Overview
An enduring love story that has played a recurring role in the history of The Australian Ballet, the timeless Swan Lake is reinvented by Artistic Director David Hallberg in 2023. Inspired by Anne Woolliams’ 1977 production, this creation marks David Hallberg’s first major commission for the company as the centrepiece of the 60th anniversary celebrations.
Exploring the ballet’s themes of yearning, betrayal and love through a refreshing new lens, this adaptation will embody the beauty and power of the art form and honour our company’s commitment to classical repertoire.
Through David’s vision, audiences will be enraptured with ballet’s iconic characters: Prince Siegfried, the Swan Queen Odette and her evil counterpart Odile, in a story of doomed love that continues to move audiences all over the world.
Set to Tchaikovsky’s poignant score, Swan Lake presents ballet’s most famous scenes, including the resplendent Act II pas de deux for Siegfried and Odette. This Swan Lake reinterprets the time‑honoured masterpiece as never witnessed before, a work that will redefine ballet history for generations to come.
Credits
- Originally produced by Anne Woolliams after Petipa
- Additional choreography Ray Powell
- Director David Hallberg
- Guest Répétiteur Mark Kay
- Dramaturgy and additional choreography Lucas Jervies
- Music Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
- Costume design Mara Blumenfeld
- Set design Daniel Ostling
- Lighting design T.J. Gerckens
Our 60th year is a fitting moment to create a classical version of Swan Lake. One that will stand proud as a choreographically modern representation of The Australian Ballet, further elevate our artistic and technical excellence, and stand the test of time for decades to come. With lavish new sets and costumes, this is a Swan Lake that audiences will come to again and again.
Extend your experience
Behind The Scenes
Friday, 27 October 2023, 11:30am
Lyric Theatre
Admission $29
Ever wondered what a professional ballet class is like?
Behind each of The Australian Ballet's performances, there’s a world of dedicated artists striving to bring you their best.
Watch from your theatre seat as the dancers go through their morning training routine, with commentary from The Australian Ballet's artistic staff.
You’ll also see top dancers rehearsing a pas de deux from an upcoming production.
Hallberg In Conversation
Saturday, 28 October 2023, 5pm
Lyric Theatre Foyer
Admission $19
Intimate chats with top creatives
Sit in as The Australian Ballet's Artistic Director David Hallberg talks with dancers and creatives about the process of preparing a ballet, the fascinating history of the art form and the fine detail of dance.
An exciting roster of stars has been assembled to reflect on our Brisbane season.
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