Who is Robert Binet?
I am a Canadian choreographer and Artistic Director. This year, I married my partner of 10 years, and we live in Toronto with our dog Willa. I create new ballets and have had the pleasure of creating work for The National Ballet of Canada, The Royal Ballet, New York City Ballet, and companies in Germany, Russia, Holland, and more.
Most recently, I created my first work in Australia, Newborn Giants, for the Queensland Ballet. I am in my first year as Artistic Director of Fall for Dance North, Toronto’s largest international dance festival, and will be presenting my first festival in October. I am focused on creating dialogue between Toronto’s most exciting local artists and extraordinary dancers and choreographers from all over the world.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I would work in ceramics. It is something I did as a kid and a hobby I dip into in moments when my work as a choreographer slows down. It is equal parts technique and creativity, so it provides the same thrills as working in ballet, but I find it so satisfying to be able to create something I can keep or give away, and that has practical use.
Who inspires you and why?
My friends. They are kind, funny, and see the value in taking a risk.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I don’t mean to be sentimental, but I do think dance can make a difference in the world – good dance brings connection and joy to those doing and watching, and always carries both cultural and personal legacies, which are so important in us understanding one another.
I try to create opportunities for as many people as I can to make the dances that are in their minds and hearts. I think on the largest scale, if more people are dancing, we are going to move away from conflict and toward understanding.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Los Angeles. My little brother and his wife live there, and my husband and I always have so much fun when we visit. A perfect combination of incredible food, beautiful beaches, great shopping, and good family time.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
In Toronto, the attraction is the food. I usually take people to a few favourite places: Rhum Corner (or any Jen Agg restaurant), Union, and Oroshi Fish Co.
What are you currently reading?
The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong.
What are you currently listening to?
Summertime by FLO.
Happiness is?
A slow morning with my dog.
What does the future hold for you?
The next few months are packed with projects I’ve been working on for many years coming to fruition in Brisbane, Toronto, London, and Vienna, as well as my first festival as Artistic Director of Fall for Dance North. It’s very intense and very exciting. After that, I look forward to taking a few months to be quiet, restful, and think about what I want to make next.
Robert is the Choreographer of Newborn Giants – which will be presented as part of Queensland Ballet’s Bespoke program at the Thomas Dixon Centre from 31 July – 9 August 2025. For more information, visit: www.queenslandballet.com.au for details.
Image: Robert Binet (supplied)