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Cirque du Soleil’s “LUZIA” Makes Australian Debut at Eagle Farm

Cirque du Soleil’s critically acclaimed production “LUZIA” is set to premiere under the Big Top at Eagle Farm, offering Brisbane audiences a visually stunning journey through an imaginary Mexico.

Premiering on Thursday, 26 September 2024, the show will feature a red carpet event at 6:00 pm, with the performance starting at 8:00 pm. This latest production marks 25 years since Cirque du Soleil first brought its performances to Australia.

Luzia at Eagle Farm — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

What Audiences Can Expect

Brisbane audiences can look forward to a mesmerising combination of acrobatics, visual art, and a celebration of Mexican culture when “LUZIA” opens at Eagle Farm. The show, which blends reality with imagination, features awe-inspiring stunts and a unique artistic style that will captivate all ages.

One of the most exciting aspects of “LUZIA” is the incorporation of real rain into several of its acrobatic and artistic scenes, something never before seen in a Cirque du Soleil touring production. This, combined with dazzling costumes and set designs, promises spectators a unique experience.

Fun Facts Behind the Show

The production of “LUZIA” involves some truly remarkable details that add to its spectacle. Over 4.5 million people around the world have witnessed the show since its debut in 2016. Travelling with a team of 120 people, including 47 artists from 26 different countries, the show is a global effort. On stage, the cast members wear over 1,000 different costume pieces, adding colour and variety to each performance.

Setting up the “LUZIA” Big Top is no small feat, either. The massive tent, standing 19 metres high and 52 metres in diameter, takes a full eight days to erect. It is supported by four steel masts standing 25 metres each and secured by 550 pegs, making sure it can withstand winds of up to 75 mph. The white canvas of the tent is designed to reduce energy consumption, demonstrating Cirque du Soleil’s commitment to minimising its environmental impact.

The production scale is enormous, with nearly 2,000 tons of equipment transported for each tour stop. The Big Top itself seats more than 2,500 people, ensuring that large audiences can experience the magic of “LUZIA” at every show.

LUZIA’s Legacy in Australia

“LUZIA” comes to Australia as part of a celebration of Cirque du Soleil’s 25-year history in the country, having first toured with “Saltimbanco” in 1999. Over the years, Cirque du Soleil has brought ten Big Top shows to Australia, with “LUZIA” being the latest in this tradition. The show’s combination of cutting-edge performance techniques and cultural storytelling has cemented Cirque du Soleil’s reputation as one of the world’s leading entertainment companies.

This premiere at Eagle Farm continues that legacy, offering Brisbane locals a chance to see the latest Cirque du Soleil production in their own backyard.

Event Details

The “LUZIA” premiere in Brisbane will take place at Eagle Farm on Thursday, 26 September 2024. Red carpet arrivals will begin at 6:00 p.m., and the show is scheduled to start at 8:00 p.m. It promises to be an exciting night for both attendees and those looking to witness Cirque du Soleil’s return to Australia after 25 years of memorable performances.

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Exciting New Eatery ‘Sarni’ Set to Open on Racecourse Road

Ascot, get ready for a tasty new addition to your neighbourhood! Sarni, a versatile eatery offering sandwiches by day and small plates by night, is preparing to open its doors this month at Racecourse Road.

Read: Not Just Pizza: Doughcraft Brings Pinsa Romana to Brisbane’s Food Scene

The minds behind this exciting new venture are no strangers to the Brisbane food scene. Sarni comes from the same talented team that brought us Ach in Hamilton last year. Now, they are turning their attention to Ascot, promising to bring their culinary expertise to the area.

Ach in Hamilton (Photo credit: Ach Wine Bar & Bistro/Facebook)

What’s on the Menu?

Sarni is set to cater to various tastes throughout the day. During daytime hours, expect a range of mouthwatering deli-style sandwiches featuring cured meats and other gourmet ingredients. Once their liquor licence is approved, Sarni will open for dinner service, offering small plates and share platters perfect for a night out with friends or a casual date.

Image shown for illustration purposes only (Photo credit: Rajesh TP/Pexels)

While the final menu is still being perfected, some tempting test dishes have included charcoal-chicken sandwiches, bresaola sandwiches with guindilla peppers and pickles; and beef belly bacon sambos.

For those looking forward to evening visits, Sarni plans to offer a carefully curated wine list. Expect around 20 bottles at any given time, with the selection rotating frequently to keep things interesting for regular patrons.

A New Local Hangout

Sarni aims to become a neighbourhood favourite, providing Ascot residents with a versatile space that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, meeting friends for after-work drinks, or enjoying a relaxed dinner, Sarni promises to be your new go-to spot.

Read: Tee Off, Sip Craft Brews: Landers Pocket to Offer Unique Brisbane Experience

Keep an eye out for Sarni’s grand opening this month at 143 Racecourse Road, and get ready to welcome this exciting new addition to the local food scene. With its prime location and promising menu, Sarni is set to become an instant hit with Ascot locals and visitors alike. Follow them on Instagram for updates on the grand opening.

Published 20-September-2024

Albion Volunteer Honoured for Extraordinary Dedication to Children in Care

Photo Credit: The Pyjama Foundation/ Facebook

Sheryl Fitzgerald, a dedicated volunteer with The Pyjama Foundation in Albion, has been named Brisbane’s Pyjama Angel of the Year at a ceremony held at Parliament House.

Fitzgerald was recognised for her exceptional commitment to providing the time, love, and care needed by vulnerable children in out-of-home care.

Albion volunteer — *Photo Credit:* *MPCharisMullen/ Facebook*

The Queensland Government has been a long-standing supporter of The Pyjama Foundation’s Love of Learning Programme, investing over $690,000 annually to facilitate the work of Pyjama Angels with children in care. Currently, two-thirds of Pyjama Angels nationwide are located in Queensland, mentoring 843 children residing in foster, residential, and kinship care across the state.

Pyjama Angels play a vital role in children’s and young people’s lives by reading books, engaging in games, and assisting with homework. Studies have indicated that children and young people in care may face educational disadvantages and may be less likely to meet national literacy and numeracy standards than their peers. Research highlights that reading to children can significantly enhance their reading abilities, language skills, and overall development.

Child Safety Minister Charis Mullen expressed her utmost respect for the generous gift of time and undivided attention these special volunteers provide to children and young people in care.

She reaffirmed the unwavering support for The Pyjama Foundation and commended them for their extraordinary work. Mullen also acknowledged the remarkable results of The Pyjama Foundation’s Love of Learning Programme for children in out-of-home care.

The Pyjama Foundation’s CEO, Bronwyn Sheehan, emphasised the vital role of volunteers, stating that their kindness, compassion, and dedication are the driving force behind the foundation’s accomplishments.

She praised Fitzgerald as the embodiment of all they hope for in a volunteer, highlighting her commitment, reliability, resilience, and persistence.

Fitzgerald expressed her gratitude for the award, stating that it is a great privilege to be recognised for something she loves. She described her role as a Pyjama Angel, meeting children where they are in their learning journey and cheering them on to do their best. Fitzgerald also shared her joy in witnessing the positive impact of a reading buddy’s presence in a child’s life.

She expressed her gratitude for the award, stating that it is a great privilege to be recognised for something she loves. She described her role as a Pyjama Angel, meeting children where they are in their learning journey and cheering them on to do their best.

Fitzgerald also expressed her joy at witnessing the positive impact of a reading buddy’s presence on a child’s life.

Published Date 16-September-2024

Brisbane’s Own Robbie Wilson Plays Key Role in LUZIA from Cirque De Soleil at Eagle Farm

Robbie Wilson, a Brisbane-born acrobatic rigger, is one of the key figures behind Cirque du Soleil’s latest show, LUZIA, which opens next to the Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm.

Robbie, who has worked with Cirque du Soleil for over 20 years, won’t be on stage in the elaborate costumes typical of the company’s performers. Instead, he’ll be high above the action, rigging the acrobatic equipment for the “fly” acts that are a hallmark of LUZIA, which will start its run on 25 September.

This show is exceptional for Robbie as it marks the first time he’s returned to his hometown with the globally renowned circus. Cirque du Soleil has always been a part of Robbie’s life, and bringing this show home is a dream come true.

Robbie’s colleague, Denise Wal, also plays a pivotal role in the production. A former performer in Cirque du Soleil’s Quidam, she now works alongside Robbie as an acrobatic rigger.

Robbie Wilson Luzia Cirque de Soleil — *Photo Credit: Screengrab/Supplied/Luzia BRIS VNR Interview*

Behind the Magic

While the spotlight often shines on the performers, the effort behind the scenes is just as impressive. Robbie and his team are responsible for ensuring the safety and seamless execution of the acrobatic acts that define LUZIA. This includes rigging over two tonnes of equipment and maintaining the Big Top, which takes eight days to set up. With four steel masts standing 25 metres tall and a white canvas designed to reduce energy consumption, the Big Top is as much a marvel as the performance itself.

“An acrobatic rigger is concerned mainly with anything that’s suspended from the roof, whether it be people or props. So we look after the maintenance of their equipment, some of the building of their equipment, and then during the show we’ll assist the artists with their apparatus and keep an eye on them for their safety,” Robbie said.

The Big Top, located beside the famous Gateway Bridge and the Royal Queensland Golf Club, stands 19 metres high and seats over 2,500 spectators. It’s a familiar sight for locals, but the show’s blend of cutting-edge design and spectacular artistry promises something entirely new.

“I don’t think I can find words to describe it and now I feel like the way people appreciate life entertainment has changed as well. We really see it of how the audience react to the show that we put on.”

Luzia Cirque de Soleil — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

LUZIA: A Celebration of 25 Years in Queensland

This year, Cirque du Soleil celebrates 25 years of performances in Queensland, with LUZIA being the 10th show to visit Brisbane since 1999. The show, directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca, takes audiences on a surreal journey through an imaginary version of Mexico, blending light, rain, and stunning acrobatics in a visually captivating performance. LUZIA is the first touring production to incorporate rain into its scenes, creating an awe-inspiring visual experience for the audience.

This year also marks a milestone for Cirque du Soleil’s relationship with Queensland, which began in 1999 with the show “Saltimbanco.” Over the years, productions such as “Quidam,” “Alegría,” and “Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities” have captivated Brisbane audiences.

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A Show That Resonates

LUZIA has already been seen by over 4.5 million people worldwide and continues to resonate with audiences due to its vibrant portrayal of Mexican culture, blending tradition and modernity. The show features 47 artists from 26 different countries, making it a truly international spectacle.

The show runs from 25 September to 10 November at the Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm. Tickets are available online, and demand is high as fans eagerly anticipate this unique production, which combines the magic of Cirque du Soleil with the energy of Brisbane’s cultural landscape.

Cirque du Soleil’s connection with Brisbane is stronger than ever, and with local talents like Robbie Wilson playing key roles, LUZIA promises to be a highlight of the city’s arts calendar.

Published 16-Sept-2024

Not Just Pizza: Doughcraft Brings Pinsa Romana to Brisbane’s Food Scene

Doughcraft, which has venues in the CBD and in Albion, is redefining the art of dough-based delights with its innovative take on Roman-style pinsa, house-made pasta, and an array of mouthwatering mains.

Read: Inside Doughcraft, Home Of European Pastries In Albion

At the core of Doughcraft’s menu is the star attraction: Pinsa Romana. This lighter, crispier, and more flavorful cousin of traditional pizza is taking Brisbane by storm.

Pinsa Romana (Photo credit: Doughcraft/Facebook)

For those seeking a taste sensation, the Sfizio Pinsa is a must-try. This culinary masterpiece features a delicate balance of cured salmon, peppery rocket, and creamy whipped bufala, further enhanced by vibrant beetroot, zesty lemon, and crispy fried capers. It’s a fresh and exciting combination that promises to captivate even the most discerning palates.

But Doughcraft’s expertise extends far beyond pinsa. Pasta enthusiasts will delight in their house-made creations, with weekly specials that showcase the kitchen’s creativity. A recent highlight was the King Tiger Prawns Pasta, a tantalising dish featuring juicy prawns paired with cherry tomatoes and spicy nduja, brightened by a burst of lemon zest and fresh parsley.

For those with a sweet tooth, Doughcraft doesn’t disappoint. Their croissant with coconut almond cream, luxuriously covered in white chocolate and coconut flakes, is a testament to their mastery of pastry. And for an indulgent twist, don’t miss the Pain Suisse – a rich, gooey chocolate chip cookie nestled inside a buttery pastry shell.

The culinary experience at Doughcraft is complemented by a carefully curated selection of cocktails and Italian wines, all served in a beautiful dining room that transports guests straight to the heart of Rome. With its commitment to quality ingredients, innovative recipes, and a constantly evolving menu, Doughcraft is quickly establishing itself as one of Brisbane’s most exciting dining destinations.

Read: Tee Off, Sip Craft Brews: Landers Pocket to Offer Unique Brisbane Experience

Whether you’re in the CBD or venturing to Albion, a visit to Doughcraft promises a journey through the best of Italian cuisine, reimagined with a distinctly Brisbane twist. From pinsa to pasta, and pastries to prawns, these masters of dough are proving that when it comes to Italian-inspired dining, the possibilities are endless.

Published 10-September-2024

Students from Hendra State School Gallop into Racing History at Doomben

In a unique celebration of its 160th anniversary, Hendra State School treated 18 of its Prep to Year 4 students to an unforgettable day at Doomben racecourse.

The historic school, predating even the iconic Eagle Farm racecourse by a year, marked its milestone with an educational visit intertwined with the excitement of live racing.

The young students were immersed in horse racing, many experiencing their first close encounter with the majestic animals as they patted and fed carrots to the gentle grey horses of the Clerks of the Course. The visit to the Jockeys’ Rooms proved a hit, with riders generously sharing their gear, including the tiny saddles and safety vests.

Racing Queensland’s educators, Shane Scriven and Jorge Villamizar, offered each student a thrilling ride on the Mechanical Horse, a training tool usually reserved for apprentice jockeys. Champion trainer Barry Baldwin shared his expertise, demonstrating horse handling techniques with the life-sized fibreglass horse, “Bernborough.”

The children even witnessed the behind-the-scenes action of post-race interviews with Sky Thoroughbred Central’s Bernie Cooper.

The day’s highlight was witnessing the race that the Brisbane Racing Club graciously named in honour of the school’s anniversary. With its special title displayed, the event was broadcast across Australia and internationally, providing a unique platform to showcase the school’s historic milestone.

The Thoroughbred Racing History Association, which organised the visit, emphasised that such excursions are tailored to the school’s curriculum, with resources developed to align with the Australian Curriculum’s Learning Areas.

Published Date 05-September-2024

Preliminary Design of New Albion Station Hub Revealed to Brisbane Community

The preliminary designs for the new Albion station hub, aimed at transforming transit and community infrastructure in Brisbane’s inner north, have been released.

Set to rebuild and upgrade the existing Albion train station, the New Albion Station Project is designed to meet the expected rise in passenger traffic from the upcoming Cross River Rail project. With four updated, wider platforms, the design caters to increased interchange activity. This development is closely integrated with housing, retail, and commercial spaces, creating a vibrant community hub around the station.

The project is tied with the ‘Albion Exchange’ initiative, a significant Transit Orientated Development led by Geon Property. This development will introduce up to 1,200 new residences, along with commercial, retail, and entertainment facilities, marking a major urban renewal for the Albion area.

The revamped station will feature an array of modern amenities, including new lifts, stairs, a ticket office, accessible toilets, and enhanced wayfinding and signage. Security will also be improved with updated lighting and CCTV systems. Moreover, the station design includes a new pedestrian overbridge and a southern concourse that promises better connectivity across the rail corridor, thus making it easier for people to access the station from different parts of Albion.

“This will be the key piece of infrastructure for the creation of a genuine Transit Oriented Development, providing for up to 1200 new residences, commercial, retail, lifestyle, and entertainment uses,” GEON Executive Director and CEO, Ben Griffin said.

“It will advance the suburb’s renewal by providing a high level of convenience for residents and workers in the community.”

Community Engagement and Feedback

The Department of Transport and Main Roads will host information sessions to engage the community, offering a platform for feedback and further insights into the project plans.

Details on these sessions, along with opportunities for online feedback, are available on the TMR website, ensuring community members have ample opportunity to contribute to the project’s final design.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Submissions will remain open until 20 September.

New Albion Station Key Features

Four straighter, wider and raised platforms, with shade cover;
An elevated concourse at the southern end of the platforms, providing opportunities for a high-quality public domain and accessibility across the rail corridor;
A new station building with customer facilities including lifts, stairs, ticket office, accessible toilets, wayfinding and signage, lighting and CCTV;
A new pedestrian overbridge at the northern end of the platforms and cross corridor connection to Hudson Road and Mawarra Street;
Reconfiguration of the rail corridor, infrastructure and systems;
A kiss ‘n’ ride; and
Bicycle storage facilities.

Published 29-Aug-2024

St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot Unveils Ambitious Expansion Plans

St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot is set to transform its campus with an ambitious Performing Arts Precinct and additional classroom facilities. The school has applied to modify its masterplan, paving the way for a state-of-the-art arts hub and expanded learning spaces.

The proposal outlines plans for the St Margaret’s Arts Precinct (SMAP), a cutting-edge complex designed to nurture students’ talents in music, drama, and various performing arts disciplines. In addition to the SMAP, the project encompasses constructing an exam room building and a secondary classroom building to address the school’s growing enrollment.

The Performing Arts Precinct will be strategically situated adjacent to Lapraik Street. At the same time, the new classrooms will find their home at the end of Petrie Street, seamlessly integrating with the existing campus layout. Specific existing structures, including the Labyrinth, the decommissioned 50-metre and 25-metre swimming pools, the Daphne Mayo Centre, and other buildings, landscaping, and pathways, will be removed to accommodate these additions.

This redevelopment represents the next phase in the school’s master plan, with Stage 1 (the Sports Precinct) already completed. The amendment to the master plan will incorporate three new buildings, car parking provisions, landscaping enhancements, and acoustic fencing.

The SMAP building itself promises to be an architectural and functional marvel. It will feature a basement parking lot with 29 spaces and multiple levels dedicated to performing arts activities, including rehearsal rooms, a black box theatre, dressing rooms, and a recital hall. The top floor will boast classrooms, a control room, and specialised music practice spaces. Construction will be carried out in stages to minimise disruption.

The additional two-storey buildings will house general learning areas, a kitchen, an exam room, and an arrival plaza with stair and lift access. The secondary building will provide six general learning areas and stair access.

Planners at John Gaskell Planning emphasise the project’s importance in optimising resource allocation and ensuring the timely delivery of community infrastructure. They assert that the new facilities will enable the school to meet the evolving needs of its students and staff, empowering St Margaret’s to uphold its commitment to providing high-quality education and maintaining exceptional teaching standards.

Published Date 13-August-2024

Albion Precinct Set for Major Upgrade as Brothers Rugby Club Secures 25-Year Lease

A new 25-year lease has been granted to Brothers Rugby Club for their Albion base, paving the way for a significant upgrade to the community’s sporting facilities.

The agreement comes after changes to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games venue plan, which previously earmarked the area for redevelopment. Under the new arrangement, Brothers Rugby Club will spearhead a comprehensive overhaul of Crosby Park, transforming it into a modern sports and community hub.

Planned Improvements

The master plan for the 5.5-hectare precinct includes several key developments:

1. Indoor Sport and Recreation Centre

A new indoor facility will be constructed to accommodate various sporting activities.

2. Enhanced Parking and Learn-to-Swim Classes

Additional car parking will be provided, along with the introduction of learn-to-swim classes for local families.

3. Community-Focused Amenities

Plans include a new clubhouse, café, gym, function room, and public seating areas.

4. Upgraded Change Rooms

New change rooms will be built to cater for the growing number of female players, which now make up over 40% of the club’s membership.

5. Allied Health Services

The final stage of development may include on-site allied health services to benefit both facility users and the broader community.

Community Impact

Brothers Rugby Club president Geoff Rodgers highlighted the need for modernisation, noting that the club’s amenities had not seen major additions since the early 1980s. He expressed the club’s aim to become a hub for the local community, catering to sporting, social, leisure, and recreational needs.

The upgrade aligns with the city’s vision for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. While the original plans for a Breakfast Creek Sports Precinct have changed, with Racing Queensland retaining its raceway at Albion Park, the Brothers Rugby Club development ensures the local community will still benefit from improved facilities ahead of the Games.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner emphasised the importance of investing in grassroots sports. He stated that the development would help make Brisbane an even better lifestyle capital for years to come.

As the Brothers Rugby Club project moves forward, the state government is yet to decide whether the previously planned Brisbane Indoor Sport Centre will be built at Zillmere or Boondall. Meanwhile, Racing Queensland is planning a mixed-use development around its raceway, complementing new residential towers planned for the Breakfast Creek area.

Published 13-Aug-2024

Road to Recovery at Eagle Farm: Racing Set to Resume in September

Photo Credit: Brisbane Racing Club

After a month of uncertainty following a jockey walk-off in July over safety concerns, Brisbane’s premier racecourse, Eagle Farm, is set to welcome back racing by mid-September.

A collaborative effort between the Brisbane Racing Club, Racing Queensland, the Queensland Jockeys Association, and the Australian Trainers Association has paved the way for the track’s revival.

The controversial mesh covering the construction site, identified as the primary cause of safety issues, will gradually be removed this week. As builders install glass panels, each floor will be uncovered progressively. While the entire covering won’t be removed by the targeted September 14th race date, it will be lowered significantly, addressing the jockeys’ concerns.

Additionally, a protective sightscreen will be erected around the exterior of the building to mitigate any potential distractions or disruptions for the horses and jockeys. Racing Queensland chief executive Jason Scott expressed optimism that these measures will be in place for the September 14th meeting.

Recognising that many horses have yet to have recent exposure to Eagle Farm, officials are collaborating with the Trainers Association to facilitate familiarisation sessions. This may involve opening the course proper midweek for horses to acclimatise themselves, potentially accompanied by compensation schemes for trainers.

Resuming this event at Eagle Farm is crucial to resolving the safety concerns that led to the July walk-off. It signifies a renewed commitment to ensuring the well-being of horses and jockeys while maintaining the track’s premier status in the Australian racing scene.

Published Date 12-August-2024