9 February 2012
This Week's Feature - A Bird’s Eye View!

Winners of the Gala Day Dress-Up Parade 1918 Trams along Ryrie St Geelong c1915 1918 Gala Day Procession Moorabool St Picnic Fun c1905

Swoop into Geelong’s History at The National Wool Museum The seagulls of Geelong have seen it all! Come and experience the city from a gull’s perspective and trace the appearance and disappearance of some of our most significant landmarks. Geelong’s transformation into a modern city spans 150 years. From the first squatters in 1836 to the new TAC headquarters in 2009, our built environment tells us a lot about who we are and how we have shaped the world around us to meet our ever evolving needs and desires. This exciting new exhibition at the National Wool Museum looks at the changing faces and architectural features of Geelong though historic photographs in the collection of the Geelong Heritage Centre. The display includes large-scale panoramic views of the City of Geelong from 1858 to 2010 and focuses on our iconic landmarks including the waterfront woolstores, the hospital, the railway, Johnstone Park, Market Square and of course, Eastern Beach. City of Greater Geelong Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Cr Cameron Granger says, “For visitors who really want to get to know the city, Bird’s Eye View offers the chance to fly over Geelong and gain a completely different perspective on our history and the buildings that have shaped how we live and who we are.” Including five large scale panoramas and an impressive digital jigsaw which helps visitors to piece together Geelong’s history, the exhibition is also accompanied by a full educational programme which takes students on a journey from the 19th century to the present day and explores land reclamation, land use and industry. A full education programme is available. For details please contact our Education Officer on (03) 5272 4706. Date: 27th February 2012 – 3rd June 2012 Times: The Museum is open 9.30am-5pm on weekdays and 10am-5pm on weekends. (Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day). Venue: The National Wool Museum 26 Moorabool Street, Geelong Cost: Entry fees to the Museum are $4 per child (2-15 yrs), $7.50 per adult, $6 concession or just $25 per family (2 adults and up to 4 children). Contact: Museum (03) 5272 4701 Website: www.nwm.vic.gov.au

Performing Arts

*NEW*
Operatic Airs & Graces

This exciting concert will be a gala afternoon of operatic highlights performed by distinguished soloists some of whom are based in Geelong. This titillating afternoon of glorious arias from the operas of Mozart, Puccini , Verdi and others will be sung by Lee Abrahamsen with her Sun Aria winning soprano, Manfred Pohlenz with his rich baritone timbre, Marianne Black with her silken mature mezzo soprano and Robert Barbaro with his fresh tenor tones all accompanied by the virtuosic Sonoka Miyake as associate artist on the grand piano This concert will be a delicious affair enabling you to luxuriate in the popular and emotional music of the operatic repertoire in the gentile environment of a drawing room setting.

Geelong Repertory Theatre Company
The 39 Steps opens Geelong Rep’s 80th season!

Geelong Repertory Theatre Company is thrilled to present The 39 Steps, adapted by Patrick Barlow from the book by John Buchan and directed by Kelly Clifford. This wonderfully inventive and gripping comedy thriller features four fearless actors, playing 139 roles in 100 minutes of fast-paced fun and thrilling action! This blissfully funny show follows the incredible adventures of our handsome hero Richard Hannay (Ed Dolista), complete with stiff-upper-lip, British gung-ho and pencil moustache as he encounters dastardly murders, double-crossing secret agents (Lachy Joyce & Jules Hart), and, of course, devastatingly beautiful women (Cassia Webster). See what the New York Post calls “the funniest show on Broadway!”

Geelong Performing Arts Centre (Multiple Listings)

A ‘Merry’ start to Musical Mornings

Geelong Performing Arts Centre’s ever-popular Musical Mornings program returns with a stunning tribute to one of the country’s most accomplished performers in The Merry June Bronhill.

This wonderful concert stars two coloratura sopranos – Alison Rae Jones and Amy Letts – and traces the career of an Australian icon of opera, operetta, musical theatre and television, June Bronhill.

It’s a fascinating story of a young girl from Broken Hill, who travelled overseas after her entire town raised funds to get her there, to make her debut for the Saddlers Wells Opera Company in London in Marriage of Figaro. She went on to become an overnight sensation for her portrayal as Maria in The Sound Of Music on London’s Westend. But it was Lehars The Merry Widow that catapulted June to fame right around the world and the beautiful "Vilia" was quickly dubbed as "June’s Tune".

Who can forget her hilarious portrayal as Mrs Slocom in The Australian television version of Are You Being Served or clashing swords with Jon English in the Broadway version of The Pirates of Penzance?

This Australian legend comes to life for Musical Mornings audiences for two performances on February 8 and 9 at 10.30am in The Playhouse.

Local comics to sweat it out in Raw Comedy

Every year, fledgling comedians all over the country sweat it out on stage as the Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s Raw Comedy competition heads out in search of the next biggest and brightest comedy star. Amid the tears (of laughter), the tragedy and triumphs, only one newcomer can emerge as champion, and pocket the ultimate prize of a trip to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Local comics will have the chance to strut their stuff in the Geelong qualifying heat at GPAC on Saturday 18 February.

Hosting the event will be Josh Earl – the hip, smart, loveable comedian known for his solo shows including Josh Earl is a Librarian, which toured through Adelaide and Melbourne, and Josh Earl vs The Australian Women’s Weekly Cake Book, which toured through Adelaide, Brisbane and Melbourne. He is also a regular performer on radio and television around Australia. Raw Comedy is Australia's biggest and most prestigious open mic comedy competition, and has been running as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival since 1996. Past Raw winners and finalists include Chris Lilley, Josh Thomas, Hannah Gadsby, Wil Anderson, Peter Helliar, Claire Hooper and Tim Minchin.

The qualifying heat of this national competition will expose the good, the bad and the ugly of Geelong’s comedic talent, all vying for a berth at the Grand Final as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival on 15 April.

Visual Arts

*NEW*
METROPOLIS GALLERY
Utopia: Connecting Land + Ceremony

Metropolis Gallery is proud to present in association with the Dreaming Art Centre of Utopia an exhibition of paintings by prominent Aboriginal artists from the Utopia region, including Gloria Petyarre, Emily Pwerle, Minnie Pwerle, Barbara Weir, Molly Pwerle and Galya Pwerle. There is also a fine selection of rare works on paper by Gloria Petyarre.

These contemporary, expressive works represent the continuing ancient, oral stories that give Aboriginal people practical information about their land, flora, fauna and culture. Utopia artists’ paintings depict plants that are important to ceremonies, including seeds, grasses, berries and yams and they also reference ceremonial body painting.

Barbara Weir has said that her older relatives talk longingly of the days before the farming of cattle began in the 1920s, which impacted heavily on native plants and wildlife food sources. “It’s what we think of when we paint- this land, our stories, the food we could make by grinding seeds, making flour, picking fruit.”

*NEW*
BOOM GALLERY (multiple listings)
Pam Hutchinson – An Exhibition of photography

“Hands Across the Water” is a unique photographic exhibition and journey of discovery exploring Ali Island, Papua New Guinea. All proceeds from the entry donation and sales of artwork will contribute towards improving the lives of the people of Ali Island.

The night will be catered by Truffleduck and the wine by Austins. Among the special guests will be Geelong footballers, Steve Johnson and Josh Hunt. RSVP by Friday 10 Feb to rb.rsmith@bigpond.com.

Grief: Landscape of Emotion – Poetry & Photography Exhibition

A unique exhibition exploring grief through poetry and photography. Tonya Beechey and Mark Elshout explore the powerful force that is grief. In particular grief that accompanies cancer.

The exhibition aims to raise funds for the Cancer Council of Victoria. With special guest Associate Professor Brendan Jenkins from Monash Institute of Medical Research

Exhibition - Shearers Arms Visual Arts Centre and Gallery

The Geelong Art Society is pleased to present two very special Exhibitions for the month of February. “IMPRESSIONS of 3 “ An Exhibition by three local Artists, Sue Robinson, Michele Karakasch & Sculptor Jacinta Leitch. Sue, painting in oils indulges her passion for Urban Skylines. Michele also painting in oils enjoys portraiture and unusual subjects while Jacinta creates wonderful thought provoking sculptures in Geelong Sandstone.

Running concurrently will be an Exhibition of Textiles and miniatures by Shirley McNaughton, a well known identity of Geelong.

Open Air Art Sale

Paintings and sculptures by Portarlington artists will be on display and sale to the public in the relaxed format of a Sunday afternoon garage sale. Just pull up in your car and have a browse.

ART@WINTERGARDEN
Exhibition, Somewhere between; the identity transformation...

Somewhere – Between is the recent collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures by Mirjana Margetic, inspired by landscapes from Echuca. These contemporary artworks consider the pursuit for identity as an endless inward and outward creative process where the landscape is a vehicle for discussing identity and identity transformation. Mirjana uses an exquisite palette of complementary colours based around Byzantine Blue. Australian earthy colours are assimilated into her beautiful landscapes images. She creates a soft luscious painted surface balancing intricate details with broad evocative spaces. Nature and the human form translate emotion into sensitive art works.

GEELONG GALLERYs

Nicholas Chevalier – Australian Odyssey

This exhibition is the first comprehensive survey of work by the Russian-born Swiss artist Nicholas Chevalier produced during his fourteen years in Australia from 1855 to 1869. The exhibition brings together some of Chevalier’s most significant paintings along with sketches, studies and lithographs. Nicholas Chevalier – Australian Odyssey is a Gippsland Art Gallery travelling exhibition.

NATIONAL WOOL MUSEUM (Multiple Listings)

Submerge Yourself In Summer Fun!

What does the ocean tell us about life in Australia? As part of the National Wool Museum’s Summer of Discovery, Wrecks, Reefs and the Mermaid offers three exciting exhibitions in one and delves deep into the ocean’s mysteries for some serious summer fun! Beneath the water is a world few of us can imagine, let alone experience – not only are the images presented in these exhibitions stunning, but what they tell us about our surroundings is surprising, revealing and thought-provoking. A full education programme is available. For details please contact the NWM Education Officer on (03) 5272 4706.

It’s A Jungle In Here!

Do you know your Hoary Sunray from your Delma Impar? Find out what lies beneath the pavers in your back garden and experience life from an ant’s perspective with this summer’s blockbuster exhibition from the National Wool Museum. This hands-on exhibition, which is part of the National Wool Museum’s Summer of Discovery season, features 18 interactive exhibits and touch screen games which explore the unseen science in our backyards. Highlights include a magnificent ride-on nectar-collecting bee, dress-ups, a garden shed, a food web pond and an electronic giant pumpkin vegetable garden. From garden biodiversity, to the mechanics of play equipment and the physics of the tool shed, Amazing Backyard Adventures allows visitors to get onboard with science in the most thrilling and accessible way.

Opportunities and Employment

Production Team Positions - Blunt Productions - 2012 Production of The Drowsy Chaperone

Blunt Productions are pleased to announce their 2012 production of The Drowsy Chaperone to be directed by Derek Ingles. Calling for persons 18+ interested in applying for PRODUCTION TEAM positions for the production to be staged at the Potato Shed Drysdale from July 24 – 28th and August 1 – 4th.

Submissions to be emailed by the 14th February 2012.

Information Evening and Auditions

Blunt Productions are pleased to announce their 2012 production of The Drowsy Chaperone to be directed by Derek Ingles. An information evening will be conducted for those wishing to audition for a part in this Tony Award winning show in its first Amateur Production in Victoria.

Information Evening and Auditions - Bellarine Jongleurs Inc. 2012 Production

Bellarine Jongleurs are pleased to announce 2012 production of Camp Monster to be directed by David Greenwood. Calling for persons interested in performing in this production ages 5 to 17 years and also those interested in a production role. Camp Monster will be staged at the Potato Shed Drysdale from 29th august to 1st September. Further information can be obtained by contacting Lorraine Hall (Artistic Director).

Geelong Academy of Performing Arts
Dance Teacher

Permanent part-time Teacher required for children's Hip Hop/Funk classes each Saturday morning. Must have experience teaching children 3-16yrs, be creative, enthusiastic, reliable and a great communicator. Salary negotiable.

*NEW*
Bread and Butterflies – Community Theatre Arts Project

Bread and Butterflies is a collaborative community theatre production project auspiced by Theatre 3222. The project incorporates the work of local artists; dancers, actors and mosaic artists, culminating into a final stage performance that will be performed for children at the Potato Shed in April 2012. This fantastic project is driven by local artist Sally Pearson who is seeking keen local dancers and actors aged 16+ to audition for a role in the show. This project will appeal to community focused people with a passion for contemporary or lyrical dance and actors wishing to participate in an enchanting production of children’s narrative. Community mosaic workshop programs are offered to people of various ages and abilities in the Geelong community who wish to contribute their skills or gain new skills in mosaic sculpture under the tuition of local artist Rose Kviz. The final works by all participants will construct the mystical stage set of Bread and Butterflies. There are no fees to participate in the Bread ad Butterflies arts project, however places are limited.

* Bread and Butterflies is a City of Greater Geelong Community Arts Grants Program funded event.

Education

COURTHOUSE ARTS
Acting, Dance, Writing and Voice Workshops. Very. Special. Deal.

Our short courses begin next week – come and train as a serious artist in the hottest venue in town. All our tutors are practicing artists and have designed courses to challenge and excite anyone between the ages of 12 and 26. Build confidence, learn skills and grow your opportunities. Jump on the website under Skills Development and feast your eyes. SAVE UP TO $150 – buy one – get one free – spread the word!

THE LOFT STUDIO
Adult Ballet Classes Starting Soon

Have you always wanted to do Ballet but thought it was too late? Think again! New classical ballet classes for adult dancers in a friendly and relaxed environment. Great for beginners and those returning to dance. Please contact Lyndel for further information.

GEELONG YOUTH CHOIR

Let’s Make Music! for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Every child is born a musician and Let’s Make Music! provides the perfect environment for babies, toddlers, preschoolers and the adults that love them to make music together. Classes are full of singing and dancing and utilise quality instruments and engaging props. Parents love sharing in the fun of music with their kids and learn the skills and confidence to make music an integral part of their everyday lives. Taking term 1 enrolments now.

QUEENSCLIFF NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE – Multiple Listings

Design Basics Course (2D focus) part a

Enjoy learning to work with your inspiration for visual art forms. Find out how to develop your ideas, select and decide how to gather resources, to plan and to design for art work. You will be introduced to basic elements and principles and guided through the creative process in methods that can be applied to layout for graphics and to the composition of a broad range of visual art. No previous design experience is needed, however the ability to visualise through drawing and to handle cutting and measuring tools will be necessary. Tutor: Jenny Darling.

Mandala Worshop

The name "Mandala" means circle. The creating of a Mandala assists our Inner being to express I itself. Judy Stickland is a Yoga teacher & artist who has been practicing the art of Mandala's for over 10 years. She will guide you through a relaxing day meditating, drawing, writing & painting, She says "exploring the Mandala allows us to be free to be ourselves with no judgement.You don't have to be artistic, its for everyone to explore!"

ACCABELLAS DRUMMING CIRCLE

acabellas drumming circle & acabellas singing with strings & things
Enjoy exploring, creating and learning a variety of rhythms in fun supported group sessions with the Djembe Drum and percussion. Come away feeling exhilarated & recharged. All experience levels welcome.
acabellas singing with strings & things
Why not dust off your chosen musical instrument/s and bring your lounge room session out of the house! Enjoy learning and developing songs with others, with variety from week to week. Bring along your musical instrument for a community singing experience with a difference. All levels and abilities are welcome. ALL INSTRUMENTS ARE WELCOME

Contact Lisa for enquiries & to book your place

** This publication is intended as a general guide and is published on the basis of information provided to the City of Greater Geelong by third parties. It does not substitute for professional advice on laws and regulations in individual cases. If readers still have doubts, they should consult legislation or seek professional advice. The City of Greater Geelong accepts no responsibility for any errors or ommissions that may have accidentally occured within the publication. Council does not neccessarily endorse the views expressed by the contributors or endorse events, photographs or information contained within.

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