Media Release - Whats The Show

Actor Presence & Vocal Technique With Laura Field

21/08/2026 Breaking News

Feature-Actor Presence & Vocal Technique

Hummingbird Theatre Company (HTC) is partnering once again with Cambridge based voice and communication specialist Laura Field to present Actor Presence & Vocal Technique, a live online professional development workshop for actors on Saturday 5 September 2026.

Following the success of HTC and Field’s previous online workshops, the new session focuses specially on the actor’s voice and the relationship between vocal technique, physical freedom and performance.

The practical workshop will explore three areas: Breath & Focus; Physical Ease & Balance; and Presence, Projection & Expression. Participants will work with breath and vocal release, physical tension and vocal flexibility, and the use of resonance, texture, articulation and projection to communicate character, text and emotion.

Actors are encouraged to bring a monologue, audition piece, script extract or other material they are currently preparing, allowing techniques to be applied directly to their own performance practice. Workshop texts will also be provided.

HTC CEO and Artistic Director Rhys Becks said the workshop builds on the company’s commitment to providing practical development opportunities for performers.

“Our previous collaborations with Laura demonstrated just how valuable focused voice work can be. Voice is integral to performance, and this workshop gives actors an opportunity to explore how projection, articulation, physical freedom and emotional expression work together, before applying those ideas directly to text and performance.”

Field has more than two decades of experience helping people develop clarity, confidence and presence in how they speak. She holds a Master’s in Professional Voice Practice from Birmingham School of Acting, a Postgraduate Certificate in the Teaching of Shakespeare in collaboration with the Royal Shakespeare Company, and a Level 5 Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring.

Delivered live via Zoom, the workshop is open to actors worldwide, with places limited to 12 participants to encourage active participation and individual engagement.

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Show Up! Brings Variety Back To Sydney

21/08/2026 Breaking News

A new monthly live entertainment spectacular launches at Darling Quarter Theatre on Monday 19 October.

When Nick calls, the stars Show Up!

Show Up!, a new monthly live variety spectacular hosted and created by Australian entertainer and producer Nick Hardcastle, officially launches at Darling Quarter Theatre on Monday 19 October 2026, presented by Century Venues.

Bringing the spirit of the great variety show into a contemporary live setting, Show Up! brings together music, comedy, cabaret, circus, conversation, emerging talent, established stars and unexpected guests for a show where the audience never quite knows who, or what, is going to Show Up!

Hardcastle has spent almost two decades creating and producing live entertainment experiences across London, Los Angeles and Australia. Show Up! brings those worlds together with an intentional homage to the great Australian variety formats of the past that are currently absent from our live scene and our TV screens.

“I love creating community around live work – that’s why I have been doing it for so long! I’m so excited by what Show Up! can offer Sydney audiences and artists and look forward to it becoming a staple of the Sydney entertainment scene.” Says creator and host Nick Hardcastle.

At a time when Sydney’s live entertainment scene is looking for community and support, Show Up! creates a platform where the extraordinary artists already performing across the city, along with artists touring through Sydney, can see each other’s work, promote their shows and reach a new audience.

One night might feature a star from a major musical alongside a recording artist, a comedian and a circus performer. Another might introduce an emerging artist followed by a television favourite, drag icon, international visitor or Broadway performer.

_Show Up_2025 Nov_0194 (c) Andrea Francolini.jpg

_Show Up_2025 Nov_0145 (c) Andrea Francolini.jpg

Shot in a multicam set up, the event will also be available online to watch on YouTube and for artists to share among their fan base and followers, and presents a great opportunity for producers and brands to also extend their reach.

After an initial event in November 2025 at the Grand Electric, Century Venues are proud to be the new presenting partner for Show Up! Previous artists have included Phil Burton (Human Nature), Jason Arrow (Hamilton), Tyrone Noonan (George), Catherine Alcorn and regular contributors include Nikki Webster and the Nikki Webster dancers.

The first event at the Darling Quarter Theatre on Monday October 19, will feature a 20th Anniversary Tribute to Australia’s most successful theatrical export of all time, Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical with appearances from original cast members Tony Sheldon, Marney McQueen, Genevieve Lemon and more!

For audiences, it’s the chance to experience some of Australia’s most exciting performers up close from the big shows they love or haven’t yet seen, alongside music and comedy artists, surprise guests and the next generation of talent in a completely unique night of entertainment where anything can happen!

Established and emerging performers across music, theatre, comedy, cabaret, circus, dance and other live disciplines are invited to register their interest in appearing either as a feature artist or in the Show Off! segment, hosted by Nicky NoPants, where we aim to discover talent and award great prizes. Show Up! provides high production values on a great Sydney stage on which to perform, experiment, collaborate, get great content and be discovered by a new audience.

For producers, casting professionals and the wider entertainment industry, Show Up! is a new avenue to promote their shows and cast members, creating a regular opportunity to see artists outside their existing roles and discover new performers.

Following its launch on 19 October, Century Venues is delighted to present Show Up! monthly on Mondays at Darling Quarter Theatre, establishing a regular home for the new variety format in the heart of Sydney.

Current confirmed performance dates are:
Monday 19 October; Monday 16 November; Monday 14 December; Monday 11 January 2027; Monday 8 February 2027; Monday 8 March 2027; Monday 5 April 2027

Tickets for the October launch are on sale now at www.showuplive.com.au

AUDIENCES: Join the mailing list, discover upcoming shows and book tickets.
ARTISTS: Register your interest in performing at SHOW UP!
PRODUCERS & INDUSTRY: Stay connected with upcoming performances and artist announcements.
BRANDS & PARTNERS: Enquire about sponsorship, partnership and activation opportunities.

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Jazz At Alba: Three-day Melbourne International Jazz Festival Program Heads To Alba Thermal Springs & Spa

20/08/2026 Breaking News

This October, Melbourne International Jazz Festival expands its renowned program to the Mornington Peninsula for the first time with Jazz at Alba, a three-day celebration of contemporary jazz set among the native gardens and geothermal pools of Alba Thermal Springs & Spa. Across three days, guests are invited to soak, sip and sway as some of Victoria’s most exciting jazz musicians perform live from the Mornington Peninsula wellness oasis. Set among Alba’s lush native gardens and geothermal bathing pools, Jazz at Alba invites guests to experience exceptional live music while soaking in warm mineral waters, unwinding in Alba’s signature robes and embracing the tranquillity of one of Victoria’s most unique wellness destinations.

Kadi Morrison, Marketing Director at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa, said: “We’ve been seeking the perfect partner to create a premium live music experience that brings together the restorative nature of Alba with the creativity and artistry of Australia’s vibrant jazz scene. With Jazz at Alba, we’ve created something truly special together with Melbourne International Jazz Festival. We can’t wait for people to immerse themselves in this unique experience, where talented live musicians harmonise with Alba’s natural beauty, tranquil surrounds and restorative waters.”

Caitlin McNaughton, General Manager at Melbourne International Jazz Festival, added: “We’re excited to partner with Alba Thermal Springs & Spa to present Jazz at Alba this October—extending our festival footprint to the Peninsula and building on the reputations of both organisations as standout destinations within Victoria’s cultural and tourism landscape.”

Jazz at Alba program highlights:
– Thursday 22 October — Holly Moore Trio: 5:00pm–5:45pm and 6:30pm–7:15pm. Saxophonist and composer Holly Moore leads her trio with guitarist Matt Hoyne and double bassist Robbie Finch.
– Friday 23 October — Dean Kalait Trio: 5:00pm–5:45pm and 6:30pm–7:15pm. Saxophonist Dean Kalait performs with Lily Appelt (double bass) and Quinn Knight (drums).
– Sunday 25 October — Milne and Attiche: 2:00pm–2:45pm and 3:30pm–4:15pm. Vocalist Clancye Milne and guitarist Benjamin Attiche perform originals and jazz standards.

Alba invites guests to experience contemporary jazz with a range of bookable experiences within its wellness sanctuary. Whether soaking in the pools, picnicking in the native gardens, or sipping wine and enjoying canapés in the restaurant forecourt, guests can enjoy live music while bathing. All guests can enjoy live jazz as part of their bathing admission. For those wishing to linger longer, reserve a picnic rug with artisan cheese and a glass of Peninsula wine or reserve a table in the restaurant forecourt to enjoy the performance alongside canapés and wine.

Prices:
– General bathing admission from $100
– Cheese and wine $145 per person (includes use of a picnic rug for performances at The Luna, and a reserved table for performances at the restaurant forecourt, plus bathing)
– Canapés and wine $145 per person (includes use of a picnic rug for performances at The Luna, and a reserved table for performances at the restaurant forecourt, plus bathing)

Book your Jazz at Alba experience now at albathermalsprings.com.au/jazz

About Alba Thermal Springs & Spa: Alba Thermal Springs & Spa is a world-class luxury wellness sanctuary in the heart of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. Nestled in 15 hectares of native landscaped gardens, Alba offers contemporary geo-thermal bathing in over 30 pools, including a rain pool, forest pools and Eve – the sunset pool. There are private rooftop geothermal pools, salt baths and The Terrace pools. Luxurious full-day self-care packages, half day rituals and treatments are available in the spa. Alba’s restaurant Thyme showcases locally sourced produce in an all-day menu created by award-winning chef Karen Martini. From the very first day of operation Alba has been offsetting emissions using Trace.

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James Graham’s The Man Directed By Jo Bradley Premieres At Sydney Fringe

18/08/2026 Breaking News

This September, Jo Bradley directs the Australian premiere of The Man by James Graham. This uniquely structured, interactive one-man show is perfect for Fringe, combining both the intimacy of a small venue, with the talents of the Olivier Award-winning playwright behind Dear England, Ink and Quiz. Mike Howlett (Bell Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night and A Midsummer Night’s Dream) leads this ambitious monologue, spanning both drama and comedy.

Director/Producer Jo Bradley, Sydney Fringe Festival’s 2025 “Best Emerging Artist”, returns to the fringe after last year’s hit Gia Ophelia by Grace Wilson (which premiered at Fringe before transferring to KXT on Broadway, and then touring to Canberra Theatre Centre in association with Canberra Youth Theatre). She continues her work on contemporary, intimate, actor-focused scripts, after the success of the Old Fitz’s 2024 Snowflake, which will transfer to Ensemble Theatre in October this year.

Tax makes Ben anxious. As a sole-trader he’s been hoarding receipts all year. Now he has to go through them all–and the audience is going to help. In this darkly funny interactive one-man play, every receipt tells a short story, and every audience member gets a receipt.

One at a time, the actor will call upon a random audience member to hand them a receipt, and then tell the corresponding story. Every performance will therefore be totally unique, with the performer having no idea which receipt they will get handed at any time.

“This is my first tax return. Thank you…erm for offering to… for helping. I realise it’s a bit weird. It’s just. This is…it’s the only way I can think to make it better. The only way I can think to do it. With other people. Like this.

Fans of Duncan Macmillan’s Every Brilliant Thing and re:group’s POV, will love the interactive and non-linear nature of Graham’s script. It’s the perfect Fringe show for audiences who are excited by a totally unique theatre experience that is different every night.

The Man is a portrait of late twenties, depicting a man looking back at his life so far with disappointment, as he wrestles with the hopes he had for himself, and the reality of what he’s actually achieved. These themes, and the script’s depiction of Ben’s struggles with early adulthood, dating, career, grief and poor mental health, offers a wide appeal to Sydney audiences. The story will particularly resonate with artists, sole-traders, and anyone who has ever had to deal with the frustrating bureaucracy that comes with growing up.

DATES & VENUES
The Man will have its Australian Premiere at Pottery Lane Performance Space, Lane Cove on September 1-4th at 6pm (Runtime: approximately 75 mins).

Preview is September 1st, and Opening Night is September 2nd. Tickets are between $25-44 and can be purchased here: https://sydneyfringe.com/events/the-man/

THE MAN
By James Graham
Directed by Jo Bradley
Produced by JB Theatre Co
Starring Mike Howlett
Director/Producer Jo Bradley
Assistant Director/Understudy Joseph Tanti
Assistant Producers Liminka Pather and Emily Smith
Sound Designer and Composer Otto Zagala
Costume Designer Bella Welstead
Performer (“Ben”) Mike Howlett
Voice Performer (“Inland Revenue”) Claudia Leon

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