and homeland has since expanded into a successful series of videos which have made millions laugh worldwide.

Following their first successful Australian tour in 2013, which saw them sell out multiple sessions at both the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Sydney Comedy Festival, the boys are back with a brand new stage show titled Talk S*** Get Hit.

Superwog is set to entertain audiences on Friday July 3 at 7.30pm in the Arts Theatre. Tickets are $49.90 for A Reserve seating or $39.90 for B Reserve. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or phone (07) 5588 4000.

Dylan Moran will be on-stage for one night only on Wednesday August 5 at 8pm in the Arts Theatre. Premium tickets are $89.90 or $79.90 for A Reserve seating. Book at www.theartscentregc. com.au or phone (07) 5588 4000.

Recommended 15+

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Strictly 18+

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COMEDY in the basement

The Coast’s best comedy venue brings you a raucous evening of local, national and international performers, with regular appearances from popular TV and radio personalities.

Special event!

Friday 3 July Doug Chappel

Friday 10 July

Friday 17 July

Friday 24 July

Friday 31 July

Chris Radburn

Brett Nichols

Steve Allison

Sydney Comedy FESTIVAL*

Friday 7 August

Friday 14 August

Friday 21 August

Friday 28 August

Friday 4 September

Daniel Townes

Tom Siegert

Dave Thornton

Harley Breen

Joel Ozborn

Enjoy guaranteed, non-stop laughs and hilarious antics every Friday night from 8.00pm at Comedy in The Basement. Doors and bar open from 6.30pm. Tickets are $25 for adults or $22 for groups of six or Friday 11 September

Friday 18 September

Friday 25 September

Mick Neven

Mick Meredith

Danny McGinlay

WWW.THEARTSCENTREGC.COM.AU July — SEPTEMBER 2015 #COMEDYINTHEBASEMENT *Please note separate ticket prices and venue apply for Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase – see p.16 for details.

more. Dinner and show packages available for $79. Groups please book in advance.

Strictly 18+.

OPPORTUNITIES

Disability no barrier to dance

Images: Veda Dante

Twenty years ago, a car accident left dancer and choreographer Philip Channells wondering whether he’d ever dance again. Today, he is Creative Director of Dance Integrated Australia, and will deliver disability-inclusive workshops this August.

Fiercely committed to the development of disability arts and dance in Australia, Philip Channells has enjoyed an extraordinary career.

He trained at Northern Rivers Conservatorium of Arts, the Centre for the Performing Arts and the Western Australia Academy of Performing Arts. His work with dancers with a disability has included the Australian Youth Dance Festival, Candoco Dance (UK), Restless Dance Theatre, StopGAP Dance Company (UK) and East London Dance. He was the first artistic director with a disability of any Australian dance company at Restless Dance Theatre and he established the upstart program at Oval House and Sadler’s Wells for emerging disabled dancers. Philip now focuses on dance education, directing and choreography through Dance Integrated Australia.

The inspiration Just before a dance audition at the Northern Rivers Conservatorium, Philip was involved in a car accident. ‘This traumatic event reminded me of the impermanence of life. After sustaining injuries to my right knee, chest and face I was raced to hospital where I told the surgeon, “Whatever you do, make sure I can dance.” And so here I am almost 20 years later, dancing on,’ says Philip.

Early in his career, Philip worked with Kat Worth's Company CHAOS, an ensemble of adult-aged performers with and without disability based in Lismore. ‘I realised I needed to learn more about the culture of dance and disability because I saw the need to challenge

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people's perceptions and change the cultural landscape of dance in general,’ says Philip.

Philip went on to work with one of Australia's early pioneers of integrated dance practice, Sally Chance, in Adelaide where he developed a much deeper interest in working in different communities with people from diverse backgrounds.

The workshops Philip describes the benefits of his dance workshops as many and varied. ‘My workshops encourage the individuality, working as an ensemble and learning to communicate differently with the body.’

‘Working with people with disability is an area of dance that I'm strongly drawn to because it’s far more interesting to work with people who are different. As a dance maker, it’s this difference that throws into the mix so many more creative possibilities. I find that really exciting, not always easy, but nonetheless it’s a challenge that I really enjoy taking on.’

For people who've never tried a dance workshop before, Philip is reassuring. ‘I know how daunting it can be to enter a room full of strangers not knowing what to expect. The Taster Workshops are a non-judgemental environment. Everyone is encouraged to challenge themselves to try something different. It’s an opportunity to shrug off any preconceived ideas about what dance is and throw yourself into the deep end,’ says Philip.

Working with disability Philip’s unique skill has taken him to the UK, Europe, Scandinavia, Singapore, Hong Kong and Papua New Guinea and with every project he aims to find universal appeal.

‘What has struck a chord with me is that all people — people with different embodiment, people of different age groups, people who have a different cultural background — there is something that unites us. There is connection, unified through dance and sharing our lived experiences and something really dynamic happens in the space.’

Who should come to the workshops?

‘I'm interested in the non-normative body, the un-stereotypical and the supernatural amongst a mix of people who might have done ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop or contemporary styles.’

Philip says ‘I hope we attract a broad range of performers, artists, collaborators and audiences who are committed to being part of sustaining an interconnected and vibrant community where we all celebrate diversity and accept and appreciate our cultural differences.

Life would be boring if we were all the same.’

Join Philip at the No Difference Taster Workshops on 15 and 16 August, from 10am to 4pm in The Space. The Taster Workshops are for emerging and established artists, dancers, actors, physical theatre performers, interdisciplinary performance artists, teachers, community arts practitioners and people interested in movement as an expressive form. People with different life experience, diverse cultural background and experience of disability (e.g. physical, sensory and learning impairment) are encouraged to participate. Participants must attend both workshop days. Cost is $20 and bookings are essential at www.theartscentregc.com.au. 16+

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SCREEN

Coming to the Arts Cinema Cinema Supervisor and Programmer, Mika Mantykivi, shares his predictions for best film picks from the upcoming program.

Ricki and The Flash (August) Meryl Streep as a rockstar? Sign me up! Meryl takes on the role of hard-rocking singer/guitarist for Oscar-winning director Jonathan Demme and Academy Award-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody in the uplifting comedy Ricki and the Flash.

In a film loaded with music and live performance, Streep stars as Ricki, a guitar heroine who gave up everything for her dream of rock-and-roll stardom, but is now returning home to make things right with her family. Streep stars opposite her real-life daughter Mamie Gummer, who plays her fictional daughter; Rick Springfield, who takes on the role of a Flash member in love with Ricki; and Kevin Kline, who portrays Ricki's long-suffering ex-husband.

Love & Mercy (July)

Mr. Holmes (July)

Irrational Man (August)

In the 1960s, Beach Boys leader Brian Wilson loses his grip on reality as he attempts to craft his avant-garde pop masterpiece. In the 1980s, he is a broken and confused man under the 24-hour watch of shady therapist Dr. Eugene Landy.

Love & Mercy presents an unconventional portrait of Brian Wilson, the mercurial singer, songwriter and leader of The Beach Boys. Set against the era-defining catalogue of Wilson's music, the film intimately examines the personal voyage and ultimate salvation of the icon whose success came at extraordinary personal cost. Stars John Cusack, Paul Dano, Elizabeth Banks and Paul Giamatti.

Starring Ian McKellen and Laura Linney, Mr. Holmes is a new twist on the world’s most famous detective. In 1947, an aging Sherlock Holmes returns from a journey to Japan, where, in search of a rare plant with powerful restorative qualities, he has witnessed the devastation of nuclear warfare.

Now, in his remote seaside farmhouse, Holmes faces the end of his days tending to his bees, with only the company of his housekeeper and her young son, Roger.

Grappling with the diminishing powers of his mind, Holmes comes to rely upon the boy as he revisits the circumstances of the unsolved case that forced him into retirement, and searches for answers to the mysteries of life and love – before it's too late.

In this Woody Allen romantic comedy, Joaquin Phoenix stars as a philosophy professor who’s suffering from an existential crisis: he can’t write, he can’t breathe, he can’t remember the reason for living. But he gains new purpose when he strikes up a relationship with a beautiful young student played by Emma Stone.

Phoenix’s character entertains a more age-appropriate romantic alternative played

by Parker Posey. Set in Rhode Island, the film is visually compelling with sparkling dialogue and great on-screen chemistry.

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What’s on at Bond EVENT DETAILS ARCHITECTURE LECTURE SERIES Professor Adrian Carter, Abedian School of Architecture and Utzon Research Centre

OPEN DAY Bond University opens its doors from 2pm – 6pm, followed by Live at Bond concert featuring Tijuana Cartel until 8pm.

ARCHITECTURE LECTURE SERIES Kerstin Thompson, Kerstin Thompson Architects, Melbourne

ARCHITECTURE LECTURE SERIES Li Hu and Wenjing Huang, Open Architecture, Beijing

DATE Thursday, July 16, 2015

Saturday, July 25, 2015

Thursday, October 29, 2015

Thursday, November 12, 2015

BOND UNIVERSITY FILM AND TELEVISION AWARDS (BUFTA) BUFTA gives Year 11 and 12 students the chance to win a full scholarship to study Film and Television at Bond University. Entries close October 7 with the Gala Awards Ceremony held November 28. Visit bufta.com.au for more information.

Saturday, November 28, 2015

bond.edu.au/events DS2778

CRICOS Provider Code 00017B

ART GALLERY

Border art abounds ‘A diverse, grassroots and somewhat eclectic arts scene is finding its feet on the Gold Coast,’ says artist and 2015 Border Art Prize judge, Dr Chris Bennie.

It is that time of year again, where local artists are encouraged to share their artistic capabilities in the Border Art Prize, an annual award shared between Gold Coast City Gallery and Tweed Regional Gallery to celebrate the abundance of artists in southeast Queensland and northeast NSW.

Visitors to Gold Coast City Gallery will be familiar with Chris Bennie’s work most recently from the Cutback: Surfing Through Art exhibition, where his large scale images of waves featured references to ancient mythology within the frame of a smart phone device. Bennie, who lectures in Interdisciplinary Sculpture and Fine Art at Griffith University Queensland College of Art, also won the Gold Coast Art Prize in 2012.

We caught up with Bennie to discuss how the local art scene has developed over recent years and what he is looking for as judge of the 2015 Border Art Prize.

How would you describe our local arts scene?

The art scene in this region is diverse, grass roots, somewhat eclectic and slowly

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finding its feet. As one of the first graduates to emerge from the Gold Coast Campus of Griffith University Queensland College of Art in the early 2000s, I have witnessed numerous galleries, artist-run projects and events come and go. In those early days it was difficult to sustain anything culturally meaningful. I’m happy to say that now there is an energy and commitment to establishing a cultural climate that will foster diversity in thinking and development in the region.

How does the Border Art Prize contribute to developing local arts?

All art prizes function as springboards of some sort or another for artists - whether they are used as motivation to make work, considered as CV building opportunities or, for a very lucky few, a viable income stream. For the community, events like the Border Art Prize and Gold Coast Art Prize signal a reflection of the aesthetic state of this region. Artists propose their individual interpretations on things like landscape, other people (portraits), and art itself, as well as specific issues like the environment and politics. Essentially, the Border Art Prize is a social dialogue that evolves, morphs and reflects our particular zeitgeist.

What strategies are you using to judge the works?

I will be looking for a balance between a finely tuned aesthetic and its relationship to

the subject or content of the work. I favour no specific medium or style but seek an engaging proposal for what it means to be living in the region at this given point of time.

Do you have any advice for emerging artists?

I don’t believe in raw talent. I believe in commitment. Talent tends to follow commitment. I’ve seen many artists simply make work after work and seemingly go nowhere. Eventually a maturation occurs through their dog-eared dedication and belief in what they are doing. At this point the community catches up and doors start opening. In a nutshell, all artists must work hard, make loads of mistakes, never take themselves too seriously and avoid wearing ties whenever possible.

The Border Art Prize will be on display from 25 July – 6 September.

OFFICIAL OPENING AND PRIZE ANNOUNCEMENT DATE Sat 25 Jul TIME 6.00pm – 8.00pm VENUE Gallery 1

Image: Dr Chris Bennie Photo: Stuart Chapman Image: Lae Oldmeadow, One leaf to another (detail) 2014, banksia leaves sewn onto canvas. Winner, Border Art Prize 2014

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ART GALLERY

Celebrating traditional crafts Experience traditional crafts and ensure this fascinating practice is celebrated and shared with the next generation.

Embroidered Memories Featuring traditional hand embroidery, detailed smocking and large-scale quilts, this retrospective exhibition will celebrate 40 years of embroidered memories by The Embroiderers Guild of Queensland Southport Branch.

The exhibition will showcase works made by members from 1975 onward, highlighting the development of their embroidery skills and how styles have changed over the past 40 years.

A number of new collaborative pieces that utilise cross-stitch, ribbon work and gold work will also feature in the exhibition.

The Gold Coast Quilters Guild Exhibition Treasured for their practicality in the colder months, quilts both conjure memories and evoke admiration for their craftsmanship.

The Gold Coast Quilters Guild will be holding the very popular biennial quilt exhibition this year with a visually exciting exhibition showcasing creativity and the diverse techniques used in quiltmaking.

To commemorate the anniversary of the Gallipoli landings, there will also be a display of small quilts made by members of the Guild, ANZACS – 100 Years to honour and pay tribute to these brave men and women.

Embroidered Memories will be on display from 13 June – 5 July followed by The Gold Coast Quilters Guild Exhibition on display from 11 July - 2 August.

Image: Barbara Harris, Stargazer Lily 2010. Courtesy of the artist

AFTER DARK enlightens Life drawing, Maori art and ‘snappy’ artist presentations are all coming up AFTER DARK in the Gallery. Grab a drink at the bar, explore the exhibitions, and enjoy an enriching and interactive program.

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AFTER DARK Program

art.music.talks.food Galleries stay open until 8.00pm I Program from 6.00pm I Cash bar

Thu 9 Jul

Thu 13 Aug

Thu 3 Sep

Explore contemporary Maori culture on the Gold Coast, featuring a music program and a fashion showcase of local Maori labels.

Join us for a group life drawing session.

Experience or no experience – come along and have some fun.

A ‘Pecha Kucha’ style event with selected Border Art Prize artists sharing short presentations about their practice – five images, five minutes.

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ART GALLERY

Image: Jo-Anne Driessens

Creativity abounds at Stradbroke Island Being mentored by internationally acclaimed artist Fiona Foley would make many artists green with envy. However, for participants of the 2015 South Stradbroke Island Indigenous Artist Camp, this was a unique opportunity to spend five days sharing, creating and learning with this renowned artist.

Jo-Anne Driessens, Indigenous Coordinator at The Arts Centre Gold Coast, said the artist camp was an inspiration, with artists forming an instant bond when they arrived at Stradbroke Island.

‘This year’s Indigenous Artist Camp on South Stradbroke Island led by Fiona Foley became another reminder about the importance in creative art practices facilitated ‘on country’ and away from the busy nine to five distractions.

By day two Fiona had started to push the comfort zones of each artist, which led

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to the creation of impressive new works being produced through the use of charcoal, pigments and melted bees wax processes on rag paper and combined group work for sitespecific installations in the nearby bush and beach setting.

I have no doubt that this year will present another unique exhibition of new works which will broaden and enlighten the minds of all visitors who will have the pleasure in viewing the works in person... definitely a must see!’ says Jo-Anne.

Jacinda Washington, Artist, posted on Facebook ‘Spent a very rewarding and mind blowing weekend on South Stradbroke Island with a group of 12 awesomely talented and whole-spirited Aboriginal and Island men and women sharing, learning, appreciating, complimenting and growing together as artists and as strong First Nations people, this

opportunity has also brought so many great people together and also added to the growth and preservation of Love and Culture.’

The South Stradbroke Island Indigenous Artist Camp 2015, developed by City of Gold Coast and presenting partner The Arts Centre Gold Coast.

Artworks by artist camp participants will be shared in a Foyer Gallery exhibition at Gold Coast City Gallery from 12 September – 25 October.

EXHIBITION PREVIEW – LAUNCH EVENT DATE Thu 10 Sep TIME 12.00pm – 2.00pm VENUE Foyer Gallery RSVP (07) 5588 4000 or www.theartscentregc.com.au

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ART GALLERY

We don’t need a map Following on from its critically acclaimed run at Fremantle Arts Centre in 2013, landmark exhibition We don’t need a map: a Martu experience of the Western Desert will now bring the spirit of the Western Desert to the Gold Coast.

Celebrating the distinct visual language of the Martu, the traditional owners of a vast area of Western Australia’s Western Desert, this multi-faceted exhibition explores the Martu’s deeply embedded understanding and layered interpretations of the land. Far more than just a static collection of Martu art, We don’t need a map invites audiences to actively engage with Martu culture, Martu people, their way of life and the way they care for country and belong to it.

Stunning paintings, digital animation, immersive video installations, aerial desert photography, finely wrought traditional cultural objects and photographic portraits of the artists all sit side by side. Works ranging from paintings by senior artists documenting Martu culture to contemporary snapshots by younger artists of camel hunts and football matches all give the viewer a rich insight into Martu culture.

Nola Taylor, a senior Martu artist, consultant on We don’t need a map and mankarr worker in KJ’s cultural knowledge program said ‘…Not many people come out here to the desert but they can see the We don’t need a map exhibition and experience a little bit of our desert. More people will see Martu painting, more whitefellas will see what we do, teaching people about the homeland where we are from.’

We don’t need a map will be on display at Gold Coast City Gallery from 12 September until 1 November.

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Join us for these engaging public programs in association with the We don’t need a map exhibition.

OPENING EVENT The opening celebration officially welcomes the Martu Mob to the Gold Coast and opens this diverse and powerful exhibition to the public.

DATE Fri 11 Sep TIME 6.00pm – 8.00pm VENUE Gallery 1 RSVP (07) 5588 4000 or www.theartscentregc.com.au MARTU MOB Join the visiting artists, Martu rangers and exhibition curators for an engaging community program of talks, demonstrations and activities that will explore the Martu way of life, land management practices, the stories within the artworks and the journey of creating We don’t need a map.

DATE Sat 12 Sep TIME 11.00am – 5.00pm FREE All welcome. Check the website for the full program of activities.

You won’t need a map: Indigenous Immersion for Teachers Primary teachers connect with local bush tucker consultant Paula Nihot and Teacher-Artist Therese Flynn-Clarke to develop knowledge of Indigenous culture and art, and work collaboratively to establish a unit of work to suit classroom purposes.

DATE Mon 14 Sep TIME 3.30pm – 6.30pm

This exhibition is part of the Indigenous Program, proudly supported by Bond University.

Image: Kumpaya Gigirba and Ngamaru Bidu, Marra! (catch it!) 2010. Photo: Gabrielle Sullivan

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A Portrait of the Martu Highlights from

We don’t need a map

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This enormous, gorgeous painting by sisters Amy French and Lily Long testifies to the vitality and diversity of indigenous painting in the Pilbara.

Karlamilyi is a complex and layered work, brimming with knowledge about native animals and plants, journeys through country, ancestral beings, waterholes and landforms.

French and Long's distinct visual language challenges notions of desert painting, blending figurative and abstract imagery to present an energised landscape that is filled with elements of the seen and unseen world.

Writers and senior Martu translators worked with the artists to generate interpretative information about the stories and knowledge embedded in this significant painting.

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ART GALLERY

Image 1: Amy French, Kumpaya Girgiba and Miriam Atkins in front of Amy French and Lily Long’s

Image 3: Dadda Samson working on a new painting, 2012. Photo: Gabrielle Sullivan

large-scale acrylic on canvas painting Karlamily, 2012. Photo: Bo Wong

Image 4: Jakayu Biljabu, Pitu and Yarturti 2009 (detail), acrylic on linen.

Image 2: Tobias Titz, Portrait Muuki Taylor 2012, large format Polaroid 665 film, printed as archival inkjet print

Image 5: Nora Wompi and Nora Nungabar working on a collaborative painting, 2012. Photo: Gabrielle Sullivan

Co-curated by Erin Coates; Fremantle Arts Centre Exhibitions Coordinator, Kathleen Sorensen; Martu artist and Cultural Consultant and Gabrielle Sullivan; Martumili Artists Manager.

The original We don’t need a map exhibition was the result of a partnership between Fremantle Arts Centre, Martumili Artists, Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa and BHP Billiton.

The national tour is made possible with the support of BHP Billiton, The Australia Council, Martu People Limited, WA’s Department of Culture and the Arts and Lotterywest.

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ART GALLERY

Regions of Alienation / Satellites of Love

Watershed GLOWS at Evandale Lake

Regions of Alienation / Satellites of Love explores the importance of group engagement in dismantling personal isolation.

Produced by artists David M Thomas and Suzanne Howard through their collaborative content studio, Funhauser, the project is an inclusive visual arts collaboration between local artists and community groups in the northern Gold Coast region.

Unique in its approach, Regions of Alienation / Satellites of Love considers the idea of group activation through art – in this case primarily through digital video and other media technologies.

It explores how specific group dynamics and strategies are more successful in bringing people together and overcoming isolation.

The exhibition reveals community resilience and will shine a light on the depth and breadth of talent in northern Gold Coast communities. Connecting the northern Gold Coast community to the broader Gold Coast, the exhibition will highlight the diversity and dynamic nature of the region.

Evandale Lake was a glimmering, illuminated canvas with a flotilla of lanterns launched at sunset for Watershed, a new event during the City of Gold Coast’s GLOW festival on Saturday,11 April.

Senior Curator Virginia Rigney brought together a small team of local creatives, Laurinda Janlewicz , lantern artist Bella Piddock, and Michael and Richard Candy of the new media art collective BestCinco, and asked them to work with local community groups spread from Kirra to Upper Coomera to make a floating lantern project.

The team responded and devised Watershed to offer each participant the chance to design shapes that expressed their own personal creative response and hopes for the future Gold Coast Cultural Precinct.

‘The project culminated just on sunset at GLOW when the lantern-makers formed a procession and walked along the edge of the lake and set their lanterns on the sand and in the background a little flotilla of larger floating lanterns in different colours and shapes flickered to life,’ Virginia said.

‘It was a visually moving addition to the GLOW festival and working collaboratively with local community groups allowed us to share the exciting vision for the precinct in a very hands-on creative way,’ she said.

Regions of Alienation / Satellites of Love will be on display in Gallery 2 from 8 August – 13 September.

You can view a short film about the project at www.theartscentregc. com.au Image: David M Thomas and Suzanne Howard, Neuromist 2015. Courtesy of the artists

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Image: Virginia Rigney

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ART GALLERY

Collection Highlight Indigenous artist Dianne Jones graduated from Edith Cowan University (WA) with a Bachelor of Visual Arts in 2000. The following year she created Shearing the Rams (pictured) in which she has appropriated Impressionist Tom Roberts’ painting (located in NGV) and embedded images of her father, brother and nephew. In doing so, Jones highlights her family’s involvement in the pastoral industry.

Jones observed of the work in 2001,

‘When Indigenous people were painted it was all too often as part of the flora and fauna and without names or identities, insignificantly fading into the background. When white Australians were recorded either in paintings or written history they were always given names and some information about them and so I have positioned my family as the main focus of the paintings and given them an identity and importance that indigenous people were not afforded. My family

and I did not match the images that I was seeing in history books or artworks.’

Collection Focus: Modern Australia draws upon works from Gold Coast City Gallery collection to showcase artists who have referenced iconic Australian imagery, subverting them with a contemporary voice. This Foyer Gallery exhibition continues until 19 July 2015.

Image: Dianne Jones, Shearing the Rams (detail) 2001, inkjet on canvas, Gift of William Nuttall and Annette Reeves under the Cultural Gifts Program, 2012

PhotoFun at the Gallery

How creative are these kids? Inspired by works in the Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Photography Award, participants in PhotoFun at the Gallery on Sunday 12 April created wearable fashion garments and masks with a difference.

Part of the Young Artist Development Program, supported by Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast. Images: Louis Lim

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KIDS AND TEENS

A springboard for talent Every year, tens of thousands of children take to Gold Coast stages for the biggest cultural event in our city. Founder and Director, Judith Ferber, tells us why Gold

Coast Eisteddfod has held her heart for more than thirty years.

When Judith Ferber first started the Eisteddfod in 1982, she had just 600 competitors as part of Tropicarnival, the Coast's first ever festival.

Today, Gold Coast Eisteddfod attracts over 70,000 entrants in 529 sections and runs for seven weeks. It is the largest competition of its kind in the country.

As you might imagine, the Eisteddfod involves months of planning and some serious organisational skills. Says Judith, ‘It takes all year to coordinate the Eisteddfod, as the syllabus is revamped at the end of each competition and has to be ready by the time school commences after the summer break.’

This year sees a record number of entries, including 330 bands / orchestras, 170 choirs and 316 entries in the School Dance Clubs sections. ‘In total we have 1255 dance groups all competing at The Arts Centre over nine days - the talent will be absolutely outstanding,’ says Judith. The sections include Solo and Group Dance, Piano, Strings and Wind, Instrumental Groups, Bands, Orchestras, Vocal, Choral and Special Needs.

‘The Eisteddfod gives children the opportunity to perform in a public arena (outside the school) and is particularly rewarding for those who appear on stage at The Arts Centre, a fully professional

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performing arts venue,’ says Judith. ‘Also they are able to observe the other competitors in their age group and compare the standard of performances.’

When asked about the highlights of her Eisteddfod journey, Judith replies that there have been many. ‘But I would have to say that my greatest joy is seeing those tiny children step onto the big stage for the first time...excitement, tears, joy, apprehension, nerves and the occasional fainting fit or throw up. We've seen it all.’

‘I think my favourite story is when the Labrador State School Choir was singing and I saw a wobble from a girl in the second row. She fell forward and the marvellous conductor simply stepped forward, caught her as she fainted, kept on conducting as we ran on stage and took the girl from his arms. All the while the rest of the Choir just kept on singing...it was fantastic. The adjudicator was highly impressed!’ says Judith.

For children, an Eisteddfod experience can help them develop a lifelong interest. Judith says ‘Just as in sporting activities, it is hugely important for young children to participate in the arts. It is rewarding and an important part of life, requiring commitment, time, effort and discipline. For many of those who continue

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KIDS AND TEENS

Images: Courtesy of Move Photography

throughout primary and secondary school, it is an interest that may continue through to adulthood.’

Judith tells us many thousands of past competitors are now working throughout the world as dancers, choreographers, musicians and teachers. ‘Many past Eisteddfod dancers have performed at the Lido and Moulin Rouge in Paris, on cruise ships and Cirque Du Soleil, mainstream musicals and Sophie Monk was a tiny tot on our stage,’ says Judith.

Judith has an invaluable team to help her deliver the competition. ‘Each part of the Eisteddfod has a Convenor who oversees their own section. They work incredibly hard over the many weeks of competition - days which start at 7.30am and finish at 9pm each night.’

Experienced adjudicators come from all over Australia and change each year, and Judith has a small band of around 30 loyal volunteers who have been with the Eisteddfod for many years. ‘They take music, man doors, compere, assemble children and generally ensure all competitors are made welcome and enjoy their time with us. They play an important role as the Gold Coast Eisteddfod continues to maintain its reputation as an extremely well-run competition.’

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Gold Coast Eisteddfod has a five-member Board with Chairman Kerry Watson at the helm, and Mayor, Cr. Tom Tate is their Patron.

Gold Coast City Council’s continuing sponsorship ensures viability of the Eisteddfod and associate sponsors, Bendigo Bank, SeaFM and Southern Cross Ten also support.

‘It is a hugely busy time for The Arts Centre, when thousands of youngsters, their teachers, supporters and general audience 'invade' the complex, but it is something we love to see,’ says Judith. ‘It is the biggest event of its type in Australia which is something the Gold Coast should embrace and be proud of.’

We definitely are proud, Judith, and we look forward to seeing all those excited little faces in our foyer again this year.

Competitions will run from 29 July to 11 September at The Arts Centre Gold Coast, Robina and Albert Waterways Community Centres. Programs available at the Box Office from July. For more information, contact Gold Coast Eisteddfod on phone (07) 5689 1651 or mail@goldcoasteisteddfod.com.au, or visit www.goldcoasteisteddfod.com.au.

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STAGE THEATRE

Cranky Bear goes cabaret

Patch Theatre Company’s Artistic Director Dave Brown knows a thing or two about delivering quality children’s theatre. He recently returned victorious from the United States after winning one of the most prestigious honours for youth arts the Mickey Miners Lifetime Achievement Award.

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Patch Theatre Company, under the direction of Dave Brown, delivers quality show after show. It’s no surprise then that their adaption of Nick Bland’s book The Very Cranky Bear has sold out shows all over the country.

The first time Dave read the story he was smitten. ‘The more I investigated it the more I realised what a beautifully simple, yet sophisticated piece of art it is. Like all the best stories, it connects us to big human themes in a compelling way that is immediately accessible to a four-year-old.

That’s some achievement! That is why I felt compelled to adapt this story for theatre – to honour the story and open it up in a new way for live audiences.’

Stepping away from traditional children’s theatre, Patch Theatre Company presents Cranky Bear in a cabaret style. Dave Brown explained how this creative decision was made.

‘We chose to present Cranky Bear as a “cabaret show” because the flamboyant

threesome of Zebra, Lion and Moose seemed to exist naturally within that world.

They’re entertainers – audacious, extrovert, confident, self-assured, charming and playful. They are cabaretiers by nature!’

Children are enchanted by theatre and the musicality of this show has been received particularly well – dancing, singing along, memorising the book story and song. Kids have been in stitches and even the youngest of babies enthralled by the spectacle. Gold Coast audiences will walk away with valuable messages about caring, problem-solving and teamwork.

Share the music, laughs and magic of Cranky Bear on Thu 3 Sep 6.00pm or Fri 4 Sep 10.30am and 12.45pm in the Arts Theatre. Tickets are $19.50, $59 for a family (2 adults and 2 children) or $12.50 for a Student Group (6+). Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

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KIDS AND TEENS

Marvellous magic Nickleby the Magician brings his new show to The Arts Centre Gold Coast these school holidays Combining world-record escapes, illusions, comedy and a special guest appearance from his latest assistant, The Xtreme Illusionist, Nickleby presents a unique and unmissable magic show.

Nickleby, otherwise known as Nick Britt and his assistant Neville Grossman (The Xtreme Illusionist) have spent the past year creating new illusions and tricks.

Nickleby’s magic was inspired by illusionists like David Blane, Dynamo and even Houdini, whose famous escapades lead him to picking locks and escaping seemingly impossible situations.

‘When finally achieving escaping out of a pair of handcuffs in five seconds, I then moved on to more challenging escapes,’ he said.

‘At first, I was stuck in a straightjacket for nearly two hours, but after months of practise, I managed to achieve the 45 seconds I was

hoping for. ‘The Greatest Kids Show on Earth won’t feature handcuffs or straightjackets as we have taken the idea much further to create an illusion called Escape Impossible, which is sure to leave the audience speechless.’

Nickleby’s newest show also features animals including doves, possums and even a rabbit which was acquired for Queensland with a permit.

‘For some of the children, it’s the first time they have seen a live bunny and I love seeing their faces when I pull it out of the hat!’ he said.

Bring the kids these school holidays to Nickleby the Magician’s The Greatest Kids Show on Earth on Tuesday 7 July, at 10am or 1pm in the Paradise Showroom.

Tickets are $15 each or $55 for a family of four. Children under 2 are free to sit on their parent's lap. Book at www.theartscentregc.com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

EVENTS

Dining in the Dark Participate in an unforgettable sensory dining experience and get a literal taste of what life is like for a person who is blind or vision impaired.

Dining in the Dark will challenge the senses as guests are invited to eat under blindfold, using only touch, taste and smell to enjoy their delicious dinner.

The evening will also feature live and silent auctions, as well as raffles and great entertainment by The Red Tie Band.

Guide Dogs Queensland event organiser Aileen McGregor-Lowndes says this unique event is designed to raise awareness of blindness and vision impairment and raise vital funds for the breeding, training and placement of Guide Dogs in the community.

A special guest performance by accomplished Gold Coast pianist and Guide Dog handler Hayden Smith promises to be a highlight of the evening.

Dining in the Dark will be a night not-tobe-missed on Saturday 1 August at 6pm in the Paradise Showroom, so get your table together now. Tickets are $99 each and include a three-course meal and selected beverages. Book at www.theartscentregc. com.au or (07) 5588 4000.

Join us for another spectacular

Melbourne Cup Luncheon at The Arts Centre Gold Coast.

Date Tue 3 Nov Time 10.30am COST $65.00 ON SALE Mon 24 Aug

OFFSTAGE

Balancing art and business As an independent, not-for-profit organisation, The Arts Centre Gold Coast is guided by a highly experienced Board. Deputy Chair Richard Munro talks about balancing art and business.

The Arts Centre isn’t your typical business model, so as a Board member, how difficult is it to manage the financials of a business such as The Arts Centre?

Finding the appropriate balance of artistic activity within an acceptable budget is the ultimate objective, however this aspiration presents a number of management challenges. The Board have worked hard over the years to ensure that the quality of experiences from the visual and performing arts portfolios is supported by strong commercial viability of the entire business.

To achieve this, the Board has placed greater focus on improving financial reporting and awareness by all team members of the financial targets we collectively want to achieve. The addition of three new Board members has brought further insight into venue management and operations as a result of their professional business experience. This has proved valuable in not only driving future business growth but also continuously improving facilities.

What do you think the economic priorities of a future Cultural Precinct should be?

We don’t want the Cultural Precinct developed as another ‘Theme Park’, but instead it should be a hub where artistic experiences and quality entertainment can flourish. Its main priority should be to encourage, develop and enrich the community it serves. In saying that, a sound commercial backbone to the Cultural Precinct will also be a crucial success factor.

So taking advantage of the developed areas in order to maximise returns is a massive future opportunity. whether that be as operators or as landlords of the various future commercial spaces. All options will need to be weighed up by the Board to ensure the community gets a vibrant creative hub that is supported by a financially viable model.

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What has been the biggest change in The Arts Centre financial management during your term as a Board member?

The Arts Centre is quite unique as it delivers its own performing arts, visual arts and film programs alongside entrepreneurial activities from commercial promoters, state arts companies and professional event managers.

In the last few years the Board have been successful in driving a whole of business mindset across the organisation. This means we view our customers as the central figure across all areas of the business rather than just as a film-goer, gallery visitor of theatre lover. This change in mindset means that we are focused on delivering a quality visitor experience no matter what your reason for visiting is. This type of mindset has proven to have a major positive impact in our financial performance as well as the way we allocate future resources.

From a financial perspective how important are the non-arts (food and beverage, venue hire, sponsorship) aspects of the business?

This is a critical area both currently and into the future as it underpins so much of the business as a whole. City of Gold Coast is generous with support but without the other revenue generators the Centre could not exist.

Needless to say, the business must maximise the return from these activities. While there are limitations due to the size, location and staffing of our business the Board are always working alongside the management team to ensure that every financial opportunity has been thoroughly explored. The Board has interesting discussions both at the regular meeting table and the annual strategic reviews in regard to growing non-arts revenue but it is always done with the intent of supporting our ability to take creative risks and develop local artists and future audiences.

About Richard Munro Deputy Chair Richard Munro has served on The Arts Centre Gold Coast Board since 2008. Richard has worked in Public Accounting on the Gold Coast for over 20 years, including his current position as a Director at Quill Group.

He is a past President of CPA Australia Gold Coast Branch, was a Board member for the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE and has completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors Diploma Course covering Corporate Governance.

Richard’s experience brings a background of financial and strategic management to our Board and he has a strong appreciation for the benefits the arts bring to the community.

Richard and his wife Rosemary are also active philanthropic supporters of the Centre, making a Bronze level donation each year.

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OFFSTAGE

Towards the Riverside Gallery The next step for Gold Coast City Gallery as the Cultural Precinct progresses Repurpose and reuse - these are some of the buzzwords in contemporary thinking about design and planning and their currency has grown world-wide – not only as ways for us to think smart about being more sustainable in our everyday life, but also about how to inject new energy into everything from clothes to furniture and to buildings.

At the same time, in a world that appears to be changing so fast, it also allows us to carry the memories and histories embedded in those things with us into the future, as well as harking back to the great Australian traditions of adaptability and ingenuity - characteristics which are truly part of the Gold Coast.

The final ambition for the precinct is a newly constructed art tower that will resolve the current challenges of the gallery: being unable to host national touring exhibitions; to provide dedicated spaces for artists to train, mentor, make and market their arts; and to improve the public access to our City’s valuable art collection of just less than 4,000

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pieces valued at $23 million.

An opportunity emerged for a solution sooner rather than later in the Riverside Gallery.

The Riverside building is probably not one that visitors onto our site have necessarily noticed before, but as part of the Stage One development, it is going to undergo a refit and renovation and be transformed to play a key role in the life of the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct.

Riverside is a solid office building with four levels built in the mid-1990s and it is located behind the main Council Administration. Its location, shape and form have some key advantages that made it a good candidate for repurposing.

Firstly, it is located right alongside the large lawn and outdoor presentation area and so will encourage an easy flow of people and cross-programming opportunities between the indoor and outdoor areas of the precinct. Being plain and solid in this case is an advantage, giving the engineers a good framework to bring the necessary environmental and

security controls into the building so that we can meet the AA standards required for loans from national touring exhibitions and private and public collections.

Inside will be a group of flexible gallery spaces providing 630sqm which will allow us to present a larger, appealing range of exhibitions and bring the collection out on show. The ground floor will have its own retail outlet and a cafĂŠ and very importantly, four creative partnership spaces which can spill out onto the lawn area for public programming and partnerships.

Collection storage will remain in Gallery 2 of The Arts Centre, with its excellent stable conditions, repurposed for collection management and storage.

This transition to Stage One is a major opportunity for us to build our audiences, capacities and our skills before we move on to the long term ambition of an art tower.

Construction work is scheduled to begin in early 2016 with the Riverside Gallery opening in September 2017. By Virginia Rigney.

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OFFSTAGE

Talking Space Board Director Dr Patrick Mitchell talks with Lorraine Pilgrim about the Cultural Precinct

This is the first in a series of articles about the relationship between the arts, culture and place on the Gold Coast. In them I will be talking to people who have been active in the arts over the long term and asking them to reflect on the planned cultural precinct and the opportunities it offers this community. The first person I spoke to was Lorraine Pilgrim, who for over 40 years has successfully managed both private art galleries and studios on the Gold Coast.

One of the most critical concepts influencing human existence is that of place. We spend our lives being somewhere and culture, especially through the arts, can make a significant contribution to our sense of place. Culture is one important way that a society tells its important stories, and conveys its sense of significance and meaning about the places we frequent.

Lorraine Pilgrim speaks passionately of her love for the arts and asserts that there are many other people like her on the Gold Coast.

Regular access to artwork that is diverse, meaningful and constantly evolving is not merely an accessory to her life, but more, it is an essential and sustaining ingredient in living in a full and profound way.

The potential of a new art gallery for the Gold Coast is clearly of vital concern.

For Pilgrim the new gallery must be ‘stand-alone’ and very much connected to an authentic expression of our own identity. She sees a new gallery as being an important opportunity to fulfil the long held aspiration of many, many people in this community. It is also an opportunity to, at last, re-balance the loss of focus on an art gallery that occurred when it was included as part of the present Arts Centre that was opened in 1986. A result of this inclusion has been that the gallery has not had the attention that it merited in the last thirty years. It has become invisible alongside the theatre and cinema. The construction of a distinctive, ‘stand-alone’ gallery is an essential task for a cultural precinct.

A new building can, at last, be an opportunity to show much more of the very good collection that the present gallery owns. The present gallery’s small area means that the collection is ‘never seen in its full bodied mode – we see bits and pieces but we never see the full power of the collection; it is there, it is in the storerooms – there is not even a major room to show even the highlights of the Collection –

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we are missing out on an arts identity for here’. Pilgrim passionately points out that the Gallery owns major works from the 70s and beyond – ‘we can show the development of Australian art through our eyes, through our prizes – we have collected them, there is no opportunity to even show the ‘highlights’ and we have put the money up and we have purchased them but no one sees them!’

Although she very much welcomes the commitment to building a new gallery, Pilgrim would like to see the design go a lot further in challenging the familiar imagery of the Gold Coast – high rises, water, beaches, theme parks and nightlife. ‘We need something separate to the usual representation of the Gold Coast – something that causes us to see things differently – that not everything is reduced to the same set of images and ideas’. She is concerned that we will continue to dilute our particular arts identity by continually embracing these cliched images and ideas. She believes that this view of the Gold Coast is dated and the people who live here are more than that. ‘There are many people who love their art, who love all the cultural part of their lives, they don’t see themselves as only about beaches, surf and nightlife. We continually portray this view of the Coast and its life – we don’t display any other facets of who we are, we seem to continually produce a one dimensional view of ourselves’.

Pilgrim argues that a new gallery must be a point of ‘departure’ in that it constructs an identity separate to the places that people usually live and work. Pilgrim argues that the idea of the Gold Coast as just beach, sun, night life has changed – ‘we are better than just that, there is more to us than just that. And we can show more.’ As examples she points to galleries such as the Museum of Old and New Art in Hobart which has become an artistic ‘must see’ for both locals and visitors. She also cites successful regional galleries in places like Tweed River, Rockhampton, Bendigo, Ballarat and Townsville as being well-run destination galleries that are part of and fundamentally contribute to a specific local identity.

An art gallery is a public institution and to be successful it needs to authentically reflect its community. Pilgrim argues that a gallery actually belongs to its community, to its people, not to the Council but the people who as taxpayers have supported the building and who in the future will be the ones to make it work. By Patrick Mitchell

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OFFSTAGE

Corporate Christmas parties made easy Now is the time to secure the best room in the house for your 2015 Christmas Party!

Whether you need an elegant, waterfront venue for a small gathering or want to entertain 800 guests, The Arts Centre Gold Coast is a central, unique destination for your Christmas party this year.

Paradise Showroom For larger functions, our Paradise Showroom features a large eight-metre stage outfitted with state-of-the-art lighting and audio equipment. It seats up to 370 people banquet-style, can host up to 800 for a cocktail function or can be broken down into smaller function spaces. A first-class venue, the Paradise Showroom opens onto a large terrace with views overlooking the lake, the Nerang River, Sculpture Walkway and the Surfers Paradise skyline.

Panorama Suite Do you have 50 to 100 guests to impress with sweeping skyline views? The Panorama Suite caters for up to 70 people seated or 100 cocktail style, and is equipped with a licensed bar and ample lighting and audio equipment.

Situated on the third level, the elegant Panorama Suite opens onto a large balcony with 180-degree views of the Nerang River and the Surfers Paradise skyline.

The Basement For a cool, relaxed vibe and a small stage for a hired comedian, musician or maybe some karaoke, The Basement is a great option.

The Basement is located on the ground floor of The Arts Centre Gold Coast is commonly used for Comedy, Jazz and Cabaret performances. The room is accessible to modern technical facilities and is fitted with ample lighting to highlight the performance.

The room has a fully licensed bar and is has easy access from the main car park.

You can hold a private Christmas event with packages starting from $75 per person with complimentary canapĂŠs on arrival for events over 100 people.To speak with our friendly staff about your Christmas party options, please contact events@theartscentregc.com.au, phone (07) 5588 4084 or visit www.theartscentregc.com.au/venue-hire.

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OFFSTAGE

Recipe of the season Our Café Chef Tyron Meade shares a delicious dish for you to make at home, or order from the Arts Café.

Spicy Lentil Dahl Dahl 500 g dried red lentils 2 onions, chopped 6 garlic cloves, crushed 1 knob grated fresh ginger 1 fresh red chilli, chopped 1.5 tbsp ground cumin 1.5 tbsp ground turmeric 3 cinnamon sticks 1.5 tbsp garam masala 1/2 tsp chilli powder 1.5 litres vegetable stock, boiling Fry the garlic, ginger and chili in vegetable oil then add the onions. When the onions are soft, add the spices and cook until fragrant.

Add the lentils and stock then cook on a low heat for an hour or until the lentils are tender.

Cucumber Salad 1 cucumber, very thinly sliced 2 tblsp sesame seeds, lightly toasted 1 tblsp rice vinegar 1 tblsp sesame oil 1 tblsp vegetable oil 1 pinch salt Add all ingredients and serve.

Cumin yoghurt 200g yoghurt 1 tsp ground cumin Mix together and season with salt and pepper.

Serve dahl with cucumber salad, toasted roti bread and cumin yoghurt for a flavour-filled feast!

Chef’s tip I like to add 1 teaspoon of rosewater to the finished dahl to lift the flavours of the spices. Never season the dahl until it is cooked as salt will harden the outside of the cooking lentils and cause them to cook unevenly. This applies to powdered stock as it contains high amounts of salt and should only be added at the end.

ASP World Surfing Awards The Arts Centre Gold Coast once again hosted the 2015 ASP World Surf Awards.

The world’s top surfers and invited VIP guests arrived at the Lakeside Terrace to parade along the red carpet and pose for media.

The Lakeside Terrace was the perfect entrance for this iconic Gold Coast event.

Guests enjoyed canapés, beverages and live entertainment with the glorious view of the summer sun setting over the Surfers Paradise skyline and Evandale Lake.

The Lakeside Terrace was elegantly furnished by Innovation Hire, while the team at The Arts Centre used their many years of technical experience to create a lighting and visual statement throughout the room.

Guests were invited to take their seats in the Arts Theatre for the formal awards presentation part of the evening. ASP took

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full advantage of the 12 metre wide by eightmetre high HD Resolution cinema screen in the theatre for their awards presentation.

The 2014 surfing highlight footage that was screened to the audience popped.

Then the fun started! Whilst guests were celebrating the surfing world’s best in the Arts Theatre, a team of people were turning the Lakeside Terrace into the after party venue. The unique sounds of Ash Grunwald ushered the guests back into the Lakeside Terrace so a night of celebration and relaxed catching up could continued under the night lights of Surfers Paradise.

If you’re interested in holding an event at The Arts Centre Gold Coast, please contact the Events team on (07) 5588 4000 or events@theartscentregc.com.au.

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“LIFE’S NOT A RACE” ...SAID THOSE WHO LOST.

Bruce Lynton

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Bruce Lynton 82-84 Nerang Street, Southport. Ph (07) 5557 7999. bmwsales@brucelynton.com brucelynton.bmw.com.au *BMW ConnectedDrive Terms and Conditions apply. Please refer to www.bmw.com.au/ConnectedDrive or contact Bruce Lynton for further information.

CALENDAR

July Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Brisbane City Youth Ballet ‘s Cinderella

Superwog (p.17)

Last day to see Embroidered Memories exhibition (p.23)

GC Jazz & Blues (p.14) Comedy (p.18)

1

5

2

3

4

The Forwards (p.6)

The Forwards (p.6)

The Forwards (p.6)

Comedy (p.18)

GC Quilters Guild exhibition opens (p.23)

10

11

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Nickleby the Magician – The Greatest Kids Show on Earth! (p.33)

6

7

8

9

The Forwards (p.6)

12

The Forwards (p.6)

Comedy (p.18)

13

20

14

21

15

22

16

23

The Forwards (p.6) Last day to see Gold and Greenstone exhibition

17

18

19

Comedy (p.18)

The Border Art prize exhibition opens (p.22)

24

25

26

Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase (p.16)

27

28

29

30

31

The Forwards

Nickleby the Magician

Comedy in the Basement

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CALENDAR

August Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

1 A Morning With‌ The Fabulous Singlettes (p.12)

3

4

Dylan Moran (p.17)

2

Gold Coast Eisteddfod begins (p.30) Comedy (p.18)

5

Sunday

6

GC Jazz & Blues (p.14)

Regions of Alienation / Satellites of Love exhibition opens (p.25)

7

8

9

15

16

22

23

29

30

Gold Coast Eisteddfod Comedy (p.18)

10

12

11

13

14

Gold Coast Eisteddfod Comedy (p.18)

17

19

18

20

21

Gold Coast Eisteddfod Comedy (p.18)

24

26

25

27

28

31 The Fabulous Singlettes

Dylan Moran

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CALENDAR

September Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Gold Coast Eisteddfod finishes Cranky Bear (p.32)

Cranky Bear (p.32) Comedy (p.18)

1

2

3

Expressions Dance Company Contemporary Dance Workshop (p.10)

7

8

You won’t need a map: Indigenous Immersion for Teachers (p.25)

GC Jazz & Blues (p.14)

Las Vegas Charity Gala Ball (see website)

6

4

5

7 Deadly Sins (p.10)

7 Deadly Sins (p.10)

Comedy (p.22)

We don’t need a map exhibition opens (p.25)

12

9

10

11

All My Love (p.9)

All My Love (p.9)

All My Love (p.9) Comedy (p.18)

13

Energies exhibition opens (see website)

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

GLITTER Festival begins!

28

29

30

We don’t need a map

Cranky Bear

7 Deadly Sins

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SNAPPED

Snapped

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The New Black

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1300 222 344 www.bbcdigital.com.au

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Every order.

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Every receipt.

Everything to do with a job.

Sorted.

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Found in seconds.

Visit our website to ďŹ nd out how!

Sustain. Enhance. Promote.

Gold Coast Waterways Authority is working hard to deliver better access to and management of our beautiful waterways for us all to enjoy.

View our Waterways Management Program at gcwa.qld.gov.au Sign up to our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook to keep up to date with all things waterways.

Great State. Great Opportunity

STAGE THEATRE

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Their team of experts can attend to all your electrical needs at a very competitive rate.

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STAGE THEATRE

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We are passionate about our local area and with an excellent success rate, we are proud to be the local experts in residential sales and property management.

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McGrath Surfers Paradise 12-14 Albert Avenue, Broadbeach T 07 5570 7000 E fombroadbeach@mcgrath.com.au W mcgrath.com.au

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OFFSTAGE

Support Us The Arts Centre Gold Coast is a not-forprofit, registered charity. In this capacity, we welcome your support by tax-deductible donation*. Every donation can have a direct impact on the artistic outcomes of our Centre, such as: • Young Artist Development: supporting young persons in their drive to achieve their artistic dreams eg. subsidising workshop and training fees, enabling mentoring programs • Public Programs: enabling the Centre to provide free community opportunities to engage with arts and culture eg. artist and curator talks, professional development programs • The highest artistic and production standards eg. contributing to artist, curator and director fees, to ensure professionals are not out of reach • Acquisitions for the Gold Coast City Gallery eg. Supporting the purchase of important pieces of art, directly reflecting the aims of the Gallery • Supporting Local Artists eg. Enabling the coordination of a mass, free Community Choir

*Donations over $2 are tax-deductible

Benefactors

There are several ways you can show your support: • Join our Benefactor Program - our recognition program for art-lovers who make a gift of over $1,000 per annum • Monthly Giving – a donation each month from your nominated account • Become a Supporter – one-time gifts of under $1,000 • Bequest – a gift to ensure your passion for the arts can enrich future generations We would be delighted to have your support.

Join us today and meet like-minded people who, like you, believe that the arts give our community vitality and enrich our lives.

The Board and Management sincerely thank our family of supporters for their generosity in helping us build and enrich the cultural life of the Gold Coast.

To read more about how philanthropic contributions have helped local artist development, please see page 37.

To donate today or for further information, please visit www. theartscentregc.com.au/support or contact: Development Manager, Megan Connors (07) 5588 4046 or 0406 661 242 Connors@theartscentregc.com.au

Centre Information GETTING HERE To plan your bus journey please visit www.translink.com.au. To book a taxi, phone 131 008 or visit www.gccabs.com.au. A designated taxi set-down and pick-up area is located out the front of The Centre.

Patron parking, including wheelchair accessible parking, is located out the front of the building. We recommend arriving one hour before a performance as parking is limited.

The Arts Theatre and Arts Cinema are both wheelchair accessible. If you require wheelchair access and seating at the Arts Theatre, please notify Box Office when you book your tickets.

We don’t require advance notice for wheelchair access to the Arts Cinema.

PATRONS WITH INDIVIDUAL NEEDS We are committed to providing access to the performing arts for visitors with special needs. If you require mobility assistance, please call Box Office on (07) 5588 4000 to book your tickets, and notify the staff at this time. We will then arrange for Front of House staff to assist you when you arrive.

OPENING HOURS Box Office Hours: Mon – Sat 9.00am-9.00pm, Sun 10.00am-8.00pm Gallery Hours: Mon-Fri 10.00am-5.00pm, Sat / Sun 11.00am-5.00pm

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BOOKINGS Visit www.theartscentregc.com.au or phone (07) 5588 4000. Transaction fees apply to phone and internet bookings.

ENEWS Sign up to the fortnightly eNews on our website.

Life Benefactors Patrick Corrigan AM & Barbara Corrigan Win Schubert AO on behalf of The Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Foundation for the Arts Perpetual Benefactors The following donors have made significant and sustained contributions of artwork to the Gold Coast City Gallery Collection: Adam Knight Dr Colin & Elizabeth Laverty Tom & Sylvia Lowenstein Evan Lowenstein Adam Micmacher Ken McGregor Denis Savill Diamond Benefactors Jock & Beverly McIlwain Platinum Benefactors Barry & Maureen Stevenson Gold Benefactors John & Susan Barr Prof. Emeritus Ray Byron & Carole Byron Pauline Ewers Richard & Ann Glenister Ray & Jill James Tomas & Fiona Johnsson Christine Lohman Morgans Financial Limited NAB Private Wealth Paradise Point Community Bank Branch, Bendigo Bank The Pemberton Family Barry & Karen Plant Kathy Martin Sullivan AM Arthur Waring Silver Benefactors Australian Decorative & Fine Arts Society, Gold Coast Inc. Lucy Cole Prestige Properties Kerry & Lena Crawford Dr Norman & Mrs Margot Davies The Follent Family John & Alison Kearney Anna-Lisa Klettenberg Peter & Moira Lockhart Alan & Barbara Midwood Peter & Annette Minck Leonard & Glenda Neilsen Dr Roger Welch Betty Wheeler Bronze Benefactors Penelope Jane Anderssen Philip Bacon John & Bonnie Bauld Kylie, David & Ryan Corrigan Kevin & Jane Doogan E.C.Pohl & Co Paul & Maureen Fitzgerald Gold Coast Eisteddfod André & Eva Jaku Bruce & Bennie Johnston Lyn & Gerry Keogh Roger & Jenny Mayfield Rhona McKay Graeme & Patsy Meyer Richard & Rosemary Munro Mark & Elizabeth Niall Michael & Jennifer Pinter Destry & Poppy Puia John Punch OAM & Dr Renée Punch Christene Pye Don Robertson John & Julie Romanin Steve Romer Maxine Semple Peter & Wendy Spencer Kerry Watson Special Acknowledgement Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast The Late Roma Blair The Late Elaine Bermingham

theartscentregc.com.au

OFFSTAGE

The Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast Join The Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast!

The Friends of The Arts Centre Gold Coast is a not-for-profit organisation of around 2000 members who share a common interest in the arts. The organisation maintains an active interest in promoting and developing The Arts Centre Gold Coast.

The Friends makes donations to the Centre for various projects, including youth theatre, using funds raised through membership fees. A Gift Fund established in 2006 provides grants to talented local individuals to aid them in pursuing a career in the arts.

The Friends hold frequent social events for members, catering to a variety of interests. Members of The Friends receive discounts to movies, the Arts Café and selected shows.

By joining The Friends, you will help young artists and support

the Centre while enjoying social events and the benefits of discounts to Members.

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP Single $35, Double $50 and includes: • Invitations to social events • Discounted cinema tickets • Discounted food and beverages • 1 complimentary cinema ticket To join, visit the Box Office or phone (07) 5588 4000, Email: friends@friendsoftheartscentre.com.au Web: www.friendsoftheartscentre.com.au

WE DON’T NEED A MAP

A MARTU EXPERIENCE OF THE WESTERN DESERT We don't need a map brings the desert to the city to celebrate the lively and enduring culture of the Martu – the traditional owners of a vast area of WA’s Western Desert.

12 Sep — 1 Nov, 2015 Gallery 1, Gold Coast City Gallery www.theartscentregc.com.au/gallery

Image: Kumpaya Gigirba and Ngamaru Bidu Marra! (catch it!) 2010. Photo: Gabrielle Sullivan

Part of the Indigenous Program supported by

Presented by

Principal Sponsors

Supported by

SEPT2015

11-20 PEOPLE . ART . PLACE

60 Artists | 10 DAYS

CURRUMBIN BEACH

ARTIST TALKS SCULPTURE WORKSHOPS MUSIC SALUTE TO SCULPTURE SMALL SCULPTURE GALLERY PERFORMANCE ART TWILIGHT WALKS NIGHT LIGHTING

www.swellsculpture.com.au

Discover the

NORTHERLY SWELL Sculpture Installation Helensvale Library & Cultural Centre in September

Glen Star Erebus Photography Kit Wise MAJOR PARTNERS

SWELL SCULPTURE FESTIVAL ACKNOWLEDGES THE SUPPORT OF THE QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT THROUGH ARTS QUEENSLAND AND TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSLAND.

Partners Proudly supported by

INDIGENOUS PROGRAM PRESENTING PARTNER

Gallery ExhibitioN PARTNER

Miss Saigon MAJOR PARTNER

VENUE PARTNERS

SUPPORT PARTNERs

Bruce Lynton

ACCOMMODATION PARTNER

MAIN STAGE MEDIA PARTNER

CULTURAL PARTNERS

Partnerships If you are looking to promote your business and build your brand awareness, a partnership with The Arts Centre Gold Coast will do exactly that. A tailored partnership package can include: • Premium marketing platforms and advertising opportunities • Invitations to key events, networking and business introductions • Complimentary tickets for entertaining clients • Complimentary uses of private function spaces for your special events

With our exquisite variety of events, you can easily entertain your clients whilst strengthening your brand presence in the community.

Contact us today: Development Manager, Megan Connors 07 5588 4046 0406 661 242 connors@theartscentregc.com.au

Celebrating all things gay on the Gold Coast!

Cabaret • Art • Theatre • Film • Community • Pool Party • Race Day

Monday 28 September — Monday 5 October, 2015 The Arts Centre Gold Coast is proud to present the Gold Coast City’s inaugural Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer and Allied Communities festival. Full program released Monday 3 August, 2015. www.theartscentregc.com.au/glitter @glitterfestivalgc #glitterfestivalgc