I was delighted to visit Queensland’s Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) to witness the exclusive unveiling of the revitalised launch of Queensland Ballet’s 2023 Season: Every Step a Spirited Story – joyous, lively, famed, defiant, bold, significant. This year has had its challenges with the floods, which is why Artistic Director Li Cunxin AO and his team referred to next year’s season as one of fresh beginnings.
Li gifted us with an hour of delightful entertainment tempting the audience with short excerpts from next year’s repertoire.
Planning
We also had access to a hard copy of the Queensland Ballet 2023 Season Program. At the back of the program is a fabulous calendar for monthly planning. The Season Packages are detailed and easy to understand with fabulous discounts.
There is an additional 15% to 20% discount on specific packages, as well as discounted prices for concession holders, seniors, 30 years and under, and children 13 years and under. Or you can pay for individual shows accordingly. It is unbelievable value for money. Memberships are available for both Adults and Youths; they also offer extra ballet benefits.
For the young and young at heart, there are special treats. The Little Mermaid will be performed at QPAC 22 June to 1 July 2023 and the Centre Stage for Seniors Saturday 15 April 2023. This is a fabulous event where seniors of all skill levels can take ballet classes on stage whilst learning the repertoire from the famous Giselle. It features insights from the performance and includes light refreshments. Unfortunately, I am away at this time but would love to attend.
Regional Tour
Queensland Ballet caters for everyone statewide with their regional tour of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the following locations: HOTA, Gold Coast 24-25 February, Townsville Civic Centre 8 March, Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre 11 March, Empire Theatre Toowoomba 31-1 April.
The 2023 program
2023 saute’s (to jump) into one of my favourites, Giselle, the quintessential romantic ballet from 14-28 April.
Followed by Trilogy 16-25 June, based on the celebrated novel, My Brilliant Career.
The Little Mermaid is from 22 June to 1 July. Hans Christian Andersen’s spellbinding fairy tale of a young mermaid who falls deeply in love with a human prince.
Bespoke, will be performed from 27 July- 5 August, at the Thomas Dixon Centre, a compelling, challenging and thought-provoking piece.
Queensland Ballet Academy Gala 11-13 August where our rising stars of dance present a compelling showcase demonstrating their technical fitness and exquisite artistry, from classical to neo-classical.
Derek Deane’s Strictly Gershwin, 28 September-7 October is about the glamour and romance of the golden age, summoning the silver screen magic of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
Finally, to end another superb season, The Nutcracker 1-20 December. It is Queensland’s all-time traditional favourite. A wonderful introduction with a sprinkling of Christmas magic for the whole family. There truly is something for everyone in 2023. I think I said this last year but it is true, we are fortuitous with the program and performances.
Queensland Ballet’s New Home
The newly redeveloped Thomas Dixon Centre 406 Montague Rd, West End, is now home to Queensland Ballet. It must be wonderful to work in this beautiful refreshing environment. On my first visit I was in awe of the building’s architecture, open spaces, the abundance of natural light, and the superbly crafted costumes and artefacts on display from previous performances. It is a lovely place to be even before you see the ballet. It pays to sit down over a coffee purely to take it all in.
Booking options
I have already purchased my season ticket for 2023. I met up with my fellow ballet lovers at the QPAC office. With pen in hand, we began by sitting outside to consolidate our packages then organised our seats with a very efficient and patient booking officer upstairs.
My group of girls have found that when booking several various packages with a number of people who wish to sit together if you have the time (as we do being retired, it is easier to meet up at QPAC booking office during the day and coordinate our shows and times. Of course, once the planning and bookings have been completed we pop off for a spot of lunch and a girlie chat… and maybe a glass of wine.
Tickets available online: https://www.queenslandballet.com.au/at
or by phone 07 3013 6666
or email mail@queenslandballet.com.au #queenslandballet @qldballet
Visit: QPAC ticket office at Southbank, upstairs above the main foyer
Centre Stage for Seniors https://www.queenslandballet.com.au/performances/ballet-experiences/beyond-the-stage
Ruth Greening holds a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Psychology & Philosophy. Before retirement, she worked for over 40 years in the corporate world in Melbourne and Brisbane and progressed into senior management positions and project roles for both private industry and government.
In her 70th decade, she continues in casual roles as a freelance writer, model, and actor participating in small movies, TV commercials and User Generated Content.
As a grandmother, she is known as Nanny Babe to her grandchildren and writes from a Baby Boomer perspective on her blog www.nannybabe.com. An avid crafter Ruth actively participates in sewing, crocheting and knitting.
While she continues to pursue her artistic passions, Ruth is dedicated to maintaining her health and fitness as she ages by attending the gym, dancing and walking and thrives on mentoring others.
Connect with Ruth or our moniker Nanny Babe; nannybabegengp.blogspot.com.au/
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