News of illusionist Michael Boyd’s latest thrilling show leads this week’s Arts in the City column by HELEN MUSA.

Virtuoso illusionist Michael Boyd returns to town with Circus of Illusion, a show that features death-defying escapes, mind-blowing illusions, mime and magic. Canberra Theatre, January 13-14.

The Little Spinster is a Canberra-produced independent feature film directed by Will Scott, with scenes shot at Namadgi National Park, the Fitters’ Workshop, the Hall School Museum and Cooleman Ridge. The film follows the story of Lauren Wainwright, a young woman living in early 20th century small-town Australia and features Canberra locals including Kit Berry, Maddison Hughes, Elaine Noon, Jack Zimmer, Michael Ubrihien and Jacqui Henman. Premieres at Dendy Cinemas on January 13. Tickets through Humanitix.

The Australian Ballet’s “Storytime” is back with a new production of Cinderella, directed by former artistic director of the company, David McAllister. It’s an interactive production created especially for children aged three and up. The Playhouse until January 14.

Four Winds and Yuin Folk Club welcome the new year with Irish singer Andy Irvine and Scottish Celtic/world music band Dallahan as guests, at Windsong Pavilion, Barragga Bay, Bermagui, January 17.

“Retrospect”, an exhibition by painter Gordon Robinson and master printer Chris Denton, will feature at Gallery Bodalla, Post Office Building, Bodalla until February 11.

The NFSA’s Arc cinema is up and running for summer with Scarygirl and Mulholland Drive on January 12, then on January 13, Proof and Once Upon A Time… in Hollywood, the latter celebrating the final month of the Australians & Hollywood exhibition.