From the Artistic Director —

Queensland Ballet is delighted to be working in partnership with the Queensland Performing Arts Centre to present this celebrated production of Strictly Gershwin.

Evoking the silver screen magic of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers and the glamour of a golden age, Strictly Gershwin is a fixture in English National Ballet’s repertoire. With impeccable production values and uncompromised artistry, this song and dance spectacular will be an entertainment highlight in Brisbane in 2016.

I am thrilled that Derek Deane, the renowned former Royal Ballet Principal Dancer and former Artistic Director of English National Ballet who created and choreographed Strictly Gershwin, has offered to stage this season. Deane’s choreography demands assured technique and versatility, and I know that our Queensland Ballet dancers will perform this non-traditional piece with great energy and flair. We will engage guest tap artist Bill Simpson (from Red Hot Rhythm) to choreograph and perform in the tap sequences, and our Company dancers will join in for some really astounding, Busby Berkley-inspired routines. 

Those unforgettable Gershwin standards will be performed by talented vocalists, chosen for their ability to connect with the music and deliver finely-tuned and sensitive performances.

The Queensland Symphony Orchestra will be on stage with the dancers, playing Gershwin’s vibrant music. From the celebrated Rhapsody in Blue, to a medley from his Broadway musicals and Hollywood films - there are so many favourite melodies packed into this show. Gareth Valentine, who adapted the music, is a charismatic music director whose exuberant contribution is a delightful element of the performance.

Strictly Gershwin is an exceptional opportunity for Queensland Ballet and Queensland Performing Arts Centre to entertain audiences with a joyous work that will showcase our State ballet and orchestra, and foster many rich artistic collaborations.

Li Cunxin