Book club
THE Open Door’s book club is a way to enjoy a wide and varied array of books in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
It’s held on the third Monday of the month.
– The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong. Monday 19 May, 7pm to 8pm. Call Trish or Jo on 9791 8664 for more information. A gold coin donation is suggested.
Well-being advice
JOURNEY to Wellbeing is part two of a City of Casey-supported program run by St Paul Apostle Parish.
It will run on six evenings and cover recognising and coping with depression, what to expect from the funeral director, protecting your rights as you age, understanding and coping with dementia in its many forms, and Christian meditation.
– St Paul Apostle Parish, 5 William Hovell Drive, Endeavour Hills. Tuesdays from 6 May, 7.30pm. Call 9700 3781 to book a place.
Aboriginal dance
DJUKI Mala – the Chooky Dancers – are exploring and re-establishing the notions of contemporary Aboriginal dance.
They marry their unique physical language with acrobatics, dance, theatre and humour.
– Drum Theatre, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. 10 May, 8pm to 9pm. Tickets from $25. Visit drumtheatre.com.au or call 8571 1666.
Walker Street’s cool
HOT and Cool is an afternoon of live music, family-friendly activities and entertainment from two of Dandenong’s premier arts venues – Heritage Hill and Walker Street Gallery.
In the hotter months, bring a picnic and enjoy tunes in Heritage Hill’s historic rose garden. During the cooler months, head to Walker Street Gallery for music.
This month, Amie Sexton and Daryl Eastcott will perform Tom Waits Re-imagined, and Soli Duo, a contemporary classical string duet.
– Walker Street Gallery, corner Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong. Sunday 11 May, 2.30pm to 4.30pm.
Market in your diary
SPRINGVALE Rotary Sunday Market is held on the second Sunday of each month.
There’s trash, treasure, plants, clothes, tools and lots more on offer.
– Opposite Sandown Park Railway Station, corner Lightwood and Lawn Road, Springvale. Sunday 11 May, 8am to 2pm. There’s a $10 booking fee for stalls and entry is a gold coin.
Car club champs
SPRINGVALE’S Sandown Racecourse will host round two of the VIC State Circuit Racing Championships (VSCRC).
The MG Car Club event will cover nine categories and feature Mustangs, Camaros, GT Falcons, Monaros, Cortinas, Minis and much more.
– Sandown Racecourse, 591-659 Princes Highway, Springvale. Friday 16, Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 May, 10am to 5pm. Call David Vernall on 0418 596 847 or email davidvernall@bigpond.com for more information.
Child’s play
MR MCGEE and the Biting Flea presents six of Pamela Allen’s best-loved stories in a theatre adaptation inspired by children’s play and found objects.
The play uses ladders, apple peelers, balloons, buckets, mops and much more and won a national award.
– Drum Theatre, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Tuesday 20 May, 10am and 1pm. The show runs for 45 minutes. Tickets are priced from $14.50. Free parking is available – ask when booking. Call 8571 1666 or visit www.drumtheatre.com.au for bookings.
Footy with a twist
AUSTRALIAN playwright David Williamson is bringing Managing Carmen to the stage in Dandenong.
Through an AFL player, Brownlow medallist and cross dresser, the play takes a satirical look at the characters behind the nation’s favourite sport.
– Drum Theatre, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Thursday 22 May, 8pm to 10pm with interval. Tickets are priced from $30. Call 8571 1666 or visit www.drumtheatre.com.au to book.
Great Scot!
DANDENONG will host a Scottish Heritage Day this month.
There’ll be Highland bands and dancing displays, Scottish horses, dog parades and more.
– Greaves Reserve, Bennet Street, Dandenong. Sunday 25 May, 10am to 3pm. Visit www.dandyshow.com.au for more information.
Food loving
THE Dandenong Food Lovers Tour features cuisine from around the world – all within walking distance in central Dandenong.
Participants can sample Indian and Sri Lankan delicacies, Afghan bread and food and an authentic Polish lunch.
– Tuesday 27 May, 9.50am to noon. $45 per person. Bookings essential. Call 8571 1377 or book at www.greaterdandenong.com. A confirmation letter with the meeting location will be sent following booking and payment.
African food tour
EXPERIENCE the warm hospitality of central Dandenong’s African traders on a two-hour tour.
They’ll prepare a feast with spices and share traditions that have been passed down for generations.
– Tuesday 27 May, 11am to 1pm. $45 per person. Bookings essential. Call 8571 1377 or book at www.greaterdandenong.com. The starting location is advised on booking.
