Australian Ballet’s lavish The Sleeping Beauty for Brisbane in 2017
The gilded splendour of the Imperial court
Following a critically acclaimed world premiere and sell-out seasons across the country, The Australian Ballet is bringing David McAllister’s The Sleeping Beauty to Brisbane’s Lyric Theatre from 24 February to 4 March next year. Tickets will go on sale Thursday 21 July.
Fairies, bluebirds, a gilded court, and a spell-shattering kiss, the fairy tale ballets has been re-awakened to new life in Artistic Director David McAllister’s lavish production. Keeping true to the artistic spirit of the traditional version of The Sleeping Beauty, this new production gives rein to the talents of the entire company. Sumptuous, sparkling sets and costumes by Gabriela Tylesova evoke the gilded splendour of the Imperial court and the French Louis XIV period alongside elves, nymphs and fairies.
For McAllister this production has been a crowning moment following an 18-year dance career with the company and 14 years as its Artistic Director.
“The Sleeping Beauty is one of the great ballet works and Petipa’s choreography is a pure celebration of the classical art form. My production is a traditional retelling, but shaped to reflect the concerns and responsibilities of a modern-day monarchy,” said McAllister.
“To reveal a deeper, more meaningful story, the ballet showcases the drama and double-cross of twists and turns, of characters we can relate to, and the sense of triumph when the human spirit prevails. Aurora is strong and independent and aware of her responsibilities as princess and future monarch. She connects with her prince and their hearts are united, their future entwined with love’s first kiss,” he said.
Gabriela Tylesova is one of the world’s most respected theatre designers. Her sets and costumes, saw her receive two Helpmann Award nominations in 2016 for Best Costume Design and Best Scenic Design..
“I am thrilled to have worked with David McAllister to create the grand theatrical versions of the Royal Palace, with its gardens dramatically transformed, and the masked ball inspired by Louis XIV’s court,” says Tylesova.
“There are hundreds of costumes: bejewelled, enchanting tutus; ornate robes; layered period dresses; sparkling headdresses; wings, and more. This is the world of fairies, woodland nymphs, the royal court and various fantastical characters,” adds the designer.
David McAllister’s version of The Sleeping Beauty has already been enjoyed by over 65,000 people with sell-out seasons in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth following the world premiere in 2015.
Brisbane season: 24 February to 4 March 2017, Lyric Theatre, QPAC with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Bookings: on sale on 21 July 2016 at australianballet.com.au or QPAC P: 136 246
Special Events:
Open Class: Sunday 26 February 2017, 10 am, 11.30 am and 1 pm (Each class is 75 minutes) Tickets prices: $27.
Dancers of The Australian Ballet will teach three non-syllabus classes for dance students in levels three and four, five and six and intermediate and above. The classes are designed to encourage a sensitive approach to musical phrasing, correct alignment of the body and greater efficiency in moving.
Once Upon a Time: The Sleeping Beauty; Wednesday 1 March 2017. 12.30 pm – 1.30 pm Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Ticket prices: $82 (premium), $73 (A res) and $45 (B res).
Once Upon a Time: The Sleeping Beauty is a special one-hour version of a storybook ballet is performed live on stage and narrated by one of the central characters. Perfect for children, it’s fun, interactive. Come dressed in your favourite ballet-inspired or fairytale outfits. This performance will be fully orchestrated with Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
McAllister in Conversation: Wednesday 1 March 2017 5 pm – 5.45 pm Queensland Performing Arts Centre/ Free event.
An intimate talk, hosted by Artistic Director David McAllister with a principal dancer, where they share their secrets of success both on and off the stage.
All special events and talks presented with the ballet can be booked through australianballet.com.au/step-inside