Categories: News

The Australian Ballet School presents Butterfly

The Australian Ballet School is delighted to present Butterfly, its first new production in 18 years set to premiere in Melbourne on 10 December 2021. A modern fairy tale told through movement, Butterfly will feature 80 full-time students of The Australian Ballet School, showcasing the next generation of emerging Australian dance artists.

Choreographed by former graduate Lucas Jervies and created in the studios of The Australian Ballet School, Butterfly beautifully blends themes of realism and magic with classic and contemporary techniques. Designed to appeal to all ages, the original production will be brought to life by the extraordinary artistry of pre-professional dancers and will transport audiences to another world through the transformative sets and costumes by revered designer Hugh Colman.

Butterfly Choreographer, Lucas Jervies:

I’m honoured to have this opportunity to create for these young artists, who are now in the position I was in 23 years ago at The Australian Ballet School. This production is a full circle story. Reflection and journey are the heart of Butterfly. For me, the metaphor of the butterfly – to transform – is infinite. It doesn’t happen just once or twice. It’s a constantly evolving process, one that we must always strive for. To be better, kinder, smarter.

Set to the joyous score ‘Le Papillon’ (The Butterfly) by Jacques Offenbach, Butterfly is a tale that follows a young boy who vies for the attention of the smartest girl in school. On an excursion to the butterfly enclosure at the Zoo, they immerse themselves in the kingdom of butterflies, momentarily forgetting the world outside and embarking on a magical journey.

Lisa Pavane, Director of The Australian Ballet School:

After 18 months and many cancelled performances, our students have shown extraordinary commitment and are very excited to bring Butterfly to the stage, our first new production in 18 years. The butterfly is the perfect metaphor to be explored and performed by our transforming young artists-in-training.

The national centre for excellence in vocational classical dance training, The Australian Ballet School nurtures young dancers with a curriculum that promotes excellence in ballet training, academic and professional preparation, personal growth, and accomplishment.

Performed at the Playhouse at Arts Centre Melbourne, Butterfly will premiere in its entirety across three days in December. Tickets for the Melbourne performances are on sale now and can be purchased via artscentremelbourne.com.au


Season Details

Venue: Arts Centre Melbourne
Date:  10-12 Dec 2021

For more information click HERE

Aussie Theatre

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