‘Everyone is their own musician’: Side projects save Hiatus Kaiyote from indefinite hiatus

Keyboardist, Simon Mavin, backdropped by his impressive home studio, and band bassist Paul Bender, with a Sgt. Pepper’s poster over his shoulder, discuss the flexibility and freedom of Hiatus Kaiyote that keeps them returning to the passion project. 

2023 saw Mavin step into solo territory with the release of his debut album Some Days with singles ‘Good Hair Day’ and ‘Only You & Me’, and continuing his support of powerhouse Emma Donovan as a member of her band The Putbacks. Vocalist Nai Palm has been playing solo shows across North America for the past twelve months and together Mavin and Bender join fellow instrumentalists, working under the collective The Sweet Enoughs, producing mood music for listening and relaxation outside of the core project. Side projects allow them to not go on hiatus from Hiatus.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

“We’ve been doing Hiatus for 10 plus years now. So you get used to how the mothership flies, and when there’s time to do other stuff and when there’s not. It’s still pretty unpredictable if there are certain points where stuff pops up, but I think we get a general sort of leniency to do other projects while we’re doing Hiatus as the main thing,” Mavin explains. 

“That’s the thing about this project, everyone is their own musician in a way, and can work on different kinds of things. We’re very different musicians in the band, which is great because then when we clock off from Hiatus, we’re able to focus on things that we want to get better at or pursue and then often those things come back to Hiatus. 

“Like someone goes on a journey down a certain path musically and inevitably it’ll just sort of end up winding back into the sound of HK which is pretty cool.” 

It’s their ability to leave the band and immerse themselves in separate music projects that extend their already impressive compositions. With accolades of Australian Independent Record awards wins, National Live Music Awards on their shelf and Grammy nominations, Hiatus Kaiyote benefit from developing outside of the band. 

“We all learn stuff from doing our own side quest for sure. When you spend time going into a specific style or headspace, it’s nice to bring that into the projects and then at the same time, it’s also nice that the side project is its own thing with its own set of rules about it. A lot of things that would make something Hiatus don’t have to be on the table, but then when you come into Hiatus, a bunch of things that would make it that side project also don’t have to be on the table, but they can definitely influence each other and I think the more music that you record, the more you learn about creating sounds and creating arrangements. It all informs each other,” says Bender. 

Key areas of development have been sourcing material and conversing with other musicians for Bender, whilst it’s a return back to basics for Mavin in being comfortable composing and putting melody to paper. In a world of productivity overload, it’s not a matter of hustle culture driving their desire to develop but more of their internal challenges.

“I have limited time to be on the planet. So I should get on with stuff and I always think about someone like Frank Zappa who made such complicated music and is also one of the most prolific recording artists ever. So it’s like he was putting into the hardest records to put together so what’s your excuse?” says Bender.

These new skills are being embedded in the next Hiatus Kaiyote album which Bender confirms they are “working through trying to finish”. The lead single ‘Everything’s Beautiful’ just dropped in January. Similarly, they are elevating their live show, having songs from Mood Valiant, Choose Your Weapon and Tawk Tomahawk recreated through The Dreamboat Orchestra, coming to Hamer Hall on Friday 23 February.

 

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“The Hiatus repertoire is pretty thick. There’s a lot of stuff going on most of the time. So when we perform it live as the four-piece or seven-piece, we inevitably have to strip it down a little bit. So it’s great being able to have an orchestra there that can do a bunch of the things that are on the record that we can’t play live and then also having someone like Miguel [Atwood Ferguson] who’s arranging the songs and being able to put his two cents into the pieces as well in certain ways. 

“It’s really an incredible gig. The first one we did at the Hollywood Bowl was really special and it’s just incredible to hear our music performed with a very large ensemble.”

Hiatus Kaiyote will perform at Hamer Hall w/ The Dreamboat Orchestra, Melbourne on Friday 23 February. Get tickets here. 

An Evening with Rebel Wilson is coming to Australian stages in May

For fans of laughter, inspiration, and Hollywood success stories, get ready for an unforgettable evening with none other than Rebel Wilson herself. The comedic powerhouse behind hits like Pitch Perfect and Bridesmaids is set to take the stage for a series of candid and hilarious conversations across Australia.

From her humble beginnings in Sydney to becoming a household name in Hollywood, Rebel Wilson’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. In her upcoming show, “An Evening with Rebel Wilson,” audiences will be treated to a heartfelt exploration of her path to success, self-love, and everything in between.

An Evening with Rebel Wilson

• 9th May, 8:30 pm: Sydney Opera House Concert Hall
• 12th May, 7:30 pm: Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre
• 14th May, 7:30 pm: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne

Stay up to date with what’s happening within the region’s art scene here. 

 

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For decades, Rebel Wilson single-mindedly focused on her career, forgoing relationships in favour of making a name for herself. An Evening with Rebel Wilson will share the emotional and physical lessons she has learned, as well as her most embarrassing experiences. A malaria-induced Oscars hallucination? An all-style martial-arts fighting tournament? Junior handling at dog shows? And this was all before she moved to Hollywood! Rebel will share stories from her proud bogan upbringing in Sydney to then making millions in the US as the “fat funny Aussie girl.”

Despite her stratospheric success, she constantly questioned “Am I good enough?”, “Will I ever find love?” and “Will I ever change and become healthy?” Rebel speaks for the first time about the most personal and important moments in her life — from fertility issues, weight gain and loss to sexuality, overcoming shyness and dealing with rejection (and there’s at least one story thrown in about Brad Pitt!).

But the heart of the evening lies in Rebel’s message of self-love and acceptance. Through her own experiences, she’ll show audiences how to embrace their true selves while navigating life’s ups and downs.

In addition to the live event, fans can delve deeper into Rebel’s story with her upcoming memoir, “Rebel Rising.” Packed with even more hilarious anecdotes and heartfelt moments, this book promises to be a must-read for fans old and new.

Get your tickets now from here. 

Karnivool announce The Tri-Continental Drift Australian tour

Karnivool is hitting the road this year for their first Aussie tour in years! It’s been a hot minute since Karnivool last graced stages Down Under, with their headline performance on the Monolith Tour back in 2022.

In June, the lads are jetting off to Europe for a string of colossal festival gigs, including headline slots at Download in the UK, Copenhell in Denmark, and Hellfest in France. But before they embark on their transcontinental escapade, they’re showing some hometown love by kicking things off right here. The tour will begin in May in Brisbane and take to Sydney, Melbourne, Frankston and Adelaide.

The Tri-Continental Drift Tour 2024 Dates:

• Friday 24th May: Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane
• Saturday 25th May: Liberty Hall, Sydney
• Thursday 30th May: Northcote Theatre, Melbourne
• Friday 31st May: The Pier, Frankston
• Saturday 1st June: Hindley Street Music Hall, Adelaide

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

This Aussie rock sensation is renowned for their electrifying performances and infectious energy. With a unique blend of progressive rock and alternative metal, Karnivool delivers an unforgettable sonic experience that will leave you craving more.

After a blistering headline run across the Northern Hemisphere last January, it’s only fair they give their Aussie fans a taste of the action before they hit the international circuit again. So, Kenny, Drew, Hoss, Jon, and Steve are tuning up, dusting off their gear, and getting ready to rock your socks off.

Oh, and for all you Perth peeps fretting about being left out – fear not! The band assures you they haven’t forgotten their roots and promise to sort something out for you lot, just as soon as they catch their breath.

Tickets for this epic journey go on sale Thursday 22nd February at 9 am AEDT via Karnivool.com.

Morgan Evans

MORGAN EVANS RETURNS TO AUSTRALIA WITH FINAL LIFE UPSIDE DOWN TOUR DATES THIS APRIL

Following his incredibly successful Life Upside Down 2023 Tour of Australia and New Zealand, Nashville-based, Aussie country star, Morgan Evans, will return home this April. On his 2024 visit, Morgan will take his Life Upside Down live show to regional Australian cities, delivering the final dates of his epic tour to fans he hasn’t seen for a while.

Following the release his hugely successful EP, Life Upside Down (2023) which featured catalyst track ‘Over For You’, Morgan took the project on the road, returning to home soil last year for the Life Upside Down Tour. What began as seven headline shows ended with a massive fourteen headline performances, as huge demand saw the ARIA Award-winner sell out multiple dates across major Australian cities, including two nights at the iconic Sydney Opera House. Morgan’s forthcoming live album, recorded last September from the Sydney Opera House, will be unveiled in the coming months.

Despite being on the road, Morgan continues to create his music, releasing ‘Date Night’ with Kita Alexander during his last Australian tour, along with ‘Thank God She’s A Country Girl’, his own spin on the John Denver classic at the end of 2023, and Christmas track, ‘Christmas In The Backyard’ to round out his whirlwind year.

Best known for “blending Nashville’s southern charm with an unmistakably down-to-earth Aussie spirit” (CountryTown), fans clearly can’t get enough of Morgan Evans.

Echoes of Pink Floyd

A faithful reproduction of the iconic work of Pink Floyd.

In 1988, Australia witnessed a rock concert event unprecedented in its scale, scope and impact. Now, 35 years later as our country begins to re-embrace live music, Australia’s own Echoes of Pink Floyd bring you their painstakingly crafted homage to this amazing concert experience, Signs of Life.

English powerhouse rockers Pink Floyd, sparkling with fresh energy after enduring significant upheaval in the early 1980’s, came to our shores in support of their smash hit A Momentary Lapse of Reason album. Stunning in its audio and visual impact, this tour set a benchmark still considered the gold standard for touring acts the world over. This tour was filmed and recorded for subsequent release as a live album, appropriately titled “The Delicate Sound of Thunder”.

Signs of Life will take the listener on a voyage bringing back those heady years of 1988, with the best songs from the Delicate Sound of Thunder tour lovingly reproduced for Pink Floyd fans of all ages and backgrounds. Audiences will be able to thrill to tracks that have not been performed live in this country for decades, as well as enjoying all the smash hits and stadium anthems they know and love.

Echoes of Pink Floyd are Australia’s premier Pink Floyd tribute artists, having thrilled tens of thousands of Pink Floyd fans throughout the country since their inception in 2009. The group features seasoned musicians and passionate Pink Floyd devotees Daniel Hunter and Mark MacNab on guitars, Jason Miller on drums, Paul Bindig on keyboards, Matt Goodluck on vocals and Tony Coppola on bass. For the Signs of Life tour, Echoes of Pink Floyd will draw on their extended “family” of amazing female vocalists and stunningly accurate saxophonists Australia-wide to authentically re-create the Delicate Sound of Thunder sonic landscape. The meticulously layered sounds will be complemented by an impactful visual presentation, drawing out the themes, feelings and messages behind Pink Floyd’s thought-provoking lyrics.

Stellar Short Film Festival: A night of stars, films, and magic under the Australian sky

Now in its fifth anniversary, the Stellar Short Film Festival is set to illuminate the night sky once again at the breathtaking McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery in Langwarrin on Saturday, March 2nd, 2024. 

This annual celebration of the best in Australian short films, promises an enchanting evening filled with cinematic wonders, artistic marvels, and unforgettable stories that will leave attendees spellbound.

Stellar Short Film Festival

• Saturday, March 2nd, 2024
• Gates open at 5:00 PM
• McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery – 390 McClelland Drive, Langwarrin. 

Stay up to date with what’s happening within the region’s art scene here. 

 

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For lovers of film, art, and storytelling, the Stellar Short Film Festival is the ultimate event. Against the backdrop of sculptures of national and international significance, nestled among native bushland, guests are treated to a unique blend of entertainment, culture, and gastronomy. It’s an evening where creativity knows no bounds and where the magic of cinema comes alive under the stars.

The festival boasts a carefully curated selection of twelve Australian short films, each a masterpiece in its own right. From heartwarming dramas to side-splitting comedies, these films promise to take audiences on an emotional rollercoaster, leaving them pondering, laughing, and discussing long after the credits roll. 

Judged live by esteemed industry experts alongside longtime supporters and ambassadors, including the likes of John Sheedy, Lucy Gaffy, Stef Smith, Jackson Tozer, and Asher Yasbincek, the lineup guarantees a showcase of the finest cinematic talent Australia has to offer.

Standout selections like “HAFEKASI” by Annelise Hickey, “EDEN ALONE SURPASSES THEE” by Tom Chapman, and “COLD WATER” by Jay & Shaun Perry promise to captivate audiences with their compelling narratives and stunning cinematography. These curated gems offer glimpses into the complexities of identity, resilience in the face of adversity, and the joys of embracing change. 

Guests have the option to experience the festival as general admission attendees or indulge in the full VIP treatment. General admission tickets offer the chance to wander through the sculpture park, indulge in delectable offerings from food trucks and beverage stalls, and groove to the beats of DJ Blind Benny before the film program commences. With giveaways and surprises in store, it’s a night of laid-back luxury and cultural immersion.

For those seeking an elevated experience, VIP tickets grant access to the exclusive red carpet affair held in the McClelland Pavilion. Rub shoulders with Australia’s most talented filmmakers and actors while enjoying an all-inclusive experience that epitomizes glamour and sophistication.

 

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Beyond the films themselves, the Stellar Short Film Festival is an integral part of Frankston’s burgeoning arts and culture scene, contributing to the city’s vibrant tapestry of events. As the festival unfolds, attendees can look forward to upcoming cultural highlights, including the Big Picture Fest, Kubik, and the South Side Festival, further enriching the cultural landscape of the region.

As for the host venue for the Stellar Short Film Festival, the McClelland Sculpture Park + Gallery – a true gem of Australian art and culture – adds an extra layer of enchantment to an already magical evening. Home to an impressive collection of over 100 outdoor sculptures and 2,700 artworks across a 16-hectare setting, McClelland stands as Australia’s first family-founded, public gallery dedicated to art and sculpture. Among its celebrated pieces are crowd favourites like Frankie the Giant Gnome and the mesmerising Tree of Life, each contributing to the park’s unique ambiance of creativity and wonder.

As you attend the Stellar Short Film Festival at McClelland, take a moment to bask in the beauty of this extraordinary venue—a place where art, nature, and imagination converge to create an experience like no other.

So mark your calendars and prepare for a night of cinematic splendor at the Stellar Short Film Festival. With its enchanting blend of film, art, and entertainment, this boutique event promises an experience like no other. 

For more information and ticket purchases, visit www.stellarshortfilmfestival.com.au.

This article was made in partnership with Frankston City Council.

Best of Broadway

Starring Marina Prior, Michael Cormick and Jemma Rix

For one night only, three brilliant musical stars come together for a dazzling concert of the very best in Broadway hits and fabulous show-tunes.

This spectacular gala event is packed with orchestral classics, Broadway hits and more, performed by a glittering line up of star performers, including Australia’s First Lady of song, Marina Prior, extraordinary baritone and international superstar, Michael Cormick, and star of both Wicked and Frozen, the incredible Jemma Rix.

Led by John Foreman, the 30-piece Australian Pops Orchestra will again light up Costa Hall in a stunning display of musicianship, celebration and laughter.

Best of Broadway is a memorable night in the theatre, as we celebrate the songs, stories and triumphs that are synonymous with the world of Broadway.

Get ready to Rock ‘n’ Roll: The Geelong International Elvis Festival returns in 2024

Elvis fans, get ready to shake, rattle, and roll because the King is back in town! From November 7th to 11th, 2024, the Geelong International Elvis Festival is back and set to take the city by storm with a lineup of electrifying performances that will have you all shook up!

Imagine this: the lights dim, the music starts, and suddenly you’re transported back in time to the era of pompadours and swivelling hips. It’s the ultimate Elvis experience, right here in Geelong.

Geelong International Elvis Festival

• 6 completely different concerts over 4 jam-packed nights
• Nov 7-11, 2024
• Sphinx Hotel, Geelong

Keep up with the latest in local news and entertainment here.

Straight from the legendary halls of Graceland, the festival brings you the crème de la crème of Elvis performers, promising an extended event featuring six completely different concerts over four jam-packed nights, taking to the local Sphinx Hotel in North Geelong. This isn’t just any tribute act – these are performances that capture the essence of the King himself.

Leading the charge are Elvis Presley Enterprises ULTIMATE WINNERS Jay Dupuis and Brandon Bennett, ready to dazzle audiences with their uncanny portrayals of the rock ‘n’ roll icon.

But the surprises don’t stop there. Prepare to be mesmerised by the scorching hot 50s & 60s act, ‘Moses Snow,’ as they ignite the stage with their infectious energy and undeniable charisma.

And let’s not forget Geelong’s very own hometown hero, Jack Gatto, whose passion and dedication to the King’s legacy will leave you breathless! Australia’s voice of Elvis, Jack is the kid who is still in his mid 20s has one of the biggest voices in the world, and you will be shocked when he sings.

The festival boasts a diverse lineup, with each night offering a unique theme and lineup of performers. From celebrating Elvis’s greatest performances to reliving his iconic movies and exploring his extensive catalogue of music, there’s something for every Elvis enthusiast.

Pre-sale tickets are on sale now. You can find out more information here.  

Jessica Mauboy

Experience the heart of Australia with Jessica Mauboy’s ‘Yours Forever’ Tour. This isn’t just a concert series; it’s a homecoming.

Mauboy, who first stole our hearts on ‘Australian Idol’ and now nurtures new talent on ‘The Voice’, is returning to her roots, both musically and geographically.

Delivering a tour that’s as grounded as it is spectacular, Mauboy’s new album, ‘Yours Forever’, is a testament to her authenticity. Showcasing her powerhouse vocals and deeply personal storytelling, this is the Mauboy we’ve come to adore: a proud Kuku Yalanji and Wakaman woman, whose soulful songs and stirring voice never fail to give us goosebumps.

The ‘Yours Forever’ tour promises to be Mauboy at her finest. Expect an unforgettable journey through her classics and new hits, each performed with the passion and intensity that only she can bring. Prepare to be blown away by her soaring vocals and incredible live band.

“With this record, I’m wholeheartedly myself,” says Mauboy, who grew up on her Larrakia Country in Darwin and still finds inspiration and draws strength from her hometown.

From her iconic roles in ‘The Sapphires’ and ‘Bran Nue Dae’, to her historic ‘Eurovision’ performance, Mauboy’s star continues to rise. Yet, with ‘Yours Forever’, she takes a moment to reflect, offering a nostalgic exploration of her past, present, and future.

Join the journey with Jessica Mauboy’s ‘Yours Forever’ Tour. The future’s looking bright, and it sounds like ‘Yours Forever’.

Cheap Trick and The Angels

Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Cheap Trick are heading to Costa Hall in 2024, joined LIVE by signature Australian rockers The Angels.

With over 5,000 performances spanning four decades and 20 million records sold worldwide, Rock and Roll Hall of Famers CHEAP TRICK are undoubtedly one of the most influential classic rock groups of the past 50 years. Celebrating their 50th anniversary next year, CHEAP TRICK has continued to reach mainstream and critical success. Hits such as ‘The Flame’, ‘Dream Police’, ‘I Want You To Want Me’ and ‘Surrender’ have cemented the group as one of America’s top rock ‘n’ roll bands of all time. They released their 20th studio album, In Another World, in April 2021.

Crowd favourites, The Angels, will see former drummer Nick Norton taking centre stage. With a set-list of catalogue classics that are ingrained in the hearts of every Australian rock fan, it is no wonder that the famous American critic David Fricke called The Angels “a guaranteed great time anywhere”.

As Ian McFarlane, the author of The Encyclopedia of Australian Rock and Pop, noted: “The Angels helped re-define the Australian rock tradition.” And now John Brewster, Rick Brewster, Sam Brewster, Tom Brewster and Nick Norton are giving it another twist. Let the night roll on!

The Australian Eagles

The Waifs

Australia’s The Waifs – folk heroes, and fully independent trailblazers, are celebrating the 20th Anniversary of their breakthrough album Up All Night with a massive tour of Australia, heading to every corner and crevice of this big land!

On this special night, the band will play the full album from beginning to end and then share other fan favourites.

The Waifs will celebrate this tour with the limited edition, signed release of Up All Night on vinyl.

The family wonder of Elmo’s Circus Dream is on now and coming to a theatre near you

Live theatre already brings with it a special kind of magic, however if you want your joy-receptors peaking in the red then nothing compares to the look of wonder and amazement on the face of a small child when they see their favourite character bound out onto the stage in front of them.

It’s genuinely delightful to hear the collective gasp of these little voices when they first spot them, and see mile-wide smiles and sparkly eyes taking in all the captivating colour and movement, as the lights from the stage glow back on their faces.

Elmo certainly created this kind of electrifying energy in the room last year when Elmo’s Circus Dream toured Victoria to packed houses. Back by popular demand, this live theatre show has returned in 2024 for a much larger tour, which is currently up and running and taking in plenty of metro and regional venues so even more audiences can enjoy all the fun.

Keep up with the latest in local news and entertainment here.

 

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From Preston to Albury, Ballarat to Bairnsdale, the show is visiting more than twenty towns all across Victoria and up around the border, sometimes scheduling up to three shows a day to ensure locals don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy Elmo, a collection of his Sesame Street friends and some very talented humans in this high-energy, feel-good stage show.

While the iconic Elmo probably needs no introduction, this adorable red fluffy monster Muppet is a character from Sesame Street, which is one of the longest running, and most influential, television shows ever made.

Sesame Street, which has been screened in countless countries across the globe, first began as a children’s television series in the mid-1960s. The idea was to use television, still an emerging entertainment medium then, to provide education for pre-schoolers and their families, so it worked in lessons about fundamentals, such as literacy and numeracy, along with basic life skills, such as how to cross the road safely, eat well and maintain proper hygiene.

Using a dynamic mix of live action, animated cartoons, puppets, games, songs and sketch comedy to maintain the attention of little ones, their older siblings and even encourage parents to watch and participate in the education of their kids, the show is also about empowering pre-schoolers in other key ways, teaching them to be strong, confident and kind.

 

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All of these ideas are infused in Elmo’s Circus Dream stage show, which includes many of Sesame Street’s most famous residents, such as Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, Grover and Bert and Ernie, all in their larger-than-life 3D glory and vibrant colour.

The show begins with Elmo’s enchanting bedtime story about the circus, which soon leads to Elmo and friends being magically transported to a dreamtime circus, where some internationally renowned circus performers will dazzle and delight with their impressive acrobatic displays, jaw dropping juggling acts, and mind-bending illusions. It’s a high-energy show, packed with plenty of songs (including the iconic Sesame Street theme song), dance numbers and colourful costumes.

Elmo and his Sesame Street friends are performing two shows a day, at 10.30am and then 1pm, in each venue. Their first stop on the tour is the Darebin Arts and Entertainment Centre in Preston on February 20 and 21.Then on Feb 22 and 23, they will be performing four shows at Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre in South Morang. Weekend audiences at Bunjil Place Theatre, the arts epicentre of Narre Warren, will have the option of a third show on both Saturday and Sunday, happening at 3pm.

After so many shows, Elmo will take a well needed rest before jumping back up on Wednesday 28 February in Shepparton, Thursday in Echuca and finishing the week with Saturday shows in Wangaratta.

 

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On Monday 4 March, and again the following day, they’re in Albury before heading to Bairnsdale on the Thursday, and Sale on the Saturday at the Wedge Performing Arts Centre. It’s then Traralgon’s turn on Sunday 10 March.

The following week, the show arrives at the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre on Thursday 14 March before a packed schedule in Ballarat, starting on Sunday 17 March, with an extra show at 3pm, then two shows a day on Monday and Tuesday at Civic Hall.

Tickets for all of these shows are already on sale, including the Thursday 21 March show in Hamiliton. Tickets will soon be on sale for shows still to come in Mount Gambier, Horsham, Murray Bridge and ten shows over four days in Norwood from 30 March to 2 April.

For Sesame Street fans in Evanston Park, Renmark, Mildura and Bendigo, you’ll be able to see the show during the first half of April, so for all upcoming dates be sure to check the website www.sesamestreetcircus.com.au for when they become available.

Elmo’s Circus Dream is presented by Showtime Attractions, an Australian entertainment company who have the local rights to the biggest and latest licenses in children’s entertainment, including major worldwide brands, such as Nickelodeon, Universal, DreamWorks, Warner Bros, and many more.

Just like the TV program that inspired it, Elmo’s Circus Dream is intended to ignite the imaginations of children, encourage self-expression and teach valuable life lessons in a fun and engaging way. Plus, there’s also the opportunity to meet and greet Elmo after the show, for those who purchase the VIP tickets. Those start from $69 and also include premium seating and a showbag, while a general admission ticket starts at $33.50.

Given the television show has aired over 4500 episodes, there’s generations of us who have grown up with these characters and Elmo’s Circus Dream will allow older audience members a trip down memory lane while creating unforgettable memories for younger ones.

For all the information, head to www.sesamestreetcircus.com.au.

This article was made in partnership with Showtime Attractions.

Old Merv’s

Australia’s fastest rising indie-rock outfit and loveable larrikins Old Mervs are heading on an absolutely mammoth regional tour in 2024 from Byron Bay to Bunbury and everywhere in between. From January – March, the duo from WA will bring their latest EP Give It Up, featuring singles “Sweetheart” and “Hey”, their back catalogue and their epic singalong shows to 20 stops around the country. Old Mervs have quickly become one of Australia’s hottest commodities. Hitting home runs with stand out singles like 2020 track “Cellphone”, 2021’s “Wait Around” and “Where I Go” which placed 123rd in the Hottest 100/200, the two-piece soundtrack life’s growing pains and kaleidoscopic experiences wrapped in catchy hooks and breezy guitars. Turning heads of industry and fans alike with their sunny sound, the duo consistently sell out venues on their own headline shows, have supported some of the biggest tours in the country including Liam Gallagher, The Wombats, King Stingray and Spacey Jane, along with huge sets at festivals like Groovin the Moo, Splendour in the Grass and Yours & Owls.

ChillenIT

The Multi-Platinum, ARIA Nominated, rap scallywag, Chillinit, embarks on his first ever regional tour of Australia on the 420 Oz Crawl. From the bush to the beach, and every pub, club, and tavern in between, the 420 kingpin will serve up his new mixtape, 420DNA, including the stomping viral hit ‘Boys Light Up’, the razor sharp ‘Pac Energy’, as well as a swag of tunes from his ever growing catalogue, including the double platinum ‘Wish You Well Pt. 2’, and underground smash, ‘Henny & Reefer’, on this epic 20 date run.

In the five years since his Gold selling debut album, ChillinIt has morphed from an underground sensation to a household name, accumulating in excess of 500 million streams and a swag of gold, platinum and double platinum singles.  Over in the UK, he is also the first and only Australian artist to appear on Charlie Sloth‘s famed Fire In The Booth plus going viral on tastemaker channels JDZmedia and SBTV. Don’t miss your chance to join the crawl.

War Bear

To celebrate the release of their EP ‘Wrecked Em’, War Bear are heading out on an east coast tour. Joined by friends in Bury Me and Deadweight 80

One Night Choir with Mia Dyson

Win: Tickets to the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show

Get ready to immerse yourself in a botanical wonderland as the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show (MIFGS), proudly presented by Scotts, returns to Carlton Gardens and the Royal Exhibition Building from Wednesday 20th to Sunday 24th March 2024.

Following a record-breaking attendance last year, this five-day extravaganza promises an array of new and enchanting horticultural experiences for visitors of all ages. From breathtaking floral exhibitions to enlightening talks by industry experts, and from new food and entertainment zones to family-friendly workshops, MIFGS is set to transform one of Victoria’s most iconic gardens into a paradise for plant lovers.

Stay up to date with what’s happening within the region’s art scene here. 

 

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Visitors will be treated to a reinvigorated program featuring internationally-acclaimed landscape designers headlining the popular Show Garden competition. With newcomers Annika Zetterman and Kajsa Bjorne from Sweden, alongside familiar faces like Ireland’s Peter Donegan and Japan’s Koji Ninomiya, the competition promises to showcase a diverse range of talents. Notably, the first Indigenous Show Garden, in collaboration with the Wurundjeri Council, will offer an immersive experience reflecting the deep connection between the land and its custodians.

Adding to the excitement, visitors can experience the Urban Forest entertainment precinct in partnership with the City of Melbourne. Located in the Royal Exhibition Building forecourt, this precinct will feature daily workshops, DJs, food trucks, and more, offering a vibrant atmosphere for festival-goers to explore.

Other program highlights include aerial floral displays, the Bloomin’ Wheels exhibition, interactive cultural gardens, and tablescaping inspiration. The High Tea Lounge will extend into Gardens by Twilight on Friday evening, offering an all-new Twilight Tapas offering for attendees to enjoy.

Outside the Royal Exhibition Building, attendees can marvel at dozens of dazzling outdoor designs, including Boutique Gardens, Achievable Gardens, Balcony Gardens, Border Gardens, and the popular Hanging Basket Competition. The Arts & Sculpture Precinct and immersive experiences for children by Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria will also be on offer.

Inside the Royal Exhibition Building, visitors can explore the Great Hall of Flowers, where they’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colour and enchanting aromas. The all-new Blooms Unleashed exhibit and Brush & Bubbles workshops promise to captivate audiences with award-worthy aerial floral displays and hands-on experiences.

To celebrate the upcoming event, we’re giving away two double passes to the much-anticipated Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show!

Giveaway Details:

• Prize: Two double passes to the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show
• Dates: Wednesday 20th to Sunday 24th March 2024 (winner gets to choose preferred date)
• Location: Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens, Melbourne

All you have to do to enter is chuck in your details below.

The competition closes March 6 2024 at 5pm, when the winner will be drawn and notified by email. By entering, you agree to receive promotional collateral from Forte and our competition partners. For more info, check out our privacy policy.

Tickets for the event are now on sale at melbflowershow.com.au. Don’t miss this blooming marvellous opportunity to celebrate the beauty of nature!