QPAC

We pay our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ancestors of this land, their spirits and their legacy. The foundations laid by these ancestors give strength, inspiration and courage to current and future generations, both First Nations and non-First Nations peoples, towards creating a better Queensland.

QPAC’s Playhouse is hosting the 10th annual season of the festive favourite, Queensland Ballet's The Nutcracker.

Adapted by renowned choreographer Ben Stevenson OBE from the original 19th century Russian classic, this cherished holiday tale welcomes audiences into the world of Clara and the array of fascinating characters she meets along the way.

We chatted with Queensland Ballet Company Dancer Isabella Swietlicki about her most treasured festive memories, and her connection to dancing in the role of Clara, and what she loves most about Christmas.

Who or what inspires you? c There are so many amazing dancers that inspire me, I can’t choose just one! I get inspiration and motivation daily from the dancers at Queensland Ballet.

What’s your favourite childhood memory?
I remember when I was three years old, I used to watch Riverdance on VHS six times a day! I used to dance right in front of the TV with the Irish dancers. My favourite was Michael Flatley’s solo; I must thank him for my dance career as my mum sent me to dance lessons after seeing how obsessed I was with dancing.

Queensland Ballet's Isabella Swietlicki preparing for her role as Clara in The Nutcracker.

Describe yourself in five words.
Determined, organised, stubborn, loyal, dog mum (okay, six words!).

What’s your favourite thing about the festive season?
My favourite thing about this season is probably going home to Scotland to spend time with family, and you can’t beat Christmas in a cold climate, having a real Christmas tree that smells of pine and having a fire in the fireplace!

What does it mean to you to play Clara in The Nutcracker?
It’s very special to me, I first played Clara when I was 11 at my first dance school in Scotland before I moved to London at 16. We toured all over Scotland with The Nutcracker, and to me, between the ages of 11 and 13 it was the most magical time, it was a mix of professionals and students in the production.