It was the late Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s first full length ballet and it is a coveted work: Romeo & Juliet. The production is a bright jewel in the classical ballet repertoire. Queensland Ballet have once again been given the privilege of performing the ballet at Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC).
Performed by the prestigious Royal Ballet, Sir Kenneth’s production premiered at the Royal Opera House, London in 1965. Its reception was rapturous. Its fame immediate.
Set to Sergei Prokofiev’s mesmerising score, the exquisite choreography captures and portrays a myriad of emotions. During the performance we are captivated by sword fights, laugh at comedic moments and squirm in anguish as the tragedy reaches its agonising end. This is the gripping and transformative power of classical dance and composition.
Romeo & Juliet is of course, as is widely known, a romantic tragedy. A play penned by Shakespeare. In addition to igniting choreographers and composers, the story has inspired musicals and movies.
The settings and costumes are majestically realistic. The gorgeous glory of Rome during the renaissance. Even the haunting mausoleum looks stately.
Authoritative majesty and ceremony are epitomised in the Dance of the Knights with its deep orchestral tones and steady, slow beat. The contrast between the upright, noblemen and the contorted, submissive wives and women.
Under the expert baton of Nigel Gaynor, the orchestra was a powerful, well armed ally. A specialist ballet conductor, Nigel is a valuable asset to our cultural coffers.
Principal dancer, Patricio Reve was once again, well cast for opening night. A well muscled athlete, his stage presence is commanding. His capacity for convincing characterisation and technical prowess are mesmerising. I’ve watched as Patricio was elevated through the company ranks to the position of principal.
Previously, I reviewed the production when Mia Heathcote was his Juliet. The chemistry between the pair was palpable. They were well matched as leading protagonists on opening nights in both Romeo & Juliet and Manon. Manon is another of Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s masterpieces.
Chiara Gonzalez was a delicate and childlike Juliet. She epitomised the perplexing transition that is that pathway between girlhood and womanhood. The desire for personal and independent decision making colliding with parental preferences and plans. Chiara’s delicacy and grace were evident in the complex pas de Deux.
Congratulations to Queensland Ballet on once again acquiring this iconic work which was rewarded with a standing ovation. A tremendous start to a new year under new artistic directorship!
Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo & Juliet
Lyric Theatre – QPAC, Corner Grey & Melbourne Streets, South Brisbane
Performance: Friday 21 March 2025
Season continues to 29 March 2025
Information and Bookings: www.queenslandballet.com.au
Image: Patricio Reve and Chiara Gonzalez in Queensland Ballet’s Romeo & Juliet – photo by David Kelly
Review: Michele-Rose Boylan