What’s hip this September

No, not the replacement surgery type of ‘hip’. It’s a selection of on-trend snippets that could include places to dine, travel destinations, where to shop, what to see and visit, as well as what to watch, read and listen to, so you can stay up to date with family, friends and neighbours of all ages.

What to book

DISNEY’S The Lion King is making its triumphant return to Brisbane. More than 127 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular – one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to grace the stage. Tony Award-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story filled with hope and adventure, set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals. The Lion King opens on November 15 this year at the Lyric Theatre and runs through to March 7 next year. Tickets from $60. Go to qpac.com.au and search for ‘The Lion King’.

Back in the day…

ASK just about any man or woman over the age of 60 and they’ll tell you that “when you gotta go, you gotta go”. Thank goodness Australia has a host of free public toilets councils have built in suburbs, CBDs and along highways (unlike overseas, where tourists often have to pay for the privilege). The National Public Toilet Map (toiletmap.gov.au) lists more than 23,000 public and publicly accessible restrooms. Remember when you had to “pay a penny”, inserting it into a mechanical lock to open a cubicle? Fancier establishments such as Coles-Penneys department store in the Valley had a uniformed assistant on duty in the ladies’ toilets, keeping things clean and lines orderly.

Put it in the diary

IF YOU’RE partial to slow-cooked and smoky barbecued meats, craft beer and live music, Smoked Festival – Sunshine Coast should be to your taste. Queensland’s biggest barbecue, music and lifestyle festival has been confirmed to make its Coast debut on March 19-20 next year at Nambour Showgrounds. The announcement marks the first expansion for the festival, which drew 15,000 people across two days at its inaugural Rockhampton event. Tickets go on sale on October 2, with pre-sale access available to those who register at smokedfestival.au/sunshinecoast/subscribe/

What to hear

ROLLING Thunder – The Concert is a powerhouse celebration awakening the electrifying pulse of the ‘60s and ‘70s soundtrack that defined a generation. Showcasing guitarists Brett Garsed and Craig Newman, and drummer/percussionist Angus Burchall – longstanding members of the former Farnham Band, the concert features standout songs from the acclaimed Australian and US productions. Rock classics include Magic Carpet Ride, For What It’s Worth, Gimme Shelter, Fortunate Son, Black Magic Woman, The Letter and A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall. Rolling Thunder – The Concert comes to: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads, on January 16 (twintowns.com.au/events/rolling-thunder/); Brisbane’s Tivoli Theatre on January 21 (thetivoli.com.au/events/rolling-thunder); and The Events Centre, Caloundra, on January 23 (theeventscentre.com.au/event/rolling-thunder-the-concert/)

Where to visit

THE Red Dress has arrived at Museum of Brisbane, stitching together stories from around the world. This award-winning, 14-year, global community art project was conceived by British artist Kirstie Macleod. Every thread carries a compelling story expressed through embroidery. From 2009 to 2023, pieces of
The Red Dress travelled the globe, being embroidered on by 367 women, 11 men and two non-binary artists from 51 countries, including refugees, asylum seekers, survivors of war and disadvantaged women worldwide. The project was initially designed to spark discussions about identity, but has evolved into a powerful platform for self-expression. The Red Dress is on display until September 13, at the Museum of Brisbane, Level 3, Brisbane City Hall, from 10am-5pm daily. Entry is free. Visit museumofbrisbane.com.au/the-red-dress