Ballet Performances Sydney

DANCING AT LUGHNASA

DANCING AT LUGHNASA By Brian Friel Director Isabella Milkovitsch “I want to dance, Kate. It’s the Festival of Lughnasa. I’m only thirty-five. I want to dance.” It’s the summer of 1936, during the pagan festival of Lughnasa, and young Michael watches his five aunts navigate the fragile joys and looming hardships of rural Irish life. Brief moments of freedom, hope, and love flicker through the household only to be threatened as economic pressures and family upheaval close in. Widely regarded as Brian Friel’s masterpiece, this semi-autobiographical memory play is a haunting and affectionate portrait of five unmarried sisters whose fierce spirit and resilience shine even as their world begins to change forever. Please purchase your own preview tickets via the link below & only then RSVP ATTEND. The show starts at 7.30 pm so I will meet you about half an hour before. https://newtheatre.org.au/dancing-at-lughnasa/ The membership fee is available via the link below. Discounts and events are for paid members only, denoted with SUPPORTER 26 titles. https://www.meetup.com/theatretimesydney/events/312570533/ Any comments or questions please leave a message below or if on the day of the event text me on 0498826506 Ta Maggy

Real-World Performance Testing for Event-Driven Architectures & Contract Testing

This month we have a great event for you. **FDJ United** will be hosting and providing a panel of three experts to talk about **performance testing for event-driven architectures**. We will also have **Craig Risi** from Old Mutual, speaking live from South Africa on the topic of **Contract Testing** courtesy of TestingMind Conferences There will also be a quiz to win a free ticket for the TestingMind Sydney Conference on May 22nd! First Topic: **Real-World Performance Testing Approaches for Event-Driven Architectures** **Anusha Radhakrishnan (FDJ United)** **Abitha Natarajan (Kindred Group)** **Vardan Somani (FDJ United)** Abstract "In an event-driven architecture, validating true end-to-end (E2E) platform performance is critical, yet inherently complex due to asynchronous flows, distributed components, and eventual consistency patterns. Traditional testing approaches often fall short in providing holistic visibility across the entire event lifecycle. In this session, we present how we addressed the challenge of measuring and validating E2E performance across a distributed, event-driven platform. We will share our approach to designing a comprehensive performance testing strategy, overcoming observability gaps, and building a lightweight monitoring solution that enables real-time performance measurement across services. Our journey highlights practical lessons, architectural considerations, and how continuous performance visibility can be embedded into the engineering culture—shifting performance from a reactive activity to a measurable, ongoing capability." Second Talk: **Contracts for Hire**. **Craig Risi (Old Mutual, South Africa)** Microservices, APIs, and integrations—modern software systems are a tangled web of dependencies. One small change in a service can trigger a cascade of failures across the ecosystem. So how do we prevent integration nightmares *before* they happen? **Enter contract testing!** In this talk, we'll explore how contract testing acts as a **safety net**, ensuring that services play nicely together *without relying on slow, brittle end-to-end tests*. We'll cover: * **What contract testing is (and what it's NOT!)** * **Why mocking your consumers is a dangerous game** * **How contract tests keep your pipeline fast and your deployments smooth** * **Live demo: breaking a contract and watching chaos unfold (then fixing it, of course!)** Whether you're an API developer, tester, or DevOps engineer, this session will show you why contract testing is the **secret weapon** for reliable, scalable systems. Let’s break some contracts (safely) and have some fun! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- This is a great chance to learn more about performance testing and meet and network with your colleagues. We will have our usual open mic for job seekers and recruiters, so jobseekers are most welcome! Not to be missed!

Cigar Lounge at Rouge – Darling Harbour (Open Daily)

Rouge offers a refined rooftop setting in the heart of Darling Harbour for guests who appreciate premium cigars, quality drinks, and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere. Open daily from **5:00PM to Midnight**, our terrace provides an open-air environment overlooking Cockle Bay Wharf, with a dedicated space for cigar enthusiasts alongside a premium shisha experience. While the lounge is available every evening, Rouge also hosts a curated weekly program: • **Tuesday & Saturday** – Salsa from 8:00PM • **Wednesday** – Live Jazz from 7:30PM The venue transitions seamlessly from a relaxed early evening setting into a vibrant nightlife atmosphere as the night progresses. Guests can enjoy: • Harbour-facing rooftop terrace • Premium cigars available in venue • Shisha service • Private booth seating • Bottle service • Canapé options for group bookings Whether visiting individually or as part of a group, Rouge offers a distinctive harbourfront experience. For private areas and group bookings, advance reservations are recommended. 📍 Rouge Bar – Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour 🕔 Open daily \| 5:00PM – Midnight 📞 0488 388 288 📧 rougedarlingharbour@gmail.com

Confidence vs Competence: Why We Still Doubt Ourselves

In a world that constantly pushes us to be "confident," why do we still find ourselves questioning our abilities? How often do we doubt our worth, even when we have the skills, knowledge, and experience to back it up? This event will explore the complex relationship between confidence and competence, shedding light on why they don’t always go hand-in-hand. Designed specifically for women, **Ruchi Motial-Suri** will lead this powerful conversation, where she’ll guide us through why capable, talented women often struggle with self-doubt, and how we can shift from underestimating ourselves to embracing self-belief. Expect open discussions, inspiring stories, and actionable insights that you can immediately apply to your own life. Together, we'll dive into the psychological and societal factors behind self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the fear of failure—even when we’re highly skilled at what we do. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, leader, or just starting out, this event is the perfect opportunity to expand your network, engage in meaningful conversations, and become part of a vibrant, empowering community. There’s incredible strength in women coming together to share ideas and support each other. By the end of this event, you'll have the tools to challenge your self-doubt and build a more resilient sense of self. Don’t miss the chance to stop second-guessing yourself and start trusting your skills with confidence. Join us and take the first step toward embracing the power within you! Register to attend. Open to members and non-members of [https://westrydechamber.wavecrm.com.au/event/01KM7HTY93KTPWXQR3ZXDTQGW3](https://westrydechamber.wavecrm.com.au/event/01KM7HTY93KTPWXQR3ZXDTQGW3) **ABOUT** ***Ruchi Motial-Suri*** has over 30 years’ corporate leadership experience with blue chip organisations in Asia, Australia & UK, specialising in turning around under-performing teams.

🔥 "Salsa en la Calle" | Latin Dance Wednesdays at Hay St Market 🎶💃

Join us every Wednesday for **Salsa en la Calle**, a fun mid-week Latin dance night in the heart of Sydney CBD at **Hay St Market**. “Salsa en la Calle” means **“Salsa in the street,”** inspired by the social street dancing culture of Latin America where music, community and dancing come together in open spaces. ### What happens on the night • 💃 Free beginner-friendly salsa lesson at **6:00pm** • 🎧 Latin DJs playing salsa, bachata and Latin hits • 🎶 Live Latin musicians and performers on rotation • 🕺 Social dancing all night • 🍹 Food, drinks and bars all around the market The event takes place in Hay St Market’s **entertainment area with a dancefloor, stage, lighting and sound**, creating a great atmosphere for live music and dancing. You’re welcome to come alone, with friends, or meet people there. Our events are friendly and relaxed, and beginners are always welcome. ### Event Details 📍 Hay St Market, Sydney CBD 📅 Every Wednesday 🕕 From 6pm 🎟 Free Entry Organised by **Go Dance Sydney** in partnership with **Hay St Market**. Come after work, grab a drink, enjoy the music and dance with Sydney’s Latin community.

LETS MEET FOR THE ‘MANLY FIG’ AT SEAFORTH BOWLING CLUB

Live Jazz & Jam Session Sydney | Rooftop at Rouge Darling Harbour

Looking for live jazz in Sydney or a midweek jam session? Join us every Wednesday at Rouge Bar, Darling Harbour for a relaxed night of **live jazz Sydney style** with an open jam and rooftop views. 🎶 Open jam from 6:00PM (plug & play setup) 🎷 Rougettes Jazz Band live from 7:30PM 🎶 Jam session continues later Musicians welcome — singers and instrumentalists can jump in anytime. Enjoy the rooftop setting with: • Harbour views at Darling Harbour • Cigar lounge area • Shisha available • Full bar service 📍 Rouge Bar – Cockle Bay Wharf 🗓 Every Wednesday A great spot for **live jazz in Sydney**, meeting musicians, and enjoying a relaxed midweek atmosphere.

💃 Latin Nights by the Bay – Darling Harbour

Join us for one of Sydney’s favourite outdoor Latin dance nights at beautiful Darling Harbour. Every Friday evening Palm Grove transforms into an open-air dance floor where the community comes together to enjoy Salsa, Bachata and Latin rhythms by the water. The night begins with a **free dance class at 6:00pm**, followed by social dancing, DJs, live bands and special performances throughout the season. Whether you're a regular dancer or completely new to Latin dancing, everyone is welcome. Come for the class, stay for the music, and enjoy a relaxed night of dancing by the harbour. Latin Nights by the Bay is **produced and organised by Go Dance Sydney**, working together with **Place Management NSW and Darling Harbour** to bring Latin music and dance to the heart of the city. ### What to expect 💃 Free dance class at **6:00pm** 🎶 Salsa & Bachata social dancing 🎧 Guest DJs and live music across the season 🌆 Beautiful outdoor setting at Darling Harbour 👋 Friendly and welcoming community vibe 📍 **Palm Grove – Darling Harbour** ⏰ **Fridays \| 6:00pm – 10:00pm** Bring your friends, enjoy the sunset, and dance the night away.

NEW BEGINNER FLAMENCO COURSE- SYDNEY CBD

🔥 𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗼 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀 – 𝗦𝘆𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝗖𝗕𝗗 (8 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝘀) 🔥 Looking for a fun and creative way to move after work? Curious about flamenco or want to try something new in Sydney? Join our 𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲, designed for absolute beginners in a welcoming and supportive environment. 💃 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻: • Flamenco footwork (zapateado) • Arm technique & posture • Musicality and rhythm • A short choreography (Tientos style) No experience needed — just bring your energy ✨ ✨ 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗷𝗼𝗶𝗻? • Perfect for beginners • Great mid-week activity after work • Connect with a friendly, creative community • Experience Spanish music & culture 💃 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗹𝗲 (𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀) 7:00 – 8:00 pm 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘀 – Technique & Coordination → Learn the fundamentals of castanets, posture & elegant arm movement 8:00 – 9:00 pm 𝗙𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗼 𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 – Tientos → Learn a beautiful, expressive flamenco choreography 📍 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Endless Dance Studio – Studio 4 Sydney CBD (5 min walk from Town Hall Station) 💰 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 Casual class: $30 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲 (8 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝘀): $200 → $25 per class 𝗙𝘂𝗹𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲 (𝗕𝗼𝘁𝗵 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀): $352 → $22 per class ⭐ 50% OFF your first class 👉 𝗟𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘀 – 𝗥𝗦𝗩𝗣 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲 📲 Follow us: Instagram: @bondiflamenco Facebook: Bondi Flamenco

FREE Salsa & Bachata night at The Mona on Thursday 23rd April 2026

Join us for an unforgettable **FREE Latin night** at **The Mona Vale Hotel** on **Thursday 23rd April 2026** 💃🕺 Start your evening with great vibes and even better deals—enjoy delicious **$12 margaritas from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM** while you catch up with friends or meet new ones. At **8:30 PM**, hit the dance floor with a fun and engaging **Cuban salsa & Rueda de Casino class** led by JR & Angel—perfect for getting you warmed up and into the rhythm. Then from **9:15 PM**, the energy lifts as **DJ Cus** takes over, spinning the best **salsa and bachata tracks all night long**. Whether you're there to learn, social dance, or just soak in the atmosphere, this is your night to move, connect, and enjoy. **Free entry, no partner needed—just bring your energy and let’s dance!**

Global Book Crawl x Teahouses of Sydney: CBD

"You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me." So said author CS Lewis of the strong link between books and tea. For the [Global Book Crawl](https://www.globalbookcrawl.org/cities-sydney) (20-26 April 2026), I'm pairing some book browsing sessions with tea meetups. Come join me? **10am:** Abbey's/Galaxy Bookshop, 131 York Street, Sydney **11am**: The Palace Tea Room, QVB **Noon**: Kinokuniya, The Galeries (+ Dulcet Cafe) *Browsing books is free, tea at your own expense.*

Lane Cove Swing Dance Class - FREE TRIAL

Come dance with us in Lane Cove on Monday nights!! First class is free to come try! Meet new people, keep active and learn to dance! **All our venues/classes** Monday Marrickville Swing / Lindy Hop Monday Lane Cove Swing / Lindy Hop Tuesday Marrickville Rock'n'Roll Tuesday Baulkham Hills Rock'n'Roll Wednesday Baulkham Hills Swing / Lindy Hop So how do you get started? Just come along! Tell the door person it's your first class for your free trial. You don’t need a partner so coming by yourself is totally fine, you’ll make friends in no time. Key Details • No booking required • Free trial then $23 cash or card at the door (We have pass options available at the venue too) • Location: Living & Learning Centre - 180 Longueville Road, Lane Cove Class Times • 7pm Beginners - Ideal for total beginners or those refining basics. • 8pm Social practice and mingling. • 8.15pm Intermediate For more information visit [www.thejitterbug.club](http://www.thejitterbug.club/) or get in touch with Siobhan 0432 589 099 or email [dancing@thejitterbug.club](mailto:dancing@thejitterbug.club)