#fun workshops and classes in brisbane

[chrisframeofficial]

Carnival Cruise Line Launches Newly Rebranded P&O Ships

Carnival Cruise Line has officially marked an expansion of its Australian operations with the debut of two newly rebranded vessels, Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter. The ships are now commencing their maiden voyages having recieved a modest refit in Melbourne following the closure of P&O in Australia.

Carnival Adventure made a notable arrival into Sydney Harbour on 28 March 2025, greeted by traditional maritime salutes, including water displays from tugboats. This event celebrated the 109,000 gross ton cruise ship's introduction into the Carnival fleet.

The two ships, formerly known as Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter under the P&O Cruises Australia banner, have undergone a refit to incorporate some of Carnival Cruise Line's signature offerings while retaining some popular features from their P&O days.

Speaking at the event aboard Carnival Adventure, Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy highlighted the significance of this expansion for Carnival cruising, noting the move underscores Carnival's commitment to the Australian cruise market as the only year-round global cruise brand in the local market.

This expansion follows the recent closure of the P&O Cruises Australia brand after 92 years of local cruising. It consolidates Carnival Corporation's presence in the region under the Carnival Cruise Line name.

Carnival now operates three ships year-round from Australian homeports: Carnival Adventure and Carnival Splendor from Sydney, and Carnival Encounter from Brisbane. Luminosa also runs seasonal cruises from Brisbane.

The company anticipates carrying over 500,000 passengers in Australia throughout 2025, departing from Sydney and Brisbane.

The newly rebranded Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter feature a blend of new Carnival experiences and retained P&O favourites, and it was noted that around 96% of P&O crew have stayed on with Carnival after the transfer.

New Carnival Experiences Include:

Hub App: A digital platform for guests to manage their onboard experience, including dining and excursion reservations, guest communication, and accessing dining information.

VIFP Club: Carnival's global loyalty program offering exclusive benefits and promotions to its members.

Carnival’s Fun Squad: An entertainment team delivering a variety of activities, from comedy and trivia to deck parties and games, aiming to create a lively onboard atmosphere.

Free Daily Pizza: Complimentary pizza service available daily between 11 am and 4 pm.

Seuss at Sea: Themed activities and character experiences inspired by Dr. Seuss.

Carnival Activities: Such as Build-A-Bear workshops, the Conga for Kids dance party, and 80s Rock and Glow nights.

Some P&O Favourites Retained:

Byron Beach Club: An exclusive, resort-style retreat area for guests seeking a premium experience.

EDGE: Adventure activities including a zipline, walk the plank, and rock climbing.

Luke’s Bar & Grill: A dining venue featuring the cuisine of celebrity chef Luke Mangan.

Restaurants: Waterfront, Dragon Lady and Angelos remain.

Impact:

The launch of the expanded Carnival fleet represents a huge change in the Australian cruise market.

Ultimately, the combined Carnival Corp presence has reduced with Pacific Explorer being sold - leaving the fleet at 3 permanent ships and one seasonal vessel.

Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter are Grand Class cruise ships, entering service in 2001 and 2002 respectively, as Golden Princess and Star Princess for Princess Cruises.

I visited the ship as a guest of Carnival.

[kansaikarateacademy]

Karate Club Brisbane: Join the Best Martial Arts Training in the City

Karate is not just a martial art; it’s a way of life. If you’re searching for the best karate club Brisbane has to offer, look no further than Kansai Karate. Our karate club Brisbane is dedicated to providing top-notch training, fostering discipline, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced martial artist, our karate club Brisbane is the perfect place to hone your skills and achieve your personal best.

At Kansai Karate, we pride ourselves on being a leading karate club Brisbane. Our instructors are highly qualified and bring years of experience to the dojo. They are passionate about karate and committed to helping each student reach their full potential. Our karate club Brisbane offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of karate, from basic techniques to advanced kata and sparring. Our classes are designed to be engaging, challenging, and fun, ensuring that every student enjoys their journey in karate.

One of the key features that set our karate club Brisbane apart is our focus on individual progress. We understand that each student is unique and progresses at their own pace. Our instructors take the time to get to know each student, understand their goals, and provide personalized guidance and support. This individualized approach ensures that everyone in our karate club Brisbane feels valued and motivated to achieve their best.

Our karate club Brisbane is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to provide a safe and comfortable training environment. The dojo is spacious, clean, and well-maintained, with all the necessary equipment to support a variety of training activities. We believe that a great training environment is essential for effective learning and practice, and our karate club Brisbane delivers just that.

In addition to our regular classes, Kansai Karate offers a range of specialized programs to cater to different needs and interests. Our karate club Brisbane hosts workshops, seminars, and special training sessions with guest instructors to provide our students with a well-rounded martial arts education. We also offer programs for kids, teens, and adults, ensuring that everyone can find a class that suits their age and skill level.

The community is at the heart of Kansai Karate. Our karate club Brisbane is more than just a place to learn martial arts; it’s a place to build lifelong friendships and be part of a supportive community. We regularly organize social events, competitions, and team-building activities to foster a sense of camaraderie and belonging among our members. Joining our karate club Brisbane means becoming part of a family that supports and encourages each other both on and off the mat.

At Kansai Karate, we believe that martial arts training goes beyond physical fitness. Our karate club Brisbane emphasizes the importance of mental and emotional well-being. Through karate, students learn valuable life skills such as discipline, focus, resilience, and respect. These skills are not only essential for martial arts but also for everyday life. Our karate club Brisbane is committed to helping students develop a strong mind and body, preparing them for the challenges they may face in life.

Safety is a top priority at our karate club Brisbane. We follow strict safety protocols to ensure that all training sessions are conducted in a safe and controlled manner. Our instructors are trained in first aid and injury prevention, and we have measures in place to address any potential risks. The well-being of our students is paramount, and our karate club Brisbane takes every precaution to create a safe training environment.

If you’re ready to embark on your martial arts journey, Kansai Karate is the place to be. Our karate club Brisbane welcomes individuals of all ages and skill levels to join our community and experience the many benefits of karate. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, learn self-defense, or achieve personal growth, our karate club Brisbane has something to offer. For more information, visit us at https://kansaikarate.com.au/

[mygainyear2024]

Day 67 The Real Madrid!

Rose told me she’d been awake since 4am 😢

We headed first to Parque de El Retiro, Madrid’s Central Park.  Rose had seen the rose garden on TicTok and asked where it was. That was lucky, as I wanted to go and didn't need to convince her!  I saw so many people exercising I really needed to stop the chatter in my head about not getting up early and running there myself. I am also still coughing, so the other voice in my head was saying it's ok not to exercise today. Last night's cycle class in Spanish, in the dark, unlike any cycle class I've done before, was already more than enough / too much!

Next stop was churros at the popular Chocolatería San Ginés. I can say the churros was excellent, it's not usually my preferred sweet option, but these were not as oily as the ones I've tasted in Australia, and the chocolate was not as rich.

Now for the anticipated extra fun, a paella and sangria workshop.  There was a group of 15 of us, one guy, a pharmacist from Brisbane, the remainder I think were Americans.  Javi, the chef, and Lisa (the French woman now studying in Cornwall in the UK on an Erasmus exchange in Madrid) were our hosts.  We spent a lovely three hours in a very hot kitchen learning how to make a very alcoholic sangria (red wine, vermouth and brandy) with a very small portion of orange juice and soda and how to serve it, ice in the glass first, followed by some of the cut up fruit (oranges, lemons, apples), then the liquid, then smack the glass with a mint vine and gently wiping the leaves around the rim.  The seafood and chicken paella was equally delicious.  No real secret there other than to understand if about eight people order paella in a restaurant it will take at least 30 minutes to come if made fresh (that’s how long it took us to make two).

Javi was saying traditionally paella is for special occasions and can be made anywhere, including the beach!  

We only had time for a quick browse at some shops and a supermarket stop for lunch tomorrow before heading back to the apartment to change and walk to flamenco at 6pm.

Rose and I were so tired we both kept falling asleep during the performance! It was both thrilling, in terms of the dance moves and finger clicking, and irritating, in terms of the singing (which was unpleasant to my ears) at the same time.

The idea of tapas at the mercado got ditched and instead we shared a tuna sandwich and patatas bravas at a fast food joint!

[maximumsupportservices]

NDIS Group Activities and NDIS Personal Activities

There are a number of different things you can use your NDIS funding for. These include personal care, transport and community access. You may also be able to get therapeutic supports.

These can help you improve your daily functioning and your mental health. There are several NDIS providers that offer these services. However, iCare Recruit stands out from the rest with their comprehensive services and personalised approach. To know more about Personal Activities, visit the Maximum Support Services website or call 1300983885.

NDIS group activities Brisbane & Mackay are a great way for people with disabilities to socialise and learn new skills. These group-based activities can include everything from leisure trips to skill-development seminars. They also allow participants to develop strong personal connections and gain a sense of community involvement.

Maximum Support Services offer NDIS personal care services for people with disabilities, including support with daily life tasks. This may include assistance with meal preparation, washing, and grooming. Personal care is one of the eight types of disability support under core supports, and it can be provided in the home or community.

Whether you’re an experienced artist or a complete beginner, there’s something for everyone at ClassBento workshops. From resin art to wheel throwing, these accessible NDIS-funded activities across Australia are a fun way to meet likeminded people in a friendly and supportive environment. Find out more about booking these hands-on creative classes here.

NDIS personal activities Brisbane include community and group activities that help participants engage with the world around them. These services are designed to meet the unique needs of each participant, and can range from social engagement activities that foster a sense of belonging to skill development projects that improve a person’s ability to work and participate in their community.

Centre-based activities include everything from art courses to sports and fitness programs. These are great for fostering a sense of connection with others and can also be a great way to build self-esteem. Similarly, group activities can help people with disabilities develop a sense of purpose and feel more empowered in their lives.

The services that Maximum Support Services provide are ideal for those who want to gain more independence and live a happy, fulfilling life as a member of their community. Using a fun and engaging approach, ELKA can help you achieve your goals through a variety of community activities, from sports to arts and cultural workshops.

The NDIS is a revolutionary Australian Government initiative that provides financial assistance and continual support to those with disability. The goal is to improve their quality of life and help them live the lives they want. The program is available to all eligible participants, regardless of their financial standing. It is unlike other social welfare programs because it does not require means testing or other eligibility criteria.

NDIS personal activities Brisbane include assisting with everyday tasks and helping to improve a participant’s daily living skills. These supports are funded by the Core Supports or Capacity Building budgets and can also be provided in an overnight setting. Maximum Support Services uses person-led support techniques for its personal activity services.

Having the ability to get ready and out of the house is important for a person’s mental health and well-being. Getting exercise and experiencing a change of scenery helps to boost their immune system, improve their mood, and increase their self-confidence.

Getting involved in recreational activities is a big part of living a balanced life. It is not only good for your mental health, but it also promotes community engagement and socialisation. Moreover, it is a great way to develop a variety of skills and experiences that are useful in daily life.

Brisbane is home to a wide variety of leisure activities for adults with disabilities. These include swimming programs such as Easy Exercising, and RDA horse riding. Other options include visiting the city’s many galleries and museums, such as QAGOMA and the Queensland Museum. Brisbane’s Indigenous experiences are also worth a look, including Spirits of the Red Sand and BlackCard Cultural Tours. To know more about Personal Activities, visit the Maximum Support Services website or call 1300983885.

The NDIS provides personal care and daily activity supports as part of the Core Supports budget. These services help participants live their best lives, empowering them to achieve the independence they desire.

[boxfuleventsau]

At Our Beginner-Friendly Painting Courses, You Can Sip Alcohol While You Paint and Have a Blast

Even if you have never painted before, you can leave with a spectacular work of art that you can be proud of! Pour yourself a drink of wine, grab a paintbrush, dance the night away, and let your neon soul loose at a hyper-fluorescent disco! You can let your inner artist loose with some of your closest friends at this paint and sip session with a twist.

We transform your paint and sip party into a sparkling neon celebration with our paint and sip Melbourne for Fun! Make your canvas pop by using fluoro paints while using UV lighting. Since our paints are non-toxic, give your face a cheeky glow-up as well! No prior expertise is necessary for our step-by-step creative painting workshop.

Our classes are simple to understand, pleasant, socially engaging, and unforgettable. One of our engaging and knowledgeable teachers will walk you through your chosen artwork step by step.

You'll be one step closer to expressing your inner artist with a terrific soundtrack, knowledgeable guidance, and a few encouraging words! Each session lasts for between 3 hours. Each session's duration is listed underneath each entry in our events calendar and on the product page where you can make a reservation for each session.

A few minutes after the session's scheduled start time, we normally start painting. During the craft supplies Brisbane session, there can be a few "drying breaks" where you can stand up and stretch, dance, or look at the artwork of your other friends.

When should I show up?

Five to ten minutes before to the commencement of the session, the studio doors will open. Your session start time is displayed on the session calendar for each studio on our website as well as on the tax invoice you get after making a reservation.

[mylittlehavana]

Discover the Vibrant World of Salsa and Latin Dancing in Brisbane

If you're searching for an exhilarating dance experience in Brisbane, look no further than My Little Havana dance academy. At My Little Havana, we are dedicated to creating a community of passionate dancers who are eager to explore the captivating rhythms of salsa and Latin dance. Our welcoming environment and expert instructors ensure that you not only have a great time on the dance floor but also improve your skills along the way. Let's dive into the rich world of salsa and Latin dancing in Brisbane with My Little Havana.

Salsa Dancing in Brisbane: Unleash Your Inner Rhythm:

Salsa dancing in Brisbane has taken the world by storm with its infectious energy and mesmerising moves. In Brisbane, we invite you to join us at My Little Havana to experience the joy and excitement of salsa. Our salsa classes are designed for dancers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Whether you're stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or looking to refine your skills, our experienced instructors will guide you through each step, helping you find your unique rhythm and style.

Latin Dancing in Brisbane: Explore the Beauty of Latin Rhythms:

Beyond salsa, My Little Havana also offers a wide range of Latin dance styles for you to explore in Brisbane. From the sultry moves of bachata to the energetic steps of Cuban Salsa, our Latin dance classes will take you on a journey through the rich tapestry of Latin rhythms. Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage and vibrant beats as you learn the techniques and intricacies of each dance style.

Salsa Classes Near You: Find Your Local Cuban Experience:

Searching for salsa classes near me? My Little Havana is your go-to dance academy in Brisbane. With our convenient location and flexible class schedules, you can easily find salsa classes that fit into your busy lifestyle. Our mission is to provide you with a local Cuban experience, infusing each class with the music, culture, and joy that make Latin dancing truly special. Join us to connect with fellow dance enthusiasts and embark on an exciting dance journey.

A Passionate Community of Dancers:

At My Little Havana, we believe that dance is not just about the steps—it's about the connections and sense of belonging that come with being part of a vibrant community. Our dance academy is a place where dancers of all backgrounds and skill levels come together to share their passion for dance. Whether you're attending a class, participating in a workshop, or joining us for a special event, you'll find a warm and inclusive atmosphere that encourages personal growth and lasting friendships.

Conclusion:

Are you ready to ignite your passion for salsa and Latin dancing in Brisbane? Join us at My Little Havana, where we are dedicated to creating a community that embraces the joy of dance. With our exceptional instructors, unique cultural offerings, and welcoming environment, you'll find a dance experience like no other. Discover the magic of salsa, explore the beauty of Latin rhythms, and connect with fellow dance enthusiasts at My Little Havana. Come dance with us and let your love for dance flourish.

Business Description for Link building only 

Welcome to My Little Havana, the ultimate destination for salsa classes and Latin dance in Brisbane. Our dance academy is dedicated to building a passionate community that celebrates the joy of movement and fosters personal growth. With a focus on fun and skill development, we offer a wide range of salsa classes and Latin dance classes in Brisbane. What sets us apart is our commitment to the fusion of music, dance, and community. As the only Latin dance academy in the area that seamlessly integrates Cuban music and cultural education into our curriculum, we provide a truly unique experience. Join us on the dance floor and experience the vibrant energy of salsa in Brisbane. Get ready to ignite your passion and let the rhythms of Latin dance inspire you. Welcome to My Little Havana, where the magic of salsa in Brisbane comes alive.

[classbentoau-blog]

Curated Range of Workshops in Brisbane - ClassBento

Book our workshops with 100% confidence as we've made it easy to browse by subject, dates, location, and the number of students, so you can easily find an interesting class close to you, at a time that suits you. Visit here for more info.

[curiocitykkb385-blog]

Workshop 9: Thom visited us and provided feedback to our idea + a bit of conflict. 

This week was a tough one. At the end of workshop 8, our team discussed each bringing in a visual on what we thought our flower wall will look like, because we knew what our flowers would look like and how they would work, but we couldn't visualise the bigger picture. This led to many different designs and ultimately questioning whether our flower wall was exactly what we were looking for or if the interaction could be something entirely different. Our team member Sophia, struggled a lot this week as when she designed how she thought the flower wall to look, she saw it as unappealing and not the ‘instagrammable’ image we were all hoping for. On the other hand, Naomi designed a visual unique piece but questions were raised about how the wall would limit interactions, such as how tall would a person be to be able to interact with the wall. This led to Huan coming up with a really simplified version of our flower wall, and bringing it back to the ground and more of a garden style where big and small interactions of the flowers would be coming out of the ground, allowing for audiences to move around. 

While still thinking of this idea, Beth and Sophia were tasked with presenting our idea to Thom, our guest tutor and the entire class for feedback. This proved incredibly valuable, as Thom made the point to go back to our core idea and why we wanted to do this, as he could see the form in terms of visuals and interactions, but also explained the importance of brining together the content and the reasons behind our project. He also made the mention of bring nature back to the urban space and commented on human impact to our environment, in terms of how South-east Queensland Flora is being overtaken by roses from engalnd or lavender from France. This comment was something o think about for our project form and what it might mean to the audience and purpose of why we were doing it in the first place. Our answer to this why, was simply to showcase Brisbane flora, however listening to other teams purposes, Beth was worried that our “why” was not impactful enough. As a result, a lengthy discussion, filled with stress and some arguments occurred. 

Our group discussed out why, looking to Thom’s comments on human impact. Huan suggested environmental impact and using materials that wouldn't harm the environment, and while this was a good suggestion, it was more focused towards form rather than the content we wanted to showcase. Beth suggested our mechanical flowers were making a comment to bringing nature back to urban spaces, or bringing forgot pieces of landscape back to the area around us. But from this, Sophia argued if we were bringing nature back, should our flowers be mechanical or should they be real. Finally, Hanako, who was listening intently to all suggestion, brought the team back together through a pep-talk stating our idea was always to bring great interactions to a location, make it Brisbane specific and to showcase the flora of Brisbane. She explained our purpose was to give a fun, exciting interaction and that it didn't have to go any further than that to make it a deep purpose. She also said that we might be worried because a lot of groups in our workshop had projects to do with climate change and starlight foundation where the purpose of their project would be deep, whereas Curiocity purpose was to have exciting interaction for the curious mind. She finally concluded that our project could have implicit meaning about the landscape and urban spaces becoming more industrial, but she explained that could be up to the own viewers interpretation, while our role would be to facilitate an interaction that is engaging, colourful, unique and exciting for Curiocity. Hanako really brought the team back together, and resolved the conflict we all faced to now be put back on track with our idea, where the only things left to discuss was whether we wanted to stick with our wall or have our flowers coming our from the ground, AND to discuss our display at the final exhibition. 

[maximumsupportservices]

Personal Activities in Brisbane

Lace up those boots and hit the trails for a nature walk to enjoy the views, peaks and scenery around Brisbane. You’ll get that perfect photo for your Instagram too.

Feast your eyes on the epic street art that peppers Brisbane’s laneways and bridges. Or get cultured with QAGOMA’s thought-provoking exhibits. To know more about Personal Activities Brisbane, visit the Maximum Support Services website or call 1300983885.

One of Brisbane’s most popular wildlife parks is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in the suburb of Fig Tree Pocket. It’s home to free-range kangaroos and a koala forest where you can hand-feed the cute creatures and watch them munch on eucalyptus leaves.

You can take a self-guided tour or join a guided group visit if you want to learn more about the sanctuary’s history and its research into Australian marsupials, reptiles and monotremes. There are also shows and talks to catch, including the roo and sheepdog shows.

The highlight of the trip, for many visitors, is a chance to hold a koala. These adorable animals love a cuddle and you can even buy photos of your encounter at the sanctuary’s gift shop.

Embark on a whale-watching tour aboard a private yacht that’s equipped with hydrophones that allow you to hear the sonic calls of these leviathans. The tour also offers a selection of food and beverages.

Climb aboard the MV Eye Spy at Redcliffe Jetty and spot frolicking whales in Moreton Bay. This purpose-built boat offers multiple viewing platforms, and you can opt for a premium tour that includes guaranteed window seats and an exclusive hostess.

See more forms of sealife at Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island, where manta rays and sea turtles are spotted year-round. This tour combines a 75-minute ferry ride with access to Tangalooma Island Resort and a 3-hour whale watching cruise. Join this tour June through November for the best chance to see whales.

From a derelict power station to contemporary arts centre, Brisbane Powerhouse makes for an intriguing visit. Stroll the shabby building to see its innards, and then delve into the cultural offerings—from twilight cruises that stop here to theater, comedy and music performances.

Get your creative juices flowing with a paint and sip class. Whether you choose to channel your inner Picasso or get crafty with clay, these sessions are great for teens (and kids).

Discover the city’s history on a walking tour that includes Boggo Road Gaol. Or lace up your sneakers for a lengthy river loop around the city gardens.

A dolphin watching cruise is an excellent way to see the marine life of Brisbane. Just keep in mind that these are wild animals and there is no guarantee that you will spot them, but the captains will try their best to take you to locations where they usually find them.

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, go on a Moreton Island Cruise with a dolphin feeding program at sunset. The tour departs from Holt Street Wharf in Pinkenba and includes morning tea, a hearty chicken and seafood lunch, and drinks.

The cruise is weather-dependent and offers full commentary from an Eco Ranger. If you’re lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of whales during their annual migration from June to October.

A wine tour is not only a fun experience but it’s also a great way to learn about the different types of wines. Some of these tours even include activities like grape stomping and wine blending workshops.

Moreover, many of these tours will take you to the best vineyards in the area. They will also provide you with a selection of wines to taste. To make sure that you get the most out of your wine tasting experience, remember to swirl the glass, smell the aromas, and sip slowly.

Taking a wine tour is a great option for people who want to enjoy delicious wines without having to worry about a designated driver or an expensive Uber. Some of these wine tours will even include a full meal. To know more about Personal Activities Brisbane, visit the Maximum Support Services website or call 1300983885.

[boxfuleventsau]

You May Have Fun Doing a Lot of Things in Melbourne

If you've previously enjoyed fine dining establishments and the buzzy atmosphere in Melbourne bars, you might be looking for a more intriguing choice. The best paint and sip Melbourne can be found at one of our Melbourne locations; make a reservation today!

Painters of all skill levels can gather for drinks and paint-and-sip events. At paint and sip Melbourne, let your creative side loose while having fun with friends. Our craft supplies Brisbane programs are designed to give students of all ability levels in-depth painting instruction. To relax and indulge while painting, beginners are encouraged to bring their own alcoholic beverage to our workshops.

Melbourne's Paint and Sip event

During our paint and sip Sydney session, you may partake in Melbourne's renowned creative scene while holding a wine glass in one hand and a paintbrush in the other. Our simple tools will enable you to creatively express yourself. Everyone can find something in our Melbourne classes, from beginners to artists.

Melbourne's most enjoyable art classes

There are numerous distinct art studios in Melbourne. In each session, you'll have lots of opportunities to unleash your inner artist with our talented educators' detailed teaching. We provide all the supplies you'll need to create art, but we highly advise bringing your own alcoholic beverages to allow your creativity to run wild.

Participate in Melbourne's social paint and sip events to make time to rekindle your relationships with your loved ones. You'll feel perfectly at home in our warm studios where you may create a masterpiece while being guided by enthusiastic painters. Have a ladies' night with your best friends to create lifelong memories in Melbourne, improve team morale at work with entertaining team-building exercises, or take part in a paint party with laughter, creativity, and beverages.

[calligraphybymoya]

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So tired from class today in Brisbane - but it was so wonderful to meet so many calligraphers! I had a great time. (Not so sure about four floors of stairs to a heritage wooden loft space ... soooo many stairs to carry workshop supplies up 😂😂) I’m so happy and eager to see what magic these talented students create next! . While I was shopping for supplies I also found the much-talked-about scratch paper in Daiso and after watching @charlartscript’s super cool videos I had to have a go myself. It really shows the movement of what each tine should be doing - how to square those tips - maybe I need to buy a ton to use to teach tine manipulation??? Or maybe just to use for myself cos it’s crazy fun! . . . . #calligraphy #scratchpaper #calligraphylove #calligraphyclasses #daiso #tinemanipulation #squaredtops #calligraphynerd #makemoreart #calligraphyvideo #lovemyjob (at Brisbane, Queensland, Australia)

[thewidowstanton]

Jessica Connell, Circa ensemble member, specialising in aerials and hula-hoops: Peepshow

Australian circus artist Jessica Connell trained at the National Institute of Circus Arts in Melbourne, having formerly been a member of the Flying Fruit Fly Circus in the twin cities of Albury-Wodonga, where she spent most of her childhood. She has performed all over Australia, and in 2009 contributed to A4 circus ensemble’s first production, Downpour. Two years later she joined leading Australian circus company Circa and undertook an eight-month season of Wunderkammer at the Chamäleon Theatre in Berlin, and a three-month tour of the Helpmann Award-winning show, Circa.

Her first new creation for the company was ‘S’ at the Brisbane Festival in September 2012, and she has since appeared in – and helped create – many of the company’s productions, including Opus and Il Ritorno. Now Jess returns to London – having performed in a season of Opus at the Barbican – to appear in the European premiere of Peepshow. It runs during the Underbelly Festival at the Southbank Centre in London from 27 June – 18 August. She chats to Liz Arratoon.

The Widow Stanton: How old were you when you started at the Flying Fruit Fly Circus? Jessica Connell: I started at around 13 or 14 in their professional training group. Before that I’d just dabbled in a few weekend classes and done a bit of dance, a bit of tennis, a bit of martial arts.

What made you choose to go there; were you sporty? I was always probably more creative than sporty. I had a big family and we were home-schooled for a little bit but my parents were quite art orientated. We did a lot of plays and a lot of art at home, which was really lovely. My sister pursued ballet and I got into that for a little bit and I did a little bit of gymnastics but I think I really missed the artistic side of ballet and things I’d been doing in my youth. So my father suggested trying out the circus because he’d had an affiliation with them when he was younger. So it was kind of the mesh of two worlds that I’d been playing with since I was quite young.

Is anyone else in your family a performer; your sister? No, my sister became the mother of four beautiful children. Much to my dismay no one has yet followed me. [Laughs] It’s always been my dream for one of my sisters to come onstage with me but my youngest sister, who’s still in high school, is pursuing music at the minute. She’s been in some young productions so maybe there’s still hope. 

When did you graduate from NICA? I actually didn’t graduate. I went there for a year. Kind of before going to NICA I had introduced myself to Circa and about halfway through, Yaron [Lifschitz, Circa’s artistic director] just got in contact with me and offered me some short contracts, but it wasn’t until he offered me a full-time contract that I left at the end of that first year.

Impressive, Jess! Circus-school dropout is what I call myself. [Laughs]

Not at all. Wonderful to be so good that you’re spirited away! But which aerial disciplines did you do there? Primarily swinging trapeze, but since joining Circa I’ve done static trapeze and I’ve slowly moved into the world of single point as well. I don’t do trapeze in Peepshow; we have another stunning trapeze artist.

How useful has it been to have an aerial and a ground-based discipline? It’s been really good. It definitely made me more versatile, which was fantastic. Hoops was something I kind of came into later and it was probably the key that made me more versatile as a performer, so in a show if an aerial can’t be rigged I have another skill to draw on. And as I get a little bit older, it’s also incredibly interesting how to use, not just the physical skill, but perhaps the performance skill or the physical exploration and try to translate them from one to the other. Hoops has this beautiful flow, as does a dance trapeze. However, to try and disrupt that flow both on a trapeze and a hula hoop has always been something that was really fun and interesting.  So they definitely made me more versatile but they also challenged me mentally as to how to approach those two disciplines.

And to keep both skills at the required level is quite something. Definitely.

So what had first attracted you to Circa? It’s different for everybody but coming from an artistic background – and while I absolutely love the physical side of circus – circus was such an exciting world for me, because I had started what I thought was a little bit late. The Flying Fruit Fly takes kids as young as eight and most of my friends had been there since they were that age, so starting at 14… they even made a note of: “You’re pretty old to be starting but you have the right mentality so come on in.” So coming into this world of people who can be physical within their own… means, like, I wasn’t forced to be flexible or forced to be strong or forced to be tiny; I was accepted for who I was and asked to explore that.

So that got me into circus and then in my first year I went to see Circa’s The Space Between in Melbourne – we would go on excursions to see other shows – and for me what I loved about the circus was amplified by Circa. I saw these three individuals on stage with unique and interesting, not just bodies, but mentalities and personalities and it really shone through to me, so, yeah, it just amplified what I was finding I already loved about circus and it really brought it to life. It expressed it on stage in a way I’d never seen; that honesty and beauty is what just drove my desire to work for them.

So, you approached them; what advice would you offer to someone wanting to get into the company? Definitely making yourself known and expressing an interest in why you like it. In all honestly I can’t even remember what I said to Yaron [laughs] but maybe I told him why I wanted to work for the company from definitely a young age, because I knew that one day I wanted to work for Circa or a similar company. The idea of working for a home company was pretty exciting. But I also  channelled my creative energy and what I trained in so my disciplines were honed in on that world, and even then I pursued swinging trapeze less and got more into static trapeze because I knew that Circa was a smaller touring company.

Let’s jump ahead a bit, how did you cope with doing the same thing every night for eight months in Berlin? And we’re about to do it again! There’s something really exciting about doing the same show for eight months, and what I’m most excited about and how I coped the first time was… there’s a level of precision and exploration that you can get into when you do the same thing every night that I could never get touring a show or doing multiple shows like we normally do. For a whole week I could experiment onstage with breath, or timing, or just micro things like eyeline, and those sorts of things that really make an act unique and precise.

Because in circus you have so much freedom, we do a trick roughly in this musical timing together, and then we get from A to B however we want. That freedom is incredibly liberating but I don’t think you always get that. In Circa we’re quite lucky and we do get that freedom, which keeps things alive and interesting and rich.

Circa’s schedule can be relentless. How do you protect yourself from injury? Making sure I’m physically ready before we go on tour is really important. I just try to be as strong and healthy as I can be and, when we’re on tour, relentlessly doing physio programmes and those sorts of things, ensuring that the parts of your body that are weaker – because everybody has weaknesses – are always being maintained or in check. And then massage and lots of saunas and swimming if possible. And also kind of being smart, like it is a big tour, be sensible.  

There are so many new Aussie circus companies coming up; is circus regarded as a new sport option for young people there now? Australia is obviously quite a young country and I’ve been watching circus change and develop there since I was little. We have influences from all around the world, like in Fruit Fly we had Chinese, French, Russian in the skills we learnt but I also think now especially I’m seeing Australia have its own voice in the circus world. We still draw from those inspirations but I feel in the last decade Australia is starting to find its own voice.

I think that’s drawing people in. It’s becoming more known, because it’s more ours. And because we’re touring Australia more and more as well, it’s just the awareness of circus as an option, and the more circuses pop up, the more they offer workshops or classes, or even just shows to spread the awareness. Even Circa, when I first joined, we toured very little in Australia. We’d have a small tour every year, but as the company’s grown I’ve spent more and more time in community outreach and Australian tours and I think other companies are using that too and it’s spreading the word.

What can you tell us about Peepshow? Peepshow is our new little baby, and has been pretty exciting and wonderful. It’s still very new and fresh trying to find the right words to describe it, but ultimately it’s about showing and about looking and about being looked at. For some people the name might make them think of something quite sexual, which it can be but it’s also about having the freedom to show and be looked at and take your own emotions or stories… as often in our work, we’re not really telling a story or even trying to tell anybody what to think, we’re merely showing them something and hoping that they will take their own story from that.

Which of your skills will you be using? Mostly I do group acrobatics and hula hoops. Interestingly, when I first joined the company, I was more of a middle and base, but now I’ve moved a little bit more into the flying world, so that’s really new and fun and fresh for me to evolve through the world of acrobatics. I’m also involved in a few kind of quirky less-physical acts, which is really fun.

I’ve seen Libby McDonnell’s wonderful sequinned costumes for Peepshow! Yes [laughs]. As well as doing the costumes, Libby is also assistant director so she’s been a powerhouse woman as always. What do you like about creating a show as an ensemble with Yaron? I often think we’re quite lucky. Sometimes Yaron does come in with a really strong idea but he allows that to form and grow depending on who is expressing his idea. That’s really wonderful for a physical performer, and then at the same time, he sometimes says: “Has anybody got any ideas?” And we have the freedom to try to bring something on to the stage.  It’s incredibly rewarding. And what’s really lovely is how the shows at Circa can influence one another, like I see so much of ’S’ in other shows but a better, stronger more developed version of the ideas we came up with when we made the show.

Do you enjoy travelling and life on the road? Yeah I do, definitely. There are always moments when you get a bit nostalgic, you miss home, Australia. And my family don’t travel very much so to see them it’s usually me flying home. So there are those parts of it but I’ve been doing it for so long, it’s very much a way of life. I have my suitcase and I do enjoy it. I love exploring and taking photos; travelling and photography and circus, I guess, really go hand in hand. At the minute I still really love the lifestyle. 

Is photography one of your hobbies away from circus? Yes, definitely. My friends used to call me The Hobby Queen, because I can’t sit still. I also sketch, which I did when I was younger with my family. I’m trying to learn guitar but I’m pretty terrible. I love cooking. I’m definitely Jack-of-all-trades. I don’t really specialise in anything else. Circus is probably my main drive.

Can you pick out the best bit of your career so far? There are probably a million amazing things but last year we went to a small circus community and maybe, having grown up in a circus community, it really resonated with me. We spent a week with these kids from Yak Yak Yak and Cycas Circus making a quick pop-up show for the festival they were in and yeah, it was in Cairns, so regional Australia, and circus kids making a show. I don’t know how, but this show came together. I’d probably only known the kids for a week, but I had not felt this sense of pride in a really long time. It kind of reminded me about why I love the circus and how it helped me as a young child. Probably that is my most recent wonderful experience I’ve had at work. It’s still sitting with me and still makes me really proud and happy to do what I do. 

Do you have any particular ambitions for the future? I’m not sure. I’m quite happy where I am; I really do love photography at the moment but I couldn’t see myself leaving the world I’m in now to just do photography. It’s so hard. As long as I’m in this world I’m happy and excited and I’m hoping the future will unfold… I’ll find myself becoming a circus photographer and director if I have the right skills, if I keep pushing myself and growing in this world, my next path will reveal itself to me.

Jess appears in Circa’s Peepshow during the Underbelly Festival at the Southbank Centre in London from 27 June – 18 August 2018.

Picture credits: Pedro Greig; Kurt Petersen; Chris Herzfeld For Peepshow tickets, click here Twitter: @CircaPresents @UnderbellyFest @southbankcentre   

Follow @TheWidowStanton on Twitter

[mapmystudylove]

WHY IS AUSTRALIA BEST PLACE TO STUDY AND LIVE?

Australia is a nation with fast growing economy and countless opportunities for its national and international students. Life in the growing cities such as Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth is similar to that of US and UK. These cities are also preferred by individuals across the world to study and live due to their high quality of life, world class infrastructure, low population and pollution - thus justifies their label as world’s best student cities. The country offers ample work opportunities after graduation and the flexible laws for post study work visa in Australia are a blessing for those wishing to gain experience in the country after studies. The country also extends several internship options for students to work while study. There could be loads of reasons for you to work while studying such as to pay your bills or education loan, gain real world experience in your area of study or get a flavor of the Australian culture. According to the Australian law, most student visas allow you to work up to 40 weeks every 2 weeks. It is suggested, however, to reconfirm the same with the Immigration Department website. Australia’s highest minimum wages in the world is one of the several reasons that make the country a preferred choice amongst the Indian and International students. The higher education system of Australia consists of approximately 41 universities out of which 37 of them are public, 2 are private, and 2 of them are Australian colleges of International universities. It’s also important to highlight that six of the Australian universities are featured among the top 100 universities of the world. Education cost in Australia is comparatively lower than many other English speaking nations. On Average, the approximately cost of pursuing an undergraduate degree is around $20,000 per year whereas cost of post graduate studies is estimated to be $25,000 annually. This is a great advantage for the International students who wish to keep their cost low. So, if you have a dream of studying abroad but have limited financial resources, then contact us. We are a leading consulting name in international education with a team of experienced and qualified study abroad admission consultants who have counseled thousands of students in 2016.

On Campus Activities

Every university in Australia has a variety of on campus clubs and organizations for its students. Joining them can help you gain specific exposure and mingle with individuals from different parts of the world. This can be a life changing experience for those who are open to new cultures, ideas and activities. Types of the clubs or organizations may include:

Study groups

Outdoor activities (surfing, rowing, cycling, hiking)

Sports of various types (amateur to competitive levels)

Book or movie clubs

Religious organizations

Gaming (board, video, card)

Sexuality (LGBT awareness, etc.)

Groups associated with your field of study

Student Government

Political Party Affiliation

International Students Organization

In addition, there are various types of events held within the university campus such as notable speakers, workshops, fun activities, sports tournaments, concerts, sports events, bus and more. It is suggested to check the university website frequently for all the relevant and updated information.

Extracurricular Activities

Weekends in Australia are very interesting as you can participate in many extracurricular activities or visit the local or nearby attractions. Every college town has active nightlife, which includes bars and clubs, restaurants and other fun places to hang out with your friend and fellow students. As Australia is surrounded by water, most cities are not too far from the coast. So you can spend your weekend sun bathing at the beach or indulge into water activities. Australia also extends many adventurous sports such as rock climbing, hiking, biking, scuba diving, fishing, and even skiing in the mountainous areas. Also, the culture, landscape, and city life varies from city to city, thus giving a very unique experience to International students in Australia.With the country offering so much to its international students, you must not miss the chance to study and live in Australia. This can be made possible with the help of our study in Australia consultants in Delhi region who have placed thousands of students in top Australian universities in 2016

For more information contact https://mapmystudy.com/blog-Why-is-Australia-best-place-to-study-and-live-7

[georgetteart]

New Year, start now in a creative mode. Meet new people at a social sculpting art class. Do you know ? Sculpting can benefit you on A physical, mental, emotional and spiritual level. Have fun while making new friends. Clay hand building workshop. On Going Classes. All Materials and tools supplied. Every Thursday 9-12pm. 1-4pm. 6-9pm Beginners & Advanced.

#Gallery #Brisbane #sculptures #originalart #sculpture #artclass #studio #gift #woman #creative #fashion #art #fun #clay #inspiration #mindfulness #branding #birkdale #therapeutic

[jeremystrele]

Bonnie Hislop Is The Ceramicist-Cheerleader We Need Right Now

Bonnie Hislop Is The Ceramicist-Cheerleader We Need Right Now

Creative People

Sasha Gattermayr

The Better Luck Next Year collection is a series of ceramic trophies that act as consolation prizes for a year we’d all prefer to leave behind. Photo – Anwyn Howarth.

Ceramicist Bonnie Hislop! Photo – Anwyn Howarth.

Bonnie creates all her pieces in her light-filled studio in Brisbane. Photo – Anwyn Howarth.

Each vessel in the collection took 20-30 hours to build, paint, glaze and fire. Photo – Anwyn Howarth.

We’ve all told ourselves this this year! Photo – Anwyn Howarth.

Bonnie handbuilds all her pieces, meaning she doesn’t use moulds or a wheel! It takes longer, but the payoff is in the individuality of each original form. Photo – Anwyn Howarth.

‘This collection is a response to the collective experience of COVID-19 and isolation, and the feelings of frustration during this time,’ says Bonnie. Photo – Anwyn Howarth.

Is there anything, I ask you, as categorically FUN as Bonnie Hislop’s ceramics? The Brisbane-based artist has spent this very weird year experimenting with the more conceptual side of her practice – life-affirming pottery.

Better Luck Next Year is a series of handbuilt ceramic trophies emblazoned with of-the-moment slang like ‘Um okay wow’ and ‘This is fine’. These catchphrases to modern life have gained traction over the Internet in the last decade, and hold particular pertinence in 2020. You’re doing great, hun! is what everyone needs to hear right now.

‘This collection is a response to the collective experience of COVID-19 and isolation, and the feelings of frustration during this time,’ Bonnie says. The colourful, wobbly creations are a deferent, exhausted nod to a year we’re all probably glad to see the back of. But as timely as this collection feels, Bonnie’s pieces have always been about having as much fun as possible (what’s more joyous than a Super Duper Sized Dreamland Fantasy Leopard Planter?) and doing things her way.

‘The satisfaction is in the process of discovery, uncovering the concept and personality of a piece by keeping open to play,’ she explains of her process, which is based on intuition. ‘I find if I pre-plan too much, I’ve already moved on from the piece in my mind before it’s even made.’

Despite this spontaneity, a lot of time goes into constructing each of Bonnie’s vessels. Every vase and trophy in the collection took roughly 20-30 hours to build, paint, dry and fire. As they are made from stoneware clay, all her pieces are fired multiple times and undergo layers of glaze and ceramic lustres after each session in the kiln. You can see the detail in an online exhibition of the collection at Third Quarter Gallery, from October 9th – 23rd.

Though this collection of slogan-embossed vessels symbolises a funny, sarcastic reaction to 2020, they are also the result of a lifetime spent creating. Bonnie inherited her love of ceramics from her mother, an illustrator and ceramicist. Bonnie built her practice through years of amateur classes – starting at age 8 – and in her mid-twenties, taught herself to handbuild (freeform clay sculpting without moulds or a wheel). She now teaches the process to other budding ceramicists from her warehouse studio in Brisbane.

With 2021 looming, THIS is the energy we need right now.

Click here to shop Bonnie’s playful designs or enrol in her ceramic workshops.

An online exhibition of ‘Better Luck Next Year’ will be held at Third Quarter Gallery from 8pm on 9th – 23rd October.

[directproductionsuk]

Blog 9 – Chancing Upon Your Shows

By Julian Dismore: TV Series Producer and Media Skills Trainer

 One of the many cool things about working in TV is when you chance upon programmes you’ve produced in far flung countries. I once staggered into a pub in Brisbane, Australia after a 25 hour flight a little ‘worse for wear’ (the combination of free alcohol and me celebrating being upgraded to business class wasn’t ideal). As usual, I headed for the nearest pool table and got playing and chatting to the locals. Being able to play pool is an important skill in TV. It means you can arrive in pretty much any city in the world, head to a pub and start communicating with ordinary people in a natural situation. I looked up at the telly in the corner of the bar and it was playing an episode of ‘Jimmy’s’ – a  hospital documentary series that I had worked on back in the day. I wasn’t sure if I was hallucinating!

 In another bar (you can see a theme here) I noticed that a cricket documentary I’d done the voice over for, was playing mute on one of the screens. I bet the barman £10 that if he turned that particular telly up he would hear my voice. He was convinced he was about to win the easiest tenner of his life, until he hit the volume button…

 I had similar experiences in Saipan, India and South Africa. But twice in the last fortnight I’ve had a totally new surprise – chancing upon myself on the TV!

 A documentary was made about my inspirational son Danny last year. It is still on BBC I player – ‘My Life: Danny The Bravest Boy In The World.’ Without me knowing it, the BBC repeated it a couple of weeks ago, and it happened to be on when I walked into our lounge after putting Danny to bed one evening. Not only that, I was full frame! Gave me quite a shock!

 And last week Direct Productions’ brilliant Head of Marketing Lowri Evans sent me a WhatsApp image saying “Is this you?!” (see pic) She’d happened upon a series I produced called ‘Click For Murder’ for CBS Reality and Netflix. In that series I did a lot of the ‘acting work’ in the dramatized reconstructions. I’d played a police officer, a murder victim, a forensic scientist and the father of a missing person, to name just a few. I must admit I’m not the most versatile of actors, but needs must!

 In my time I’ve been a stuntman, Captain Hook and an avid user of Grindr – which I thought was dating for grandparents until I did more research… life is rarely dull in TV!

 If you want to work in the media industries and want advice on how to get in – and how to get on once you have your foot on the ladder, you should come on one of my upcoming online zoom courses. To book your place, e-mail me at juliandismore@gmail.com

 Wed 5th August / Tuesday August 18th 1pm – 5pm  

'How To Get Into The Media Industries' – for students and entry level

 The course covers the following: generating media contacts, what to say in your introductory e mail, CV finessing for jobs in the media, job interview skills, TV runner skills, TV researcher skills, insider's tips and career strategy. It also gives an overview of the different roles in TV - to help you choose which area would suit you best. And we run through the do's and don'ts of job hunting. It is interactive and fun - as well as being extremely useful as you set about embarking on your career in these challenging times. This workshop will save you months, if not years, going down blind alleys as you look to embark on your career

 Thursday 6th August / Wednesday August 19th: 1pm – 5pm

‘Presenting web videos and coming across well on zoom’- for students and lecturers

 The course covers the following: Conducting interviews and being interviewed on web videos and zoom / MS Teams, doing pieces to camera and becoming comfortable with talking to a lens, how to record voice over convincingly, tips when using zoom / MS Teams, framing, background, sound and dos and don’ts. This course is interactive and fun with exercises and role plays. The world is changing for good – web videos and zoom / MT Teams meetings are the future. Now is a great time to master the skills required.  

 The fee for each course is £50 payable by BACS. If you’d really like to do the courses on a different date because you can’t make these dates, please let me know and I will see what I can do.

 For testimonials please go to https://www.directproductions.co.uk/training-courses

 Julian

 Series Producer and Media Trainer

Direct Productions UK

Mob +44 (0) 77177 44321

www.directproductions.co.uk

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