Queensland Ballet’s Peter and the Wolf is a captivating reimagining of composer, Sergei Prokofiev’s children’s tale. The production, part of the My First Ballet series, offers a fresh perspective on the story. The result is a charming ballet performance which is engaging for children and nostalgic for adults.
Choreographer, Greg Horsman expands upon the original 25-minute score. He has incorporated a prelude that adds depth to the characters of Peter and his Grandfather. Greg has successfully selected and utilised six pieces from Prokofiev’s Music for Children Opus. 65,
Performed by the Jette Parker Young Artists, the playful, imaginative choreography aptly captures the essence of the characters. Every character’s dance is crafted to mirror the musical instrument associated with them. The story is enhanced through both dance and orchestral characterisation.
My primary school teacher guest was most impressed by dancer, Annie Chen as the cat. Represented by the clarinet, the cat moves with feline grace and smooth stealth. In contrast, aligned with the oboe, the duck (Francesca Poi) waddles with charm and determination.
The delicate bird (Brooke Tarry) is represented by the flute. Bringing in the brass, the wolf (Eli Southurst) is characterised by the French horn. Peter (Declan Daines) is epitomised by the violin and his grandfather (Seth Marshall) by the bassoon. The timpani signal the arrival of the zookeepers.
With skill and enthusiasm, the talented young dancers bring life and personality to the characters. The young attendees were captivated. The promise of Queensland Ballet’s emerging artists is evident.
The costumes by Noeline Hill are excellent manifestations of the characters represented. As the owner of a ‘grey wolf’ Husky, I thought that wolf costume looked strikingly realistic. Eli Southurst was an impressive predator.
Thanks to the other creatives, Ben Hughes and Josh McIntosh, the sets and props are storybook simplistic but visually effective. Narrator Hugh Parker adds a layer of warmth and clarity to the performance as his rich voice guides the audience through the story.
Queensland Ballet’s Peter and the Wolf is a sweet, well-executed production that successfully introduces young audiences to the world of ballet and classical music. Highly recommended.
Peter and the Wolf
Talbot Theatre – Thomas Dixon Centre, 406 Montague Road, West End (Brisbane)
Performance: Saturday 28 June 2025 – 1.30pm
Season continues to 5 July 2025
Information and Bookings: www.queenslandballet.com.au
Image: Queensland Ballet presents Peter and the Wolf – photo by Angharad Gladding
Review: Michele-Rose Boylan