When the costumes go on and the makeup’s applied, when the music kicks in and the lights flick to life, the performers of Infamous The Show take to the stage.

They are the death defying and the raunchy, and in their Spiegel Big Top they travel across the country as one of Australia’s biggest circuses.

But behind the scenes of their bombastic performances are the performers, including the unassuming Jemima - a “newbie” to the circus scene who is the on stage sexy Blonde Bombshell, Marilyn – and the seasoned professional, Jensen, a seventh-generation circus performer.

Jemima, who was born in the Gold Coast, started out as one of the ensemble dancers, she progressed to centre stage and “ties the whole show together.”

“I’m one of the main characters now - mostly dancing but I’m mingling all through the audience throughout the show and getting the crowd going,” Jemima said.

“Involving myself in every part of the show, really – she’s Marilyn with a more contemporary, sexy vibe. And that’s hard to be sexier than she was!”

With a background as a dancer, Jemima has travelled across the world and took to circus life back on her home shores three years ago.

She attributes why she’s slotted in so well to the family feeling Infamous exudes, which is a feeling she shares with Jensen.

“The Circus always calls back to me, no matter how long you’re out of it,” Jensen said.

Jensen’s family, the Ashtons, have been proprietors of circuses for 180 years, back to 1850, and he has always lived in the Big Top – it’s his home.

His role is on the Wheel Of Death, a large rotating apparatus on which he carries out synchronised acrobatic skills with a partner, and it has always been his dream to be on it.

“My first memory of the circus was when I was three years old, and my dad and uncle were doing the Wheel of Death at the time,” he said.

“They stopped, took me up and held my hands while we did it.”

This pair with vastly different roles and experiences – one a dancer, the other an acrobat – are part of the Infamous family. Catch them while you can over the weekend

for an incredible evening of Cabaret.

Jemima as Marilyn

Jensen on the Wheel of Death with his partner

Images: Lu-Ella Oxley SB Photography

Sonic The Hedgehog 2

Sonic the Hedgehog, a blue ball of whirring energy - played with jubilant and childlike glee by comedian Ben Schwartz - speeds onto the screen. Across from him in a rain-drenched, broken backyard is a beefier, red furred and fisticuffed minion of the moustachioed Dr. Ivo Robotnik. For those who played the famed SEGA video games of the ‘90s and early 2000s, you’ll know this anti-Sonic looking red guy as Knuckles the Echidna, played here by Idris Elba.

Echidna, meet Hedgehog.

If that’s not crazy enough for you, you’ll have recognised Robotnik as a comically Machiavellian and moustachioed Jim Carrey. There’s a shocking amount of talent in Sonic The Hedgehog 2, which sees its eponymous hero take on Robotnik once more with a new friend and ally, Tails. Funnily, it all works – once you’ve toppled the tower of confusion that comes with watching an animated hedgehog fight Jim Carrey, that is.

There’s a deeper story here, too. Sonic finds responsibility and friendship during this fun, kids romp that is perfect for a school holiday watch. There are even jokes for the parents along the way.

Sonic The Hedgehog 2 (G) is playing at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema from today, 10.00am, 2.10pm, and 6.45pm.

Dog

A man and his best friend tale that plays to Channing Tatum’s strengths? – don’t mind if I do.

Lulu, a Belgian Malinois army service dog, was once paired with the late Sergeant Rodriguez, who sadly lost his life in combat. The dynamic duo had once been military royalty – but since his passing, Lulu has been untameable. Returning Army Ranger Jackson Briggs (Tatum) is tasked with getting Lulu to the funeral on the other end of America’s Pacific Coast on time.

A mismatch story to its core, Tatum delivers a touching performance along the journey. He and Lulu drive each other completely crazy, break a handful of laws, narrowly evade death, and learn to let down their guards to have a fighting chance of finding happiness. There are sombre touches, funny performances, and great scenery on show in this trip of a lifetime.

Dog (M) is playing at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema from today, 12.15pm, and 4.25pm.

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Strap yourself in, Mackay! The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is hitting the highways to home-deliver the freshest and funniest from the 2022 Festival to neighbourhoods across the nation.

For 24 years the Roadshow has presented an all killer, no filler line-up of Australian stars and talented newcomers to comedy fans far and wide.

Buckle up for a night of stand-up, sketch, satire, silliness and song in this rip-roaring road trip designed to satisfy all your comedy cravings!

The lineup includes Blake Freeman, Prue Blake, Takashi Wakasugi (Japan) and two more acts to be announced soon!

Described as a ‘feast of humour’, ‘a night out that does not disappoint’ and ‘impeccable jokes with faultless antics’ it’s a night not to miss.

Please note, performances often contain coarse language, adult themes, sexual references and material that may offend. The show is recommended for people aged 15 years or older.

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow LINE UP

Blake Freeman

Blake Freeman is one of Australia's brightest new comedians, making a name for himself with his own brand of energetic and disarmingly honest comedy. Through his youthful energy and charismatic delivery Blake weaves charming stories, making the intensely personal relatable. In 2018 he was hand-picked for Melbourne International Comedy Festival's prestigious Comedy Zone and appeared on ABC TV's Comedy Up Late series, toured nationally and hosted his own radio show. In 2019 he was nominated for, and won, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival's award for 'Best Newcomer', had a sell-out season at both the Brisbane and Sydney Comedy Festivals, and travels to the acclaimed Soho Theatre in London's West End.

Prue Blake

Prue Blake is the comedian for anyone that knows the game is rigged and thinks ‘well, why not find it funny?’ The voice of a generation? Maybe, though after years of sitting at the adult table she isn’t too sure which one. She is a strong, confident underachiever by choice… or she was before she became the 2020 RAW Comedy National champion! Since 2018, she has taken over the comedy scene and can be seen on posters for all the hottest comedy shows both in Australia and internationally (one show in New Zealand). Her style is observational, intelligent and cheeky. Prue has been described as both "dashing" and a "disillusioned feminist" by The Age.

Takashi Wakasugi

A typical Japanese boy, Takashi visited Sydney as an exchange student in 2012 where he joined the local comedy scene. He quickly built a unique reputation, performing at ‘Homebake Festival 2012’ and frequented spots at the Sydney Comedy Store. Upon his return to Japan, he joined the English comedy scenes in Osaka and Tokyo. In 2018, he moved to Australia and started his comedy career in earnest. He was picked as a performer at Comedy Zone Asia at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2018 and performed on the ABC television show “Tonightly with Tom Ballard”. His festival solo show “Welcome to Japan” and “Farm Backpacker (Subclass 417)” were sold out at comedy festivals around Australia. Takashi also joined the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow in 2021 and travelled all over Australia to perform. Stuck in a chasm between Japanese and Western culture, Takashi brings a fresh and unique perspective on Aussie life. His insights into everyday life in Japan are sure to have you both fascinated & roaring with laughter.

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

Thursday 5 May 2022, 7.30pm

MECC Auditorium

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

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Friday 8 April

The Ultimate Dirtbike Weekend

Friday, Saturday, Sunday

The Ultimate Australian Dirt Bike Weekend is heading to Mackay! As a show stopper for two-wheel race fans across the nation, the ProMX Championship Round 2 will combine forces with Australian Off Road Championship (AORC) at Gum Valley Mackay for the very first time, in what is set to be a massive three day weekend of two-wheeled off-road racing action and an unmatched spectacle for race fans, industry and riders alike.

Gum Valley Motocross Track

Sunset Sessions

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Saturday 9 April

A Vocal Masterclass with Garrick Jones

Saturday, 10:00am to 12:00pm

Come and see Garrick work his wonders with local singing talent. Garrick will explore vocal technique, delivery and so much more! Singing students, singing teachers and general public singers are welcome to enjoy this masterclass.

Thompson Voice Studio, 2 Toorak Street, Glenella

Public Art Walk with Brian Robinson

Saturday, 10:30am

Join Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood for a free, enjoyable public art walk with the artist who created our beautiful ‘Building Blooms’ public artwork series that brightens the Mackay City Centre. Brian is in Mackay to judge the 2022 Libris Awards with co-judge Adele Outteridge. A north Queenslander by virtue of his Torres Strait Islander heritage, Brian is known for his ability to combine elements organic and manmade into a unique fusion that speaks to popular culture, art history, his own heritage and broad contemporary interests. Meet at front entrance, Artspace Mackay 10:30 Saturday 9 April. Book your free spot at this enjoyable event online now.

Artspace Mackay, meet at front entrance

Sarina Rodeo

Saturday, 2:00pm

Gates open at 1pm. Gate Tickets will NOT be sold at the gate.

Sarina Showgrounds

Judges' talk: 2022 Libris Awards

Saturday, 5:00pm

Join 2022 Libris Award Judges Adele Outteridge and Brian Robinson as they discuss Libris Award artists’ book entries from across the country. The judges will give insight into works that stood out to them during the selection and judging process - they may even provide clues to award winners which will be announced later in the evening! This free talk is scheduled prior to the exhibition opening, so simply stay on for the official opening celebrations and exciting announcement of 2022 winners from 6pm.

Artspace Mackay

Trivia @ The Bowlsie

Saturday, 6:00pm

Back by popular demand is our Trivia Night hosted by the witty but hilarious and always inappropriate Janelle! Trivia @ The Bowlsie is the place to be, to have the ultimate fun night with prizes to be won!

Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

Ian Moss & Troy Cassar-Daley

Saturday, 7:30pm to 11:30pm

Two of Australia’s most respected singers, musicians and songwriters - Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley - are taking their guitars and songs on the road for the National ‘Together Alone Tour’ in 2022. The 'Together Alone Tour' will be the first time these two powerhouse guitarists and vocalists have joined forces to tour together and shared a stage in such an intimate setting as they take the audience on a musical journey across their respective careers. Don’t miss your chance to see these old friends light up, and rip up, the stage. It will be magic.

MECC

Sunday 10 April

Real Mates Talk Mens Only Triathlon

Sunday, 7:30am to 10:30am

We have put together a Triathlon Specifically for our Adult & Junior Men, whatever your skill or ability with $5.00 from every entry going to Real Mates Talk. With an anything goes Enticer distance for the beginners consisting of a 300m swim, 8km cycle, and 2.5km Run, and for the more adventurous or seasoned athletes there will also be a Sprint Distance with a 600m swim, 16km cycle and a 5km run. The Real Mates Talk men’s campaign intends to prevent suicide attempts and deaths of men in our community and support them to connect with others and live well.

Mackay Aquatic Recreation Complex

Two Day Celtic Weave Binding Workshop

Sunday 10:00am to Monday 3:00pm

Join Brisbane artist and 2022 judge of the Libris Awards, Adele Outteridge as she shares this fascinating binding technique. Coptic binding is one of the oldest forms of bookbinding we know, dating from about the fourth century AD. In this workshop, participants explore a decorative variation of coptic binding called Celtic Weave, devised by book artist extraordinaire Keith Smith. Celtic Weave produces a very attractive exposed lattice-like binding across an open spine.

Artspace Mackay

Sunday Live Music

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.

Seabreeze Hotel

Travis Collins

Sunday, 3:00pm

Travis Collins has long led the charge in the Australian country music fold with his soulful voice, earthy sound, and unique gift for piloting both sophisticated, heart-felt ballads and high octane country-rock belters. A powerhouse vocalist, blistering guitarist and energetic performer that connects with an audience like few can. This is an artist and tour you don’t want to miss seeing live.

Seabreeze Hotel

Monday 11 April

Mackay April Holidays - Engineering & Robotics

Monday 9:00am to Tuesday 3:00pm

Exciting 2 DAY programs to ‘edutain’ (educate + entertain) kids. Bricks Challenge (Yr 1-2): experience STEM by designing and building with LEGO technic and motors. Robotics and (NEW) Electronics (Yr 3-5): get introduced to Software and Mechanical Engineering principles and electronic circuits. Inventor's Kit (Yr 6-8): model & solve real world problems with robotics and coding. Different activities each day for an unforgettable experience.

CQU Campus Ooralea

Wednesday 13 April

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Thursday 14 April

Kallidad

Thursday, 7:30pm

Kallidad combines Spanish guitar magic with rock and roll energy to create a once-in-a-lifetime sound. The trio's notorious white face paint masks their identities, shifting the focus to a musical style that is alive, intense, emotional, and powerful. Kallidad's music is all instrumental – no lyrics are necessary to feel the energy and passion behind the music. Booming percussion and shredded nylon string guitars weave a deep web of sound that always leaves audiences breathless and begging for more!

Seabreeze Hotel

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The Bad Guys

There’s an extraordinary cast of actors lending their sultry tones to The Bad Guys, which follows the notorious criminals Mr Wolf, Mr Snake, Mr Piranha, Mr Shark, and Ms Tarantula. Led by Oscar winner Sam Rockwell, triple threat of rapper, comedian, and actress Awkwafina, Richard Ayoade of IT Crowd fame, and comic genius Craig Robinson - The Bad Guys is off to a rollicking start just in its by-line. After a lifetime of crime and legendary heists, this band of notorious criminals has finally been caught, and to avoid a sentence, they must pull off their most challenging con yet – becoming model citizens - to rapturous laughter and the delight of audiences.

Under the tutelage of their mentor, Professor Marmalade (Ayoade), the dubious gang sets out to fool the world that they're turning good in this feature animated film filled with genuine laughs and comic characters that mixes up the usual good guy narrative, replacing them with baddies with a heart of gold.

The Bad Guys (PG) opens tonight at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema from 6.45pm.

Marry Me

Jennifer Lopez is pop superstar Kat Valdez, and tonight she’s set to marry her fiancé Bastian before an audience of her loyal fans. But Bastian, played in slimey greaseball fashion by Colombian singer Maluma, has some pre-ceremony, unsavoury antics with a backstage dancer. With his cheating ways exposed, Valdez melts down on stage, and in a moment of inspired insanity, the songstress locks eyes with a total stranger holding a Marry Me sign in the crowd – Owen Wilson’s Charlie Gilbert – and marries him on the spot.

In classic rom-com fashion, the pair give it their best go, and events conspire to separate the unlikely newlyweds, but they must decide whether a pair from different worlds can find true love together. Wilson and Lopez have a surprising chemistry in the featurette, and comedian Sarah Silverman manages to be a consistent source of laughter as the quirky-best friend to Gilbert.

Marry Me is playing at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema from Saturday at 12.10pm and 4.15pm.

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The sexy, sizzling, devilish show that makes you laugh so hard you feel like crying, is back in town and its cast of flamboyant characters are looking forward to welcoming audiences to opening night this evening.

Infamous The Show has been touring Queensland and returning to the Whitsundays on an almost annual basis, with organisers saying this iteration will see the return of our favourite acts plus a range of new twerks and tricks to keep us all entertained.

“The basis of the show is never going to change,” said performer Bekki Ashton.

“But acts do change and evolve constantly as new skills are learned – we don’t want to ruin any surprises but there are a lot of new elements to the show!

“Simon and Mimi do a fantastic act where they paint using UV light – art is getting painted while you are watching – it’s incredible!”

The big thrill acts have also gone up a notch with the ‘Wheel of Death’ now featuring three dare-devil performers and the skills on the Flying Trapeze are set to wow the crowd with a double full-twisting summersault and a triple summersault – both extremely difficult tricks that less than 10 people in Australia are able to achieve.

Other popular favourites include the raucous and ridiculous clown, Jessie as well as newcomer Blonde Bombshell who adds a classy sexiness.

The Spiegel big-top tent has become a fixture on the Cannonvale Plaza lawn, with every cast member helping to erect the massive structure.

On opening night, the cast will swap their overalls and work boots for eyelashes, sequins, high heels and thongs as they set out to captivate and caress their adoring crowd.

Guests will enjoy an entrance like no other, when the round-bottomed Infamous Dancers show you to your seat and serve refreshments from the bar.

This year, they are introducing two specialty cocktails – the aptly named Jessie’s Dick and the fantastical Fairy Flosstini.

“It’s like circus memories from when you are a kid but with a delicious adult twist,” said Bekki.

Infamous The Show is in Airlie Beach, on the green field next to Whitsunday Plaza, from Friday, April 1 to Sunday, April 10.

The show is for adults only.

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Holy Holy released their powerfully pulsating fourth album, Hello My Beautiful World, in August last year.

After countless lockdowns and rescheduled shows, the band are finally touring the album and making their way to Mackay at the end of the month.

We had a chat with frontman Tim Carroll ahead of their North Queensland shows.

You released Hello My Beautiful World last year. What are your reflections on it now that you finally get to tour it?

I’m proud of the record and I have fond memories of making it. It was such a strange time, but we were able to thread the needle and find really creative opportunities in the midst of just a really strange period of life. And I am really interested to see what it’s going to be like to perform live.

I noticed that some songs on the record feel a bit more like “floor fillers”. Did you write those songs with the hope of the dance floor filling or is just something that comes about naturally in the writing process?

When you start off as a band you’re playing these small clubs, like tiny little rooms, and they’re half full, there’s a certain kind of music that works for that. As Holy Holy has grown as a band and released more records, we find ourselves playing bigger and bigger rooms and playing festivals and later slots and even headlining festivals. In that instance, often you want bangers. It’s the same Holy Holy approach but with a faster BPM and a bit of a thumping beat drum underneath, which is fun.

I’m also intrigued by the relationship between the more electronic elements on the record and the use of nature emojis on the album cover. What was the thought process there?

I have a couple of kids and a few years ago we were out in the country and it was the morning and I pulled back the curtain on this window and my son just said: “hello, my beautiful world”. And I thought it was just such a sweet thing to say. I thought it could work as a possible album title and I am often drawn to natural imagery in songwriting. We thought it looked iconic as a record, I had never seen a record cover like that. It’s also the combination of natural imagery but also referencing modern culture; it represents the work.

This isn’t your first time to Mackay, what is it about the area that brings you back?

You can’t just play the capital cities, you’ve got to get out into the regions and see the country and meet fans. I think we only played three shows last time and it just blew me away that they all sold out, they were really vibey crowds.

So what have you got in store for the shows up here?

Queen P is supporting and she’s a really fun and charismatic performer with a cool band. I guess it’s the kind of music that you might not get that often up in north Queensland. And then Holy Holy’s going to be coming out and we have so much fun on stage. We’ll be premiering a bunch of new songs off the record. Our intention with the show is wild and immersive and memorable and ultimately, in some way, a holy experience in a musical sense.

Holy Holy play the Seabreeze Hotel on Thursday, March 31. Get your tickets now!

Tim Carroll and Oscar Dawson of Holy Holy will be in Mackay later this month

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As part of Shed Happens Mackay’s annual celebration of International Men’s Day (IMD), the local men’s group is adding another dimension to its celebrations following on from the success of their inaugural Mackay Man Of The Year award in 2020 & 2021.

This year, as part of the IMD22 celebrations, their regular fundraising breakfast and Man of the Year Award will be followed by Shed Happens' very first Art Show in partnership with the Mackay Art Society.

The group has been integral in allowing men to share their stories with others, with their regular Shed Happens meetings allowing men to find power in the exchange of their stories, learning they are no longer alone and that their experiences were common.

Following the first pillar of International Men’s Day - celebrating positive male role models -the group will use this as the theme for artists to create their works.

There are four sections of the Art Show, each with prize money for the winners, with second and third prizes for three of the sections.

The four sections are Best in Show, Art on Canvas, Art on Paper and Emergent Artist for those under 25 years of age.

The artworks will be on display during August at the Mackay Art Society, Snow Wright Court, Beaconsfield, and the finalists works will be displayed at the Mackay Botanic Gardens Lagoons Café Gallery throughout September.

Entries will open on April 1, and the entry form can be found at the SHED Happens Mackay Facebook Page.  

There is an Entry Fee of $10.00 for each artwork submitted, and there is a limit of two pieces or works per person. Entries will close on August 1.

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Great Musicians, Better Mates

Two of Australia’s most iconic singers,songwriters, and guitarists are coming to Mackay next month.

Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daly will play TheMackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on April 9 as part of their TogetherAlone tour which visits a whopping 32 regional and metro cities.

Despite collaborating on numerous occasionsin the past, this will be the first time the two great mates will tour togetherand share a stage in such an intimate setting.

Audiences can expect an entirely acousticnight spanning both of their expansive careers, with the two sharing the stageand helping one another out on each other’s songs.

We caught up with rock royalty Ian Mosswhile on the road.

Really good, thanks. We’ve got about fourunder our belt. Started in Gippsland and then down to Hobart to play atAustralia’s oldest theatre which is just a beautiful old thing built in the1850s – we had a great night there. Last weekend we were pretty close to Sydneyincluding the wonderful Art Deco theatre called Anita’s down in Thirroul. Ithink we’ve got it sussed. We’ve got a pretty good show happening.

Have the shows been changing andadapting as you’ve been going?

We’re on stage all night together, we justswap song for song really and tell stories about each song. With the songswe’ve got, most of them have got pretty good stories behind them. We’ll justback each other up – one of us will sing a song and the other will chuck somebacking vocals on, do a bit of guitar work just to colour it up – and that’show the evening plays out.

Do you prepare setlists for each show oris it more improvised?

At the moment we’ve got the same setlistfrom night to night. Maybe later in the year we’ll swap things around, butthere’s a certain number of songs that are essential to get played. We’ve bothgot some strong songs that we’d always play. For me, for example, Tucker’sDaughter, Bow River, Telephone Booth, they always have to bein there.

Can you tell me about the first time youmet Troy and the journey you’ve both been on to end up touring Australiatogether?

Probably about 12 years ago, Troy was doinga solo album of covers, of soul music, and invited me to come and do a duetwith him on the classic Dark End of the Street. They were in a studio onthe Central Coast. The first thing I noticed when I went up there and walkedinto the studio was that no one was wearing any shoes. Coming from AliceSprings and growing up in a country town myself, I thought ‘yep, these are mypeople’. I felt really at home. I just presumed Troy was just out-and-outcountry but he’s got a beautiful bluesy voice and blues is my first love. Wejust fit hand in glove. Apart from that, collaborations continued. He’s workedwith (Jimmy) Barnes, and him and I have co-written songs together as well whichwill be included in the show.

This is a pretty extensive tour, howimportant is it for you personally to tour some of these more regional areaslike Mackay?

There’s some great theatres in these partsof the world and hungry populations, hungry for music. I personally love it.I’m born and raised in Alice Springs and there’s a part of me that still missesbeing in the country. That’s one of the things I love about playing regional –I do feel quite relaxed and at home. Whether I’m with Troy or whether I’m soloI’ll be keeping up my appearances in country areas for sure.

Catch Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daly whenthey play The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on April 9.

Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daly are currently co-headlining their Together Alone tour

Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daly became mates through frequent collaborations

Ian and Troy kicked off the tour in Troy’s hometown of Grafton before being forced to reschedule last year

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Bringing you quality performances by some of the very best local musicians, the Acoustic Sessions at the Airlie Beach Hotel run from Thursday through to Sunday evenings every week.

Residencies are secured by the best talent in town and range from experienced stage master Andy Mammers who plays Friday and Saturday evenings to local legend Matt Angel who has just returned to town and will begin his Thursday night residency in June.

Newcomer, Pluto Tango, is becoming a popular Wednesday night feature and with some fresh Melbourne-inspired renditions of our favourite cover classics, it is easy to see why.

Loui Battour is Pluto Tango, the one-man looping sensation that eloquently loops guitar, keys, electronic percussion and vocals live before your eyes.

“I like to play different stuff, not just the standard pub classics,” he said.

Focusing on groove-based elements, Pluto Tango observes music with playfulness and curiosity through a range of styles including Reggae, RnB, Funk and Soul - all with his own unique twist.

Originally from Melbourne, Loui started playing music so he could join a band at school and has been inspired by his musician father throughout his life.

With the music scene struggling in Melbourne due to the ongoing effects of the pandemic, he ventured to Airlie Beach, arriving here six months ago, and he is now thrilled to be playing live music most nights of the week.

The unique name for his show was founded by the simple love of two words – Pluto and Tango. He searched online to check if the name had been used by any other band and was surprised to discover it was a phenomenon where the orbits of Pluto’s moon are thrown out of kilter.

Fortunately, it was not the name of another band, so the first ‘earth-based’ Pluto Tango was born.

Acoustic Sessions at the Airlie Beach Hotel are live, loud and free on the bar-top stage from 7pm Wednesday through to Friday and double-up on Friday afternoon with the first session beginning at 3pm.

For the full line-up, check out the gig guide.

Loui Battour is Pluto Tango

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Celebrating the true majesty of world-famous artist – Prince – the bar-top stage at Airlie Beach Hotel will come alive with a tribute show that sounds, looks and feels like the real thing.

Hosted by ARIA award winning singer Andrew De Silva, the Purple Revolution Tribute Show is a heartfelt dedication to the music of one of the greatest icons of the 21st Century.

From Purple Rain to Little Red Corvette, The Most Beautiful Girl in the World and You Got the Look – the band will deliver back to back sing-a-long classics throughout the afternoon.

The following day, Andrew De Silva and his band will take to the stage performing their own unique take on R&B, Funk and Soul which is guaranteed to win the audience over with its versatility and charm.

Andrew De Silva shot to fame when his band, CDB, won and ARIA for highest selling single –“Lets Groove” and for over a decade, he worked behind the scenes lending his vocals and experience to shows such as Dancing with Stars, X Factor and the Masked Singer.

In 2012 Andrew was encouraged by friends and family to step back into the limelight once again and he entered Australia’s Got Talent, winning the competition and proving to himself that he has what it takes.

From stadiums to theatre shows to solo acoustic sessions and corporate events, Andrew is the seasoned performer that entices the crowd with his voice and musicianship.

Often likened to Prince, it was an easy decision for Andrew to put together a tribute show that played to his strengths and love of the legendary artist.

His show has since become popular right around Australia.

While emanating Prince is a fun element to his musicianship, Andrew also focuses on his solo music career and has just released his latest single “What’s Up What’s Down” which was added to Spotify’s Nu Funk playlist alongside artists Anderson Paak and Thunder Cat which has seen the track gain over 100,000 streams around the world.

Purple Evolution will be performing at The Pub on Saturday 2nd April from 2pm to 5.30pm.

Andrew De Silva and band will be on-stage from 2pm to 5.30pm on Sunday 3rd April.

Andrew De Silva

Andrew De Silva and band

Purple Evolution

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Calling all singers, dancers, bands, musicians, comedians, DJs and rappers, it’s time to express your talent on the stage as applications are now open for Fast Track North Queensland.

The only event of its kind in the state, Fast Track North Queensland is returning to the Burdekin Theatre on Saturday 2 April.

The talent showcase invites performers from across Queensland and the country who perform in all disciplines of the creative world to enter, with over $5,000 of cash and prizes to be won.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said it was fantastic to be welcoming the Fast Track talent scouts back to the Burdekin, with the talent show becoming a regular fixture for the region over the past few years.

“Fast Track North Queensland is a fantastic opportunity for all performers – from singers and dancers to bands, musicians, comedians and more – to gain experience on stage and be seen by capital city talent scouts here in the Burdekin,” Councillor McLaughlin said.

“This year we are incredibly lucky to have two special guest judges, Chris Sebastian, and Jael Wena, who will host an exclusive not-to-be-missed performance workshop for all contestants.

“There are only a limited number of spots, so I encourage anyone in North Queensland with a passion for performing to be the first to nominate before word gets out.”

Chris Sebastian was winner of The Voice 2020, while Jael Wena was a Voice Generations 2022 Grand Finalist.

Past winners have been from a variety of fields, and judges have said they want to see every performance style from every age group.

Entrants also travel from across the country, with contestants last year from as far away as Sydney and Brisbane.

Fast Track North Queensland will be held at the Burdekin Theatre on Saturday 2 April.

Applications are now open: email your contact and performance details to burdekin@fasttracktalent.com.au or visit fasttracktalent.com.au for more information.

Last year’s group of rising stars at the Fast Track North Queensland talent identifier at the Burdekin Theatre

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Liam Neeson has shown his aptitude for helming gruff, no holds barred action flicks that pit him – a one man army on a quest for vengeance – against endless streams of henchmen.

In 2020’s Blacklight, Neeson’s role is no different as he plays Travis Block, a government agent who uncovers a conspiracy within his own ranks that reaches the highest echelons of power. Block has his own shadowy past, but when he discovers a plot targeting U.S. citizens, it’s time for him to draw the line. Soon, he finds himself in the crosshairs of the director of the FBI – whose life he had once saved.

This action political thriller sees Neeson put in an excellent performance regardless of the sometimes-cheesy dialogue, and audiences will come away with a reminiscence of the ’80s paranoid thrillers akin to The Fugitive.

Neeson’s weary-warrior act makes this run-and-gun worth the watch, and Blacklight is showing this weekend at The Bowen Summergarden Cinema.

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Stall holders, musicians and amusement ride operators are getting excited to participate in the first Proserpine Street Party which is due to take over Main Street at the end of this month.

Everyone in the community is encouraged to come on down for a lively fiesta to celebrate the opening of the newly re-built Proserpine Entertainment Centre and more broadly, the unique lifestyle of our much-loved country town.

The Council-funded event is free for everyone to attend.

Live music will provide the perfect accompaniment as stall holders show their wares and a petting zoo as well as free amusement rides will entertain the kids.

The event takes place on Sunday, March 27 from 2pm to 6pm.

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Friday 18 March

Conversations with Art  

Third Friday of each month, 1:00pm to 2:30pm

Join in the free and enjoyable discussion led by Artspace Mackay staff as they look at images of traditional and contemporary artworks from gallery and museum collections from around the world.

Artspace Mackay

Sunset Sessions

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Karaoke Under The Stars @ The Burb

Friday, 7:00pm to 11:00pm

Get amongst a family-friendly night of karaoke at The Burb.

Souths Suburban Bowls Club

Saturday 19 March

Falun Gong Classes

Saturday, 9:00am to 11:00am

Soak in the morning sun and enjoy the fresh air as you experience relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement. Falun Gong classes are a regular event at the Gardens.

Tropical Sun Lawn, Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Hostplus Cup Round 1 – Mackay Cutters v PNG Hunters

Saturday, gates open 10:45am

Get around game day and cheer on the Cutters as the Hostplus Cup squad clashes with the PNG Hunters! Junior squads take on the Northern Pride and the day wraps up with a battle between the Mackay Cutters Hastings Deering Colts and local team, Souths Sharks. Bring the family and watch your favourite players out on the paddock of BB Print Stadium.

BB Print Stadium

Sacred Kirtan Meditation

Saturday, 5:30pm to 7:00pm

Come for an experience that will transport you to a world of inspiration, peace and joy, far beyond the stress and worries of life. This heart-warming group meditation combines chanting/singing of sacred mantras with musical instruments and sweet, cruising melodies to soothe the soul. The experience of Kirtan is meditative and beautifully immersive, the leader sings the mantra and everyone sings it back. This spiritual connection through song makes for a unique experience like no other. Chris and Anna have recently relocated to Mackay from Adelaide and have been sharing Kirtan meditation with the community for many years. They look forward to connecting with you through this wonderful meditation practice.

Unity Yoga Ayurveda

Shades of Women

Saturday, 6:00pm to 11:55pm

Shades of Women is an inaugural gala event and a first for Mackay. It signifies the commencement of a fundraising endeavour like no other in a quest to provide support for women and their children affected by Domestic Violence. This event provides an opportunity to celebrate women and the strength they bring to the lives of so many, but also a time to bring about awareness and raise much needed funds for Domestic Violence. Money raised will be donated to Women’s Legal Services Queensland, who provide free legal and welfare help to Queensland women and their kids at risk from domestic violence.

Seabreeze Hotel

Beddy Rays

Saturday, 8:00pm

Since selling out their first headline tour and supporting Australian music legends Violent Soho in May, Beddy Rays have been biting their nails to get back on the road and bring their mosh-worthy, coastal-rock bangers to your hometowns of Sunny Queensland! Supported by French Press.

Seabreeze Hotel

Sunday 20 March

Photo Walkabout at the Botanic Gardens

Sunday, 9:00am to 11:00am

Do you love capturing interesting photos with your camera or smart phone? This month’s Photo Walkabout workshop is focussing on “What lies on the forest floor?”. Open to all photographers from beginners to advanced, it is a free activity for anyone to join. To book your spot, phone Kim on 4952 7321 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Sunday Live Music

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.

Seabreeze Hotel

Didgeridoo Sound Healing

Sunday, 5:00pm to 6:30pm

Come and hear Rufus speak from real-life experiences and be immersed in sacred sounds of the Didgeridoo, crystal bowl, flute, vocals and medicine drum to reset your energy and find balance.

Glenella Community Hall

Bjorn Again – Mamma Mia! We Are Back Again Tour

Sunday, 7:30pm

iThe MECC Auditorium

Tuesday 22 March

BMA Kidspace

Tuesday, 10:00am to 2:00pm

Join local artists and performers for creative art activities designed for toddlers and their adults.

Artspace Mackay

Wednesday 23 March

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

The market is a showcase of our region’s amazting produce direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

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