Things to do in Canberra this week (15-21 November)

Panels on Australian politics, 80s classic flicks and existentialist theatre, no one can say Canberra doesn’t have it all. Let us bring you the best of the coming week in the ACT.

Multiple Days

Masami Teraoka and Japanese Ukiyo-e Prints

When: 15 November to 21 November, during regular gallery hours
Where: National Gallery of Australia, Parkes
Cost: Free with ticket.

Japanese-American artist Masami Teraoka utilises the ukiyo-e classical style of woodblock prints to comment on the world around him, as well as on east-west relations and globalisation in this exhibition. The program will show his contemporary take on this age-honoured traditional style along with the original works it is inspired by, creating a seamless display of the artistic history of the style as well as its modern incarnations.

Waiting For Godot

When: 15 November to 21 November; check the website for times
Where: 15 Childers St, City West
Cost: Tickets from $45 to $59.

Irish Nobel Prize-winning playwright Samuel Beckett struck a cord when he created this absurdist tragicomedy that captured the hearts and minds of a generation. The main characters, Vladimir and Estragon, wait by a tree for the titular Godot. They don’t know who he is, what his arrival means or even when it will occur. All they know is that they must wait for whatever he brings. Seeking to answer the important questions in life – why are we here? Why do we persist? – Waiting for Godot sits comfortably among the greatest plays of the last one hundred years.

Friday

Moon photography workshop

When: Friday 15 November, 6:30 to 9:30 pm
Where: Hadlow Dr, Lake George
Cost: $390 per person, bookings via Ari Rex.

Award-winning photographer Ari Rex is inviting you to learn the secrets of lunar photography. Ari’s work has captivated millions around the world and has been featured in major publications. Learn the unique techniques needed to capture the moon, such as focus stacking, composition techniques, and camera settings. This class is open to just six participants at a time, allowing for one-on-one instruction.

Pizza & Pyjamas: The Karate Kid

When: 15 November, 6 pm
Where: ARC Cinema, National Film and Sound Archive
Cost: $15 concession, $17 full price.

The underdog classic about a young kid training for months to fight back against his bullies is on at the ARC cinema this Friday. It’s a great option for a family night out; there’s pizza on arrival (included in the ticket!), and you’re encouraged to come in your pyjamas. Relive your childhood or introduce your children to one of the classics of the 80s.

Saturday

Tuggeranong Arts Centre’s Grand Day Out

When: Saturday 16 November, 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street, Greenway
Cost: Free. Program details and booking links are available on the Tuggeranong Arts Centre.

Take part in a free day designed for the whole family at Tuggeranong Arts Centre’s Grand Day Out. Book in for a structured art, dance, or drama class, or drop in and enjoy a range of live entertainment and spontaneous art making.

Southfest 2024

When: 16 November, 10 am to 4 pm
Where: The Laneways, Tuggeranong, 216 Cowlishaw Street, Greenway
Cost: Free.

Southfest is a celebration of community spirit. Locals get together and set up stalls, markets, live music, activities, workshops and games. There are arts and crafts, family-friendly activities, and the community hub, which will host sustainability and health stalls, looking out for the community’s well-being. The live music and performances will show off the talent of the area. Come see what makes Tuggeranong special.

French Market 2024

When: 16 November, 10 am to 3 pm
Where: Alliance Française de Canberra, 66 McCaughey Street, Turner
Cost: Free entry but tickets required.

It may be winter in France but it’s summer here, so celebrate with the return of the French markets to Turner. There’s food and drink from local producers with a French theme, and once you’ve got enough nibbles and wine to last you, sit down and relax in the picnic area. There are also special activities for the kids to do and a raffle for prizes from the market partners.

Tuesday

How deliberative is Australian democracy?

When: Tuesday, 19 November, from 6:30 to 8:15 pm
Where: Juliet Room, Verity Lane
Cost: Free, but tickets required.

UC’s Centre for Deliberative Democracy and Global Governance is hosting a talk on Australian democracy, with an expert panel from La Trobe University and UC discussing the appetite in the country and abroad for more public involvement in the governmental process at a time when institutions seem inimical to change. The panel will speak about the mechanics of deliberative democracy, the process by which citizens have a greater impact on policy through debate and discussion. The Q&A at the end is an excellent opportunity to work through any questions you may have about the current political system.

Anh Do The Happiest Refugee LIVE

When: 19 November 7:30 pm
Where: Canberra Theatre Centre
Cost: Tickets from $69.90 to $74.90.

Anh Do takes his incredible life story from page to stage in this live retelling. Combining elements of stand-up, biographical fact, photos and filmed pieces to tell his life’s story from a leaky boat drifting across the sea to one of Australia’s best-loved comedians, Anh Do always resonates with his audience with his story of perseverance, courage and determination. It’s a great opportunity to listen to an inspiring Australian story.

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