ON-THE-HOUSE | PAST EVENTS

PRESENTED BY SORELLI PROMOTIONS

THE CLASSIC CINEMA

DOUBLE PASS FOR THE ITALIAN
Classic Cinema, Elsternwick are delighted to announce a very special Russian cinematic event! Enjoy Russian BALTIKA beer tastings and Russian music before a screening of THE ITALIAN
THE ITALIAN has won over 30 INTERNATIONAL AWARDS and was OFFICIAL RUSSIAN ENTRY FOR BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM, 2006 ACADEMY AWARDS
The Classic Cinema | 9 Gordon Street, Elsternwick

Comedian Sandwich Delicious!
The Comedy House @ FAD gallery | 14 corrs lane, Melbourne

Evan Jones - Extravaganza Pandemonium and Comic Spectacular
The Comedy House @ FAD gallery | 14 corrs lane, Melbourne

DANNY MCGINLAY'S STAR SPANGLED BENDER
Stork Hotel | 504 Elizabeth Street Melbourne

Barb Joseph - 21st Century Housewife
Northcote Town Hall | Studio 2 (entry via laneway off Westbourne Grove), 189 High St, Northcote.

Tripple Trouble
The Laundry | 50 Johnson Street, Fitzroy

FOR CLASSIC
Victoria University Student Lounge | 301 Flinders Lane Melbourne

Like A Fish Out of Water
The Vault| 80 Smith Street, Fitzroy

The 2006 Melbourne Fringe Festival | North Melbourne Town Hall

THE CHINESE ART OF PLACEMENT
Festival Hub - Meeting Room, North Melbourne Town Hall

For the first time in Australia, an unholy theatrical trinity of Toronto, New York and Melbourne is proud to present a marquee production of Toronto’s Alley Theatre Workshop - Stanley Rutherford’s THE CHINESE ART OF PLACEMENT, performed by Stephen Najera & directed by Rusty Owen. This award-winning one-man show received a wide critical acclaim in Toronto, and provided a launch for Toronto's Alley Theatre Workshop. Full of bark and bite, THE CHINESE ART OF PLACEMENT carries on the tradition of theatre as an art of confrontation and risk-taking. Unsettling and wildly funny, the play embodies the true cosmopolitanism of the independent theatre scene and its ability to bust borders between artists and theatre-lovers all across the world.

Melbourne Fringe Festival - Gasworks Theatre

Scraping The Surface

Studio Theatre @ Gasworks

Lyle Victor Albert presents an Art of Difference event in the Melbourne Fringe Festival 2006:

Scraping The Surface All the way from Canada, Scraping the Surface is an autobiographical one-man show, written and performed as a monologue by Canadian playwright/performer Lyle Victor Albert. His character Vic shares his experiences as a teenager with cerebral palsy. With great skill and good humor, Scraping the Surface leads us into the world of a young man with cerebral palsy as he wrestles with the age old problem of "what to do with the rest of my life." Scraping the Surface was the 1996 winner of Edmonton's Sterling Award for Outstanding New Play, and has toured to the Dublin Theatre Festival International in 1997. Lyle Victor Albert is the author of Ba Ha Ha, Waves, White on White, Wheelie, Cut!, and The Prairie Church of Buster Galloway. His first play, The Prairie Church of Buster of Galloway, was the winner of the 1982 Alberta Culture Playwriting Award, and was produced by Northern Light Theatre in Edmonton the following year. He subsequently adapted the play for a CBC Television production in 1985.

CROMWELL ROAD THEATRE

The End of Civilisation


CROMWELL ROAD THEATRE, 27A CROMWELL ROAD, SOUTH YARRA

Welcome to The End of Civilization, the caustically comic tale of a man, his wife and their world as it falls apart around them. The victims of downsizing, Henry and Lily book into a seedy motel and make a last-ditch attempt to find work. Before long, Henry’s fellow job hunters are checking out on dirt holidays, and just who is planting the bombs at those factories? Max and Donny, two emotionally unstable detectives take on the case as Lily befriends Sandy, the friendly prostitute next-door... The human blowback of corporate profiteering heralds the end of civilization in this gripping Australian premiere which asks you, how low can you go?

The 2006 Melbourne Fringe Festival | CROMWELL ROAD THEATRE
Baggage
Cromwell Rd Theatre, 27a Cromwell Rd South Yarra

On a cross roads not so far from here two travelling musicians set up their band to tell a story of adventure, high thrills, evil villains and courage. It's the story of young Matilda setting out on her first big adventure to see the world; which takes her to Bagville a place where bags walk, talk, fly and sometimes even kill.

The Fire and Soul of Pure Flamenco: JUAN MARTIN | Direct from Spain


DOUBLE PASS FOR JUAN MARTIN
Blakiston Theatre - GPAC (GEELONG)

A celebrated master of the fl amenco guitar Juan has twice been voted into the ‘top three guitarists in the world’ by US magazine Guitar Player.

“A composer to be ranked with Túrina and Tarrega” ANGLO-SPANISH REVIEW.

He performs with a highly distinctive compositional style which was formed from his early years in Málaga and further developed through wide experience in Madrid, including contact with Paco de Lucía and with his idol Niño Ricardo.

Juan has recorded with the Royal Philharmonic and performed live with artists of the calibre of Miles Davis. The Spanish paper El Mundo said he has “a terrifyingly good technique and an absolute dominance of the guitar, fi lling the concert hall with crystalline clarity”.

He has performed at major International Arts Festivals, played in leading halls and appeared on numerous TV broadcasts worldwide. His solo performance of a rumba La Fería brought the Royal Albert Hall to its feet during BBC TV’s Joy to the World. He was asked to perform at Picasso’s 90th birthday celebrations from which came the album Picasso Portraits.

On his previous visit to Australia in 2002, Juan played to full houses at his two Melbourne concerts.

”When Martin plays a Soléa por Buleria, it breathes with the fierce energy of pure flamenco”. Jessica Nicholas THE AGE.

CROMWELL ROAD THEATRE

THE RETURN

| 27a Cromwell Road, South Yarra

UPPER YARRA ARTS CENTRE
THE BIG TIME COMEDY SHOW

Upper Yarra Arts Centre, main street Warburton
These guys are some of the best performing in the comedy clubs of Melbourne. There's Sammy J a fantastic musical comedian who's been on the ABC, Channel 7, and was chosen as best newcomer at this year's Melbourne Comedy Festival. Fox K who has been on Good Morning Australia, performed in clubs all around Melbourne and done several Melbourne comedy festival shows. Tom Siegert has perhaps the strangest onstage character you'll ever see, but he's hilarious and you might have seen him on TV in the "Search for a Funniest Man" competition grand final. Finally there's the very intellectual and witty Simon Godfrey who in addition to being a hit at comedy clubs has also written jokes for "The Glasshouse" on the ABC and "In Siberia Tonight" on SBS plus lots of radio stations.

for more information contact Michael Connell MCHotline@yahoo.com.au or (03)59666-341

CINEMA NOVA

A BOOK OF REVELATION
CINEMA NOVA - 380 Lygon St, Carlton

This is a very special preview screening of KENNY. Opens in cinemas Aug 2006. From the biggest festival to the smallest church social, Kenny Smyth delivers porta-loos to them all.Part philosopher, part comedian and all heart, Kenny is one of the cogs in society's machinery; a knight in shining overalls taking care of business with his faithful 'Splashdown crew'. The film lifts the lid on one of Australia's roughest diamonds KENNY as he juggles family tensions, fatherhood and sewage with charm, humour and unflinching dignity.

ARTS HOUSE
DOUBLE PASS FOR OPEN SPACE HOTEL


Arts House North Melbourne Town Hall 521 Queensberry Street North Melbourne

BAD ASS COMEDY
CHRIS BENNETT
Drifters Alibi,1 Crockford St, Port Melbourne

We Put the Ass in HilariASS! Chris Bennett (\'Beno\',Fox Fm), Simon Rogers (Comedy Channel), Tom Siegert (FHM Funniest Man Comp) Nick Stevens and more www.badasscomedy.com

ARTS HOUSE
TWELFTH FLOOR
Arts House, North Melbourne Town Hall

CINEMA NOVA

RIDING ALONE
380 Lygon St, Carlton

From three time Academy Award nominated director Zhang Yimou comes a moving story of one man’s journey across China’s heartland.

Hoping to bridge the gap between himself and his dying son, Takata Gouichi (Takakura Ken) decides to find the famous Chinese opera singer Li Jiamen and video tape his performance for his son. As the old man begins his odyssey into the heart of China, he encounters a number of strangers who colour his journey – from well meaning translators who guide him through China’s idiosyncrasies, to prison wardens anxious to promote Chinese culture abroad, to a young runaway with a complicated father-son relationship of his own.

What Takata discovers on his journey is kindness…and a sense of family he thought he had lost long ago.

MECHANIC'S INSTITUTE PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
A MINOR GLITCH
MIPAC Cnr Sydney and Glenlyon Rds, Brunswick.

A MINOR GLITCH | By Johnny Flynn

Max and Alice are supposed to fall in love. Unfortunately, a minor glitch in the cosmos occurs and that love is thwarted. So God sends down one of his angels to sort the problem and save the future of the planet. Regrettably, God chose the wrong angel. A MINOR GLITCH. When divine help is not so divine...

Directed by Johnny FLYNN Produced by Allan KERR Starring Simon CHUGG Petula CLARK Georgina DURHAM Johnny FLYNN Sara FLYNN Gary GARTSIDE Allan KERR Annie LAST David LONEY Therese MAVROS Chris WINER Nicola WRIGHT

For show enquiries please contact Allan Kerr at Blue Chair Theatre on 9859 2816 or 0403 610 699 www.bluechairtheatre.com
Tix $18/15

  THE OLD FITZROY HOTEL THEATRE - SYDNEY
THE PRINCE OF BRUNSWICK EAST
129 Dowling Street, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011. Sydney Australia

Stan Williams was never much good at playing the game. But luckily he found something he was good at - supporting. Being there for his team, every Saturday - come wind, rain or hail - shouting out for his boys, the Brunswick Bulldogs. He cheers them on in victory and stands by them in defeat and his life is governed by whether the 'Doggies' win or lose.

But Stan also has a family. A loyal wife and a son - Ryan. And family isn't always that simple. Unlike football it doesn't always stay between the white lines. Runner up in The 2005 Rodney Seaborn Playwright's Award, a new play by Alex Broun, the author of Pick Ups, Desire, Scenes from an Affair, The Critic, Blind City (Sydney Festival 2004) and Vicious Streaks. Directed by Alex Galeazzi (The Boys for Griffin) assisted by Pip Buining and starring Kim Knuckey, Mike Smith and Nick Osborne. Produced by Gaz Benson and Afterparty Productions, design by Anthony Babicci, sound by Panos Couros.

A new play by the author of Pick Ups, Desire, Scenes from an Affair, The Critic, Blind City and Vicious Streaks
"It's about fathers, it's about family, it's about footy"

Die Roten Punkte (The Red Dots)

“All the way from Berlin, The BEST band in the world… Die Roten Punkte!”

Otto & Astrid Rot explode onto the stage and deliver their unique brand of ridiculous rock n’ roll. A brother/sister band inspired by ‘The Carpenters,’ ‘The Osmonds’ and (the not so true story of) ‘The White Stripes’. Indie-rock meets character driven comedy with absurd songs in this physically driven musical mosh-pit.

Performers Daniel Tobias and Clare Bartholomew have performed separately in numerous critically acclaimed shows at comedy, fringe and arts festivals nationally and internationally. They now join forces as hot new comedy duo Tobias & Bartholomew to bring you their highly successful debut show Die Roten Punkte (The Red Dots).

Fresh from performances at The Adelaide Fringe Festival and The Falls Festival, their playful combo of theatre, music and physical comedy is a sure fire winner. Written and performed by Daniel Tobias (80s Enuff, Rawcus) And Clare Bartholomew (The Business, Melbourne Clown Doctors)

Directed by Merophie Carr (director of award winning show The Concert). Most Outstanding Production Melb Fringe 2005 - Not Dead Yet by Rawcus British Council Oz Export Award 2003 - The Concert by The Business Barry Award Nominees 2003 - The Concert ABN AMRO Foreign Exchange Award 2002 - One Man’s Business Moosehead Comedy Award recipient 2002 - One Man’s Business Green Room Nominee 2003 female performance - One Man’s Business Best Fringe Comedy Award 1999 - The Business…as usual “From Tobias & Bartholomew, this is a deliciously quirky and original piece…One just has to love these two impish comics.” - The Adelaide Advertiser "a very funny parody of the on-stage antics and language of rock bands." - The Adelaide Theatre Guide Don't miss the underground cult hit of the Adelaide Fringe 2006!!

THEATREWORKS

Find Me, Call Me, Meet Me
14 Acland Street; St Kilda

FIND ME, CALL ME, MEET ME. Why are good men so hard to find and why are women so hard to please?

Directed by Jessica BIRNBAUM Produced by Allan KERR
Every day we share space with strangers. Every day we go through the motions, work, rest and play. Every weekend four best friends go looking for love in all the wrong places… In modern times love has become a commodity it’s a business transaction. Nobody has time to sit around and wait for it to happen. Romance…what’s that? No, you have to be smart about it, take matters into your own hands, welcome to the wonderful world of SMS dating, on-line dating, blind dating, speed dating…you name it we’ve got it. If it’s sex you want – no problem, that’s easy. Love and fidelity, well that’s a little harder. Find me, Call me, Meet me takes us on a journey through the minds and hearts of four women on a not so typical Saturday night out.

Starring Ben BIRNBAUM Emma BIRNBAUM Jessica BIRNBAUM Katie BOON Justyna KICZOR Phillip McKECHNIE Daniel MROCKI Elisha STEFFENS Luke STEPHENS Megan THOMPSON Damian VULETA Jade WENBAN

THE MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL
FOX K
Victoria University Student Lounge -301 Flinders Lane, Melbourne


Fox has gone on to perform in almost every comedy club around Melbourne including Vibe, Comics Lounge, Young and Jackson, and Odeon at Crown Casino. He’s also done well in competitions coming second at the FHM 'stand up' competition held at Colonial stadium in 2002, and winning first place in the Comedy knockout 'search for a funny bone' competition in 2003. Fox will be performing his first solo show in this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival. “I’ve been working on some new material for some time now and this is my chance to show it off!” Fox explains. If this night’s performance is anything to go by it’ll be one hell of a show.

For more information call 0403 670 006 or email Foxcalleja@hotmail.com Tickets $14/12conc.

THE MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL
DOUG CHAPPEL, MICK ALFORD
Comics Lounge | 26 Errol St North Melbourne
Two Shows for the price of none!

Show Kicks off at 8:30pm Featuring Doug Chappel (Funniest Man On The Planet) and Mick Alford (Triple M) Fresh from independent sell out shows from last year's Festival; two of Australia's finest comedians have combined to bring you a hilarious show. Mixing stand up, audience debate and song. Two Collars, be it blue or white, explores the stereotypes and proves that no matter the colour, deep down we're all the same.

Second show Late and Live at The Lounge Kicks off at 9: 30pm Featuring 8 Comedians (T.V, Radio, Interstate and International acts promoting their festival show on their night off)!

Kingston Arts Centre
Can you Hear Me Up The Back?
979 Nepean Hwy Moorabbin


With Melissa Langton and Mark Jones Australia’s hottest cabaret duo, Melissa Langton and Mark Jones are bringing their sassy, contemporary, comic cabaret to Kingston Arts Centre! She’s the love child of Aretha Franklin and Yogi Bear! He’s very, very droll! She likes to talk! He likes to interrupt her! She has very big hair! He is prematurely bald on the verge of a comb over! Expect an orgy of trashy hits from the 70’s and 80’s from Freddie Mercury to Nick Cave, Chris De Burgh to Helen Reddy and Spinal Tap!!! Sound like a dog's breakfast? Maybe! But a multi-award winning dog’s breakfast!!!

Running time: 1 hour 40 minutes including interval. Cabaret seating.

For more information or to book: FULL: $24.00 CONCESSION: $22.00 TABLE OF 6: $120.00
Phone: 03) 9556 4442 Email: lynette.dalby@kingston.vic.gov.au

MELBOURNE COMEDY FESTIVAL
DOUBLE PASS FOR A YANK DOWN UNDER
Victoria University (301 Flinder's Lane, opposite Flinder's Street Station)

This is a drug, alcohol, and smoke free event.
Features American Comedian called Dave Wiggins in an hour of stand up.
"A Yank Down Under" and is all about Dave's experiences of traveling down under. "It's the classic fish out of water sort of story," Dave points out, "It will appeal to Aussies with a sense of humour, plus any foreigners who may be up for a laugh." Dave's looking forward to performing in Melbourne. "I know a bit about Australia; you put beetroot on your hamburgers, you like Vegemite, stuff like that... but I wanna learn about the weird things that only Melbourne has. What are these hook turns I keep hearing about?" When asked about performing in other parts of the Southern hemisphere Dave seems pretty optimistic; "Yeah I'd love to take the show to Argentina or Chile. I might have to learn Spanish first..." Dave, along with special support act Michael Connell, will be performing "

Bookings 1300 66 00 13 | For more information contact Michael Connell: MCHotline@yahoo.com.au, (03)59666-341

THE COMICS LOUNGE
PAUL BRASCH
26 Errol St North Melbourne
Paul Brasch is the godfather of Brisbane stand up comedy

Paul Brasch and is one of the finest and most accomplished stand up comedians in the whole of Australia. He, with a handful of other comedians was one of the forefathers of stand up Queensland in the early 90s. Currently based in Sydney, Braschy has done it all from Livid to The Midday Show to Hey Hey it's Saturday. Paul Brasch, the master or irony, and the teller of truths was the first Brisbane stand up to graduate to radio, he had his own show on Triple M as well as a colourful stint on The Breakfast Show which ended when he was a bit too honest with management. His playfully mischievous persona can win over even the toughest of crowds. He's one of the best ad libbers in the business and with no set pattern his shows are always different. So turn your television off, grab your loved one, and get to Comics Lounge to see Paul Brasch live. Be ready for a high energy powerhouse performance from the only comedian ever to crowd surf off stage at the end of a show in North Melbourne!

For more information call 03 9348 9488 or info@thecomicslounge.com.au (TIX. $25)

CZECH HOUSE
YVETTE JOHANSSON & SWING PATROL
497 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne

SWING Music

Swing till you drop to one of the best Swing Bands in Australia.
Once Yvette walks onto the stage you are hers for the evening...She lures you into her music den with a charismatic presence and hypnotizing voice. Enjoy the timeless Swing classics! Yvette knows just what it takes to get the shoes dancing.

Purchase tickets and for more information: www.sorelli.com.au or 0403947836. Please mention ON THE HOUSE when purchasing tickets. Tix $25

CINEMA NOVA
The Squid & The Whale
380 Lygon St, Carlton 3053


Writer-Director Noah Baumbach earned the 2005 Best Dramatic Directing Award as well as the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival for his heartfelt film about a family splintered by divorce. Anchored by an uncompromising performance by Jeff Daniels (Good Night and Good Luck) as the family patriarch, The Squid and the Whale also star Laura Linney (Kinsey), Jesse Eisenberg and Owen Kline. The film captures with extraordinary immediacy the inner workings of the Berkman family in 1986 Brooklyn. Bernard (Jeff Daniels), an academic and author, and his restless wife Joan (Laura Linney) an upcoming writer, have given up on their marriage. Their two sons are left to grapple with their confusing and conflicting feelings

DAREBIN ARTS CENTRE
WHAT'S GOING ON?
Cnr. Bell St & St. Georges Rd. Preston
Menza Testa Productions proudly present WHAT'S GOING ON?

Its Wogboy meets Fat Greek Wedding meets Seinfeld, Italian Style in a crazy two hour comedy about Love, Class & Spaghetti. Its all your Families & Relatives rolled up in one madcap show to work out WHAT'S GOING ON?

This is what the critics have said about this show:

"This play is brilliantly scripted, funny and totally engaging" -Sunday Herald Sun
"A modern day multi-cultural Romeo & Juliet" -Sunday Age
"He (Barresi) is hysterical as the mother" - Sunday Herald Sun
"This is a funny & entertaining study of ethnicity, class divisions in a contemporary society, and tangled love" -Sunday Age .

Artists and collaborators: With John Barresi (Aka Dominic the Pharmacist from the Wog Boy Movie) Michelle Galati & James Liotta.

CZECH HOUSE
497 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne

World & Gypsy Music

This is a rare opportunity to hear TZIGANI in an intimate concert setting.
TZIGANI are dedicated to the expanding of boundaries. Their repertoire includes traditional as well as original gypsy tunes and world folk music from countries such as Russia, Romania, Hungary, Middle East, South America, France, Italy, Greece as well as other Eastern European countries.
Igor Oskolkov - violin, Alex Begelfor - cello, Yuri Mougerman - balalaika, Vitaly Barishnikov- piano, David Krycer - double bass | Special guest - Dasha Moloksher-Oskolkov - violin

THE COMICS LOUNGE
The Comics Lounge (26 Errol St North Melbourne)

Bruno Lucia | Christine Basil
Bruno Lucia: His list of international stand up comedy credits include, "Rascals Comedy Hour" HBO New Jersey, Carolines Comedy Club N.Y and the L.A Comedy Store, "Live at Jongleurs" U.K GOLD, Jongleurs Comedy Clubs and the London Comedy Store. This multi faced, multi cultural, multi media performer is an actor, writer, musician, stand up comedian and corporate entertainer who is best known for his work in Channel Nine's most successful hit sit com "All Together Now". Christine Basil: As an accomplished comedian and writer Christine has been working regularly on the stand up circuit for close to ten years. She has co starred and supported many of the major visting international acts including Amazing Johnathon, David Strassman and Mark Curry. And appeared by invitation at the Jongleurs Comedy Club in London.

MELBOURNE SPANISH CLUB
Melbourne Spanish Club - 59-61 Johnston St Fitzroy

MELBOURNE'S PREMIER TRIBAL BELLYDANCE SHOW! WITH MIDDLE EASTERN SURF BAND 'THE REEFERS' & PAULETTE REES-DENIS (USA)

Tapas available at the venue. Tribal Style merchandise will also be available at the venue.

BENNETT'S LANE JAZZ CLUB
Bennetts Lane Jazz Club - 25 Bennetts Lane, Melbourne

OMAR SOSA - He's the 'new king of Cuban Jazz"
A spirited musician and composer who creates irresistible music. He blends the flair and freedom of jazz with influences of Afro-Cuban folklore and joyful rhythms from Latin America.

Afro-Cuban Jazz trio, featuring Omar Sosa piano, Anga Diaz, percussion and Childo Tomas on electric bass.

HI FI BAR |125 Swanston Street Melbourne
COMEDY ORGY

THE COMICS LOUNGE | 26 Errol St North Melbourne

Jarrod Fitch (Star of Ace TV in South Australia)
Jarrod Fitch is a likeable South Australian lad who just want you to have a good time. Fitch's srongest talent lies in his impressions. His impersonations of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Maurie Fields and "the guy from Gardening Australia" are near flawless and get lots of good laughs, but he wastes them as filler when his other material runs dry.

One Show Only - Chris Bennett (Formally Benno of Fox Fm and Hey Hey)
Chris Bennett is one of the best Stand up comedians in Australia today. His career started in 1993 and over the past decade Chris has mastered Stand up comedy. Chris Bennett has earned a great reputation for his astounding quick wit when entertaining audiences. His professionalism and unbelievably quick wit has launched him into many high profile positions. Chris has spent time hosting the Triple M breakfast show in Sydney while the regular show was taking a break. Chris was also a regular guest on Triple M\'s drive time show throughout Melbourne & Sydney. Apart from these high profile commitments, Chris\' live stage shows are occasions not to be missed. Chris entertains the widest variety of audiences from A.F.L. football club functions to high profile corporate events. His television credits indicate just how much of a seasoned performer Chris is, including several performances on live national television such as \'Hey, Hey it\'s Saturday\', \'In Melbourne Tonight\' and \'Russel Gilbert Live\'. Chris has also performed and written on numerous other commercial television programs. Chris Bennett is a seasoned performer going from strength to strength on the premises that he is professional and very FUNNY. Following on from Gold & after a highly successful stint on Triple M, \'Benno\', moved in to the hot spot with Fox FM\'s number 1 rating breakfast show. Now after months of getting to bed at 2am only to get up again at 4am for the breakfast show, Chris has opted for sleep over breakfast & has returned to Triple M part time whilst also concentrating on his first love - stand up! Not only is Chris a seasoned performer going from strength to strength, he is also extremely funny

thecomicslounge.com.au

THE CORNER HOTEL | 57 Swan Street Richmond
D'ABRUZZO REINHARDT

LULO REINHARDT - DIRECT FROM GERMANY AND LOCAL VIRTUOSO - MAURICE D'ABRUZZO
Two electrifying guitarists go on a musical journey through Latin, jazz, gypsy and contemporary jazz funk.
Maurice D'Abruzzo, Sydney singer, guitarist and composer has invited Lulo Reinhardt (direct from Germany) to join him for a limited number of concerts in January and February. Lulo, grand-nephew of gypsy-jazz guitar legend Django Reinhardt, is no stranger to Australia having performed here with Monsieur Camembert, and as guest guitarist on D'Abruzzo's critically acclaimed "Cool Threads" CD. A compilation album of their work, (entitled "Freestyle"), is out in January 2006 on the GITLIX MUSIC label thru Planet MGM Distribution.
Lulo Reinhardt: acoustic guitar (Germany) Maurice D'Abruzzo: electric guitar, vocal (Sydney) Tina Harris: bass (Melbourne: has worked with Kenny Lopez etc) Uli Kramer: drums (Germany) Daniel Weltlinger: violin (Sydney: has worked with Slava Grigorian)

DANTE'S
COLE'S GIRLS - The Music of Cole Porter was never meant to look like this!
Cnr Gertrude & Napier Streets Fitzroy 3065

Check Out Lysa Nads and Leesa Alopecia Starring Michael Lindner and David Gauci
They're two No Frills Home Brand girls, trapped, scanning their options whilst navigating the turnstile of life. Devotees of everything McCune, they sing their dreams of a life outside their generic existence. Fate plays its hand, and with baskets tightly packed, facing the prospect of a world of twelve items or less, they dare to carry more. Will they fulfill their dreams and become the next Australian Pop Factor? The creations of Michael Lindner and David Gauci; Cheer on our heroines and meet the kooky characters that frequently 'fly by' through the aisles as they make their move on an unsuspecting world. Featuring the Spot the Red Special Dazzling Dollar Dancers, enjoy this Cabaret Event in the confines of Dante's Fitzroy. Fully licensed with food available, sit and wonder if the music of Cole Porter will ever be the same again! They're two No Frills Home Brand girls, trapped, scanning their options whilst navigating the turnstile of life. Devotees of everything McCune, they sing their dreams of a life outside their generic existence. Fate plays its hand, and with baskets tightly packed, facing the prospect of a world of twelve items or less, they dare to carry more. Will they fulfill their dreams and become the next Australian Pop Factor? The creations of Michael Lindner and David Gauci; Cheer on our heroines and meet the kooky characters that frequently 'fly by' through the aisles as they make their move on an unsuspecting world. Featuring the Spot the Red Special Dazzling Dollar Dancers, enjoy this Cabaret Event in the confines of Dante's Fitzroy. Fully licensed with food available, sit and wonder if the music of Cole Porter will ever be the same again!
Please note: Adult concepts and language.Tickets available through 0412 375 892 or ntertain@senet.com.au for more information check http://www.magnormos.com

THE COMEDY LAIR
HIFI BAR 125 Swanston St Melbourne

CHRISTMAS CRACK UP
Adam Richard MC | Rachael Berger | Rod Quantock | Matt Hardy | Tom Gleeson | Tim Minchin | Cal Wilson | Scott Brennan | Joanne Brookfield | Helen Thorn | Elbow Skin | Justin McGinley | Imaan Hadchiti

TRANCE DANCE
29-31 Macquarie Street Prahran

TRANCE DANCE
Whether you are an experienced dancer or have never danced before or simply love to move and groove with other like-minded souls in a beautiful space - we invite you to join us in the dance! Trance Dance is held with the intention of providing a safe sacred space which facilitates a journey-like Ecstatic Dance experience. Trance Dance is an invitation for the body and soul to surrender to the dance, to let go and allow the dance, music and rhythm to guide you into a deeper place of connection with your self and others. Music is sourced from all over with world spanning different genres from soulful world grooves to luscious ethno-tribal-trance beats. This is a drug/alcohol/smoke free event. Tea and good company!

A DEVIL INSIDE
Cnr Sydney Rd and Glenlyon Rd, Brunswick

A DEVIL INSIDE
Each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.... by David Lindsay-Abaire directed by Shaun Kingma featuring Paula McDonald, Dan Walls, Olivia Hogan, David Gardette, Brett Whittingham and Catherine Kohlen. On Gene Slater's 21st birthday, his mother announces that his father was murdered 14 years ago. "He was stabbed in the back and his feet were lopped off and thrown into a drainage ditch" So begins a darkly comic caper of passion and revenge. Will hapless Gene please his formidable mother and find the killer? Could it have anything to do with Caitlin, the fiery and unbalanced object of Gene's affection who obsesses over Anna Karenina almost as much as she obsesses over her tormented Russian Literature professor, Carl, who in turn is plotting to kill Brad, the dull and insignificant repair man who has been sheltering the mysterious artist Lily whom he met in the Poconos 14 years ago...? The Act-O-Matic 3000, the company who brought you sell out seasons of the critically acclaimed The Laramie Project (***** - The Sunday Age) and bash (first class - The Age ), is excited to present A Devil Inside by David Lindsay-Abaire. Don't miss this hilariously absurd black comedy of vengeance, love, Dostoyevsky and feet. Lots of feet… A Devil Inside is the ultimate ensemble performance. -The Program murder, gore and psychosis kept the house laughing -The New York Times an incredibly wacky play which blends elements of Greek tragedy, Russian literature and millennial angst into one effectively paranoiac pastiche - The LA Times

THE NIGHT CAT
B# Swings... Dave Williamson & Ross Wilson Sing
The Night Cat - 141 Johnson St, Fitzroy



B# Swings... Dave Williamson & Ross Wilson Sing
They've rocked and rolled their way around Australia with their vocal talents, now they're set to swing with Melbourne's fastest rising, hardest swingin' Big Band! B#'s back at 'The Cat' for it's 3rd and final stint of 2005 with these 2 great vocal talents and there's hardly a better way to get your Christmas off to a swingin' start! Here's the all important low-down. Spread the word, lock the dates in, and we hope to have you join us

PHOENIX THEATRE
Australian Premiere of "The Chosen"



Australian Premiere of "The Chosen"
Director Danny Gesundheit and producer Esther Gross together with a stellar cast - George Werther, Steven Curtis, Michael Szuc, Adam Wajnberg and Ben Morley - bring this heartwarming story to Melbourne audiences for the first time.

THE COLLINS STREET BAPTIST CHURCH AUSTRALIAN STRING QUARTET | “TAKE FLIGHT"
Collins Street Baptist Church, Collins St, Melbourne

The Australian String Quartet (ASQ) presents an annual program of chamber music throughout Australia and Internationally. The core of ASQ’s Australian program is its National Subscription Season in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney, supplemented by considerable regional touring, a series at the Bridgewater Mill in the Adelaide Hills, and the Dunkeld Weekend of Music in the southern Grampians of Victoria. Recent International engagements have included performances at the Singapore Chamber Music Festival, the Haydn Festspiele in Austria and at Harewood House in the UK. In 2005, ASQ will be returning to Singapore, Hong Kong, China and the UK delighting audiences with its trademark finesse and intensity. From the Classical to the contemporary, ASQ’s 2005 Season will lead you along paths both familiar and new. Highlights include Georges Lentz’s stunning essay on eternity Caeli Enarrant...IV for strings and cymbals; Schubert’s monumental String Quintet in C; Purcell’s haunting Chaconne and Fantasias from the High Baroque; and Beethoven’s glorious first “Rasumovsky” quartet. Three superb fellow Australian artists – composer Georges Lentz, pianist Benjamin Martin and cellist Li Wei – join us to bring you the very best of the nation’s chamber music-making.

AWILO LONGOMBA
THE PRINCE - 29 FITZROY STREET, ST. KILDA. 3182

AWILO LONGOMBA AFRICA’S #1 AFROBEATS SUPERSTAR! KORA multi Awards winning artist
Awilo is not just a regular artist doing regular music, his live outstanding performances and popularity makes him the MOST WANTED Congolese artists on the African continent and Europe. He has toured in African counties such as Nigeria, Cameroon, Uganda, Tanzania, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Cote of Ivory, Benin, Togo Zambia, Gabon, Mali etc...). Awilo also has toured in Europe (Switzerland, Belgium, Great Britain etc…) as well as to the United States.

NAUGHTY BY NATURE ( USA )
FORUM MELBOURNE - 154 Flinders Street (Cnr Russell),City

NAUGHTY BY NATURE ( USA )
Naughty By Nature are arguably hip-hop's finest group and unquestionably one of its most beloved. Since the top of the decade, the Jersey based trio has enjoyed three platinum CDs, numerous gold and platinum singles, won a Grammy and helped bring hip hop culture to a whole new audience and all the while, creating infectious, chart-topping party anthems and unleashing gritty, grimy manifestos. They've toured the world and reigned as international superstars but still live in the city they grew up in. They've dominated the pop and R&B charts and remarkably stayed true to real hip-hop and themselves.

DEAD PREZ ( USA )
Inspired by self-defence parties such as the Black Panthers, Dead Prez (short for dead presidents) is the most politically conscious group since Public Enemy. They are M-1 and Stickman, rappers concerned with a topic that seems to be a dead issue in rap - the necessities of life. The track, "Food, Clothes and Shelter" convey their main points: money and power are both their energies and their enemies.

ARTS HOUSE
Arts House @ The North Melbourne Town Hall

Tess de Quincey's Nerve 9
Dancer and "formidable artist" (The Age) Tess de Quincey invites you into a feminine space where body and work co-exist, in the national tour of her celebrated work De Quincey: NERVE 9
Vocals: Amanda Stewart,
Audio Visual Sequencing: Debra Petrovitch,
Text: Francesca da Rimini,
Dance: Tess de Quincey,
Design & Image Editing: Russell Emerson,
Lighting & Digital Design: Richard Manner.

CAPERS MELBOURNE
124 Burwood Road (Cnr Power St) Hawthorn

You can also reserve a table for dinner. For more information check www.capersmelbourne.com.au

MEATLOAF
Performing on stage with a 5 piece band, The Australian Meatloaf Show has been a huge hit with crowds all over Australia and internationally.

INXSIVE
INXSIVE have combined a theatrical element with great production to reproduce the sound and style of INXS. An absolute must see for all INXS fans!

The Australian U2 Show


The Australian U2 Show "Even Better Than The Real Thing! - The Sunday Age Having toured both nationally and internationally, The Australian U2 Show has been described by many as the best they have seen. They have refined both the look and sound of their famous Irish counterparts, assuring both an exciting and memorable show. Garry Morris looks, sounds and moves unbelievably like Bono. And Jeff Box has the brilliant Edge like voice as well as the licks. Once you've seen the U2 Show, your hooked, you'll want to see it again and again!

VAN MORRISON SHOW
They were the runaway success at Capers in 2004, with show after show packing audiences in. Combining an engaging stage presence with an extraordinarily talented group of musicians, Steve Boyd plays all the Van Morrison hits as only the man himself could. Songs include: Moondance, Bright Side Of The Road and Brown Eyed Girl as well as huge rock-a-longs like Gloria, Domino and Baby Please Don't Go. And you haven't had a night out until you've sung in unison Have I Told You Lately That I Love you.

MS PIPPA WILSON
An evening with Ms Pippa Wilson 'Melbourne's True Lady Of Jazz' is back at Capers by popular demand. Come along and enjoy a great night with some of Melbourne's best musicians. "When Pippa sings, audiences are swing"

The likeness is remarkable, The sound is irresistable, The show is unforgettable. Angelo Falcone, one of the most stunning Pavarotti look -alikes, launched the "The Three Tenors Tribute Show" in 1998 with two of his friends, Sandro Martino (Domingo), and Vittorio Sacca (Carreras). Many have enjoyed their performances. This "show'' is not to be missed!!

MALE OF THE SPECIES
TERMINUS HOTEL - 605 Victoria Street, Abbotsford

THE MALE OF THE SPECIES
This is a play about blokes. Young blokes, yuppie blokes, middle-aged blokes... ...yeah, blokes. Starring Allan KERR and Craig HIGGS Directed by Allan KERR Produced by Kylie TRASK

For more information check www.bluechairtheatre.com

MESA REDONDA | Brazilian Choro
CZECH HOUSE - 497 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne


MESA REDONDA | Brazilian Choro
Melbourne guitarist and band leader, Doug de Vries has long been at the frontier of instrumental music before the waves of popularity hit. Doug has been working on Choro projects (the instrumental music of Rio de Janeiro) for over 20 years now - this instrumental music is listed in the newest LONELY PLANET guide as "must see" for any tourist visiting Rio. De Vries has created one of the strongest ensembles of choro outside Rio (alongside New York, New Orleans, Tokyo and Paris) and returns to Rio to record with choro master Mauricio Carrilho [head of Acari records www.acari.com.br ] later this year. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to see Doug and his band perform at The Czech House, on his return from Rio

CLASSIC CINEMA

9 Gordon St, Elsternwick

LAYER CAKE
A slick crime thriller about the top and bottom ends of drug dealing in the UK and Europe, this British film is about a businessman ‘who just happens to deal in cocaine’. Played by a svelte-looking Daniel Craig, he is never called by name and in the credits is simply XXXX. He’s a smooth operator, apparently on top of his mid-level game, with several ‘rules’ of good business that allow him to remain firmly in denial about the consequences of his business dealings: ‘never get too greedy’, ‘never mix with the end-user’ and ‘never associate with loud, wannabe-noticed characters’. His plan to retire young is interfered with by Jimmy Price (Kenneth Cranham), the boss to whose tune XXXX dances. The rule ‘always pay your supplier promptly’ – has XXXX obeying when Jimmy summons him to a meeting.

ASTOR THEATRE

1 Chapel St. St Kilda

MODERN TIMES FOLLOWED BY THE GREAT DICTATOR

Modern Times is an hilarious depiction of man's daily struggle in the face of the dehumanising effects of technology. The story follows the famous "Little Tramp" character, who finds himself stuck in a monotonous factory job. The last great silent movie.

The Great Dictator was released in 1940 during World War II, Chaplin's first talking picture is a comic masterpiece. A passionate plea for humanity in the face of the Nazi menace. Chaplin plays the dual roles of dictator Adenoid Hynkel of Tomania and the look-alike Jewish barber who is mistaken for him.

LUMIERE CINEMA

108 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

RUN LOLA RUN
The film explores the events that fate alone controls and displays the constant "what if's" that occur every moment and that can easily change the happenings of the next. The film follows the events between a woman, Lola, and her boyfriend, Mani, who she desperately tries to save from death by helping him obtain a huge amount of money he carelessly lost. It takes you on three different journeys with Lola, all controlled by fate, showing you what would happen in each, and all the "what if's" that provide the foundations for each outcome.

ROCK SCHOOL

At the real life School of Rock a group of misfit kids get in touch with their inner rock star.

SON'S ROOM

Italian filmmaker Nanni Moretti's signature talent for the overheard, unexpected, and happened-upon detail lends The Son's Room, the story of a grieving middle-class family, the unnerving quality of an unwanted surprise. Giovanni (Moretti) is a successful psychoanalyst whose family life is remarkably placid and enviously intimate: his beautiful wife (Laura Morante) and two intelligent, attractive teenage children are unafraid of their emotions. When his son, Andrea (Giuseppe Sanfelice), drowns in a diving accident, Giovanni is driven to suspend his practice and unintentionally betray his patients as he is haunted by what small choice he might have made in order to avert his son's death. Moretti, more widely known for his comedies, masterfully recreates how seemingly trivial things can take on such importance in the aftermath of tragedy. The intricacies of remembering are traced with such a light touch that the cumulative impact of the film is far greater than its many well-chosen details. Winner of the Palme d'Or (highest honor) at the Cannes International Film Festival, The Son's Room, which refuses melodrama at every step, is a deeply affecting portrait of familial love and the ritual of grieving. --Fionn Meade .

THE COMEDY LAIR
The Terminus Hotel, 492 Queen's Parade, Clifton Hill

THE COMEDY LAIR
The Comedy Lair presents Nova FM's Dave O'Neil, as the evenings MC, and Darren Casey, all the way from Sydney to headline. Also on the bill, combining style, silliness and song will be Sammy J on the keyboard; and stand up comedians Joanne Brookfield, Tom Siegert and Dana Katz. There's meals available and comfy couches, plus non-stop laughs all night so check out The Comedy Lair.

COMEDY LAIR
WILSON DIXON

Back by popular demand at The Lair, all the way from the US of A, is country singing sensation Wilson Dixon (or, as he is also known, Jesse Griffin - one third of The 4 Noels). Taking the MC duties for the very first time at The Lair is comedy legend Matt Quartermaine - you would have seen him on The Big Gig, heard him on The Cage and now come and see him in this very special live appearance. They'll be joined on stage by a selection of the circuit's best and brightest, making for a night of quality comedy not to be missed. There's plenty of comfy couches and a great pub menu with fine wines galore to pick from so you can really make a night of it.

The Fabulous Adam Richard from Fox FM is headlining and will be joined by Rove Live's Corinne Grant

It's the final night of the weekly Lair for 2005 and to see out the year we continue with the biggest names and brightest rising stars. The Fabulous Adam Richard from Fox FM is headlining and will be joined by Rove Live's Corinne Grant making a very special appearance. Lair regular Cal Wilson will be holding the night together as MC and joining them will be Sarah Lamshed and Michael Connell. Another night of quality comedy at The Lair not to be missed. There's plenty of comfy couches and a great pub menu with fine wines galore to pick from so you can really make a night of it.

CROMWELL ROAD THEATRE
Cromwell Road Theatre - 27A Cromwell Rd. Sth Yarra 3141



Saltpillar Theatre Inc. presents JETLAG
Based on the stories of Israel's bestselling young author Etgar Keret.Etgar Keret is the most popular writer among Israeli youth today. His books have achieved international acclaim and have been translated into 16 languages. His trail of awards includes the Book Publishers’ Association’s Platinum Prize, the Prime Minister’s Prize and the Minister of Culture’s Cinema Prize. Over 40 short films have been based on Keret’s stories and his movie, Skin Deep, won 1st prize at several international film festivals and was awarded the Israeli Oscar. In 2002, Melbourne girls Carla Silbert and Adena Jacobs were invited to adapt some of Etgar Keret’s work for the Israeli Literature Festival. Four pieces were performed that year, and the girls presented a special performance of his significant piece, Katzenstein, to the author himself, who responded glowingly. This year, Saltpillar Theatre has invited the girls to expand on Keret’s pieces for a full length show and preparations are underway! Based on Keret’s sharply etched plays, Jetlag comprises eight separate pieces, linked by mood and theme, which portray characters on the edge of adulthood. Silbert says of Keret’s work: `His writing is simultaneously beautiful, tragic and hilarious’. It’s a show for the adventurous. Bold, provocative, dark, funny and close-to-the-bone theatre. Whatever you do, don’t miss it.Jetlag will be performed at The Cromwell Rd Theatre, 27A Cromwell Rd South Yarra on Saturday 19 November at 8pm, Sunday 20 November at 3pm & 7pm and Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 22-24 November at 8pm.

For bookings & information, go to www.saltpillar.org.au - if you book to go, please mention OTH.

WARNING COARSE LANGUAGE

THE COMICS LOUNGE
The Comics Lounge 26 Errol St North Melbourne


Steve Bedwell, Paul Calleja

Each morning the people of Melbourne wake up to the voice of Steve Bedwell for he is the co-host of the top rating Triple M breakfast show 'Bedder's, Tim & Margie for Breakfast'. In 1998 Steve found enormous radio success when he moved into the breakfast shift at Triple M Melbourne. This shift is considered one of the top radio positions in the country for a stand up comedian. Teamed up with long time friend Tim Smith they have topped the ratings.

Brad Oakes (Hey, Hey) & Dave Williams (Rove Live)
David is now regarded as one of Australia's brightest young stars. He has performed along side some of the nation's biggest comic names and has worked on all of Adelaide's major media outlets, since making his debut four years ago. During March 2000 David performed his one man show at The Adelaide Fringe Festival achieving full houses and rave reviews. David Williams is set to take on the world.

ARTS HOUSE
DOUBLE PASS FOR FROM A DISTANCE
521 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne
"From a distance, to give up is almost very un-Australian" - Cathy Freeman

In the 2004 Athens Olympic women's eight rowing final, Sally Robbins stopped rowing. The media frenzy, and the discussion of national identity that followed are the starting points for this new performance by version 1.0. Using media transcripts and commentary on the 'no row incident', version 1.0 investigate Australian identity as defined through sport, probing the dark side of sport and nationalism with disturbing and frequently hilarious results..

Artists and collaborators: Devisors/performers: Nikki Heywood, Stephen Klinder, Jane McKernan, Jane Phegan, Elizabeth Ryan, Christopher Ryan and Emma Saunders - Director & Producer: David Williams - Dramaturgy: Dr Paul Dwyer - Consultant Director: Yana Taylor - Video & Lighting Design: Simon Wise - Sound Artist: Jason Sweeney.

Price: $25 Full / $20 Concession Info: www.artshouse.com.au

 MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL @ TRADES HALL
A YANK DOWN UNDER
Victoria University (301 Flinder's Lane, opposite Flinder's Street Station)

This is a drug, alcohol, and smoke free event.
Features American Comedian called Dave Wiggins in an hour of stand up.
"A Yank Down Under" and is all about Dave's experiences of traveling down under. "It's the classic fish out of water sort of story," Dave points out, "It will appeal to Aussies with a sense of humour, plus any foreigners who may be up for a laugh." Dave's looking forward to performing in Melbourne. "I know a bit about Australia; you put beetroot on your hamburgers, you like Vegemite, stuff like that... but I wanna learn about the weird things that only Melbourne has. What are these hook turns I keep hearing about?" When asked about performing in other parts of the Southern hemisphere Dave seems pretty optimistic; "Yeah I'd love to take the show to Argentina or Chile. I might have to learn Spanish first..." Dave, along with special support act Michael Connell, will be performing "

Bookings 1300 66 00 13 | For more information contact Michael Connell: MCHotline@yahoo.com.au, (03)59666-341

MELBOURNE TOWN HALL
Melbourne Town Hall - Swanston St, Melbourne

City of Melbourne presents Carlo Curley
Carlo Curley’s vision helped inspire the $4.2 million refurbishment of the Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ, and now he is returning to Australia to perform on its ten thousand pipes for the first time. It is an event not to be missed!

CZECH HOUSE
Czech House - 497 Queensberry St, North Melbourne



Klezmania
Klezmania is regarded as Australia's leading Klezmer band. Klezmania's broad repertoire moves from the diverse cultures of the "Old World" of Rumania, the Balkans, Turkey and the Ukraine to the USA and Australia with their own spirited original music. Freydi Mrocki - vocals, percussion; David Krycer - double bass, guitar, vocals, harmonica; Lionel Mrocki - clarinet, guitar, didgeridoo, vocals; David Breytman - bayan (button accordion)

CHAKRA MEDITIATION DANCE
Raqs Chakra works with the 7 main energy centre of the physical and etheric body. Each week CHAKRA MEDITATION DANCE feature a differnt chakra working from the base up, exploring the primordial spirals, circles and waves that connects us all. Beginning with the connection to our centre, the Navel as the origin of movement. We begin with guided Meditation, Visualisation and guided Movement through the Chakras. The music is from all over the world. From here you are free to explore and express your own personal dance. A time for being your self. You can also draw and write and choose special cards for guidance and inspiration. The group ends back in a circle to share mornings revelations and dance experience.
www.dancingisis.com