Swan Lake Act 2 & Graduation Ball

It is six years since we last performed in QPAC’s Concert Hall, when we celebrated 80 years with a successful season of Cinderella. This year is also a milestone, as it marks the return of live music to our performances for the first time in over 40 years!

Returning to the Concert Hall presented us with not only the opportunity to remount our critically acclaimed productions of Swan Lake Act 2 together with the effervescent Graduation Ball, but also opened the possibility of engaging an orchestra to accompany our dancers in this much larger, acoustically designed space. Fortunately, Lucas D. Lynch, Chief Conductor of the Cadenza Chamber Players, jumped at the chance, and, with the support of our generous donors, we are now delighted to be able to present a season of ballet that not only acknowledges our vibrant past, but also looks forward to a future where live music will be a more regular partner.

Our talented young dancers are of course front and centre of these performances, having been successfully challenged by Artistic Director Clare Morehen with choreography taken straight from the traditional versions of both ballets. Together with Kym Stokes, our accomplished Rehearsal Director, and with a skill born of years at the top of their professions, they have moulded them into accomplished dancers and actors. I thank both Clare and Kym for their passion and commitment to BTQ.

Those of you lucky enough to see our 2020 season may recollect the exquisite costumes designed by Carmel Wenck, Bill Haycock’s gorgeous Viennese styled set for Graduation Ball, along with the exquisitely beautiful Swan Lake Act 2 set by the late Graham Maclean. All these elements are back, again lit by wizard Glenn Hughes, creating a visual feast for audiences.

The many organisations that usually support us, have done so again, which has been especially heartening.  I thank key corporate supporters, Bloch, The Courier Mail, and HopgoodGanim; also, Flowers HQ, Sue’s Shop, Vanilla Pod, and Step by Step.

Ballet Theatre Queensland continues to punch well above its weight, delivering a professional company experience, which challenges and inspires young dancers, all without regular funding from any level of government. Key to the continued success of this company, therefore, is the commitment and enthusiasm of dancers’ parents, past and present, and other dedicated supporters, who give so generously of their time. The culture of philanthropy growing every year in support of Ballet Theatre is another indication of how valued this wonderful company is. In fact, these seasons could not happen without this broad support from families, friends, and lovers of ballet.

Coincidentally our two seasons of Swan Lake Act 2 and Graduation Ball are bookends to the worst of the pandemic. Therefore, as we enter more optimistic times, it gives me great pleasure to welcome you again to this joyous program of dance. Enjoy!

Denise Richardson