North & West Melbourne Upcoming Events.
Paul Quinn (A Bad Penguin)
The Bad Penguins are a two piece band from Ireland who have recently relocated in Melbourne. The Bad Penguins have been playing in an array of venues across Europe, America and throughout Ireland for the past 5 years. We originally met while doing independent residencies in separate bars in Benidorm Spain and struck up a friendship from which The Bad Penguins was born.
Paul is the singer and guitar player of the band and has played in both cover and original bands over the years. He co-wrote and produced his first Album in 2000. Paul has played in festivals and bars across Europe before meeting Ciaran. Since the formation of The Bad Penguins. In 2004 they have toured together as a band and also maintained independent projects.
Playing a wide variety of music from Irish Standards to modern pop.
Songbirds
Songs, rhymes and stories will engage your budding bookworm’s mind and introduce them to the fun and rhythm of language.
Programs run during school terms and stop during school holidays.
Age: Newborn to 18 months.
Term 1: Monday 3 February to Friday 4 April
Term 2: Tuesday 22 April to Friday 4 July
Term 3: Monday 21 July to Friday 19 September
Term 4: Monday 6 October to Friday 12 December
4, 5, 6 Club
Join the fortnightly 4, 5, 6 club for an epic after school adventure packed with stories, craft and games!
Unleash your creativity, make new friends and dive into a world of fun.
Age: 4 to 6 years.
This is a free event // Booking not required
Elly McK & The Unbelievers
Based in Melbourne, Australia, Elly McK & The Unbelievers are passionate about creating evocative music. Their journey began in 2023, with all four members united in their exploration of the Country, Americana, and Roots sounds they love.
Their first single, ‘Down On Your Luck,” garnered significant radio airplay nationwide and found a global audience on streaming platforms.
With their second single, “Bones,” sparking much anticipated excitement, the band is poised to make a lasting impact on the music scene.
Reactions to Bones:
“…a killer guitar solo from Monty Price, the song is steeped in a kind of Mexicali shimmer and twang, like Lindi Ortega fronting Calexico”
– Chris (Post To Wire)
“I really love this track, I think it’s great, just put it on repeat at home.” – Salty (Rhinestone Cowgirl), 4ZZZ
“What a ripper!” – Ernie (Swinging Doors), PBS FM
Olivia Lay
Olivia Lay is a singer/songwriter known for her compelling guitar playing and story telling inspired by the likes of John Butler, Newton Faulkner and John Mayer. Some of her career highlights include supporting Thirsty Merc, Ruby Fields, Baker Boy and Nathan Cavaleri, as well as performing at NYE on the Hill festival, Queenscliff Music Festival and winning the regional battle of the bands competition (2019).
The Grand Biannual Object Merchant
The Grand Annual Object Merchant is an experimental retail event that showcases work from emerging makers across disciplines including fashion, art, ceramics, jewellery, industrial design and more.
On the opening night, Friday 28 February, come along to the Grand Annual Object Merchant Ball for your chance to see the market before anyone else, witness the opening ceremony and enjoy a carefully selected line-up of music, dance, performance and projection art.
The Grand Annual Object Merchant marks the second large-scale celebration of community, bringing together over 60 highly skilled practices showcasing and selling their wares in one epic location.
This is free event.
The Grand Biannual Object Merchant
The Grand Annual Object Merchant is an experimental retail event that showcases work from emerging makers across disciplines including fashion, art, ceramics, jewellery, industrial design and more.
On the opening night, Friday 28 February, come along to the Grand Annual Object Merchant Ball for your chance to see the market before anyone else, witness the opening ceremony and enjoy a carefully selected line-up of music, dance, performance and projection art.
The Grand Annual Object Merchant marks the second large-scale celebration of community, bringing together over 60 highly skilled practices showcasing and selling their wares in one epic location.
This is free event.
The Grand Biannual Object Merchant
The Grand Annual Object Merchant is an experimental retail event that showcases work from emerging makers across disciplines including fashion, art, ceramics, jewellery, industrial design and more.
On the opening night, Friday 28 February, come along to the Grand Annual Object Merchant Ball for your chance to see the market before anyone else, witness the opening ceremony and enjoy a carefully selected line-up of music, dance, performance and projection art.
The Grand Annual Object Merchant marks the second large-scale celebration of community, bringing together over 60 highly skilled practices showcasing and selling their wares in one epic location.
This is free event.
Circus Arcana
Darling and Daring Circus presents a brand new monthly show; Circus Arcana!
Inspired by the characters that grace your tarot deck, your favourite talented circus artists from Carnival of Karactors and Kabarisque take on the roles of these mystical, intuitive tarot figures.
Prepare yourself to be taken on a journey of circus and comedy and magic through the eyes of these deities.
Tickets $40
Kabarisqué
Is it getting hot in here?
Darling and Daring invites you to a night of circus and burlesque at Club Voltaire's intimate 50-seat theatre. Meet the artists of Kabarisqué in this monthly cabaret show delivering you a night of seduction, spice and all things nice.
Performing on the third Saturday of every month. Explore down the little lane to find them.
Tickets $40
Circus Arcana
Darling and Daring Circus presents a brand new monthly show; Circus Arcana!
Inspired by the characters that grace your tarot deck, your favourite talented circus artists from Carnival of Karactors and Kabarisque take on the roles of these mystical, intuitive tarot figures.
Prepare yourself to be taken on a journey of circus and comedy and magic through the eyes of these deities.
Tickets $40
Kabarisqué
Is it getting hot in here?
Darling and Daring invites you to a night of circus and burlesque at Club Voltaire's intimate 50-seat theatre. Meet the artists of Kabarisqué in this monthly cabaret show delivering you a night of seduction, spice and all things nice.
Performing on the third Saturday of every month. Explore down the little lane to find them.
Tickets $40
The mighty ghosts of Erin
The Mighty Ghosts of Erin bring a feast of Irish folk and ballads, sprinkled with a touch of trad and plenty of craic. Tony and Carmel have been performing together for over 20 years, touring beautiful spots around the globe and gracing major festivals with their heartfelt music. For them, it’s all about the love of music and the joy it brings.
Tony, father to Irish singer-songwriter Dan McCabe, and Carmel, his stepmum, will join Dan as special guests on his Australian tour this May, with Melbourne as one of the stops. The musical tradition runs deep in the family, with younger members Finn (12) and Roisin (14) also taking the stage on occasion, making music a true family affair.
With songs like Dirty Old Town, Whiskey in the Jar, The Men Behind the Bar, and classics from legends like The Wolfe Tones, The Dubliners, and The Fureys, The Mighty Ghosts of Erin celebrate the great traditions of Irish music and storytelling.
English Reading Circle
Read along with others and practice pronunciation. Improve your English comprehension and vocabulary. Meet new people in a safe, welcoming environment.
The program welcomes both native and EAL (English as an additional language) speakers.
Open Mic Night!
Poetry, Music, Song, Comedy and Storytelling
*** Sign up from 5pm / Music from 7pm ***
Yolanda Ingley II Trio
There’s a defining old world charm to Melbourne songstress Yolanda Ingley II – equally wielding smoky vocals and impassioned heart, Yolanda’s songs dip into soul, blues and jazz with inherent sophistication that draw to mind the greats of eras passed.
Yolanda is playing two sets at The Poet from 8-10pm.
Proudly supported by the Victorian Government through the Community Support Fund and Creative Victoria delivered by Music Victoria.
Tribute Tuesdays - Moonee Valley Drifters play the songs of Lefty Frizzell
Poet faves The Moonee Valley Drifters play the songs of Lefty Frizzell
STEAM After School at North Melbourne Library
STEAM on up and explore the fun of science, technology, engineering, art and maths with hands-on activities.
Age: 7 to 12 years.
This is a free event // Booking not required
The Tipplers
The Tipplers return to The Poet - bringing all sorts of goodness and greatness to our Sunday eve.
This show is proudly supported by the Victorian Government through the Community Support Fund and Creative Victoria delivered by Music Victoria.
Kabarisqué
Is it getting hot in here?
Darling and Daring invites you to a night of circus and burlesque at Club Voltaire's intimate 50-seat theatre. Meet the artists of Kabarisqué in this monthly cabaret show delivering you a night of seduction, spice and all things nice.
Performing on the third Saturday of every month. Explore down the little lane to find them.
Tickets $40
Untitled Event
A graduate exhibition featuring works by 15 artists from the 2024 graduating cohorts of VCA, RMIT & Monash University. This showcase provides emerging artists with a gallery platform and an entry point into the commercial art industry.
Featuring:
Alannah Smith, Anabelle Stonehouse, Catherine Weng, Charlotte Harvey, Christina Rankin, Ella Rizzi, Emmica Lore, JAMEXSII, Kimberley Turner, Laura de Carteret, Margarita Sierralta, Mythra Schwartz, Paolo Dax, Sam Meekan, Samuel Woodman
Exhibition Dates: 12 – 28 February
Alongside this, a prize will be announced by Gallery Director Anna Prifti at the exhibition opening:
• 12-month representation in the West End Art Space stable
Gallery Hours:
Wednesday - Saturday: 11 am - 4pm
The Backyard Banjo Club
The Backyard Banjo Club is a four-piece trad-jazz/bluegrass bonanza. Think Tom Waits meets Django Reinhardt and plays a jazz cover of a Radiohead tune. High energy up-tempo jazz and the occasional sultry ballad, good times guaranteed.
The Crutchie Push: Book Launch
In the late 1890s a gang emerged in North Melbourne. They separated themselves from other gangs most notably owing to the fact that their two leaders were leg amputees. The 'Crutchie Push' favoured crutches for both mobility and as a weapon of choice. They would go on to become one of the most notoriously blood-thirsty gangs of all time and to terrorise North Melbourne.
The Crutchie Push biography takes you on through the history of this incredible gang starting with their formation, their key members, the two clans of the Crutchie Push, the Fitzroy Vendetta, and the passing of their last leader, Valentine Keating.
Join author Roy Maloy as he presents a deep dive into the history of the this gang, giving live historical weapons demonstrations, and answering a Q&A.
The book will be available for sale in hard copy.
Tickets - $28.50
Georgia Rodgers Trio
Bringing to the stage a combination of Blues and Jazz marrying an array of ambient guitar riffs and skilful use of a loop pedal; Georgia Rodgers is an artist you won't want to miss.
Georgia is not only well known for her incredible guitar skills but also her voice and the journey she takes listeners on within her own compositions. This young musician takes the spotlight and captivates audiences through her ability to sing with raw emotion, joined with her iconic Telecaster Georgia's voice and her musicality act as partners in crime, inviting all listeners to be a part of the beautiful love affair.
As a whole, Georgia creates an experience to share, not just an outstanding performance.
Tribute Tuesdays - Andy Baylor plays the Bob Dylans Country songs
Andy Baylor plays the Bob Dylans Country songs
Songbirds
Songs, rhymes and stories will engage your budding bookworm’s mind and introduce them to the fun and rhythm of language.
Programs run during school terms and stop during school holidays.
Age: Newborn to 18 months.
Term 1: Monday 3 February to Friday 4 April
Term 2: Tuesday 22 April to Friday 4 July
Term 3: Monday 21 July to Friday 19 September
Term 4: Monday 6 October to Friday 12 December
Dan Webster and Emily Lawler (UK)
UK festival favourites Dan and Emily bring to the stage a unique blend of English folk music fused with country/Americana.
An energising combination of distinctive warm and powerful vocals and guitar interlaced with a dexterous meld of celtic- and country- style fiddling and beautiful harmonies mesmerises a multi-genre audience.
Circus Arcana
Darling and Daring Circus presents a brand new monthly show; Circus Arcana!
Inspired by the characters that grace your tarot deck, your favourite talented circus artists from Carnival of Karactors and Kabarisque take on the roles of these mystical, intuitive tarot figures.
Prepare yourself to be taken on a journey of circus and comedy and magic through the eyes of these deities.
Tickets $40
English Reading Circle
Read along with others and practice pronunciation. Improve your English comprehension and vocabulary. Meet new people in a safe, welcoming environment.
The program welcomes both native and EAL (English as an additional language) speakers.
Open Mic Night!
Poetry, Music, Song, Comedy and Storytelling
*** Sign up from 5pm / Music from 7pm ***
Wine Women Whiskey Rubita
Rubita will be returning to The Drunken Poet this February 5th with fresh songs and instruments.
She’ll be joined by Henry Smithers on bass guitar, delivering soulful bass lines and groovy solos, along with Christian Silva, a world-class percussion player showcasing an array of rhythms and beats.
Tying it all together with Rubita’s smooth guitar chords and velvety vocals, the band will perform an array of bossa nova, pop, and jazz-inspired tunes written by Rubita.
Come along for a night with the Rubita Trio at one of your favorite local spots—The Drunken Poet.
Justin Vilchez & Thomas Kendle play the songs of Bill Monroe
A mandolinist from Australia, Justin Vilchez began his musical journey playing music at the age of eight. His love for melody led him to pursue a bachelor's degree in jazz and contemporary music. He then ventured overseas to Canada, where he joined the well-established bluegrass band, The Local Group, in 2018.
With the band, he has recorded two albums and toured extensively across western Canada, performing at notable festivals such as Blueberry Bluegrass and Northern Lights Bluegrass. Justin's versatile talent allows him to excel in various genres, but his youthful and dynamic approach to Bluegrass has earned him the admiration of both fans and industry professionals.
The folk ethic remains a strong influence in his music, taking inspiration from bluegrass greats such as Bill Monroe, Buzz Busby, and Joe Val. Bridging the gap between long-standing tradition and youthful flair, Justin continues to entertain and inspire audiences around the world with his unique take on tradition as well as his original compositions.
He is currently playing as a member of dynamic Bluegrass outfit The High Street Drifters (Aus) The Local Group (CAN) as well as teaching and session work in his hometown Melbourne, Australia.
STEAM After School at North Melbourne Library
STEAM on up and explore the fun of science, technology, engineering, art and maths with hands-on activities.
Age: 7 to 12 years.
This is a free event // Booking not required
The Strayaways Duo - Alex & Holly
The Strayaways Duo Alex (fiddle) & Holly (guitar) are a Celtic folk duo based in Melbourne playing your favourite Irish jigs, reels & ballads. The music ranges from joyously fast and crazy to slow and heartrendingly melancholic, with calm and sober melodies played at a reasonable pace also.
February Exhibitions
Visit the new art exhibitions at Kings Artist Run during February.
In Gallery One is 'sorry, I'm all out of spoons' by Ronen Jafari and Juliette Berkeley. 'Body of Law' by Camille Laddawan is in Gallery Two. In the Stray Voltage video space is 'Indo Me' by Leo Bagus Purnomo.
Come along to the opening launch on Thursday 30 January, 6–8pm. All are welcome.
The Stragglers
The Stragglers are a 3 piece all female, bastard-bluegrass band.
Traditional instrumentation with non-traditional themes. The Stragglers have mastered the art of shit talking to 3 chords. Not for the feint-hearted, but maybe for the broken and definitely for the hungover. .
Tribute Tuesday: Rory Newman plays the songs of James Taylor
Rory Newman plays the songs of James Taylor.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering his iconic melodies, Rory’s heartfelt renditions will transport you straight to the soul-soothing sounds of JT.
Nick Charles
Nick Charles is known internationally as “Australia’s virtuoso of acoustic roots and blues”. His 35+ year career has seen him accumulate every conceivable accolade including Port Fairy Artist of the Year and The AGE Blues album of the year.
He’s toured with artists including John Hammond, Guy Clarke, Ralph McTell, Robyn Ford and BB King touring the US 13 times in recent years and releasing over 20 albums worldwide.
This is dazzling fingerpicking roots magic and a lifetime’s stories and songs from the world’s musical highways. In the words of Bruce Elder from the Sydney Morning Herald “he plays guitar like an angel!”
The Westernairs
The Westernairs deliver authentic Country/Honky Tonk and Western Swing music in the traditional 1950s/60s style, covering songs from famous Country artists such as Hank Williams, George Jones, Faron Young, and Marty Robbins, plus other lesser known Country/Hillbilly stars of the 1950s/60s. Their repertoire also includes an ever increasing list of self penned tunes by Kieron himself. The music is guaranteed to have your feet a tappin’ and your body movin’.
School Holiday Street Art Workshop
The holiday workshops offer an exclusive chance to learn a variety of spray-painting techniques from a renowned street artist at the famous Blender Studios.
Street art workshop options:
Freehand Street Art Workshop
Learn the correct spray-painting techniques from a demonstrating artist and then create your own designs and a final masterpiece on a 90x90cm board.
Make your Own Stencil Street Art Workshop
You'll develop your own design, turn it into a stencil and cut it out. The group will get a street art demonstration and learn how to use spray paint before creating a final stencil piece on a canvas that you can take home.
Suits ages 10+ years. All materials, protective gear, plus light snacks are provided.
Children $10
School Holiday Street Art Workshop
The holiday workshops offer an exclusive chance to learn a variety of spray-painting techniques from a renowned street artist at the famous Blender Studios.
Street art workshop options:
Freehand Street Art Workshop
Learn the correct spray-painting techniques from a demonstrating artist and then create your own designs and a final masterpiece on a 90x90cm board.
Make your Own Stencil Street Art Workshop
You'll develop your own design, turn it into a stencil and cut it out. The group will get a street art demonstration and learn how to use spray paint before creating a final stencil piece on a canvas that you can take home.
Suits ages 10+ years. All materials, protective gear, plus light snacks are provided.
Children $10