Welcome to this week's OnlyMelbourne newsletter guide to Melbourne events, exhibitions, sports and community - July 23 - July 29, 2007.
This Week.. The Melbourne International Film Festival begins, renowned actor Ian McKellan features in King Lear, National tree Day takes place, and it's a big week for Expos with the Melbourne Career Expo and Melbourne's Craft & Quilt Fair!
We also have AFL & Netball match details and much more info on many upcoming events and highlights in beautiful Melbourne, so read on and enjoy!
Melbourne International Film Festival celebrates its 56th year, presenting a diverse range of contemporary cinema that includes features, documentaries and short films.
Beginning July 25th and with over 300 films due to be screened, approximately 80 percent of the programmed films will be Australian premieres.
King Lear - The Royal Shakespeare Company will be presenting two productions performed in repertory at the Arts Centre, State Theatre - King Lear and also The Seagull. Beginning July 28, and featuring the renowned Ian McKellen, one of the world's finest stage actors, in the title role of King Lear, these special performances, held at the State Theatre, will be the only Australian performances.
National Tree Day is Australia's biggest community tree planting event when people from all walks of life work together to green up Australia. This Friday 27th will be Schools Tree Day, when all of Australia's school children plant native trees and help beautify their school grounds. Sunday 29th will be National Tree Day with many tree-planting ceremonies and activities taken place throughout the community.
Melbourne Career Expo is one of Melbourne's premier Education and Employment events, offering a valuable platform to enhance and build the career prospects of all Victorians. Beginning Friday, the Melbourne Career Expo will reach out to those in their final years of secondary school, providing a wide range of information for further educational preferences and career choices.
The Phantom of the Opera, Broadway's longest running musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber makes a triumphant return to Melbourne at the Princess Theatre with Preview Performances running until July 25.
Starring the extraordinary Anthony Warlow in his career defining role, this sweepingly romantic hit is a breathtaking phenomenon not to be missed!
Featuring works by artists from around Australia on the theme of alleviating global poverty, all proceeds from the exhibition will go towards World Vision's Water Health Life initiatives.
National Ride To Work Day takes place in October, but this month's your chance to win a double pass for a 5-day Grape Escapade - Taste of the Hunter Valley cycling holiday!
With over 2500 workplaces already registered to host their own breakfasts after the ride, make sure YOUR workplace shares in the fun!
Register by 31 July to be part of Australia's biggest active workplace event and go into the Prize Draw!
Giant Sky Wheel
The Giant Sky Wheel at Birrarung Marr offers stunning panoramic views of Melbourne's city that are simply breathtaking!
The Giant Sky Wheel offers a view that just shouldn't be missed.
Come ride the largest travelling ferris wheel in the southern hemisphere at Birrarung Marr from 11th April to 7th October 2007.
Birrarung Marr is located adjacent to Federation Square easily accessed from Swanston Street and Flinders Street.
Melbourne has a splendid range of hotels on offer, perfect for those visiting Melbourne for special events, a show or that special luxurious weekend away from the home!
OnlyMelbourne recommends the following:
Hotel Sophia is a very stylish new 49 room boutique hotel conveniently located in the heart of Melbourne.
It is the ideal choice for the price conscious traveller who desires modern and comfortable surrounds. Hotel Sofia is set in a central city location, close to all the latest events!
Crossing the east River is an exhibition that features a trio of Melbourne-based artists who explore the rich possibilities of Chinese brush painting. On show at Chapel off Chapel Galleries, the exhibition bridges this traditional Chinese art with contemporary paintings.
Golden Screens is an exhibition that presents Japanese screens, dating from the 17th to the 19th century. The exhibition features screens that are lavishly decorated with colourful paintings, offering a beautiful glimpse into Japan's rich history.
Famous - Karin Catt Portrait Exhibition
This free exhibition presents striking celebrity portraits by high-profile Australian photographer Karin Catt, featuring portraits of celebrities such as Elton John, Muhammad Ali, Yoko Ono and many more iconic faces..
Clothes for Modern Lovers showcases the work of Katie Pye, whose experimental and highly unorthodox fashions constantly challenged the conventional limitations of fashionable dress. This exhibition charts Pye's work from the late 1970s through to 1990.
Savage Luxury details the 'thrifty thirties' during which Melbourne was elevated to Australia's modernist capital. On exhibition at Heide Museum of Modern Art until November 4, this is the first comprehensive survey of modern interiors prior to World War II.
The Guggenheim Collection: 1940s to Now is the long-awaited exhibition in the NGV's Melbourne Winter Masterpieces. This remarkable exhibition features iconic artworks from renowned artists such as Jeff Koons with his work, Sandwiches (pictured).
Dark Angels, beginning this Friday at Ondergronds Bar, is a murder mystery using a comedy format set in a strip cum fetish club. Featuring Katie Underwood, Dark Angels is a controversial new musical which is a grand mix of burlesque, mystery and comedy.
Equilibrium is the World-premiere composition by Australian composer Damien Ricketson for Grainger Quartet's July winter concerts. Performing this Thursday 26th at Collins Street Baptist Church, Ricketson's music owes much to the French tradition.
The Love of the Nightingale, based on the 3000-year-old legend of Philomele and Procne, is a story that inspired Sophocles, Ovid and Shakespeare, and continues to fascinate today. It will play in Melbourne for two performances only at Her Majesty's Theatre.
Ying Tong, by playwright Roy Smiles, playfully examines the anguish of Spike Milligan's lifetime fight against mental illness, alongside sketches that celebrate the humorous spirit and anarchy of the classic 1950s radio comedy series, The Goons.
A Man for All Seasons looks at the inevitable clash of politics and principles, an examination that's important in current times. Beginning July 18, Robert Bolt's compelling play is set against the backdrop of political and religious upheaval in King Henry VIII's England.
Sleeping Beauty is a performance where goth-punk meets classical elegance while gospel collides with glam. Running until July 28 at the Malthouse's Merlyn Theatre, Sleeping Beauty delivers the power and the passion of the great song-writers of our time.
Bistro 1 is one of Melbourne's most desirable dining destinations. With superb French and Italian cuisine and a national award winning wine list, the warm lamp lighting and attentive service create a special feeling for couples in the mood for romance.
Menulog Home Delivery is a great chance to eat fine cuisine at home! With over 300 of the best restaurants on offer, you're sure to find something to suit any taste or occasion. To find fast and easy delivery in your area, Visit Here.
Sporting Events
AFL - Round 17
With only 6 weeks to go until the Finals, there will be 4 matches taking place this week in Round 17..
Friday at Telstra Dome Western Bulldogs v West Coast at 7:40 PM
Saturday at Telstra Dome Carlton v St Kilda at 2:10 PM
Saturday at The MCG Collingwood v Brisbane Lions at 7:10 PM
Sunday at Telstra Dome Essendon v Adelaide at 2:10 PM
Netball's Commonwealth Bank Trophy sees a Double Header game this Sunday July 29th as two matches take place at the State Netball & Hockey Centre in Parkville. This is a Double Header Game, meaning there will be 2 games on the day.
Kestrels v Jaegers at 1pm.
Phoenix v Swifts at 3pm.
AFL Tour
Aussie Rules Football - Live with a Local Host! Experience the unique Australian game of football with a local host to explain the rules, bumps and brawls. Your package includes meeting your host near the ground before the match, for a welcome drink.
Your host will explain the rules and involve you in the game using competitions and awarding prizes. You will also receive a show bag of Aussie Rules goodies!
Tour Includes:
Reserved Undercover Seating
Souvenir Program
Footy Record & Club Song Sheets
Aussie Footy Food - Meat Pie and Sauce (with beer or soft drink) at Quarter Time!
Entertainment & Nightlife
interSKECTHuality is Monash Law's annual Comedy Revue, one of the most highly anticipated and enjoyed events on the university and entertainment calendar. Featuring interwoven sketches, interSKETCHuality takes stage comedy to all new heights.
Fiesta Del Mundo, held at St Kilda Sea Baths on July 29, will showcase some of Melbourne's finest Latin and Funk talent. Together with Dancers and DJ's, music lovers will forget all about winter with this funky event, the first party of its kind in Melbourne.
The Impro Cave is back to light up your Sunday nights with its monstrously funny collection of formats and shows - different every week! With shows running until August 26, you can eliminate your winter blues as Impro Melbourne lights up the stage!
The Melbourne Craft & Quilt Fair is a chance to try scrapbooking, learn crochet, embroidery, and learn to paint decorative artwork for your home, for gifts and more! Held at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre from July 26, it will be Melbourne's biggest craft shop ever!
With winter and that 'much-needed rain' already here, make the most of those rare sunny days at one of Melbourne's excellent markets, fetes and fairs.
An increasing number of food and produce markets including wine are always popping up around the suburbs. And don't forget garage sales!
Wishing Well Duo
Hear the Wishing Well duo perform a variety of easy listening contemporary folk numbers. This Sunday 12 - 2 pm.
For Melbourne Kids
Pixar - 20 Years of Animation takes you behind the scenes of the studio that created Finding Nemo, Monsters, Inc., Toy Story, Cars and The Incredibles. Pixar's fascinating processes are revealed through concept sketches, drawings and sculptures.
The Independent Games Festival Exhibition is an interactive showcase of selected winners and nominees of the Independent Games Festival. The exhibition features a stunning selection of work such as Samarost 2 (pictured).
Family Tours
Puffing Billy Tour - take a tour the whole family can enjoy with a ride on Puffing Billy, Australia's best-loved steam train! Winding its way through lush ferns and towering timbers, this fantastic tour offers may treats, including wine tasting for the adults and also a trip to Healesville Sanctuary that kids will love!
Performing from July 18 to July 29 in Rowville at Stud Park Shopping Centre, located at the corner of Stud Park & Fulham Rd.
For more ideas about what to do this week check out the What's On for July.
Community
Global Discussions: Water - This Wednesday, at the State Library Conference Centre, there will be a forum concerning Water resources and its effect on the Australian environment. The forum is the first in a series of Global Environmental Discussions.
You Can Help
There are many social causes that are relevant to people from all walks of life, many of which rely on community support to better the community or assist those who are less fortunate. This week we ask you to consider the following..
Building the Darebin Bicycle Bridge
The long overdue Darebin Bridge over the Yarra River is reaching a critical stage - 2007 is the year to show your support for closing the missing link between the Darebin Creek trail and the Main Yarra Trail.
To find out more about the much-needed bridge, and how to show your support Visit Here.
OnlyMelbourne Welcomes..
Free Online Listings - Listing your Business or Event at OnlyMelbourne is not only easy, but best of all it's FREE.. To find out more about how to join one of Melbourne's largest online communities visit here.
Each week we highlight five of the latest additions to OnlyMelbourne's ever growing guide to services, businesses and information sites for your community.
The first of the Myer Christmas Windows was not a fairy tale or famous story, it was called Santa and the Olympics - this was in 1956, the year of the Melbourne Olympic Games.
Welcome to this week's OnlyMelbourne newsletter guide to Melbourne events, exhibitions, sports and community - July 23 - July 29, 2007.
This Week.. The Melbourne International Film Festival begins, renowned actor Ian McKellan features in King Lear, National tree Day takes place, and it's a big week for Expos with the Melbourne Career Expo and Melbourne's Craft & Quilt Fair!
We also have AFL & Netball match details and much more info on many upcoming events and highlights in beautiful Melbourne, so read on and enjoy!
Melbourne International Film Festival celebrates its 56th year, presenting a diverse range of contemporary cinema that includes features, documentaries and short films.
Beginning July 25th and with over 300 films due to be screened, approximately 80 percent of the programmed films will be Australian premieres.
King Lear - The Royal Shakespeare Company will be presenting two productions performed in repertory at the Arts Centre, State Theatre - King Lear and also The Seagull. Beginning July 28, and featuring the renowned Ian McKellen, one of the world's finest stage actors, in the title role of King Lear, these special performances, held at the State Theatre, will be the only Australian performances.
National Tree Day is Australia's biggest community tree planting event when people from all walks of life work together to green up Australia. This Friday 27th will be Schools Tree Day, when all of Australia's school children plant native trees and help beautify their school grounds. Sunday 29th will be National Tree Day with many tree-planting ceremonies and activities taken place throughout the community.
Melbourne Career Expo is one of Melbourne's premier Education and Employment events, offering a valuable platform to enhance and build the career prospects of all Victorians. Beginning Friday, the Melbourne Career Expo will reach out to those in their final years of secondary school, providing a wide range of information for further educational preferences and career choices.
The Phantom of the Opera, Broadway's longest running musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber makes a triumphant return to Melbourne at the Princess Theatre with Preview Performances running until July 25.
Starring the extraordinary Anthony Warlow in his career defining role, this sweepingly romantic hit is a breathtaking phenomenon not to be missed!
Featuring works by artists from around Australia on the theme of alleviating global poverty, all proceeds from the exhibition will go towards World Vision's Water Health Life initiatives.
National Ride To Work Day takes place in October, but this month's your chance to win a double pass for a 5-day Grape Escapade - Taste of the Hunter Valley cycling holiday!
With over 2500 workplaces already registered to host their own breakfasts after the ride, make sure YOUR workplace shares in the fun!
Register by 31 July to be part of Australia's biggest active workplace event and go into the Prize Draw!
Giant Sky Wheel
The Giant Sky Wheel at Birrarung Marr offers stunning panoramic views of Melbourne's city that are simply breathtaking!
The Giant Sky Wheel offers a view that just shouldn't be missed.
Come ride the largest travelling ferris wheel in the southern hemisphere at Birrarung Marr from 11th April to 7th October 2007.
Birrarung Marr is located adjacent to Federation Square easily accessed from Swanston Street and Flinders Street.
Melbourne has a splendid range of hotels on offer, perfect for those visiting Melbourne for special events, a show or that special luxurious weekend away from the home!
OnlyMelbourne recommends the following:
Hotel Sophia is a very stylish new 49 room boutique hotel conveniently located in the heart of Melbourne.
It is the ideal choice for the price conscious traveller who desires modern and comfortable surrounds. Hotel Sofia is set in a central city location, close to all the latest events!
Crossing the east River is an exhibition that features a trio of Melbourne-based artists who explore the rich possibilities of Chinese brush painting. On show at Chapel off Chapel Galleries, the exhibition bridges this traditional Chinese art with contemporary paintings.
Golden Screens is an exhibition that presents Japanese screens, dating from the 17th to the 19th century. The exhibition features screens that are lavishly decorated with colourful paintings, offering a beautiful glimpse into Japan's rich history.
Famous - Karin Catt Portrait Exhibition
This free exhibition presents striking celebrity portraits by high-profile Australian photographer Karin Catt, featuring portraits of celebrities such as Elton John, Muhammad Ali, Yoko Ono and many more iconic faces..
Clothes for Modern Lovers showcases the work of Katie Pye, whose experimental and highly unorthodox fashions constantly challenged the conventional limitations of fashionable dress. This exhibition charts Pye's work from the late 1970s through to 1990.
Savage Luxury details the 'thrifty thirties' during which Melbourne was elevated to Australia's modernist capital. On exhibition at Heide Museum of Modern Art until November 4, this is the first comprehensive survey of modern interiors prior to World War II.
The Guggenheim Collection: 1940s to Now is the long-awaited exhibition in the NGV's Melbourne Winter Masterpieces. This remarkable exhibition features iconic artworks from renowned artists such as Jeff Koons with his work, Sandwiches (pictured).
Dark Angels, beginning this Friday at Ondergronds Bar, is a murder mystery using a comedy format set in a strip cum fetish club. Featuring Katie Underwood, Dark Angels is a controversial new musical which is a grand mix of burlesque, mystery and comedy.
Equilibrium is the World-premiere composition by Australian composer Damien Ricketson for Grainger Quartet's July winter concerts. Performing this Thursday 26th at Collins Street Baptist Church, Ricketson's music owes much to the French tradition.
The Love of the Nightingale, based on the 3000-year-old legend of Philomele and Procne, is a story that inspired Sophocles, Ovid and Shakespeare, and continues to fascinate today. It will play in Melbourne for two performances only at Her Majesty's Theatre.
Ying Tong, by playwright Roy Smiles, playfully examines the anguish of Spike Milligan's lifetime fight against mental illness, alongside sketches that celebrate the humorous spirit and anarchy of the classic 1950s radio comedy series, The Goons.
A Man for All Seasons looks at the inevitable clash of politics and principles, an examination that's important in current times. Beginning July 18, Robert Bolt's compelling play is set against the backdrop of political and religious upheaval in King Henry VIII's England.
Sleeping Beauty is a performance where goth-punk meets classical elegance while gospel collides with glam. Running until July 28 at the Malthouse's Merlyn Theatre, Sleeping Beauty delivers the power and the passion of the great song-writers of our time.
Bistro 1 is one of Melbourne's most desirable dining destinations. With superb French and Italian cuisine and a national award winning wine list, the warm lamp lighting and attentive service create a special feeling for couples in the mood for romance.
Menulog Home Delivery is a great chance to eat fine cuisine at home! With over 300 of the best restaurants on offer, you're sure to find something to suit any taste or occasion. To find fast and easy delivery in your area, Visit Here.
Sporting Events
AFL - Round 17
With only 6 weeks to go until the Finals, there will be 4 matches taking place this week in Round 17..
Friday at Telstra Dome Western Bulldogs v West Coast at 7:40 PM
Saturday at Telstra Dome Carlton v St Kilda at 2:10 PM
Saturday at The MCG Collingwood v Brisbane Lions at 7:10 PM
Sunday at Telstra Dome Essendon v Adelaide at 2:10 PM
Netball's Commonwealth Bank Trophy sees a Double Header game this Sunday July 29th as two matches take place at the State Netball & Hockey Centre in Parkville. This is a Double Header Game, meaning there will be 2 games on the day.
Kestrels v Jaegers at 1pm.
Phoenix v Swifts at 3pm.
AFL Tour
Aussie Rules Football - Live with a Local Host! Experience the unique Australian game of football with a local host to explain the rules, bumps and brawls. Your package includes meeting your host near the ground before the match, for a welcome drink.
Your host will explain the rules and involve you in the game using competitions and awarding prizes. You will also receive a show bag of Aussie Rules goodies!
Tour Includes:
Reserved Undercover Seating
Souvenir Program
Footy Record & Club Song Sheets
Aussie Footy Food - Meat Pie and Sauce (with beer or soft drink) at Quarter Time!
Entertainment & Nightlife
interSKECTHuality is Monash Law's annual Comedy Revue, one of the most highly anticipated and enjoyed events on the university and entertainment calendar. Featuring interwoven sketches, interSKETCHuality takes stage comedy to all new heights.
Fiesta Del Mundo, held at St Kilda Sea Baths on July 29, will showcase some of Melbourne's finest Latin and Funk talent. Together with Dancers and DJ's, music lovers will forget all about winter with this funky event, the first party of its kind in Melbourne.
The Impro Cave is back to light up your Sunday nights with its monstrously funny collection of formats and shows - different every week! With shows running until August 26, you can eliminate your winter blues as Impro Melbourne lights up the stage!
The Melbourne Craft & Quilt Fair is a chance to try scrapbooking, learn crochet, embroidery, and learn to paint decorative artwork for your home, for gifts and more! Held at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre from July 26, it will be Melbourne's biggest craft shop ever!
With winter and that 'much-needed rain' already here, make the most of those rare sunny days at one of Melbourne's excellent markets, fetes and fairs.
An increasing number of food and produce markets including wine are always popping up around the suburbs. And don't forget garage sales!
Wishing Well Duo
Hear the Wishing Well duo perform a variety of easy listening contemporary folk numbers. This Sunday 12 - 2 pm.
For Melbourne Kids
Pixar - 20 Years of Animation takes you behind the scenes of the studio that created Finding Nemo, Monsters, Inc., Toy Story, Cars and The Incredibles. Pixar's fascinating processes are revealed through concept sketches, drawings and sculptures.
The Independent Games Festival Exhibition is an interactive showcase of selected winners and nominees of the Independent Games Festival. The exhibition features a stunning selection of work such as Samarost 2 (pictured).
Family Tours
Puffing Billy Tour - take a tour the whole family can enjoy with a ride on Puffing Billy, Australia's best-loved steam train! Winding its way through lush ferns and towering timbers, this fantastic tour offers may treats, including wine tasting for the adults and also a trip to Healesville Sanctuary that kids will love!
Performing from July 18 to July 29 in Rowville at Stud Park Shopping Centre, located at the corner of Stud Park & Fulham Rd.
For more ideas about what to do this week check out the What's On for July.
Community
Global Discussions: Water - This Wednesday, at the State Library Conference Centre, there will be a forum concerning Water resources and its effect on the Australian environment. The forum is the first in a series of Global Environmental Discussions.
You Can Help
There are many social causes that are relevant to people from all walks of life, many of which rely on community support to better the community or assist those who are less fortunate. This week we ask you to consider the following..
Building the Darebin Bicycle Bridge
The long overdue Darebin Bridge over the Yarra River is reaching a critical stage - 2007 is the year to show your support for closing the missing link between the Darebin Creek trail and the Main Yarra Trail.
To find out more about the much-needed bridge, and how to show your support Visit Here.
OnlyMelbourne Welcomes..
Free Online Listings - Listing your Business or Event at OnlyMelbourne is not only easy, but best of all it's FREE.. To find out more about how to join one of Melbourne's largest online communities visit here.
Each week we highlight five of the latest additions to OnlyMelbourne's ever growing guide to services, businesses and information sites for your community.
The first of the Myer Christmas Windows was not a fairy tale or famous story, it was called Santa and the Olympics - this was in 1956, the year of the Melbourne Olympic Games.
Melbourne International Film Festival celebrates its 56th year, presenting a diverse range of contemporary cinema that includes features, documentaries and short films. 
King Lear - The Royal Shakespeare Company will be presenting two productions performed in repertory at the Arts Centre, State Theatre - King Lear and also The Seagull. Beginning July 28, and featuring the renowned Ian McKellen, one of the world's finest stage actors, in the title role of King Lear, these special performances, held at the State Theatre, will be the only Australian performances.
National Tree Day is Australia's biggest community tree planting event when people from all walks of life work together to green up Australia. This Friday 27th will be Schools Tree Day, when all of Australia's school children plant native trees and help beautify their school grounds. Sunday 29th will be National Tree Day with many tree-planting ceremonies and activities taken place throughout the community. 
Melbourne Career Expo is one of Melbourne's premier Education and Employment events, offering a valuable platform to enhance and build the career prospects of all Victorians. Beginning Friday, the Melbourne Career Expo will reach out to those in their final years of secondary school, providing a wide range of information for further educational preferences and career choices.
The Phantom of the Opera, Broadway's longest running musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber makes a triumphant return to Melbourne at the Princess Theatre with Preview Performances running until July 25. 
World Vision's ART4Aid Exhibition will challenge Australian artists to 'Make Poverty History' with this outstanding program. 
National Ride To Work Day takes place in October, but this month's your chance to win a double pass for a 5-day Grape Escapade - Taste of the Hunter Valley cycling holiday!
The Giant Sky Wheel at Birrarung Marr offers stunning panoramic views of Melbourne's city that are simply breathtaking! 
Hotel Sophia is a very stylish new 49 room boutique hotel conveniently located in the heart of Melbourne.
Crossing the east River is an exhibition that features a trio of Melbourne-based artists who explore the rich possibilities of Chinese brush painting. On show at Chapel off Chapel Galleries, the exhibition bridges this traditional Chinese art with contemporary paintings.
Golden Screens is an exhibition that presents Japanese screens, dating from the 17th to the 19th century. The exhibition features screens that are lavishly decorated with colourful paintings, offering a beautiful glimpse into Japan's rich history.
Famous - Karin Catt Portrait Exhibition
Clothes for Modern Lovers showcases the work of Katie Pye, whose experimental and highly unorthodox fashions constantly challenged the conventional limitations of fashionable dress. This exhibition charts Pye's work from the late 1970s through to 1990.
Savage Luxury details the 'thrifty thirties' during which Melbourne was elevated to Australia's modernist capital. On exhibition at Heide Museum of Modern Art until November 4, this is the first comprehensive survey of modern interiors prior to World War II. 
The Guggenheim Collection: 1940s to Now is the long-awaited exhibition in the NGV's Melbourne Winter Masterpieces. This remarkable exhibition features iconic artworks from renowned artists such as Jeff Koons with his work, Sandwiches (pictured).
Dark Angels, beginning this Friday at Ondergronds Bar, is a murder mystery using a comedy format set in a strip cum fetish club. Featuring Katie Underwood, Dark Angels is a controversial new musical which is a grand mix of burlesque, mystery and comedy.
Equilibrium is the World-premiere composition by Australian composer Damien Ricketson for Grainger Quartet's July winter concerts. Performing this Thursday 26th at Collins Street Baptist Church, Ricketson's music owes much to the French tradition.
The Love of the Nightingale, based on the 3000-year-old legend of Philomele and Procne, is a story that inspired Sophocles, Ovid and Shakespeare, and continues to fascinate today. It will play in Melbourne for two performances only at Her Majesty's Theatre.
Ying Tong, by playwright Roy Smiles, playfully examines the anguish of Spike Milligan's lifetime fight against mental illness, alongside sketches that celebrate the humorous spirit and anarchy of the classic 1950s radio comedy series, The Goons.
A Man for All Seasons looks at the inevitable clash of politics and principles, an examination that's important in current times. Beginning July 18, Robert Bolt's compelling play is set against the backdrop of political and religious upheaval in King Henry VIII's England. 
Sleeping Beauty is a performance where goth-punk meets classical elegance while gospel collides with glam. Running until July 28 at the Malthouse's Merlyn Theatre, Sleeping Beauty delivers the power and the passion of the great song-writers of our time.
Bistro 1 is one of Melbourne's most desirable dining destinations. With superb French and Italian cuisine and a national award winning wine list, the warm lamp lighting and attentive service create a special feeling for couples in the mood for romance. 
Saturday at Telstra Dome
Netball's Commonwealth Bank Trophy sees a Double Header game this Sunday July 29th as two matches take place at the State Netball & Hockey Centre in Parkville. This is a Double Header Game, meaning there will be 2 games on the day.
Aussie Rules Football - Live with a Local Host! Experience the unique Australian game of football with a local host to explain the rules, bumps and brawls. Your package includes meeting your host near the ground before the match, for a welcome drink. 
interSKECTHuality is Monash Law's annual Comedy Revue, one of the most highly anticipated and enjoyed events on the university and entertainment calendar. Featuring interwoven sketches, interSKETCHuality takes stage comedy to all new heights.
Fiesta Del Mundo, held at St Kilda Sea Baths on July 29, will showcase some of Melbourne's finest Latin and Funk talent. Together with Dancers and DJ's, music lovers will forget all about winter with this funky event, the first party of its kind in Melbourne.
The Impro Cave is back to light up your Sunday nights with its monstrously funny collection of formats and shows - different every week! With shows running until August 26, you can eliminate your winter blues as Impro Melbourne lights up the stage!
The Melbourne Craft & Quilt Fair is a chance to try scrapbooking, learn crochet, embroidery, and learn to paint decorative artwork for your home, for gifts and more! Held at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre from July 26, it will be Melbourne's biggest craft shop ever!
With winter and that 'much-needed rain' already here, make the most of those rare sunny days at one of Melbourne's excellent markets, fetes and fairs.
Pixar - 20 Years of Animation takes you behind the scenes of the studio that created Finding Nemo, Monsters, Inc., Toy Story, Cars and The Incredibles. Pixar's fascinating processes are revealed through concept sketches, drawings and sculptures. 
The Independent Games Festival Exhibition is an interactive showcase of selected winners and nominees of the Independent Games Festival. The exhibition features a stunning selection of work such as Samarost 2 (pictured).
Puffing Billy Tour - take a tour the whole family can enjoy with a ride on Puffing Billy, Australia's best-loved steam train! Winding its way through lush ferns and towering timbers, this fantastic tour offers may treats, including wine tasting for the adults and also a trip to Healesville Sanctuary that kids will love!
Silvers Grand Magic Circus
Global Discussions: Water - This Wednesday, at the State Library Conference Centre, there will be a forum concerning Water resources and its effect on the Australian environment. The forum is the first in a series of Global Environmental Discussions.
Building the Darebin Bicycle Bridge
