Queensland Ballet Academy: Soirée

Presented by the Queensland Ballet Academy, the Soirée series is now in its fifth season. Staged in the Talbot Theatre at the Thomas Dixon Centre, it proved to be a delightful night centred on dance. I was greatly impressed by the standard of professionalism on show.

The evening commenced with the Academy Défilé (Grand Parade). All seven levels of the academy were brought together in a collective display.

This proud gathering was choreographed by Paul Boyd to music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. A credit to the Academy, even the youngest and tiniest of dancers showed maturity of poise and dedication to direction.

The performances were anchored by the art of Cressida Campbell AM. Sydney-based, Cressida is a living artist who depicts joyful detail in daily life and environment. Her rich style is reminiscent of Margaret Olley.

The first work, In Full Bloom was danced by eight students who are currently part of Queensland Ballet’s Pre Professional Program. The choice of music was Balani, composed by electronic music producer, CHLOE (Thevenin).

The piece was smoothly and fluidly performed by the dancers. When I looked at the programme afterwards, I was surprised to read that this work had been choreographed by the young dancers involved.

It was followed by the more upbeat, Swing Shift, performed by five more of the pre professional dancers. This was danced to two songs by Sandy Nelson. Another surprise – this was also choreographed by the young dancers who performed it.

Prior to interval, Natalie Weir’s, Memory, Abundance, Loss was another poignantly performed work. The aptly selected costumes were designed by Kathryn Lee.

The music of four composers was chosen: Robert Schumann, Johan Sebastian Bach, Edward Elgar and Camerata’s own, Jonny Ng. Jonny is a violinist. It’s great to hear the work of an emerging Queensland composer. Congratulations Jonny on being included with the greats!

Act II was titled Soliloquy of the Heart. It included several works which were all choreographed by Paul Boyd. Paul himself featured wonderfully in one of them.

Camerata appeared on stage with their stringed instruments. They elevated the performance to a level which felt professional. Camerata’s Jonny Ng was also composer for Bedroom Nocturne. This dreamy piece was beautifully danced by Emily Sprout and Gabriel Lowe who were well paired.

Reading the Paper was a satirical take on the bombardment of news items and journalese into our lives. Even your own couch at home is not a haven from invasion. This was a clever piece with the ‘intrusive’ dancers dressed in newsprint.

The other works were also of a very high standard: Flannel Flowers, (led with poise by Lucia Minju Song), Hallway with Kilims and The Pool. Gabriel Lowe performed another strong pas de deux. This time he was partnered by the lovely Maya Irimichi.

Kathryn Lee is to be applauded for her all the costume designs. I especially loved the swirling, versatile dresses which were attached to the dancers’ hands. Great work also by Lighting Designer, Glenn Hughes.

During Act II, nine artworks by Cressida Campbell AM were used as backdrops, with striking effect. The paintings displayed covered three decades of her astounding career. The fusion of chamber musicians, artwork and dance is a powerful and inspirational combination. A multi genre reviewer’s delight.

Congratulations to the staff and students of the Queensland Ballet Academy on this evening of impressive performances. I was greatly impressed by the professionalism of these young dancers. Well done to all involved!