Wake Up Sydney!

Wake Up Sydney!

The World can only Change from Within! - Eckhart Tolle Wake Up Sydney!

Events.

Your regular dose of ideas, inspiration & community.

Enjoy a year-long series of events dedicated to kindness, courage and inner well-being. We bring together inspiring authors, artists and change agents to explore fresh ways to bring the power of wisdom and love into action. Simply bring your good self and enjoy evenings of casual elegance offering talk shows + film screenings + meditation + live music and kindness awards for local change agents. Kick back and enjoy diverse & life changing ideas - from spirituality to science, wellness to business and the arts. You'll also meet other kind, curious and like minded folks over a drink or two. It will tickle your mind and open your heart! Be notified of events by joining the tribe.


Upcoming Events.

 
Australian Premier: I AM - SOLD OUT!
Wed 10th April, Event Cinema Bondi Junction, 7pm, $28

What can we do to make the world better? After a life-threatening cycling accident, legendary Hollywood producer Tom Shadyac (Ace Ventura, The Nutty Professor, Bruce Almighty) woke up to the realization that his life of private jets and mansions did not buy happiness. He sold his huge house, moved to a mobile home and took a film crew around the world in pursuit of so
me answers. I AM is an entertaining and deeply life-affirming film about transformation, kindness and our profound connection to one another. American Beauty producer, Bruce Cohen said “Everyone needs to see this film!”


FILM: Miss Representation 
Mon 29th April, Event Cinema Bondi Junction, 7pm, $28

Mis
s Representation brings together some of America's most influential women in politics, news and entertainment to give audiences an inside look at the media's message and depiction of women. The film explores women's under-representation in positions of power by challenging their limited and often disparaging portrayals in the media. Miss Representation takes the stand that the media is portraying women's primary values as their youth, beauty and sexuality - rather than their capacity as leaders.



WORKSHOP: Spiritual Transformation 
 Sat 1st June, Mary MacKillop Place, 10am - 5pm, Early Bird $195

Spiritual transformation is about living with a heart that is fully open to the singular beauty of each moment. It includes our capacity to express love in every area of our lives. This one-day workshop offers powerful training in skills, practices and insights that awaken your spiritual life. Andrew Harvey is an internationally acclaimed poet, write and spiritual teacher. He has been driven by one simple belief: the world must return to the heart-centered ways of the Divine Feminine and the mystics.



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Past Events.


Special Evening: Raising Girls SOLD OUT!
Tuesday 12 March, Art Gallery NSW, 6pm

Special Guest:
Steve Biddulph, Best Selling Author
Meditation:
Tami Roos, Author + Meditation teacher to the Sydney Swans
Musician:
Patrick James, Winner Triple J unearthed & Mongolian throat singer Bukhu
Kindness Award: Rachael de Zylva, BikeGal.com 
Connection Session: Complimentary wine, chocolates & our signature conversation cards

How do we parent girls for a kinder world? Steve Biddulph, a world-renowned psychologist will share the story behind his groundbreaking new book that helps our daughters grow up wise, soulful and strong. You’ll also be treated to meditation with author Tami Roos and music from the Triple J Unearthed Winner, Patrick James. We’ll also be celebrating Rachael de Zylva from BikeGal.com


Special Sydney Screenings: The Whale SOLD OUT! 
Avalon 15 Oct & Bondi Junction 17 Oct, 7pm

THE WHALE is a deeply touching story of friendship, kindness and a must-see film for anyone who cares for living beings on our planet. This beautiful film illustrates the mysterious and profound connection between us all. Produced and narrated by Ryan Reynolds (X-Men) and award winning actress Scarlett Johansson, THE WHALE is a true story of a young male orca, nicknamed Luna, who loses contact with his family and seems determined to make friends with people. As rambunctious and surprising as a visitor from another planet, Luna endears himself to humans with his drive to make contact, which leads to laughter, conflict and heartfelt connections.


Special Event: Power of Compassion SOLD OUT! Check out the photos!
Tues 30 Oct, Art Gallery NSW, 6:45
Special Guest:
Dr James Doty, Stanford University
Musicians: Nila Hagglund (Tabla) and Rosie Catalano (singer-songwriter)

Join us for an evening of storytelling and music as Dr Doty shares his story of being raised in poverty to now leading a world-class centre dedicated to bringing more compassion into the world. You’ll also be treated to the beautiful music of Nila Hagglund (Tabla) and Rosie Catalano (singer-songwriter). Come along and be inspired to be kinder to yourself and others.

Dr James Doty is a neurosurgeon, entrepreneur, philanthropist and founder of the Centre for Compassion (CCARE) at Stanford University. The creation of CCARE led the Dalai Lama to make the largest personal contribution he has ever made to scientific research. This was followed by financial support from Google executives.

Centre for Compassion, Stanford University


Premiere Screening: May I be Frank
Wed 27th June, Randwick Ritz, 7pm

May I be Frank documents the transformation of Frank Ferrante's life. Frank unknowingly stumbles into a local restaurant in San Francisco, Cafe Gratitude, a raw, organic and vegan cafe. As he becomes friends with the staff, he keeps returning to the cafe where he feels welcome and free from his collapsing personal life. On one such visit, Frank is asked by Ryland, one of the servers, "What's one thing you want to do before you die?" Frank replies "I want to fall in love one more time, but no one will love me looking the way I do." This is Frank's journey of getting a new body, a clearer mind, and most importantly, a soaring spirit.

Watch the Trailer



Special Event: Sacred Activism SOLD OUT! Check out the photos
Thurs May 31, Chauvel Cinema Paddington, 7pm
Special Guest:
Andrew Harvey
Drummer:
Reuben Alexander, toured with Eskimo Joe, Nine Inch Nails & INXS.

Join us for a special evening with one of the great spiritual trailblazers
and 'divine rebels' of our time. In what promises to be a breathtaking presentation, internationally renowned scholar, mystic and author Andrew Harvey will deliver a one-off Sydney presentation on his revolutionary message of Sacred Activism. This life changing evening will be hosted by best-selling author Petrea King and include meditation + drumming - followed by chocolates and drinks at the bar. Enjoy this rare opportunity to wake up your courage and kindess with a modern day mystic. The evening will also include a powerful drumming performance by Reuben Alexander who has toured with the likes of Eskimo Joe, Nine Inch Nails and INXS.


Andrew Harvey Info


Premiere Sreening: Finding Joe SOLD OUT! Check out the photos
Mon April 23 2012, Randwick Ritz, 7pm

President Obama personally requested a copy of this film. Finding Joe is a truly inspirational narrative for how to live a fully realized life – or as Joseph Campbell would simply state, how to “follow your bliss.” Based on the “hero’s Journey” and the work of Joseph Campbell, the film also include
s interviews with the likes of Deepak Chopra, Mick Fleetwood (Fleetwood Mac), Tony Hawk (Pro Skateboarder) and Sir Ken Robinson (Education and Creativity leader). Come along and find the inspiration to leave your fears behind and BE the hero of your own life. 


Premiere Sreening: CONNECTED Check out the Photos
Wed March 28 2012, Randwick Ritz, 7pm

Do you wrestle with technology? What does connection mean in our technology-obsessed world? This award winning film explores a very personal, yet universal story around technology and what really matters in our lives. Al Gore said the film “illuminates the issues that affect us all” and Newsweek called the filmmaker one of the “women shaping the 21st Century”. Blending science, animation and a deeply personal story, this film sparks a conversation about technology and our individual role in creating a brighter future and more connected world.

Special Event: Leave a Legacy SOLD OUT! Check Out the Photos| View on Flickr
Tues March 6 2012, Art Gallery of NSW, 7pm
Special Guest:
Dr Sam Prince, Entrepreneur, Aid Worker & Doctor
Musicians: Abby Dobson, ARIA nominated Singer + Carla Thackrah, Flautist, Formerly with Australian Opera

What legacy do you want to leave? Research shows that working to create a legacy is essential for cultivating deep meaning in life. Dr Sam Prince works as a doctor, runs a $12 million chain of restaurants, has founded 15 schools in Asia and helps feed 1 million people a year in poor nations. Did I mention he was 27 years of age? He has been awarded the Most Outstanding Young Person in the World, ACT Young Australian of the Year and the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year. We’ll also be treated to the celebrated musician Carla Thackrah and ARIA nominated Abby Dobson whose music goes straight to the heart. Come along and leave with the inspiration to live the kind of life you want to live.  



Premiere Sreening: Project Happiness
Mon Feb 27 2012, Randwick Ritz, 7pm

What do George Lucas, Richard Gere and the Dalai Lama have in Common? Join a very touching journey of teenagers from California, Nigeria and India who are exploring the nature of lasting happiness. Along the way they engage in conversations with George Lucas, Richard Gere, Neuroscientist Richard Davidson and a rare private interview with the Dalai Lama. If you are interested in exploring a happier and more meaningful life, you’ll love this film. Of course, enjoy a meal in the village or a couple of drinks with friends at the Ritz Bar before or after the screening. Note: If you can twist their arms, teenagers would also enjoy this film.


Film Screening: WAKE UP SOLD OUT!
Wed Dec 14, Randwick Ritz, 7pm
Special Guest:
Steve Hutunsky, Producer (Cold Mountain, The Human Stain)

Is there more to life than meets the eye? Join us for this Sydney screening of WAKE UP – followed by a discussion with award winning Producer from the US Steve Hutunsky (Cold Mountain, The Human Stain). The film follows the journey of Jonas Elrod who was leading an ordinary life until he woke up one day to a totally new reality. He suddenly could see and hear angels, auras and other phenomena. In a search for answers, he encounters a diverse group of teachers, scientists, mystics and spiritual healers. The film recently debuted on the Oprah Winfrey’s Network and legendary musician Sting said the film “is a call to consciousness to everyone who sees it, an invitation to accept that there is more to this life than meets the eye.”

Special Event: Kindness In Action SOLD OUT! Check out the Photos
Fri Dec 9, Art Gallery of NSW, 7pm
Special Guest:
Ronni Kahn, Australian of the Year, Founder Oz Harvest
Musicians: Dave Ireland, Former headline act for Aerosmith

Do you want to make a difference and live more from your heart? Join us for an evening of live music + meditation and uplifting conversation with Australian of the Year and Founder of the inspirational OzHarvest, Ronni Kahn. OzHarvest, collects and delivers leftover food from restaurants and delivers it to people in need and they have just celebrated serving 10 million meals to the less fortunate! Ronni appeared as a guest of the Dalai Lama on Masterchef and is one of the most inspiring and compassionate people I know. In the spirit of Occupy everything – this is an invitation to ‘Occupy Your Heart’

Oz Harvest Info



Special Event: The Fearless Heart SOLD OUT! Check out the Photos
Mon Sept 26, Art Gallery of NSW, 7pm
Overseas Guest:
Dr Margaret Wheatley, world leading change agent
Musicians: Patrick James (Guitar/vocals) & Jane Elworthy (Frame drum)

Do you want to live a life of courage? How would you like to spend an evening with a world leading change agent, award winning author, speaker for the Dalai Lama's Centre and a teacher of an ancient warrior tradition? Join us at the elegant Art Gallery of NSW for an uplifting evening blending live music + meditation and a rich conversation with overseas guest, Dr. Margaret Wheatley. Margaret was educated at Harvard University and merges modern leadership, systems thinking and ancient wisdom traditions to catalyse transformation. Come along, relax in the present moment, enjoy great music and be inspired to live a life of courage and kindness.

Sydney Film Screening: HAPPY SOLD OUT!
Mon Oct 10, Randwick Ritz, 7pm
Kindness Award:
Sophie Bartho & Robert Wilcher, 1$day

What makes you really happy? Fasten your theatre seatbelt for this special one-off screening of this multi-award winning film - followed by a mingle in the bar and on the balcony. Directed and produced by Roko Belic and Tom Shadyac (Nutty Professor, Patch Adams, Liar Liar), the film fuses deeply personal stories with insights from guests such as The Dalia Lama, neuroscientists and best-selling authors on how to increase happiness in life. It's all about how the new science is proving the old-age goodies of life - kindness, gratitude and creating community. Former MasterChef host, Sarah Wilson said "I cried, it's seriously a wake-up call. A happy one."


Talk Show: Your Life Matters SOLD OUT! Check out the Photos
Wednesday 2nd March 2011, 7pm Chauvel Cinema Paddington
Special Guest:
Petrea King, Founder of Quest For Life
Kindness Award: Justin Koonin, Little Travellers

The Women's Weekly called Petrea "an angel on earth." Come and enjoy an open and heartfelt  conversation with the inspiring Petrea King who is the founder of Quest for Life, author and has worked with over 80,000 people. We will also celebrate Justin Koonin, the founder of Little Travellers that creates beautiful hand-made dolls to raise money for South African women infected by HIV/AIDS. So far over 40,000 have been sold with 100% of profits going to help HIV/AIDS in South Africa. This will be a cracker of an evening!



Talk Show: Step Up and Lead SOLD OUT! Check out the Photos
Wednesday 20th April 2011, 7pm Chauvel Cinema Paddington
Special Guest:
Dr Jeff McMullen, Journalist, Adventurer and Activist
Kindness Award: Tracey Allen, Red Cockatoo

Jeff McMullen is one of Australia's best known and respected journalists and film-makers. He has an unrivaled reputation for his courage, integrity and care for humanity. Working for the likes of 60 minutes and Four Corners, Jeff has traveled to the ends of the earth in pursuit of truth and has a fresh view on how to contribute to a brighter future for the human family. We will also celebrate Tracey Allen of Red Cockatoo Australia, a not for profit company creating beautiful environmentally friendly gift cards featuring authentic Indigenous art.


Jeff McMullen Info | Red Cockatoo Info |



Sydney Premier Screening: 2012 Time for Change SOLD OUT!
Monday 9th May 2011, 7pm Chauvel Cinema Paddington
Kindness Award: Peter Driscoll, Transition Sydney

"What will happen in 2012?" might just be the wrong question. Fasten your theatre seatbelt for a very optimistic film about what is possible when personal transformation is at the forefront. Includes contributions from Sting, Buckminster Fuller, academy award winner David Lynch, author Daniel Pinchbeck and yoga goddess Shiva Rea. We will also get the chance to acknowledge the work of Peter Driscoll from Transition Sydney - a grassroots initiative supporting local Sydney communities to build more resilience.


Watch Trailer | Transition Sydney Info |

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Annual Conference.
Two days of Inspiration, music & reflection.
23rd-24th July 2011, Isabel Menton Theatre, North Sydney
SOLD OUT! Check out the Photos



Every year we hold a two-day celebration blending uplifting speakers, meditation, films, live music and participant-led activities. We invite our favourite authors, artists , academics, spiritual catalysts and change agents to share tools, stories and resources to activate  personal and social renewal. If you want to step out of your busy life and  explore health & healing, life purpose, creativity, sacred activism, kindness and conscious relationships then you will love this conference. A once-a-year experience surrounded by beautiful gardens and a kind community. Now is the time for renewal and filling your life with kindness, elegance and radiance. 


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Special Kindness Concerts.


Once or twice a year we hold a special kindness concert to enliven the imagination, and inspire more kindness. These uplifting evenings of beauty, blend live music + elevating film + inspirational guest speakers + artistry + meditation - followed by wine and chocolates. Our last event was held in The Sydney Town Hall for 1000 people. A true celebration of positivity and optimism. These events are attended by all types from bankers to buddhists and celebrities such as Kylie Kwong, Gretal Killeen, SBS gardener Costa Georgiadis and Packed to the Rafters actor Hugh Sheridan. Tickets will be announced via the Wake Up Sydney! newsletter. View photos from our last event.
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Kindness Cards
Profits from all events help support the kindness cards 

Thanks to your support, we have sent out over 30,000 free cards around Australia that encourage anonymous acts of kindness.