Les Miserables at Capitol Theatre Sydney | Arrives Next Week!

Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed new production of Boublil & Schönberg's legendary musical, LES MISÉRABLES, will open at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre in March 2015.

The new production features glorious modernised staging, orchestrations and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo. It has been praised by critics, fans and new audiences, breaking box office records internationally and inspiring filmmakers to make the outstandingly successful movie which went on to win 3 Oscar’s®, 3 Golden Globes® and 4 BAFTAs.

Playing the iconic role of Jean Valjean is established actor and musical theatre star Simon Gleeson. NIDA-trained Hayden Tee will play Valjean’s lifelong antagonist Javert while starring as Fantine is Patrice Tipoki. Playing Madame Thénardier is Lara Mulcahy and joining her in the role of Monsieur Thénardier is Australian theatre and cabaret favourite, Trevor Ashley.

Recent WAAPA graduates Kerrie Anne Greenland and Emily Langridge play Eponineand Cosette respectively. Chris Durling takes on the role of the passionate student leader of the revolution, Enjolras and Euan Doidge plays Marius the love struck revolutionary.

Set against the backdrop of 19th-century revolutionary France, LES MISÉRABLES is a much loved blockbuster musical which has been seen by over 65 million people worldwide in 42 countries and in 22 languages, LES MISÉRABLES is undisputedly one of the most popular musicals of all time. Having won more than 100 major awards around the world it has been hailed as the most stirring, moving musical ever.

Based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel, it is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit. The magnificent score of LES MISÉRABLES includes the classic songs “I Dreamed a Dream”, “On My Own”, “Stars”, “Bring Him Home”, “Do You Hear the People Sing?”, “One Day More”, “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables”, “Master of the House” and many more.

This new production of LES MISÉRABLES made a triumphant return to Broadway earlier this year.

“Refreshing, rethought and every bit as epic.” Chicago Tribune
“A sizzling Les Mis for the 21st century ...” The Huffington Post

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is offering an ideal Capitol Theatre Show Accommodation Hot Deal

View more information about this show at Capitol Theatre

Sydney Secures Multi-Year Deal for Seven's World Series

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Sydney Secures Multi-Year Deal for Seven's World Series

The Australian Rugby Union today announced Sydney will be the home of the Australian leg of the Sevens World Series for the next four years from the 2015-16 season.

The Sydney Sevens will take place at Allianz Stadium in Moore Park, with dates of the event to be confirmed by World Rugby at the end of the month.

Currently in its 16th season, the Sevens World Series consists of nine tournaments held around the world, in which national Sevens teams compete for World Series points at each round. Fast-paced and thrilling, the inaugural Sydney Sevens will take place just a matter of months before Rugby Sevens makes its debut at the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

World Rugby Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: "With excitement increasing ahead of Rio 2016, the World Rugby Sevens Series has been going from strength to strength, proving a hit with fans, broadcasters and sponsors around the globe with its winning blend of compelling and competitive action, global destinations and festival atmosphere.

“Sydney is one of the world’s iconic cities, a sports-mad city with an exceptional record of attracting and hosting major events like Rugby World Cup and the Olympic Games. Sydney’s inclusion within a stellar Series hosting line-up is exciting for players and fans and underscores the strength of the rugby sevens brand in the global sporting marketplace.

“I have no doubt that the Sydney Sevens will inspire new audiences and participants and contribute to the continued strong growth of the game in Australia and around the world.”

ARU CEO Bill Pulver said: “We are thrilled to be able to bring Rugby Sevens to Sydney. We truly believe that Sydney has the potential to match the excitement surrounding tournaments like Hong Kong, Twickenham and Wellington in terms of event experience and crowd numbers.

“Sydney is an iconic city known across the world for its cultural diversity, outdoor lifestyle and stunning tourist attractions. It is a terrific fit for an event that traditionally attracts an audience from a variety of different nationalities and backgrounds.

“There is little doubt the area in and around Moore Park lends itself to Rugby Sevens. We had a stadium record crowd at Allianz Stadium in June with plenty of exciting Test Rugby on the field, and wonderful off-field entertainment at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

“Growing Rugby, particularly the Sevens format of our game, is critical to our long-term objectives as we strive to ignite passion in the next generation of players and fans. Globally, the game is in an exciting spot with Rugby Sevens part of the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 program.”

The NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, submitted the successful bid to the ARU.

NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Troy Grant, said the event would be a great addition to the Sydney events calendar.

“This announcement means the Sevens World Series now comes to the home of Australian sport, Sydney, and our Harbour City joins a host of iconic cities as a host venue for one of the world’s most exciting and entertaining annual sporting events,” Mr Grant said.

“With a large number of travelling fans expected, the Sydney Sevens will provide a major boost to the local economy, and assist in the NSW Government’s goal of doubling overnight visitor expenditure by 2020.”

Australian Director of Rugby Sevens Geraint John, said: “I have already experienced first-hand the passion Sydneysiders have for Rugby, whether it be through their support for the national team, their state or club Rugby.

“I speak on behalf of the entire Men’s Sevens program when I say that we are looking forward immensely to playing in front of our home crowd in Sydney. It is always a thrill to play in front of your own people. I have attended plenty of Rugby across the world – both as a player and coach - and I truly believe Sydney will rival the very best of them.”

Olivia Wirth, Group Executive Brand, Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Qantas, said: “As the Official Partner of the ARU and the naming rights partner of the Australian Men’s and Women’s Sevens teams, we are very excited that Sydney will feature on the World Rugby Sevens Series calendar. This is great news for Australian tourism and the wider sporting community. We look forward to helping fans from around the world cheer on their teams and enjoy all that Australia has to offer.”

The Sydney Sevens is supported by the New South Wales Government, through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.

Taste of Sydney 2015

Taste of Sydney, in partnership with Electrolux returns to Centennial Park this March 12th-15th to serve up Sydney’s Unmissable Foodie Garden Party.

Rub shoulders with Sydney’s top chefs and like minded foodies as you graze through your dream tasting menu designed by Sydney’s latest, greatest and hottest restaurants. Test your culinary skills in hands on cooking classes, join a round table discussion with the city’s movers and shakers, sample wines in premium tastings or simply relax with a glass of bubbly and soak up the festival atmosphere. With all that’s on, Taste of Sydney offers a full foodie experience that celebrates Sydney’s unique dining scene.

Taste of Sydney is a stunning celebration of Sydney’s unique and progressive dining scene. Over four indulgent days the city’s latest, greatest and hottest restaurants will each fashion together 3-4 exquisite signature dishes in ‘taste’ sized portions, allowing you to create your dream tasting menu at the ultimate foodie festival.

About Taste

Choose dishes from Sydney’s hottest restaurants and mingle with award-winning chefs and like-minded foodies as you browse through hand-picked premium food and drink producers, take part in one of the many interactive foodie attractions or simply relax and enjoy live entertainment in the stunning surrounds of Centennial Park.

How Does It All Work?

Taste of Sydney operates much like a restaurant with lunch and dinner services. There are 6 sessions running over the 4 days, each lasting between 4 – 5 hours (session dependent) to give you time to enjoy your pick of over 60 restaurant dishes, browse the artisan stalls and enjoy the many attractions. Tickets are valid for one session only, click here to pick the session of your choice!

Source: www.tasteofsydney.com.au

Glenn Miller Orchestra Concert Spectacular | Sydney Melbourne

The Glenn Miller Orchestra returns by overwhelming popular demand for this concert spectacular, to honour the year of the ANZAC Centenary. 

Featuring America’s finest musicians together with the Moonlight Serenade Singers and The Broadway Swing Dancers, the concert will pay tribute to the spirit of ANZAC including a special feature of music and songs from the years of the Great War. 

All the famous Glenn Miller classics will be performed by the Orchestra playing the original music arrangements; timeless icons of American culture such as Chattanooga Choo Choo, A String Of Pearls, Tuxedo Junction, Moonlight Serenade, Little Brown Jug and the greatest Miller hit of all time, In The Mood.

Remembering the Centenary of Anzac

It is fitting that the Glenn Miller Orchestra is returning in 2015, the year of the Centenary of Anzac. 

Major Glenn Miller served in the United States Army Air Force from 1942 until his untimely death on December 15th 1944 when he was travelling to entertain US troops in France; his aircraft disappeared in bad weather over the English Channel. 

Glenn Miller recorded many memorable hots from the 1914 to 1918 period which the orchestra will perform in tribute to the ANZACS. 

‘My Buddy’ – ‘Over There’ – ‘Pack Up Your Troubles In Your Old Kit Bag’ – ‘If You Were The Only Girl In The World’ and many more. 

THE UNFORGETTABLE MUSIC OF THE 1940’S FROM THE GOLDEN ERA OF SWING

“An evening of nostalgia…unforgettable music; an absolutely brilliant concert” 
– The Australian Stage

Show Venues and Dates:

May 31st, 2015 WIN Entertainment Centre, NSW 2PM Glenn Miller Orchestra

June 20th, 2015 State Theatre, Sydney, NSW 2PM Glenn Miller Orchestra

June 20th, 2015 State Theatre, Sydney, NSW 7.30PM Glenn Miller Orchestra

Friday June 05, 2015 Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall 7.30PM Glenn Miller Orchestra

Saturday June 13, 2015 Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall 2.30PM Glenn Miller Orchestra

Find out more and purchase tickets to this event at Ticket Master

Sydney FC to face EPL giants Tottenham Hotspur at ANZ Stadium in May

One to watch: Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane celebrates scoring against Swansea City in the EPL. Photo: Reuters

By Sebastian Hassett

Barely a day or so after winding up their English Premier League campaign, Tottenham Hotspur look to be on their way to Australia to face Sydney FC at ANZ Stadium on May 30.

Contrary to earlier reports on Monday night, the deal has not been finalised but is still expected to be concluded in the next few days with an announcment scheduled for Friday.

Tottenham's final league match of the EPL campaign will be against Everton on May 24, leaving little room for any celebrations should Spurs be able to claw their way into the top four - to qualify for the Champions League - on the final day of the season. They are currently six points behind fourth-place Manchester United but have a game in hand.

As revealed by Fairfax Media last month, Tottenham were competing with Bayern Munich and Chelsea to play the lucrative friendly.

The NSW government and Destination NSW will be tipping in a sizeable chunk of money to bring Tottenham to Australia but it won't come close to the $3 million spent - and recouped - on bringing Manchester United to Australia in 2013.

However, Spurs are one of the most popular clubs in Australia and their appearance at Homebush should see at least 60,000 fans flock from around the country to view Mauricio Pochettino's team in the flesh. It will also be the first time in 30 years that Tottenham have come to Australia.

The North London club boast some of the biggest names in English football, none bigger than free-scoring wonderboy Harry Kane, with fans also sure to be eager to catch a glimpse of Christian Eriksen, Mousa Dembélé, Emmanuel Adebayor, Roberto Soldado, Érik Lamela, Jan Vertonghen and French international goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

The Western Sydney Wanderers were originally in interested in staging the matches but the clubs' hierarchy apparently decided the players would need a rest considering their sizeable workload this past year.

If Sydney FC make the A-League grand final, scheduled for either May 10 or May 17, they will only have to stay in training for another fortnight. Most A-League clubs continue training even after their seasons have been completed.

The arrival of Tottenham marks the first contest in what will be an unusually active off-season for A-League players, with the Socceroos due to host at least one international match in June and the International Champions Cup, featuring Manchester City, Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Roma in July, to be staged at the MCG.

Liverpool are also returning to Australia after two years away, playing against Brisbane Roar and Adelaide United. It's thought that other clubs are also trying to lure big-name overseas teams.

Confirmation of the announcement regarding Tottenham's visit was sought from both Football Federation Australia and Sydney FC but the Sky Blues' chief executive Tony Pignata declined to comment.

Source: http://www.smh.com.au/sport/soccer/sydney-fc/sydney-fc-to-face-epl-giants-tottenham-hotspur-at-anz-stadium-in-may-20150302-13t4lt.html

Jeffrey Tambor joins Sydney's Spectrum Now festival line-up

Richard Roxburgh and Tim Ross at the Spectrum Now launch at Carriageworks. Photo: Nick Moir

Richard Roxburgh has always said that Sydney's newest arts festival, Spectrum Now, would be one of surprises. And at the official launch of the festival at Carriageworks Wednesday night, Roxburgh delivered on his promise.

As glasses clinked and speeches were made – by creative director Roxburgh himself, as well as Andrew McEvoy, Fairfax Media's Managing Director of Life Media and Events – it was revealed that Transparent star Jeffrey Tambor, who won a Golden Globe Award this year for his role as a family patriarch transitioning to become a woman, was joining the festival line-up.

Tambor – who has starred in some of TV's most acclaimed comedies, including Arrested Development and The Larry Sanders Show – will sit down with Roxburgh for a Q&A event this March. 

"I'm a huge admirer of Jeffrey's work," says Roxburgh, "and as an actor whose career has spanned some truly incredible film, theatre, and TV – from heading up the Bluth family to playing a transgender family-man in Transparent! I'm really looking forward to picking his brains about that amazing life."

Tambor is joined at Spectrum Now by US actor and filmmaker Chris Rock (who will speak after a screening of his latest film, Top Five, in a special satellite festival event this Thursday), Britain's Alan Rickman (who will present his newest film as director, A Little Chaos, at two showings) and local arts stars such as painter Del Kathryn Barton, musician Bertie Blackman, comedian Tim Ross, Cate Blanchett and Andrew Upton, and Shaun Gladwell.

The festival, which officially kicks off on Wednesday March 11, will be centred on the Spectrum Playground in the Domain, a free outdoor festival hub with live music, art shows, arts markets, a cinema, a 'Nosh Pit' featuring food from some of Sydney's best restaurants and, Roxburgh assures us, more surprises.

Guests at the launch were given a taste of what was to come at the three-week festival, with Tim Ross hosting ('Rosso' will indulge his passion for architecture with a comedy show that takes place in Harry Seidler's North Shore penthouse) and Bertie Blackman performing.

For Spectrum Now, Blackman – the daughter of painters Charles Blackman and Genevieve de Couvreur – has created a playlist of songs to accompany you on your next tour through the Art Gallery of NSW.

Louise Schwartzkoff, editor of The Sydney Morning Herald's Saturday Spectrum section, said the launch was the culmination of months of hard work bringing her pages to life. "The festival is such a fantastic extension of what we do in Spectrum every week," she said. "We love offering readers an insight into Sydney's cultural life, and this is an opportunity to take that to a whole new level."


SPECTRUM NOW HIGHLIGHTS

The Spectrum Playground

Music on the Spectrum Stage, movies in a pop-up Golden Age Cinema, an Arts Market and Nosh Pit for foodies. The Domain, March 11-22, Mon-Wed 5pm-10.30pm; Thu, Fri 5pm-late; Saturday 12pm-late; Sunday 12pm-9pm.

Marie's Crisis

It's the Broadway piano bar known for wild, boozy nights of legs-on-the-piano showtune singing, and it's coming to Sydney, pop-up style. QT Parlour Lane Roasters, March 19-28 (get in early – limited capacity).

Orfeo Ed Euridice

Silvia Colloca: actress, cookbook author… and opera singer. Shannon Murphy directs Colloca in her return to opera in a show that will unfold throughout the Art Gallery of NSW and feature food and wine. Art Gallery of NSW, March 14-29.

The Full Spectrum

A series of talks on love and collaboration (with Cate Blanchett and Andrew Upton), the art of the critic and cultural crushes (with Stephanie Alexander, Ben Quilty and Peter FitzSimons). Walsh Bay, March 22-27.

The Sydney Morning Herald Spectrum Now presented by ANZ runs March 11-29

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Nomanslanding Darling Harbour - Centenary Of Anzac Sydney

Together we journey across the water, to face ourselves and our past.

Join us for Nomanslanding; a free interactive and reflective experience to commemorate the Centenary of ANZAC.

At the centre of this world-first event is a breathtaking installation that will be floating on Cockle Bay. Traverse the pontoon bridges and be taken on a poetic journey of a soldier’s experience during wartime: confrontation and conflict, fighting and falling, time slows and life speeds past – no man’s land.

Created by five international artists and initiated by Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, Nomanslanding will make its debut at Darling Harbour this April, and later in the year travel to the Merchant City Festival in Glasgow and the Ruhrtrienniale in Germany.

Nomanslanding Installation
Cockle Bay
11am – 7pm
Thu 2 Apr – Sun 3 May
FREE

Nomanslanding Public Program 
Various Locations
Thu 2 Apr – Sun 3 May

Nomanslanding is just one of many unique events proudly presented by Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority each year, which attract millions of visitors and provide an important contribution to the NSW economy.

Nomanslanding is a free interactive and reflective experience that will commemorate the Centenary of ANZAC, 1 April to 31 May, 2015.

At the centre of this world-first event is a breathtaking installation that will be floating on Cockle Bay.

HOW THE IDEA WAS DEVELOPED…

In January of 2014 three curators came together; SHFA creative producer Michael Cohen, Katja Aßmann and Lorenzo Mele. They invited European and Australian artists to Bundanon, to collaborate in a laboratory environment with experts from urban planning, social geography, maritime archaeology and marine engineering fields. It was here that the idea for Nomanslanding was born.

Created by five international artists (Robyn Backen, Andre Dekker, Graham Eatough, Nigel Helyer and Jennifer Turpin) and initiated by Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, Nomanslanding will make its debut at Darling Harbour this April, and later in the year travel to the Merchant City Festival in Glasgow and the Ruhrtrienniale in Germany.


HISTORY AND HERITAGE

Discover Darling Harbour’s history from pre-European settlement and a time of great industry to the big personality you meet today. More info


PYRMONT BRIDGE

The amazing story of Darling Harbour’s Pyrmont Bridge. More info