This Week in The Can is your essential guide to what’s happening in Canberra. From theatre to sport, food and wine to music, and much much more!

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WHAT NOT TO MISS

Women in Conversation: Jessica Rowe

THE DRESSMAKER COSTUME EXHIBITION

From 1950s Dungatar to 2019 Canberra, the original costumes from the hit film The Dressmaker will be on display at the NFSA from 18 April 2019.

Audiences will be able to go ‘behind the seams’ of a diverse range of elegant vintage fashion worn by Hollywood stars and home-grown acting talents including Kate Winslet, Liam Hemsworth, Hugo Weaving, Sarah Snook, Judy Davis, Rebecca Gibney and more.

The exhibition, designed by Marion Boyce, features a spectacular range of haute couture worn by the film’s stars.

The Dressmaker Costume Exhibition celebrates the artistry of the film’s sumptuous designs, as well as the transformational power of fashion.

Showing from Thursday 18 April until Sunday 18 August from 10 am – 4 pm at the National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton.

See nfsa.gov.au for more information.

BRORIGINALS

Broriginals is a satirical comedy podcast founded in 2018 to answer the question: What does it mean to be a successful Aboriginal in this modern, post-colonial, post multicultural, post offensive, post post world.

It began with the best-selling self help book The Ten Habits of Successful Aboriginals and morphed into a modern day advice show where the two brothers, Travis De Vries and Texas De Vries directly teach Aboriginals and Wuggle (Non-Aboriginal- Non-Magical) listeners who write in answers how to be better Aboriginals and maybe, better human beings.

The show also features the brothers answering (ignorant and racist) questions from the internet, using the Deadly Questions website portal and occasionally dipping their toes into the cesspool that is Yahoo Answers. These questions are usually answered with grace, aplomb and a splash of tongue in cheek humour, the best parts of the show are usually when the brothers manage to get each other laughig at their attempts to rise, but as they themselves say the drudge always rises to the top.

Happening Thursday 6 June from 7 pm – 8:30 pm at the Canberra Theatre.

See canberratheatrecentre.com.au for more information. 

Sydney Bears vs CBR Brave

Watch as the CBR Brave take on the Sydney Bears this weekend and cheer on your local ice hockey team!

Happening Saturday 8 June from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm at the Phillip Swimming and Ice Skating Centre.

See the aihl.com for more information.

Inked: Australian Cartoons

Inked features a selection of the best cartoons from the National Library of Australia’s extensive collections.

The exhibition draws from over 14,000 cartoons by dozens of artists, from before the arrival of the  First Fleet in 1788 up to the present. Each work is a time capsule, offering a snapshot of Australian life.

Visitors will be captivated by the works on display by many greats of Australian cartooning, including Will Dyson, Judy Horacek, Michael Leunig, David Low, Phil May, Alan Moir, Bruce Petty, Martin Sharp, Cathy Wilcox and many more.

INKED: PLAY

Come and see the famous Gumnut Babies going off to war. Create your own cartoon or draw a protest sign to hang on our display wall. Get stuck into a book. Find all the hidden Inkie the Echidnas and explore whether the world is doomed or domed.

Inked Play is open daily as part of Inked: Australian Cartoons. Find it by following Inkie the Echidna.

Open 10 am to 5 pm every day until 21 July 2019

nla.gov.au

Herbie Hancock

Herbie Hancock is a true icon of modern music. Having transcended limitations and genres with his unmistakable voice, his illustrious career, now spanning into its sixth decade, has seen the master of jazz claim a staggering 14 Grammy ® Awards including “Album of the Year” and a Lifetime Achievement, an Academy Award for his ‘Round Midnight’ score, a Kennedy Centre Honours Award, five MTV Video Awards and six honorary doctorates. It is without a doubt that throughout Herbie Hancock’s career he has been a driving force of influence, a mainstay of innovation at the forefront of culture, technology, business and music for more than 50 years.

The author of modern-day standards such as “Cantaloupe Island”, “Chameleon” and “Rockit” in addition to hundreds more, Hancock’s prolific recordings careers has provided samples for generations of hip-hop and dance artists to come.  

Though one can’t track exactly where he will go next, Herbie Hancock is sure to leave his inimitable imprint wherever he lands. This is an opportunity not to be missed – warm up with this icon of modern music, as he takes to the stage this winter.

Happening Friday 7 June from 8 pm – 10:15 pm at the Canberra Theatre Centre.

See canberratheatre for more information.

UCNS Clare Holland House Charity Ball

Painting on Country

Five senior artists from Tjungu Palya art centre in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in South Australia have reinvigorated their ancestors’ practice of painting directly onto the land. Their work, captured in a series of large-format photographs, is both timeless and transient, bridging the ancient and the contemporary.

Exhibition on show at the National Museum of Australia until 30 September 2019. Free entry.

More information at nma.gov.au.

The Allusionist Live  

Award-winning British podcast The Allusionist is a logophile’s dream. Ever heard of Toki Pona (said to be ‘the smallest language in the world’) or the scientifically proven health benefits of swearing? Have you winced at Western yogic deployments of ‘namaste’ or opening lines on dating apps?

The Allusionist is here for you. In each episode, Helen Zaltzman rumbles with language with infectious verve and a generous helping of pop culture. Join her and house band Martin Austwick for a fascinating and irreverent adventure into the world we make with words.

Happening Friday 7 June and Saturday 8 June from 7:30 pm – 9:40 pm at The Canberra Theatre.

See canberratheatrecentre.com.au for more information.

FOOD & DRINK

CELLAR DOOR

Cellar Door is a wine market for Canberra’s wonderful wine scene happening every Saturday from 3-6 pm. Buy wines from local makers every Saturday afternoon in the iconic Nishi Grand Stair, NewActon Precinct.

Grab a souvenir glass, taste the latest drops, and buy at cellar door prices.

Wine stalls rotate each week with complementing stalls like flowers, cheese, chocolate and books.

Make a day of it with a film at Palace Electric Cinema and NewActon’s leading food and drink destinations.

Happening every Saturday from 3-6 pm on the Nishi Grand Stair, inside the Nishi Building, Philip Law Street, NewActon.

See the website for more details.

Friday Night Drinks at Pialligo Estate

Pair delectable charcuterie and a selection of incredible wines on Fridays at Pialligo EstateLet the stunning views sweep you away while relaxing with friends tasting wine from the vineyard and sampling award-winning smoked meats.

Be amongst the first to enjoy the comfort and intimacy of the new extended garden pavilion or find some space on the lush grass listening to live entertainment and challenging your colleagues to a lawn game or two.

For the more adventurous, the Estate’s Horticulturalist and Sommelier will take small groups on tours of the vineyard, providing guests with a close-up of this year’s grapes and an understanding of what can be expected in the next Vintage.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite select from the generous charcuterie and cheese boards, share-plates or small meals from the Head Chef matched with wines of your choice from the Sommelier.

If it’s been a hectic week and you are after something with a bit more kick, try one of the Estate’s signature cocktails made straight from the fruits off the Estate’s very own orchard!

Call 6247 6060 to book a table in advance or just arrive on the day.

Happening every Friday except for public holidays from 4 – 8.30 pm (happy hour from 5 – 6 pm) at Pialligo Estate, 18 Kallaroo Road, Pialligo.

See thepialligoestate.com.au/whats-on/friday-night-drinks for more information.

Truffle Infused Winter Weekends at Cellar Door

Truffle season is nearly upon us and Mt Majura are excited to include truffles at the cellar door as part of the winter tasting experience.

Come in to the cellar door at Mount Majura Vineyard to taste a flight of wines matched with truffled brie. Combining Flinders Estate triple cream brie a deliciously rich and creamy brie style cheese with truffles from neighbour Jayson at The Truffle Farm.

Every Saturday and Sunday from early June to late August.

Happening from 8 June until 25 August from 10 am – 5 pm at Mount Majura Vineyard.

See mountmajura for more information.

The Brewer meets the Winemaker and the Distiller

It’s been five years since BentSpoke first launched in the nation’s capital and as part of those celebrations, one of the brewery’s most popular events is returning.

The ever-popular birthday-eve event sees a visit from Tim and Nick, from The Canberra Distillery and Nick O’Leary wines for a celebration of their fifth birthday.

Join Richard, Nick, Tim and the BentSpoke family for canapes and 4-course dinner paired with award-winning beers, plus Canberra wines and locally distilled spirits. It’s sure to be a night of good food, great drinks and excellent chat.

Happening Friday 5 June from 7 pm – 11 pm at BentSpoke Brewery.

See bentspokebrewing for more information.

The Truffle Festival – Canberra Region

Indulge in a feast of the senses and join in the fun at The Truffle Festival – Canberra Region. Each year from June to August more than 250 individual events are held across the Canberra region showcasing the region’s fresh Black Winter Truffle.

Taste and experience the magic of these highly-prized gems. Indulge in the special flavours and aromas of truffle dishes at local restaurants and cafes. Join a hunt and see for yourself how the talented dogs unearth truffles. Learn from the chefs and other truffle experts at a cooking class or demonstration, or pop along to a market and pick up some truffle delights for yourself.

The Truffle Festival is the ultimate foodie festival, and a fabulous celebration of winter in the Canberra region.

Happening now until Sunday 1 September starting at 10 am at various locations.

See truffle festival for more information.

Monster’s Afternoon Delight

Serene, methodical and exceptionally Monster.

Presenting a new Sunday afternoon blend, Monster Kitchen and Bar is adding a little extra flavour to your signature lazy day with its very own High Tea…

Amidst the hand-crafted furniture, bespoke artwork, and ambient lighting you will find the familiar flavours you have come to appreciate from the team at Monster with a range of exclusive tea flavours by Tea Garden co, tea inspired cocktails, Champagne all complemented by black and gold fixtures.

1 pm every Sunday at Monster Kitchen, Ovolo Nishi. Tickets $70 to $120  – more information on Facebook.

Freestyle Fridays at Vertikal

Join Vertikal every Friday for indoor ski lessons with indoor snow machines and music. Enjoy discounted sessions from $40 or kick back with a Jindabyne Brewing beers on tap or Canberra Distilling Co & Underground Spirits.

Every Friday at Vertikal Indoor Snow Sports, Unit 2, Building 3, 1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick. Find out more at vertikalsnowsports.com.

MUSIC

The Class of 59: Rock & Roll Circus Tour

The Rock & Roll Circus Tour rolls in to Australia in 2019 featuring a two hour concert production that assembles a rock and roll band to boot to celebrate the talent, the hits and the legacies of the original stars of Rock N’ Roll – Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Bill Haley, Jerry Lee Lewis and the Big Bopper. 

Dance with us back to an era when rock and roll influenced and created a social movement for the day’s teenagers… the way you dressed, the hairstyles, the language and the love. 

We welcome you to step back to the era that created music legends and influenced a formidable culture, paying homage to a catalogue where their songs are timeless, their hits are endless, and their flair is never forgotten. Guaranteeing a foot tapping, head bopping fantastic rock ‘n’ roll show for all, come lose yourself in the show and the music that will have you swinging in the aisles and jiving the night away! Come and take the journey back to the Class of 59!

Happening Friday 8 June from 8 pm – 10 pm at the Canberra Theatre Centre.

See canberratheatrecentre for more information.

Crooked Colours Langata Tours

Crooked Colours are hitting the Refectory this June for their Langata tour. With support from Nyxen and Kayex , this will no doubt be a sell out show, so grab your tickets now before it’s too late.

Happening Friday 7 June from 7:30 pm – 11:30 pm at UC Refectory.

See ucrefectory for more information.

Herbie Hancock

Herbie Hancock is a true icon of modern music. Having transcended limitations and genres with his unmistakable voice, his illustrious career, now spanning into its sixth decade, has seen the master of jazz claim a staggering 14 Grammy ® Awards including “Album of the Year” and a Lifetime Achievement, an Academy Award for his ‘Round Midnight’ score, a Kennedy Centre Honours Award, five MTV Video Awards and six honorary doctorates. It is without a doubt that throughout Herbie Hancock’s career he has been a driving force of influence, a mainstay of innovation at the forefront of culture, technology, business and music for more than 50 years.

The author of modern-day standards such as “Cantaloupe Island”, “Chameleon” and “Rockit” in addition to hundreds more, Hancock’s prolific recordings careers has provided samples for generations of hip-hop and dance artists to come.  

Though one can’t track exactly where he will go next, Herbie Hancock is sure to leave his inimitable imprint wherever he lands. This is an opportunity not to be missed – warm up with this icon of modern music, as he takes to the stage this winter.

Happening Friday 7 June from 8 pm – 10:15 pm at the Canberra Theatre Centre.

See canberratheatre for more information.

Ruby Fields – Permanent Hermit Tour

Fresh from stunning audiences during her Laneway Festival run, Sydney’s raw-power Ruby Fields has announced a national in support of her upcoming EP, Permanent Hermit.  

The EP is set for a released early May and features seven new songs, as well as the nostalgic, slow burning anthem ‘Dinosaurs’, which nabbed the #8 spot on this year’s Hottest 100.

Happening Friday 7 June from 8 pm – 11 pm at Kambri ANU.

See Facebook for more information.

The Spontaneous Musical: Lightbulb Improv

If you love musicals, then Lightbulb Improv has a night out for you. Lightbulb is pulling out all stops with a spontaneous musical extravaganza! What’s the plot? They don’t know yet. What’s the big hit number? You’ll be the first to hear!

With live musical accompaniment, Lightbulb will thrill you with songs made up on the spot. Watch as they create a musical right before your eyes.

Doris Day sang about the joy of an improvised musical best with:

Que será, será

Whatever will be, will be

The future’s not ours to see

Que será, será

What will be, will be

So join Lightbulb and let’s see, let’s see!

Tickets: $10/$15

Happening Friday 7 June from 7.30 pm at Smiths Alternative, 76 Alinga Street, City.

See Eventbrite for more information.

More local music

Check out BMA and CBR DIY for more local gigs!

STAGE + SCREEN

BRORIGINALS

Broriginals is a satirical comedy podcast founded in 2018 to answer the question: What does it mean to be a successful Aboriginal in this modern, post-colonial, post multicultural, post offensive, post post world.

It began with the best-selling self help book The Ten Habits of Successful Aboriginals and morphed into a modern day advice show where the two brothers, Travis De Vries and Texas De Vries directly teach Aboriginals and Wuggle (Non-Aboriginal- Non-Magical) listeners who write in answers how to be better Aboriginals and maybe, better human beings.

The show also features the brothers answering (ignorant and racist) questions from the internet, using the Deadly Questions website portal and occasionally dipping their toes into the cesspool that is Yahoo Answers. These questions are usually answered with grace, aplomb and a splash of tongue in cheek humour, the best parts of the show are usually when the brothers manage to get each other laughig at their attempts to rise, but as they themselves say the drudge always rises to the top.

Happening Thursday 6 June from 7 pm – 8:30 pm at the Canberra Theatre.

See canberratheatrecentre.com.au for more information. 

Scinema International Science Film Festival  

SCINEMA is the largest science film festival in the southern hemisphere, showcasing the best science feature, short, documentary, animated and experimental films from filmmakers around the world.

See a compilation of the award-winning films and festival entries in an amazing two-hour viewing experience, celebrating science on the big screen.

Happening Thursday 6 June from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm at Dendy Cinema.

See scinema.com for more information.

Bush Reflections with Constantina Bush

Join Australia’s premiere showgirl from the bush and the female alter-ego of award winning First Nations Australian artist Kamahi Djordon King, Constantina Bush, for a night of song and storytelling reflecting Constantina’s unique life growing up in the bush.

Find who Australia’s real Queen is this Queen’s Birthday weekend, when this leggy babe from the Northern Territory returns to the Bush Capital to debut her new solo show.

Journey through the songs that have had the biggest impact on her, from childhood through to adult life from 70’s disco to today’s Club music.

Be captivated by her intimate cabaret performance style as she moves effortlessly between soaring vocal numbers and sensitive ballads, then laugh out loud with her comedic, and sometimes crass, repartee.

Happening Friday 7 June from 7 pm – 9 pm at Tuggeranong Arts Centre.

See tuggeranongarts for more information.

The Allusionist Live  

Award-winning British podcast The Allusionist is a logophile’s dream. Ever heard of Toki Pona( said to be ‘the smallest language in the world’) or the scientifically proven health benefits of swearing? Have you winced at Western yogic deployments of ‘namaste’ or opening lines on dating apps?

The Allusionist is here for you. In each episode, Helen Zaltzman rumbles with language with infectious verve and a generous helping of pop culture. Join her and house band Martin Austwick for a fascinating and irreverent adventure into the world we make with words.

Happening Friday 7 June and Saturday 8 June from 7:30 pm – 9:40 pm at The Canberra Theatre.

See canberratheatrecentre.com.au for more information.

The Laramie Project & The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later 

Mockingbird Theatre proudly presents one of the most popular and important plays of the past 20 years together in rep with its stunning sequel for the first time in Canberra.In 1998, a 21-year-old gay student was kidnapped, severely beaten and left to die, tied to a fence on the outskirts of Laramie, Wyoming. His name was Matthew Shephard. A New York theatre company travelled to Laramie to chronicle the life of the town in the year after the murder, and subsequently ten years after that, in the aftermath of the resulting play becoming a world-wide sensation and Matthew’s name becoming synonymous with anti-hate crime.

The Laramie Project and The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later are a breathtaking collage that explores the depth to which humanity can sink and the compassionate heights to which we can climb.

A powerful stage experience, with 8 of Canberra’s best actors playing 50+ roles, that will touch and change those who witness these theatrical masterpieces.Happening Thursday 7 June until Saturday 22 June from 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm at Theatre 3.

See mockingbirdtheatrics for more information.

The Vinyl Lounge at NFSA

Bring along your favourite records, share your music stories and hear what’s spinning on the NFSA’s turntables.

The ultimate listening party for vinyl aficionados.

The Vinyl Lounge is on the first Friday of every month.

Happening from Friday 7 June until Friday 6 December from 5:30 pm – 7 pm at the National Film and Sound Archive.

See nfsa.gov.au for more information.

FESTIVALS

FOR A GOOD CAUSE

SPORT + FITNESS

YOGA BY THE LAKE 

Yoga by the Lake is perfect for all experience levels and aims to bring together the yoga community in a beautiful location at Bowen Park in Barton.

With a class every Thursday, it’s a BYO mat event. Entry is free with donations welcome. All ages and experience welcome.

Every Thursday evening from 6 pm at Bowen Park, Bowen Drive, Barton.

See Facebook for more information.

Freestyle Fridays at Vertikal

Join Vertikal every Friday for indoor ski lessons with indoor snow machines and music. Enjoy discounted sessions from $40 or kick back with a Jindabyne Brewing beers on tap or Canberra Distilling Co & Underground Spirits.

Every Friday at Vertikal Indoor Snow Sports, Unit 2, Building 3, 1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick. Find out more at vertikalsnowsports.com.

MEET & MOVE

Are you finding it hard to get active since having kids? Perhaps it’s time for you to Meet & Move!

Meet & Move is a new, active playgroup. It’s facilitator, Nicole Sadlier from Bluearth, knows that it can be hard to get out of the house when you have young kids. But like she says “When you do get outside,  you feel much better. Your mood improves and you feel refreshed and more energetic!”

Meet & Move sessions occur outdoors and include a pram-friendly, baby-wearing friendly walk, gentle yoga-style stretching or toning exercises (selected sessions) and a chance for the kids to burn off some energy at a playground or to walk/bike with the group.

It also engages parents and their kids in activities which develop skills such as running, kicking, balancing, throwing and catching. Their focus is to make movement fun and help parents to bank more active time into their day.

Join one of their free weekly sessions which run on Monday – Thursday from 10 am during the school term. Full details for locations can be found on Facebook.

Meet & Move is a program of the Bluearth Foundation, working in partnership with Mums Exercise Group Australia (MEGA) Canberra and supported by ACT Government under the ACT Health Promotion Grants Program.  It has been created to help mums with young kids to be more active together, get outdoors and connect with other mums.

MARKETS & FAIRS

NORTHSIDE FAMILY MARKETS

Northside Farmers Markets brings you the best quality fresh produce from the region. Select from leafy vegetables, free range pork, pastured eggs, luscious peaches and juicy apples.

Grab a sit and enjoy the amazing aroma and refreshing taste of our freshly brewed coffee. Enjoy with some pastry or bakery product. Do all your weekly grocery shopping while enjoying the spacious and sunny atmosphere. Brings friends and family and friends, share a cuppa and stories from your week.

Happening every Saturday from 9.30 am – 4.30 pm at Thoroughbred Park, Lyneham.

See the website for more information.

SOUTHSIDE FARMERS MARKETS 

Get along to the Southside Farmers Markets every Sunday morning and pick up the finest fruit and vegetables and produce our region has to offer.  There are over 50 stalls made up of farmers and producers who sell their food direct from their farm or kitchen.  Many farmers are out picking their produce the night before the market and you can certainly taste the difference.

Talk to the farmer direct and find out where your food is being grown, how they grow it, and even how they best like to cook it.  Not only do they provide us with fresh food every week but they are a wealth of information on the food that nourishes week in week out.

What’s in season this week?  Annual herbs, beans, peas, beetroot, capsicums, carrots, chillies, corn, cucumber, daikon, eggplant, garlic, onion, radishes, rhubarb, squash, zucchini, melons, stonefruit, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, tomatoes and more!

Every Sunday from 8.30am to 11 am at Canberra College, 2 Launceston Street, Phillip. Entry is free, visit the website for more information

MARKET GARDEN PRODUCE STALL

Selling fresh, clean, chemical-free vegetables, preserves and baked goods in the Courtyard of 56 Wallace Street, Braidwood every Saturday morning from 8.30am until 12.00 or sold out. Wynlen House is a small urban micro-farm specialising in offering a broad range of seasonal vegetables all year round.

They also run workshops to show people how to grow vegetables, garlic, and raise small farm animals on a large suburban block and offer slow food events to showcase the benefit and deliciousness of produce grown locally, without chemical inputs and picked fresh.

On every Saturday from 8.30am – 12 pm, at The Courtyard, Braidwood. For more information visit the website.

WORKSHOPS, TOURS & TALKS

Women in Conversation: Jessica Rowe

GUIDED TOURS OF THE NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA 

Visiting the National Library of Australia? Take a tour and see a side of the Library most visitors never experience. Whether this is your first visit or the next of many, you can learn more about the Library and its exhibitions by joining a free guided tour. Tours are offered by trained Volunteer Guides who have a passion for sharing their knowledge of the Library and its collections. Your Guide will welcome the opportunity to introduce you to the National Library, its collections and the stories of Australia.

Treasures Gallery – Daily at 11.30am. Take a tour and come face-to-face with some of the Library’s greatest treasures and Australia’s greatest stories.

Behind The Scenes – Thursdays at 2 pm. Take a tour to visit enormous stacks where the books are stored and learn about strange curiosities in the Library’s collection that have been acquired over more than a century of collecting.

Discover your National Library – Saturdays at 2 pm. Join a Library guide for a journey around the building and discover the stories in the Reading Rooms and public spaces.

For more detailed information visit the website.

FRIDAY WITH A FRIEND

An engaging tour of the NGA collection for people with dementia and their carers. This event is free however it is recommended that participants register interest.

Happening 10.30am – 11.30am every Friday at the National Gallery of Australia, Parkes.

See the website for more information.

Art for lunch

Drop into 30-minute weekly talks or creative activities interpreting works of art in the NGA’s collection.

Check our website for further details. This event is free but bookings are essential.

Happening until Thursday 28 November, every Thursday from 12:45-1:15pm at the National Gallery of Australia.

See nga.gov.au for more information.

Happy and Glorious

The Queen’s Visit in 1954. The phrase conjures up memories of a young Queen in summer dresses and ball gowns, crowds of Australians excitedly waving flags and charming tableaus spelling out heartfelt messages.

Old Parliament House was central to the royal tour while the Queen was in Canberra. The Queen alighted from the Daimler and walked up the front steps in her coronation gown to rousing cheers. She was escorted through King’s Hall by a very proud Prime Minister Menzies to attend the State Banquet. In her most formal duty, the Queen opened the 20th Parliament in the Senate Chamber. A room in the President of the Senate’s suite was redecorated and furnished for her private use while she was in the house.

Relive the memories of her visit at the Happy and Glorious exhibition. Enter the very room the Queen used while she was at Old Parliament House.

Happening until Thursday 16 January 2020 daily at the Museum of Australian Democracy.

See moadoph.gov.au for more information.

BEHIND THE SCENES TOURS AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE

Discover the stories behind the building on a special tour of Parliament House. Learn how the building’s impressive architecture is symbolic of the national identity and gain a rare view into private areas.

These tours run only on non-sitting days (except Christmas Day and when seasonal tours are running). Visit the website for more information.

It is recommended that you arrive at least 20 minutes before your tour or event for screening and check-in as places are limited to 10 participants. tours operate for 55 mins.

Happening now until Saturday 31 August at 10 am, 12 pm and 3 pm with a cost fee of $25 per adult, $ 20 per child and $20 for a concession fee.

See aph.gov.au for more information.

CHANGING LIVES WITH SCIENCE

The 2019 Canberra Speaker Series held across the year at the iconic Shine Dome.

Throughout this series listen to remarkable science stories that haven’t yet been told. Stories of innovation, research, breakthroughs, and how science is solving the big challenges of our time.

Happening now until Tuesday 10 December from 5:30 pm – 7 pm with a cost of $ 15.

See science.org.au for more information.

MARION HALL BEST: INTERIORS

Described as electrifying, vital and avant-garde, Marion Hall Best was the most flamboyant Australian interior designer of the 1950s through to the 1970s.

Her schemes were unashamedly modern at a time when other interior designers preferred a subdued palette and period furniture. She claimed that “gentle, soft colours…are not restful, but dreary, sapping the energy and the mind”; by contrast, “bright clear colours challenge the mind.”

Presented by CMAG, Marion Hall Best: Interiors is a travelling exhibition from Sydney Living Museums.

Happening until Saturday 15 June from 10 am – 4 pm at Canberra Museum and Gallery.

See cmag.com.au for more information.

MOUNT STROMLO PUBLIC ASTRONOMY NIGHT

Mount Stromlo Observatory in conjunction with the Canberra Astronomical Society invite the Canberra community to attend the public observing nights of 2019. Come and see the rings of Saturn, the craters of the moon, and beautiful star clusters and nebulae.

On the night attendees will be taken on a ‘tour of the universe’ with talks by astronomers from Mt. Stromlo Observatory and observations on several telescopes.

Bookings are essential and entry is by gold coin donation. Warm clothing is recommended.

Happening at various times until 27 September from 7 pm – 9 pm at Mt Stromlo Observatory.

See eventbrite.com.au for more information.

OUTDOORS 

Image: VisitCanberra

Take a short walk with a ranger and learn about the potoroos and other important inhabitants of the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve Eucalypt Forest and get back in time for “Koalas in the Canopy”.

This wildlife walk is suitable for all ages, there are no bookings required and the cost is included in the Reserve entry fee.

Available Saturdays, 2 pm – 2.45 pm until 29 June. Meet at the koala enclosure in the Eucalypt Forest.

Find out more at tidbinbilla.act.gov.au

YOGA BY THE LAKE 

Yoga by the Lake is perfect for all experience levels and aims to bring together the yoga community in a beautiful location at Bowen Park in Barton.

With a class every Thursday, it’s a BYO mat event. Entry is free with donations welcome. All ages and experience welcome.

Every Thursday evening from 6 pm at Bowen Park, Bowen Drive, Barton.

See Facebook for more information.

Koalas in the Canopy

From 2.45 pm – 3.15 pm every Saturday until 29 June you can search for koalas and enjoy a ranger-guided walk through the tall eucalypt forest at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Hear a ranger’s story or two about these fascinating marsupials.

Meet at the Eucalypt Forest car park. Normal entry fees to Tidbinbilla apply. No bookings required for Koalas in the Canopy.

Find out more at tidbinbilla.act.gov.au.

KIDS

Old Bus Depot Markets, Sunday, 13 December 2009 – 11:15:59 AM

Kids in the Shed

This is your chance to celebrate being a kid and doing what kids do best… having fun! Bring your kids, parents and grandparents to this super fun family day out at the markets. 

Stacks of products that kids love including handcrafted toys, kids’ room accessories, artworks and lots of bright, modern handmade clothes for babies and little boys and girls.

Happening Sunday 9 June from 10 am – 4 pm at the Old Bus Depot Markets.

See obdm.com.au for more information.

DRESSUP: CHANGE THE WORLD

Discover the incredible journeys of some of the world’s most inspiring people, taking the time to walk in their shoes in DressUP: Change the World.

Connect with the lives of historical and contemporary figures, including Frida Kahlo, Adam Goodes, Beyoncé, and many others, by dressing up in their most iconic outfits.

Immerse yourself in their stories of triumph as they go from ordinary people to visionary leaders who have made a difference in the world. Listen to their stories and learn about the challenges they overcame to leave their mark.

Visitors can also tell their own story in the new Zine Lounge. Whether you prefer writing or sketching, the Zine Lounge lets you carve out a space for your voice to be heard.

This engaging exhibition space provides a bold and quirky environment that will inspire young people and asks them “How will you change the world?”

On until 31 December 2019 at the Museum of Australian Democracy Old Parliament House.

See the website for more information.

LITTLE GRIFFINS

The National Capital Authority’s popular and entertaining Little Griffins program for children four years and under and their parents and carers is back for 2019.

The free, fun and interactive session will include building with DUPLO, songs, stories, and games. No bookings required – just come along!

Happening the last Friday of every month (unless that Friday falls on a school holiday) from 1 am at the National Capital Exhibition, Regatta Point.

Visit nca.gov.au for more information.

PLAYUP

After an exciting transformation, the imaginative family space in the Museum of Australian Democracy has all-new hands-on activities to educate, excite and challenge young minds.

This creative exhibition space celebrates the role of children in our community and provides a welcoming environment for families to engage in the rights and responsibilities of children through imagination, discovery, role-play and fun.

Happening every day from 9 am – 5 pm at the Museum of Australian Democracy, King George Terrace, Parkes. Entry costs vary.

Visit the website for more details.

LEAP INTO YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY  

Your local library is a treasure trove…not only are there free books and resources, there are regular amazing events! Giggle & Wiggle with your little ones (up to two years) and help them learn through language play using interactive rhymes, songs, games and stories.

Looking to improve your English and make new friends, then head along to your local library for one of the informal English conversation groups. For more events and info check them out here. 

EXHIBITIONS

The Dressmaker Sarah Snook (Trudy), Hayley Magnus (Prudence), Amanda Woodhams (Nancy), Tracy Harvey (Lois) and Rebecca Gibney (Muriel). Photographer: Ben King.

THE DRESSMAKER COSTUME EXHIBITION

From 1950s Dungatar to 2019 Canberra, the original costumes from the hit film The Dressmaker will be on display at the NFSA from 18 April 2019.

Audiences will be able to go ‘behind the seams’ of a diverse range of elegant vintage fashion worn by Hollywood stars and home-grown acting talents including Kate Winslet, Liam Hemsworth, Hugo Weaving, Sarah Snook, Judy Davis, Rebecca Gibney and more.

The exhibition, designed by Marion Boyce, features a spectacular range of haute couture worn by the film’s stars.

The Dressmaker Costume Exhibition celebrates the artistry of the film’s sumptuous designs, as well as the transformational power of fashion.

Showing from Thursday 18 April until Sunday 18 August from 10 am – 4 pm at the National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton.

See nfsa.gov.au for more information.

Inked: Australian Cartoons

Inked features a selection of the best cartoons from the National Library of Australia’s extensive collections.

The exhibition draws from over 14,000 cartoons by dozens of artists, from before the arrival of the  First Fleet in 1788 up to the present. Each work is a time capsule, offering a snapshot of Australian life.

Visitors will be captivated by the works on display by many greats of Australian cartooning, including Will Dyson, Judy Horacek, Michael Leunig, David Low, Phil May, Alan Moir, Bruce Petty, Martin Sharp, Cathy Wilcox and many more.

INKED: PLAY

Come and see the famous Gumnut Babies going off to war. Create your own cartoon or draw a protest sign to hang on our display wall. Get stuck into a book. Find all the hidden Inkie the Echidnas and explore whether the world is doomed or domed.

Inked Play is open daily as part of Inked: Australian Cartoons. Find it by following Inkie the Echidna.

Open 10 am to 5 pm every day from 7 March–21 July 2019

nla.gov.au

The Historical Expression of Chinese Art: Calligraphy and Painting from the National Museum of China

Painting on Country

Five senior artists from Tjungu Palya art centre in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in South Australia have reinvigorated their ancestors’ practice of painting directly onto the land. Their work, captured in a series of large-format photographs, is both timeless and transient, bridging the ancient and the contemporary.

Exhibition on show at the National Museum of Australia until 30 September 2019. Free entry.

More information at nma.gov.au.

onetoeight: Australia’s first prime ministers

Visually arresting, humorous and thoughtful, Canberra-based artist Alison Alder reinterprets and reinvigorates portraits of the first eight prime ministers in onetoeight, a contemporary art exhibition. Developed from Alder’s fellowship with the Australian Prime Ministers Centre and motivated by the early period of our nation’s democracy, onetoeight brings these important historical figures a little bit closer to us.

Inspired by a picture of Stanley Bruce’s cabinet where they were all wearing a lapel badge, Alder presents each prime minister wearing at least one badge to reference a key aspect of their time in office. Neither explicitly positive or negative, we are left to form our own opinion.

Through the portraits, intense patterned wallpaper honouring the prime minister’s wives and a Term-O-Meter animation tracking the changing political hues of individuals and governments, Alder gives us a sense of our nation’s history that is lively, dynamic and parallels the present day.

Showing at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Find out more at moadoph.gov.au.

FORM BEYOND FUNCTION: NIGEL LENDON’S PLASTIC CAMERAS

Alongside his practice as an artist and art-historian, Nigel Lendon has been an inveterate and purposeful collector of, amongst other things, conceptual art, Afghan War rugs and over 200 plastic cameras.

In the 1970s and ‘80s Lendon was interested in the intersections of high culture and mass communication. He discovered flea markets swamped with plastic artefacts discarded by previous generations and asked, how was it that plastic, once heralded as the “material of the future”, so rapidly fell out of fashion to become cheap and ‘nasty’?

Lendon’s plastic camera collection has remained cocooned in storage until now. It has emerged when plastic and the waste it generates is now regarded as a new challenge for the survival of life on the planet.

Happening until 27 July from 10 am – 5 pm at Canberra Museum and Gallery, Cnr London Circuit and Civic Square.

See cmag.com.au for more information.

ARBORESCENT: DRAWINGS BY ELIZABETH CROSS

Elizabeth Cross is better known as an art historian and curator, but she has nurtured her remarkable talent for drawing out of the public eye. This exhibition consists of twenty drawings of trees – they are for the most part denuded of foliage and it is their nervy, sinuous, gesticulating grace that translates so well into the language of drawing.

Western art history is full of great artists who have been fascinated by trees and have been inspired to make works which have an analogy with the light-loving, profusely spreading, graceful unities that trees epitomise. There is a tradition stretching from Albrecht Dürer and Claude Lorrain to Cézanne, Van Gogh, Matisse and Mondrian which establishes the most exacting criteria in the field of drawing. That these drawings by Elizabeth Cross can withstand any such comparison is surely the measure of her formidable achievement.

Happening until Sunday 9 June from 10 am – 5 pm at Drill Hall Gallery.

See dhg.anu.edu.au for more information.

A Tale of Two Villages

A Tale of Two Villages tells the story of the Hall-Ginninderra district from Aboriginal times, through the early pioneer farming settlement at Palmerville and then Ginninderra, to the establishment of the village of Hall from 1881.

Showing at Hall School Museum and Heritage Centre, Victoria Street, Hall each Thursday 9 am-12 pm and Sunday 12 pm-4 pm. Find out more at museum.hall.act.au.

Mr Squiggle Exhibition – Royal Australian Mint

To coincide with the recently released 2019 Mr Squiggle 60th anniversary coin set, the Royal Australian Mint is hosting an exhibition to commemorate Mr Squiggle and his creator, Norman Hetherington.

The exhibition includes children’s letters to Mr Squiggle, script books, original artwork and a portrait loaned from the National Portrait Gallery of Australia ‘Norman Hetherington OAM (and friends)’ by artist Kate Rae.

The exhibition also showcases one of the most loved and longest running Australian children’s programs, honouring Norman Hetherington, the brilliant man behind the iconic puppets and television series

Happening until 28 July 2019 at the Royal Australian Mint.

See www.ramint.gov.au for more information.

Maori Markings: Ta Moko at the NGA

By marking the skin and face with connecting patterns, Māori Tā Moko artists tell stories of prestige, authority and identity. To receive and wear Moko is a great cultural privilege. Captivating photographs, paintings and sculptures trace the history of Tā Moko from the 18th century to its contemporary resurgence, including illustrations created during Captain Cook’s first voyages to Māori Chiefs.

This exhibition includes a unique art event featuring Moko artists engaging in a live demonstration of this phenomenal practice. Free.

Happening until Sunday 25 August 2019 daily at the National Gallery of Australia.

See nga.gov.au for more information.

Magna Carta—An Australian Story

Magna Carta is one of the most famous and significant documents for democracy and human rights around the world.

First written in 1215, it set down rules limiting the power of the monarchy and safeguarding basic human rights and freedoms. Over its long history it has been reinterpreted as an icon of justice and liberty. In this exhibition, created with the assistance of the British Library, explore the history and relevance of Magna Carta from an Australian perspective.

The Magna Carta: An Australian Story exhibition at the Museum of Australian Democracy takes you on a journey through the history of the Magna Carta. You will discover the spirit and legacy of the Magna Carta and learn the significance it plays in Australia’s democratic history.

Happening until Monday 3 February 2020 daily at Museum of Australian Democracy.

See moadoph.gov.au for more information.

DRESSUP: CHANGE THE WORLD

Discover the incredible journeys of some of the world’s most inspiring people, taking the time to walk in their shoes in DressUP: Change the World.

Connect with the lives of historical and contemporary figures, including Frida Kahlo, Adam Goodes, Beyoncé, and many others, by dressing up in their most iconic outfits.

Immerse yourself in their stories of triumph as they go from ordinary people to visionary leaders who have made a difference in the world. Listen to their stories and learn about the challenges they overcame to leave their mark.

Visitors can also tell their own story in our new Zine Lounge. Whether you prefer writing or sketching, the Zine Lounge lets you carve out a space for your voice to be heard.

This engaging exhibition space provides a bold and quirky environment that will inspire young people and asks them “How will you change the world?”

Happening until 31 December at the Museum of Australian Democracy Old Parliament House.

See the website for more information.

BREAKING THROUGH: 75 YEARS OF WOMEN IN PARLIAMENT

Why did it take so long for women to get elected? And once they were there, what was their experience within the parliament?

To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the first women elected to Australian Federal Parliament, Breaking Through exhibition at the Museum of Australian Democracy explores the journeys of 11 trailblazers who were the first to hold particular parliamentary positions.

These are stories of resilience, perseverance and ground-breaking achievements.

From 1943 when Dorothy Tangney and Enid Lyons were the first women elected to parliament through to today where woman have held the highest positions in all areas of parliament, including Prime Minister.

Breaking Through exhibition, recognises the significant contribution these women made in Australia’s democracy. Look back on their lives, uncover their motivations and what they view as their greatest achievements.

Told through never before seen portraits, each a unique representation by a young artist, and powerful stories of change-makers breaking through, this exhibition will inspire visitors to think about the role of women in parliament, what it took to get there and whether we’ve come far enough.

Showing until 28 August from 9 am – 5 pm daily at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

See the website for more information.

BEHIND THE LINES 2018

Venture down the rabbit-hole for Behind the Lines: The Year’s Best Political Cartoons 2018, with this year’s theme Curiouser and Curiouser inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

Kids of all ages can visit the topsy-turvy world of Wonderland at MoAD for dress ups, games and adventures.

Step through the Looking Glass and dress up as the colourful and curious characters of Wonderland including Alice, the Queen of Hearts, the Cheshire Cat or the Mad Hatter.

There is also a wall of crazy mirrors that will stretch or shrink you and games with a special Wonderland twist that will delight the whole family.

Older kids can go on a cartooning trail through the exhibition, following clues and learning about the art of political cartooning.

While the children are entertained in Wonderland, parents can grin, smirk and grimace at the cartoons that explore the unexpected twists and turns of politics in 2018.

For more information visit moadoph.gov.au/family. 

DEMOCRACY. ARE YOU IN? 

Your voice, your hands and even your feet have the power to be heard. Our freedoms and our way of life have been built on the foundation of democracy. This living system is sustained through the participation of each and all of us. Democracy is sustained by you.

Australian democracy is a work in progress. Curiously, at a time of stability and unparalleled economic growth, confidence in our political and social institutions is at its lowest point in decades. But giving up on them is not the answer. Our democracy needs us. Are you in?

Open daily at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Find out more at moadoph.gov.au.

PLAYUP 

Discover PlayUP – The Right to Have an Opinion and Be Heard, where kids can explore the United Nations Convention on the Rights of a Child in a playful way. Adults can even join in the fun too!

From listening pods and a roleplay Kindness Café to a fuzzy felt wall and craft activities, PlayUP has a range of exciting and immersive experiences that flip the traditional idea of museums completely on its head.

See the website for more information. Free after museum admission. Open from 9 am to 5 pm daily at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Cost: Free.

THE ANTARCTICA EXPERIENCE: A VIRTUAL REALITY ADVENTURE

Antarctica as you’ve never seen it before

Travel to Antarctica using the latest 360-degree virtual reality technology and follow in the footsteps of the scientists researching this mysterious continent.

Explore Antarctica from a helicopter cockpit; cruise through icy waters to meet a penguin colony; visit Davis Station and learn about daily life in these harsh conditions; and marvel at the spectacular Southern Lights.

An immersive theatre experience only at the National Museum of Australia, Canberra.

On until 26 June at the National Museum of Australia, Acton.

For tickets and session times visit nma.gov.au/antarctica.

AFTER THE WAR EXHIBITION, AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL

After the war is a new exhibition exploring the personal stories of hope, loss, and love of ordinary Australians whose lives have been altered by war, from those who have served to loved ones left behind. Take an intimate journey of the personal costs and consequences of war, unfolding over 100 years from 1918 to 2018.

Entry is free as always, and this event runs until 11 July. For more information, check out the War Memorial website.

Finders keepers: collectors and their stories

Peek into the personal collections of five fascinating collectors. Diverse, rich and often surprising, these collections are brimming with stories. Dedicated to the act of preserving and collecting, the exhibition tells the stories of individuals through the objects they chose to safeguard revealing extraordinary stories about the ideas, individuals and events that have shaped the nation.

From cherished mementoes of political careers, to well-worn protest T-shirts, each collection takes you on a journey through Australia’s democratic history. Families can explore the exhibition and discover what makes collectors tick with fun, hands-on Finders Keepers Collector Kits.

Finders Keepers asks why do people collect, why do museums collect and what do our collections say about us? With 269 objects on display, the most in the history of the museum, Finders Keepers unveils the collector in us all and invites you to share your own collection story.

Showing until 31 August at the Museum of Australian Democracy, Parkes.

See the website for more information.

NGA TALKS AND WORKSHOPS  

Talks and workshops cater for a range of different age groups.

For full details visit the NGA website.