Telstra Ballet In The Gardens

This programme presents an ideal opportunity for Brisbane audiences – ballet lovers and novices alike – to experience a feast of classical ballet under the stars.

Artistic Director David McAllister said, "We had a great time in Brisbane earlier this year when we presented Don Quixote at QPAC, and we're looking forward to returning to the River Stage. Many of our dancers hail from, so there is always the additional thrill of playing to a home town audience. Thanks again to Telstra for helping to make it all happen."

Telstra Ballet in the Gardens will be a chocolate box of dance treats including party piece, Paquita and a selection of delectable divertissements including pas de deux from audience favourites Swan Lake, Le Corsaire and Nutcracker, alongside showstoppers Spring Waters, Diana and Actéon and La Favorita. Opening the evening in style will be Soloist Paul Knobloch's work Valetta featuring a single tutu clad ballerina surrounded by a corps of admiring men.

Telstra Ballet in the Gardens will also be the last chance for Brisbane audiences to watch performances by Telstra Ballet Dancer Award nominees Leanne Stojmenov, Jane Casson, Luke Ingham, Robyn Hendricks as well as local Brisbane dancers Daniel Gaudiello (Carseldine) and Rudy Hawkes (Ipswich).

Adding to the excitement of the evening, Brisbane's Lisa Bolte, a much loved member of The Australian Ballet, has chosen Telstra Ballet in the Gardens as her farewell performance in her home town prior to her retirement from dance.

Telstra's Group Managing Director for Consumer Marketing, David Moffatt, said Telstra Ballet in the Gardens demonstrates Telstra's commitment to making the arts more accessible to Australians.

"Help us celebrate Lisa Bolte's final home town performance by taking advantage of this free Telstra sponsored evening of ballet," Mr Moffatt said.

Earlier this year The Australian Ballet presented Nureyev's vibrant ballet classic Don Quixote at QPAC in conjunction with the exhibition, Memories in Motion, celebrating the 40 year history of The Australian Ballet in Brisbane. Principal Artists of the company also appeared in The Best Bits of Ballet with the Queensland Orchestra in March.

Telstra Ballet in the Gardens will be an event for everyone; bring family, friends, a picnic and rug, and enjoy a spectacular evening of the very best dance can offer. -- www.australianballet.com.au