Adults Only Magic Show 2023 website review and photos: Cass Joy
Adults Only Magic Show by Melbourne Fringe Festival 2023 and presented by Showmen Productions Lighting design: After Dark Theatre took place on 11 - 29 Oct at Festival Park - The Bunker
special thanks: Adam Valentine
Adults Only Magic Show 2023
Absolutely hands down the best adult magic show I’ve ever seen! I was transported into a world of raunchy, clever and majestic magical moments. This was truly so unique in that, the magic show tells a story whilst simultaneously sharing multiple magic tricks leaving the audience speechless! The magical duo, Sam and Justin are incredibly down to earth, with a heart of gold! They are born entertainers and deserve endless commendation for not only their impressive skill set but also their warm personalities.
Touring across the world is such a marvellous and incredible achievement! They have developed a hilarious comedy that incorporates a combination of mind-bending illusions, stunningly dangerous stunts and just a cheeky hint of nudity!
This is an absolute must see during the International Comedy Festival. This is the type of show you could watch multiple times throughout the year! I absolutely adore this duo and believe their magic show is award winning! Naughty comedy is always so much fun and the perfect escape from reality.
Congratulations on a wildly entertaining magic show that will win the hearts of millions!
Queanbeyan Medieval Fair 2023 website photos, camera and editing: Hakam Soufan
Queanbeyan Medieval Fair 2023 by Queanbeyan Medieval Fair took place on 23-24 September at Queanbeyan Showground
special thanks: Henry Carter, Fyr Traianvs Mvrays, Marie-Anne Pham
What an extraordinary and mesmerizing Flamenco dance show! The Spanish dance showcased in this performance is undoubtedly a masterpiece, and it's truly remarkable how this art form has been passed down through generations. The flexibility of the dancers and their ability to express passion and spirit through their movements are awe-inspiring.
The show was elevated by the accompaniment of two amazing guitarists whose fingers moved with lightning speed, producing a powerful and evocative sound. The live voices of the two singers added an extra layer of depth and emotion to the performance. It was a complete sensory experience, and you couldn't tear your eyes away from the stage.
The show was so captivating that it felt like it was watched in a single breath. It left me desperately wanting to come back the next day to experience it all over again, as it injected a rush of endorphins into my body. In conclusion, this was absolutely one of the best shows I have seen in a while. The combination of passionate dancers, skilled guitarists, and soulful singers created a performance that was nothing short of spectacular. If you have the chance to witness this Flamenco dance show, I highly recommend it.
Ego Expo 2023 - Australia's Largest Street Culture Expo website review: Lylah Mckenzie photos: Kim Buenaflor
Ego Expo 2023 - Australia's Largest Street Culture Expo by Ego Expo Australia took place on Sat, 14 Oct 2023 - Sun, 15 Oct 2023 at Melbourne Showgrounds, Ascot Vale
From runway to basketball to live performances.
This was one of the best set out fashion events of the year. Not only did you get to see some incredibly talented small fashion brands, you were able to meet and connect with the creators, getting to know about their story and what brings them to the world of fashion, what their motivation is. With lots of locally made and sustainable clothing options it was a great opportunity to support Australian small businesses and support them in whatever way you could.
It’s a great event for these brands to get associated with others who are along the same journey or for people who are thinking of starting their journey. With talk panels to also guide you in the right direction and to get an insight on the achievements and failures others had to endure to get where they are now. You are also able to go a purchase any of the designs on display, they had stalls where you could print your own graphic tees from Senpai Studio (IG: senpai_trixx) or get a little sticker steam pressed from Buon Clothing (IG: Buonclothing) also including smash rooms and a 360 video booth. We were even lucky enough to watch the man himself Paink (IG: Paink_artist) in the zone doing his own live painting.
Hyping the crowd up with basketball games and live performances before and after seeing the amazing fashion shows, with give aways and slam dunk competitions as well, this really was a great weekend for both kids and adults. The fashion shows were incredible to watch, so many different styles of artist, take Heartz and Haims for example - Heartz designs are edgy, gothic, and bold mostly using leather as their medium. On the other hand Haims is bright, mostly using Pastels and is targeted towards kids and teens, the 11 year old designer wanted to created active wear for for both boys and girls. This was a great way to represent just how diverse streetwear can be and what it means to each individual person. It’s all categorised into one style yet each stall was vastly different which captured the personal aesthetic of each individual artist.
Over all it was a great experience and was set up in a way to support up coming brands, the MC was so good at hyping up the crowd and the energy during the event was unmatched. Highly recommend keeping your calendar clear for their next event.
Martial Arts Australia - Master Awards Australia website review: Amit Singh photos: Elan Gowan
Imagine if every child learned the respect, courtesy, and discipline that martial arts teaches. The world would be a different place.” – Chris Wahmond
Martial Arts Australia(MAA) masters awards 2023 happening in Pullman Hotel, Albert Park, Melbourne on the 21st of October 2023, organized by director Graham Slater.
Every single person on the planet can sometimes use encouragement from someone else, whether that form of encouragement comes from competition, a smile, or a motivational quote. Martial artists are no different,
Graham and his team organized this event to acknowledge the martial artists for outstanding achievements and contributions to the industry. Some people are recognized for their coaching, competing, promoting, and business excellence while others have used their skills as ambassadors to the arts.
The show started with an amazing Taiko drum opening act and continued by acknowledging and awarding the presentation of all winners including an astonishing singing performance by Isabella Dymalovski.
The awards were in different nomination categories: 1- Master Award – Kickboxing, presented by Benny ‘The Jet’ Urquidez. 2- Master Award – Ninjitsu, presented by Silvio Morelli 3- Master Award - Karate, presented by John Alford 4- Master Award- Hapkido, presented by Glenn Coxon 5- Master Award- Defensive Tactics, presented by Paul Mracek 6- Master Award- Brazallian Jiu Jitsu, presented by Silvio Morelli 7- Master Award- Male competitor, presented by Mike Stone 8- Master Award- Female Competitor, presented by Mike Stone 9- Master Award- Multi Styles, presented by Graham Slater 10- Master Award-Promoters, presented by Peter Mylonas 11- Master Award- Ambassador, presented by Tino Ceberano 12- Master Award- Humanitarian, presented by Graham Slater 13- Industry Award- Industry Support, presented by Graham Slater 14- Industry Award- New Business, presented by Graham Slater 15- Industry Award- Single branch Business, presented by Graham Slater 16- Industry Award- Multi Branch Business, presented by Graham Slater 17- Master Award- Lifetime Tribute, presented by Glenn Coxon 18- Master Award- Lifetime Tribute, presented by Peter Mylonas 19- Master Award- Lifetime Tribute, presented by Tino Ceberano 20- Master Award- Lifetime Tribute, presented by Graham Slater 21- Master Award- Lifetime Tribute, presented by Glenn Coxon 22- Master Award- Lifetime Tribute, presented by Graham Slater
The show ended with a panel interview presented by Graham Slater with Tino Ceberano, Richard Norton, Mike Stone, and Benny Urquidez.
It was a wonderful award night with a lot of inspiration and encouragement to society to learn these skills to support yourself and others.
It was an unforgettable experience and a celebration of the incredible talent and dedication within the martial arts community, and it did not disappoint.
The venue was the perfect setting for such an event, it was spacious end well it all with a comfortable environment for the audience and great visibility of the action. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and excitement, setting the stage for a memorable evening. The program was well structured and thoughtfully curated, it was inspiring to see a martial artist from various disciplines being organized for their hard work and achievements. We would like to say a big thanks to Graham and his whole team for organizing such a wonderful event and looking forward to many more to come.
Bohemian Rhapsody Club and Magazine (Amit Singh Saini)
Mr. III 三 III at National Institute of Circus Arts website review: Cass Joy
Mr. III 三 III at National Institute of Circus Arts
Presented by: Melbourne Fringe Created and Performed by: FOCA - Formosa Circus Art Supported by: Ministry of Culture Taiwan Background: Fringe Focus Taiwan is supported by The Ministry of Culture, Republic of China (Taiwan) and Cultural Division, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Sydney.
About FOCA - Formosa Circus Art FOCA - Formosa Circus Art is named after the beautiful island: Taiwan.
Established in 2011, FOCA has developed a unique physical vocabulary that is all its own, combining contemporary circus arts with traditional Taiwanese forms, acrobatics, street culture and theatre arts. With members from many diverse artforms, the internationally renowned FOCA is Taiwan’s largest and most diverse full time circus ensemble, travelling en masse to showcase their extraordinary work at Melbourne Fringe.
Review by: Cassandra Van Zeyl
Juggling, acrobatics, music and acting combine in a fresh new slice of original creativity ! I have never seen a show quite like this, with so many underlying messages regarding lifestyle choices. The versatility of the acting range should be commended as all characters were able to demonstrate comedy and sadness simultaneously!
The idea behind the performance was that three overworked, stressed and exhausted office workers navigate their daily routine. Initially when the drums started I actually thought this show was going to be an entire performance based on acrobatics but instead it was so much more powerful and the storyline makes us as an audience question our work ethic. I didn’t realise a show with no words could communicate so much in the form of acrobatics. When a statue is introduced into the set, their personalities start becoming more bright, happy and hopeful. Watching this transition was engaging, numerous and curious. The facial expression, body language and movement should be commended. An absolutely gripping performance ! Congratulations on a unique, cultivating and culturally enriched performance.
Definitely an acrobatic adventure you don’t want to miss out!
TarraWarra: The Soils Project website review: Jeanette Russell photos: Kim Buenaflor talents involved and featured Jesi Faun and Lylah McKenzie
The Soils Project EXHIBITION by TarraWarra Museum of Art and Articulate Pr will run till 12 NOVEMBER 2023 at Tarrawarra Art Museum, Healesville
special thanks: Claire Martin, Jasmin De Wolfe and Sunni Hart
The Soils Project is an amazing and fascinating project containing a collection of art bringing together 13 practitioners and collectives from Australia, Indonesia, Columbia, and the Netherlands. With the exhibit they showcase and allow the viewer to consider " the complex and diverse relationships between environmental change and colonisation." The Tarrawarra Museum Curatorial, Australia states, The display I felt was vibrant, colourful, and very meaningful. It depicts the idea of weaving ourselves into the soil to learn, and the Tarrawarra Curatorial for" The Soils Project" says there are "ideas of healing wounds, nurturing soil, creating sustainable relationships and working on restitution and repatriation, all with an ethical approach ". Coranderrk Aboriginal Station Lie at the heart of The Soils project, in Victoria for the First Nations people. There are amazing linocut collage to see depicting " feeding country in reciprocity". Maps stories and other fabulous art pieces is on display from Indigenous Australian's.
From Indonesia there are various artworks to see, from photos pictures materials and maps. The Indonesian "Struggles for Sovereignty " programme began in 2020. At Tarrawarra the exhibition presents the paintings and photos exploring lives and struggles . The Curator's and collaborators state " we feel art should detach from its forms and instead be used as a tool to enable and weave a network of mutual solidarity among communities and territories."
The component from the Netherlands by individuals responsible for the Dutch contribution to" The Soils Project" maintain that the pieces for the project " are a way for us to look at systems of value and the nature of the modern world that was bequeathed to us by our colonising societies." " Soils negotiates a similar terrain, setting out to make viable a range of forms that are specific to very different parts of the world while trusting they communicate shared desires to reconnect with the earth and the relations between living beings." Pictures photos and art from the Netherlands are displayed, as well as other artefacts from South Holland in the Netherlands.
The exhibition is extremely engaging, thought provoking, and so interesting. I highly recommend a visit to Tarrawarra to see this latest installation . It's a beautiful building, with lovely serene and picturesque surrounds. The information supplied the graphic art and insights gained make it all well worth a look. Thank you so much for the opportunity to take in the wonderous sights and sounds of "The Soils Project ". Jeanette RussellJeanette RussellJeanette Russell
The Burton Bar - A Halloween Speakeasy Pop Up: MELBOURNE website review and photos: Cass Joy
The Burton Bar - A Halloween Speakeasy Pop Up: MELBOURNE by The House of Burton and Hidden Media Network PR runs From 04-Oct-2023 To 31-Oct-2023 at Level 1 The District Docklands, 23 - 37 Star Crescent, Melbourne
special thanks: Shelley Allen
Who doesn’t love Halloween?
Strictly limited time only ! Pumpkins, tomb stones and gargoyles are all part of the fun. Entering into Tim Burton's world for an evening is quite the shake up to your every day routine. This immersive Halloween bar is the perfect escape out of your reality. The month of October is spooky and full of surprises. What’s super fun about this immersive bar experience is that you will be involved in some spooktacular quests, games and quizzes. Make sure you brush up on your Halloween knowledge , especially from the movie category! The bar has an absolutely fabulous range of Halloween drinks! I enjoyed a sour worm in my shot as it was a unique spin on a cocktail. The atmosphere is dark, engaging and Halloween inspired with some fantastic props! It really is such a fun experience including one boozy welcome drink paired with a ghost host, additional activations and games. Keep your eyes peeled with things hidden amongst the experience. This whole experience is a solid ninety minutes which is actually the perfect time limit post dinner. A ghoulish atmosphere awaits you, where this Beetlejuice- themed speakeasy will feed your Halloween cravings! Head down to District Docklands Shopping Centre running from Wednesday to Sunday throughout the month of October. Book ahead for the Halloween Special on the official Halloween night. This is a distorted - reality journey guaranteed to get you in the mood for Halloween. You would be amazed that this experience is only $15 per person. Remember this experience is for 18+ ! I certainly laughed, smiled and found myself pre planning a Halloween movie marathon during this experience!
The Burlesque Showboat Cruise website review: Jeanette Russell photos: Kieran McNamara
The Burlesque Showboat Cruise by Burlesque Showboat and Maison Burlesque took place on SATURDAY, 7 October at Lady Cutler Melbourne Showboat at Pier VH08, Docklands
special thanks: Joanna
The Burlesque show was entertaining, comical and enjoyable. As a form of parody and satire these performers were professional, and masters, yet respectful . Tongue in cheek , frivolous and slightly risque the show brought much merriment to the room. Our MC for the night, Whisky Falls, who was light hearted and amusing, if not a little scary, all part of the experience, that brought an atmosphere of the theatrical.
The first dancer was Valerie Valentine. Looking like a young Marilyn Monroe and with an older style costume she was a fabulous dancer and provided some funny and cheeky interactions . Next we welcomed Juniper Fox, who as an entertainer was very dexterous, and had some wonderful gymnastic moves. Egson Ham, the amazing man of the evening, took the majority female audience by storm, and was most engaging and whitty in his ways. Domino De Jour last but not least was a great professional artist with a touch of the saucy too. It was a lovely cruise departing from Docklands Melbourne, on the river for 3 1/2 hours. It was an opportunity to soak up the sights, lights and city skyline. There was delicious food supplied and all the staff made themselves available to help with any requests. Staff assisting with the Burlesque show were friendly and accommodating.I would highly recommend the cruise and show as it was so engaging,entertaining and fun loving. I felt the audience had a wonderful time participating, and were very jolly and seemed to be having a hoot, and laughing much of the time. Thank you, so much Maison Burlesque for the awesome opportunity to review the show.
Mamma Mia Musical website review and photos: Cass Joy
Back in Melbourne is the classic, phenomenal and world loved musical, Mamma Mia! Now playing at the Princess Theatre for a strictly limited time. What a buzz walking on the blue carpet for Mamma Mia opening night on October the 6th. The energy was high and the smiles were radiating across the front of the theatre strip! Opening night was glamorous, exciting and highly anticipated.
Each face showed gratitude and appreciation walking across the blue carpet and inside to enjoy their complimentary glass of champagne! Mamma Mia is genuinely the perfect theatre production to pull Melbourne out of the post lockdown blues. It’s crazy to think that the original production of Mamma Mia, opened in London’s West End in 1999 and is still playing there! Did you know that Mamma Mia is becoming the sixth longest running show in West End history. This is truly remarkable and also well deserved, given its addictive playlist and lovable storyline.
Playing in over fifty countries, in over four hundred and forty major cities, to over sixty five million people is just fabulous! This really isn’t a musical you want to miss out on in Melbourne! This is the perfect excuse to dress up and travel to the Greek islands, wrapping yourself up in a world of musical romance and charm! The familiar storyline includes Sophie who is in fact a young bride to be. The problem for poor Sophie is she’s having an identity crisis in which she doesn’t feel whole because she doesn’t quite know her father. Sophie reads her mothers private journal and begins to unravel the mysteries of her mothers past, inviting three men her mother hasn’t seen in over twenty years.
This is a magical story that will one hundred percent sweep you off your feet. The combination of romance, comedy and mystery really do present a brilliant story ! The Mamma Mia production was redeveloped in 2017, ready to make waves for the Australian audience! The best part about Mamma Mia, is that ABBA’s greatest hits feature throughout which really creates this incredible nostalgia! Personally my favourite song from the night was ‘Take a chance on me’!
Special commendations to Sarah Krndija who played the role of Sofia perfectly ! Her vocal ability was phenomenal and paired beautifully with her personality ! I instantly recognised her from Class Of ’07 which is currently streaming worldwide on Prime Video. Congratulations Sarah ! I absolutely idolise you. Elise was absolutely dynamite as the lead and deserves a special commendation on her performance as well ! Elise is most well-known for originating the role of Miss Honey in the Australian production of Matilda the Musical .Bianca Bruce was absolutely hilarious and I had my stomach in stitches. She certainly was a highlight for me !
A genuinely incredible cast that deserves endless commotion and commendations! Congratulations to all involved in this excellent production ! The Aussie humour injected into this stage show adaptation was incredibly clever and had the audience laughing in hysterics. Mamma Mia is a must for anyone who wants to smile, laugh and sing!
South Asian Wedding & Lifestyle Expo website photos: Kim Buenaflor review:Amit S Singh
South Asian Wedding & Lifestyle Expo by Aquila Events Melbourne took place on Sunday, October 8 at The Whitehorse Club Function and Convention Centre, Burwood East @aquilaevents.au
special thanks: Bhawna
"If I get married, I want to be very married."
I attended the South Asian wedding exhibition and it was truly an incredible experience which is apt for the above quote as we all want our marriage to be very married.
The exhibition featured an impressive collection of bridal attires, stunning jewelry, and even a variety of wedding photography stalls to capture those special movements. The runway shows by models showcasing the latest bridal collection of fashion were a highlight, giving us a glimpse of the trends to come. Additionally, the presence of wedding suites and legal stalls added a delightful touch to the event. Overall, it was a fantastic showcase of South Asian wedding culture and preparations.
I must say the dance performances at the South Asian wedding exhibition were absolutely mesmerizing! The talented dancers brought vibrant energy and traditional dance form to life, adding a dynamic and cultural dimension to the event. It was a captivating and enjoyable experience that further enriched the overall atmosphere of the exhibition.
The food stalls at the South Asian wedding exhibition offered a delectable area of flavor and dishes. From aromatic curries to mouth watering sweets, the culinary delights were a treat for the taste buds.
The henna stall was equally impressive, with the skilled artist creating integrated and beautiful designs on attendees' hands. The henna stalls added a delightful sensory experience to the exhibition, enhancing the cultural richness of the event.
It's great to know that the South Asian wedding exhibition was organized by Aquila Events company on the 8th of October at Burwood East, Melbourne. Their efforts in putting together such a fantastic showcase of bridal fashion, jewellery, dance performances, fashion shows, wedding decorators, and culinary delights certainly made the event a memorable and culturally enriching experience. Kudos to Aquila Events company (Bhawna) for their excellent organization.
Bohemian Rhapsody Club Magazine Amit Singh Saini
Cherry Blossom Show 2023 website photos: Chierchia Gerardo review: Cass Joy
Berries, cherries and fairies all in one location !
There is an absolutely delightful pick your own’ cherries' experience at Blue Hills Berries and Cherries at their Farm Gate Shop at 27 Parker Rd, Silvan, 3795. You can, during season times, purchase fresh pre-packed cherries and a selection of seasonal berries. I recently had the pleasure of visiting this charming cherry blossom farm that left me absolutely enchanted. From the very moment I arrived, I was greeted by the breathtaking sight of fairy tales like cherry trees in full bloom. Their delicate pink blossoms create a picturesque backdrop against the clear blue sky. What’s really special about this cherry blossom farm, is that it’s actually family owned and has been for generations. Blue Hills Berries and Cherries is a family owned and operated farm. The Chapman family have farmed in Silvan since 1894. What's really fabulous is that they use integrated pest management and sustainable food practices.
The farm's dedication to both cherries and the aesthetics of their surroundings was evident in every detail. The cherry orchard was meticulously maintained, and the trees bore ripening. The combination of the cherry trees and the vibrant, colourful flowers surrounding them made for a truly enchanting experience. I was in heaven ! What a perfect place for a picnic and afternoon tea set up.
Adding to the magical atmosphere was a talented singer serenading visitors with their acoustic guitar. The soothing melodies resonated through the orchard, enhancing the sense of tranquillity and joy. The acoustic guitar paired with nature's beauty just effortlessly!
For those seeking even more entertainment, there was a talented face painter on-site, transforming eager children and adults alike into whimsical characters and creatures. It added an element of whimsy to the already whimsical setting. What a treat to see children's faces like up as their face transformed into their dreams.
There was a food truck offering an array of delectable treats. For those adults needing a coffee, pick me up, you are saved !
Overall, this cherry blossom farm was a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its stunning cherry blossoms, live music, face painting, and delicious food, it offered an experience that was both magical and memorable. I left with a heart full of happiness , eager to return to this hidden gem in nature. This family owned farm is a must on your Melbourne bucket list! This is a space for all ages. Romantic dates, family outings and just the perfect tourist spot !
MenXclusive Show website photos and review Kierand Mcnamara
MenXclusive
The MenXclusive show contains a mix of dance, acrobatics, comedy and fire. There are some fun props used during different parts of the show to aid in the story telling. There is audience participation on a volunteer basis, and it’s done in a respectful and fun way for the those who come up on stage. The performance is classy and contains high energy dance showcasing the different performers with different costumes used to show the physiques of the male performers and the female performer.
During the show, performers utilise the entire stage as well as in front of the stage and the audience was seated very close to the action. The audience was a mixture of hen’s groups, birthday parties and those that came along for a night of entertainment and a good show and included a variety of ages of women and some men. The show was entertaining, and the music allowed for the audience to sing along, and the audience did get quite loud during the show with their singing and cheering.
I enjoyed that the show was fast-paced and every number performed was different from the others so it was always interesting. The performers maintained high energy throughout, and it was thoroughly entertaining with everyone enjoying the show. I enjoyed myself and recommend attending for some fun and a great night out.
Australian Sake Festival Sydney 2023 website photos by Neil Chand of M4E - Memories 4 Ever Photograph video: Nishtha Chand
Australian Sake Festival Sydney 2023 run by Australian Sake Festival and Jams.tv took place on 30 Sep,- 1 Oct at Carriageworks, Eveleigh