Queensland Ballet celebrates a decade of directorship with Li’s Choice
A trio of works has been hand-picked by Artistic Director Li Cunxin AO for his celebratory season of Li’s Choice.
With works by Sir Kenneth MacMillan, Natalie Weir and Greg Horsman, Li’s Choice combines dramatic contemporary, neo-classical, and ragtime ballet for a triple-bill. Coinciding with Li Cunxin’s ten-year anniversary with the company, Li’s Choice reflects on his decade of directorship in an intimate showcase of works that have both inspired and delighted one of the world’s most acclaimed ballet dancers of his generation.
“My life changed 10 years when I walked into Queensland Ballet as its fifth Artistic Director. I inherited a Company which had been nurtured and developed by my predecessors,” said Mr Li.
“I’ve had many dreams and aspirations since joining the company in 2013 and it fills me with pride when I reflect on the past decade and the incredible growth QB has had, growing our Company to 60 full-time dancers, presenting a repertoire of internationally-acclaimed works, the revitalisation of our home at the Thomas Dixon Centre, a state-of-the-art Academy facility, and a new Production Centre on the Gold Coast in the pipeline for this year.”
“This journey has enriched my life and offered so much fulfilment and joy, as well as challenges that have dared me to dream fearlessly and push past what seems impossible to truly see game-changing, and at times life-changing, outcomes.”
“Queensland Ballet is such a unique company and every day I am surrounded by the contagious energy and unbreakable spirits of our dancers, our creative teams, our enabling teams and all of our loyal supporters,” Mr Li added.
Li’s Choice features three of his favourite artistic pieces; We Who Are Left by QB Resident Choreographer Natalie Weir, Glass Concerto by QB Chief Ballet Master Greg Horsman and the lively ragtime ballet Elite Syncopations by legendary Choreographer Sir Kenneth MacMillan.
“This selection of works has been chosen after a lot of thought. These works have truly inspired me, and I know they will inspire our audiences too,” said Mr Li.
“This season is about celebration, and I invite our audiences to celebrate this milestone with me and Queensland Ballet,” he added.
With QB reaching greater heights, Mr Li says there is still work to be done, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19.
“I’m thrilled to sign-on for another three years as Artistic Director, and I thank the Board and our community for believing in me and allowing me to have the opportunity to continue making a positive impact on and off the stage,” said Mr Li.
“There’s still many dreams left to see come to fruition, and we can’t wait to share them with our community.”
Li’s Choice runs at the Playhouse Theatre, QPAC, from June 10-25.Bokings: Li's Choice - Queensland Ballet.
The Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s (QPAC) Playhouse is scheduled to reopen for Li’s Choice on 10 June this year following its closure in late February due to the impact of Brisbane’s floods.
The Performing Arts Car Park (P1) that services QPAC remains closed due to ongoing flood recovery work and patrons are encouraged to park at other public car parks within walking distance of the Centre. For more information visit https://www.qpac.com.au/visiting/getting-here/
A Shining Season of Emerging Artistic Talent
Queensland Ballet Academy’s annual Aspire returns for another shining season of emerging talent.
A showcase of the Pre-Professional Program dancers’ artistic depth and technical flair, Aspire celebrates the talent and aptitude of these young dancers on the brink of entering into the profession of dance.
Showgoers will be captivated by diverse and emotive works in classical and neo-classical styles, while the dancers are challenged with performing both ensemble and soloist roles.
Queensland Ballet Academy's Pre-Professional Program serves as a finishing year for those pursuing a professional career as a dancer. The full-time program provides students with the preparation and training they require before joining a professional company, developing their skills to the highest artistic and technical standards.
Queensland Ballet Academy Director Christian Tátchev described Aspire as a program not to be missed.
“I encourage people to witness the drive and creativity of these aspiring dancers in this very special season,” he said.
Aspire ’22 runs from 18 – 21 May 2022 at the Queensland Ballet Academy.
PROGRAM
Holberg Suite Choreography: Greg Horsman. Music: Edvard Grieg
Mil Besos: Choreography: Amelia Waller. Music: Solo Compas, Paco Peña, Parcels, Conchita Velasco
A Twist of Broadway: Choreography: Paul Boyd. Music: George and Ira Gershwin