The Australian Ballet

The Australian Ballet has been delivering extraordinary performances for more than 50 years, since its first full-length performance of Swan Lake in 1962. Where Australian audiences once had to wait for the next tour of Anna Pavlova, the Borovansky Ballet or another in the Ballets Russes tradition, they now have this home-grown and renowned company, which tours the nation and the world. And Swan Lake - reimagined for The Australian Ballet by Graeme Murphy for its 40th Anniversary in 2002 and by Stephen Baynes’ traditional production for its 50th in 2012 - remains a firm favourite at home and abroad.

As those productions show, the company has been both daringly contemporary and careful with the classic repertoire under Artistic Director and former Principal Artist David McAllister AM. A commitment to excellence, a spirited approach and a willingness to take risks have defined the company, both onstage and off, from its earliest days through artistic directors such as Peggy van Praagh, Robert Helpmann, Anne Woolliams and Maina Gielgud.

Supporting 70 acclaimed dancers, a network of elite artisans works tirelessly behind the scenes to create the splendour you see on stage – costumes are made with couture-like the care. The company also includes trainers and physical therapists, marketers, musicians, digital and education specialists. Together they present more than 250 shows and 1000 events each year.

Moving effortlessly between the great classical ballets and contemporary commissions, the company creates a uniquely Australian beauty powered by athleticism. As it embarks on its second half-century, The Australian Ballet is poised to reach more audiences than ever, both at home and abroad.

Jade Wood, Jasmin Durham and Imogen Chapman in a publicity shoot for Imperial Suite.