Telstra Ballet Dancer Award Winner Revealed

Sydney's Gina Brescianini has been awarded the prestigious 2006 Telstra Ballet Dancer Award, the highest accolade of its kind for young ballet dancers.

Gina was presented with the award at a ceremony held overnight at the Establishment Hotel in Sydney, hosted by Sarah Murdoch, Board Member of The Australian Ballet.

Now in its fourth year, the Telstra Ballet Dancer Award honours excellence, with the winner awarded a $20,000 cash prize, provided by Telstra. Six nominees were selected by their peers and judged over a six month period using criteria such as artistic quality, and performance on and off the stage. The Award was initiated by Telstra and The Australian Ballet in 2003 to identify, nurture and reward talented young ballet dancers.

The People's Choice Award, a $5,000 cash prize, also provided by Telstra, was presented to Perth's Madeleine Eastoe. The People's Choice Award is designed to engage the general public by giving them the opportunity to vote for their favourite nominee online or via SMS. This year's People's Choice Award attracted 24 000 votes over six months, of which Madeleine Eastoe received the highest number.

Telstra's Chief Executive Officer, Mr Sol Trujillo, said the Award was a highlight of Telstra's sponsorship calendar and a demonstration of Telstra's commitment to supporting the development of young ballet dancers in Australia. "This initiative is designed to encourage and reward excellence among young classical dancers in Australia," Mr Trujillo said. "To be nominated for this award is a prestigious recognition in itself of the professionalism, dedication and achievement of Australia's talented ballet dancers."

David McAllister, Artistic Director for The Australian Ballet joined Mr Trujillo in congratulating the winners. "Since joining the company, Gina has become one of the company's most loved performers," Mr McAllister said. "Her physical and emotional beauty makes her stand out in everything she does and I know she will be a wonderful ambassador for both Telstra and The Australian Ballet. Bravo!

"Meanwhile, it is no surprise that Madeleine was voted People's Choice. As our newest Principal Artist she continues to win hearts every time she steps on stage," he said. -- www.australianballet.com.au