Newsletter | #137 | What's On this Week Newsletter | #137 | What's On this Week

Welcome to this week's Melbourne events, exhibitions, sports and community guide for the week running from Tuesday August 18 - Monday August 24, 2009.

This week.. It's time to bookmark The Melbourne Writers Festival in your diary with one of Australia's key lit-fests offering an enormous program of events for all the blessed bookworms. The Ganesh Chaturthi Hindu Festival takes place in Darebin with a parade and ceremony in honour of the elephant headed god, while at Melbourne Showgrounds you might find some with just as striking an appearance at the Melbourne Anime Festival as the punters enjoy 3 days of costumes, games and more.

There's also a celebration at Young and Jackson's marking 100 years of one of Melbourne's fairest maidens, our beloved Chloe, while further afield in Kyneton there's the Troubadour Weekend Music Festival, which also waxes nostalgic in honour of what were once two of Melbourne's most vibrant folk venues back in the day.

Asia Week continues at Melbourne University offering a range of special events, while there's also plenty more to see and do with the ongoing Indonesian Film Festival, West Gippsland Slow Food Winter Festival, and the arts programs of Mudfest11 and Craft Cubed.



And with just a taste further down, check here to view more of the following..
Rockabye, performed by Melbourne Theatre Company at their Sumner Theatre in Southbank, is a play that examines our self-involved, celebrity-obsessed culture. Written by Joanna Murray-Smith, the play follows Sidney, a pop star who struggles to find success with her career and life after turning forty.
When: Runs Until September 20


Jersey Boys, performed at the Princess Theatre, is the Broadway hit that charts the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons as the play takes a nostalgic look at how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history while showcasing the great songs they became famous for.
When: Runs Until September 27


Buddy! The Buddy Holly Story returns to Melbourne with a brand new production held at the Palms at Crown. The live music extravaganza, which has become one of the biggest hits on the stage, presents the story of the iconic singer with two hours of his greatest hits that inspired many other performers.
When: Runs Until August 22


Dance
Concord, presented by The Australian Ballet, is a performance that combines the talents of three of the most exciting choreographers in ballet today from Russia, England and Spain. With dance works by Alexei Ratmansky, Wayne McGregor, and Nacho Duato, performances are held at the Arts Centre.
When: August 21 to September 1


Entertainment & Nightlife
Live Concerts & Gigs
Jazz Hands will be appearing at Collingwood's Ilk Bar, where the band will present their 60's hard-bop composed by pianist, John Thorn. With original songs inspired by legends such as Miles, Monk and Blakey. Jazz Hands includes consummate performers like Julien Wilson, 2008's Australian Jazz Artist Of The Year.
When: Friday August 21 - 8pm


Luvland will be performing at The SPOT in Brunswick, launching their latest album with all their usual heady mix of funk, dance, reggae and experimental jazz. Chris Harold will be joined by Paul Van Ross, Tony Mazziotta and Michael Evans-Barker for a wild night of music sure to get you on the dancefloor.
When: Friday August 21 - 9:30pm


Jesters Lane, a six piece original band from Melbourne, will be performing at Brunswick's Noise Bar in. Fronted by lead singer, Kimba, the band plays a unique fusion of funk, pop, jazz, blues, reggae and rock. They'll be supported by the bands RPG Radio, Jakk's Asimuth and The Young Have Secrets.
When: Saturdays Until August 29 | 8pm to 1am


Georgia Fields will be performing at The Toff on Swanston Street, celebrating the launch of 'One Finger', the first single from her forthcoming album. With the proverbial 'house of cards' featured in the single's artwork, each limited-edition single comes with a unique collectable vintage playing card.
When: Sunday August 23


Clubbing
Filthy Lucre is Melbourne's newest alternative night out, held every Saturday at Melbourne's CBD Nightclub in Mackillop Street. Held on the venue's 3rd floor, the night features Rock, Punk, Grunge, Britpop, Glam, Goth and Darkwave tunes, with two other floors offering metal and alternative mayhem.
When: Every Saturday - 10pm to 5am


Burlesque & Cabaret
Curly Girl Burlesque at North Melbourne's Cabaret Voltaire is a fun, cheeky and risque show, which began as an Hours Level research project by Claire Haywood, and has since gone on to become a hit that celebrates the burlesque of yesteryear with a contemporary touch that challenges perceptions of women.
When: Every Saturday Night - 8pm | Bar Open 7pm


Friday Night Burlesque, held at Fitzroy's Burlesque Bar, is a scintillating night of live performance, capturing the long and varied history of Burlesque entertainment in all its cheeky, saucy glory featuring established acts as well as some of the hottest up and coming performers in the Burlesque scene.
When: Every Friday Night | Doors Open 6pm


Comedy
The Blues, performed at the Butterfly Club in South Melbourne, is the latest comedy show by Michael Connell, who blends his acclaimed talents of comedy and harmonica playing for the first time on stage as he performs the blues inspired by life as a white middle-class twenty-something.
When: Thursday August 20 to Sunday August 23


The Impro Cave returns for another great run of entertainment to help beat the winter chills with a toasty warm venue at The Penny Black in Brunswick and the hottest improvised entertainment. This year's series of improvised shows are ones of exploration and adventure with a new show each time.
When: Every Sunday, 7:30pm | Until August 30


Comedy@Spleen is a comedy night at Spleen Bar in Bourke Street, where you can step out to enjoy a great night out with an eclectic mix of Melbourne's comedy scene featuring established personalities and comedy legends from radio and television with guests such as Glenn Robbins, Corinne Grant and others.
When: Every Monday - 8:30pm to 10:30pm | FREE Entry

Live Music Guide Melbourne Venues and Gig guide.


Melbourne For Kids
Como House Family Fun Day - The beautiful Como Historic House and Garden will celebrate 50 years of National Trust custodianship with a day that offers a range of fantastic activities for the whole family to enjoy including tours, market stalls, kids' games and more. Children under 12 are admitted free.
When: Sunday August 23 - 10am to 4pm


Dora & Diego at Hoyts - Dora and Diego will be appearing on the big screen as you've never seen them before with special sessions at Hoyts Cinemas during August held at Chadstone, Melbourne Central and Eastland. Sessions are held every Saturday and Sunday with all tickets costing just $7.
When: Saturdays & Sundays | Throughout August


The Goal Kick Program, held by East Bentleigh Soccer Club, is a great development program to introduce young boys and girls aged 5 to 7 to the game of soccer in a non-competitive and fun environment. With weekly sessions of skill drills and game play, kids can learn the sport while having fun and making new friends.
When: Saturday Mornings - 10am to 11.15am


Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination is a special exhibit at Scienceworks where you can discover the science behind the Star Wars films. The exhibition features authentic costumes and props from the entire Star Wars saga, including the iconic Darth Vader's menacing attire.
When: Open Daily Until November 3


Circus Shows
Cabaret Vertigo, presented by the National Institute of Circus Arts, is an opportunity to see the newest generation of circus artists alongside industry professionals performing their freshest acts. Offering fast-paced entertainment at a very friendly price, shows will be held at NICA's Prahran centre.
When: Friday & Saturday, August 21 & 22 - 7.30pm


Circus Sunrise, an action-packed show for all the family, will be appearing in Wantirna South, located at Melton's Woodgrove Shopping Centre. A true family circus with lineage going back to 1648, the performances od Circus Sunrise feature juggling, daring acrobatics and whip-cracking excitement!
When: August 21 to September 6 | Wednesday to Sunday


Silvers Grand Magic Circus will be holding performances opposite Bundoora RMIT on Plenty Road. Established in 1976, Silvers Grand Magic Circus offers a great show for the whole family, with everything from jugglers and clowns to acrobats, international performers and more.
When: Runs Until September 13 - Various Days in Bundoora


Puzzles & Competitions
Spot The Difference
There are 5 Differences between these two pictures of St Kilda's iconic Luna Park... See if you can spot them! Sign up for answers revealed in Next Week's Newsletter

Last week's answers are further down with Melbourne Trivia
More on Luna Park | Learn More about Melbourne!


Competitions & Special Offers
More Details Here


Community
SoFiA, the Sea of Faith Network, will present a public lecture at the Meeting Room of Carlton Library. Promoting an open exploration of religion, spirituality and meaning, this month's lecture features Rev. Dr. Paul Tonson discussing Biblical affirmation of pluralism.
When: August 20 | FREE - Gold Coin Donations Welcome


An Antiques Appraisal Session will be held at Moonee Valley Libraries' Niddrie Branch. Free to attend, antiques expert, Lester DeVere from Auction Central present on the day to talk about antiques and then undertake an appraisal and valuation session. Appraisals are $5 per item on the day.
When: Saturday August 22 | Bookings Essential


African Drumming Classes - Ray Pereira, one of Australia's best performers and teachers in African Drumming, offers classes that teach great hand technique and how to hear and play inspiring West African rhythms on a variety of drums and percussion instruments that include djembe, bells and shakers.
When: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday - Various Locations


Speakers Forum | Soapbox Oratory - Soapbox orators (that means you if you've something to say) can take turns speaking on various topics and viewpoints on the State Library Lawns. Questions, comments, heckling and interjections are welcome from all, simply turn up on the day to participate or listen.
When: Each Sunday Afternoon - 3pm to 6pm


You Can Help
There are many social causes that are relevant to people from all walks of life, many of which rely on public support to better the community or assist those who are less fortunate or to benefit others. This week we ask you to consider the following..

The Smith Family Winter Appeal is a chance to help change the story for disadvantaged Aussie kids by helping The Smith Family raise money for their Winter Appeal. By making a donation you can support The Smith Family in offering disadvantaged kids educational support to break the poverty cycle.
Learn More About How You Can Help


Markets, Fetes and Fairs
View MARKETS on any day of the week to make the most of the rare sunny days (it's a coin toss lately, isn't it!) and head to one of Melbourne's many excellent markets, fetes and fairs for a bargain!


A growing number of food, produce and even wine markets are always popping up around the suburbs. And don't forget garage sales!
Fetes Fairs & Shows
Art & Craft Markets
Food & Produce Markets
Swap Meets
Garage Sales


Dining & Drink
The Opera Challenge, held at La Camera in Southgate, is a special dinner evening that offers the chance to watch five fine talents compete for prizes and vouchers. With each singer performing two of their favourite songs accompanied with live music, a 3 course meal will compliment the superb night.
When: Monday August 24 | Bookings Recommended


Wining
Cleanskins.com sell premium Australian wines direct to the public at up to 50% off retail prices, offering Free Home Delivery and a 100% Money Back Guarantee. Perfect for all lovers of wine, their impressive range of wines and service were recommended on Channel 7's Today Tonight and Channel 9's A Current Affair.
Visit Cleanskins.com


Special Dining Offers
Dining Specials - Save Up To 20% on Your Bill
Menulog is the easiest way to book a restaurant online with over 4000 restaurant listings! By booking online through Menulog you can enjoy fine food and save money with special deals offering discounts on total food bills, complimentary wine and drinks, discount group bookings and much, much more! 
→ www.onlymelbourne.com.au


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