Queensland Ballet’s 2025 Triple Bill opened Friday night (27 June) at Queensland Performing Arts Centre. It was a bright showcase of Australian choreographic talent. Featured, were works by Jack Lister, Natalie Weir and Greg Horsman. Under Nigel Gaynor’s baton, a rich accompaniment was provided by Queensland Chamber Orchestra- Camerata.
With my eyes on the ballet and my ears alert to the orchestra, I revelled in the virtuosic abilities of violinist, Brendan Joyce and pianist, Roger Cui. It is always a pleasure to hear these two musicians play.
The program commenced with Jack Lister’s Gemini. Lister is a young man who has achieved much. A former ballet dancer, he has quickly emerged as very talented choreographer. His creations have travelled the globe. Currently, he is Associate Artistic Director of Australasian Dance Collective.
Gemini is a modern work with minimalist costumes by Zoe Griffiths. Choreographically it’s a compelling, captivating creation. The work is characterised by sharp lines, lots of floor work and strong, intricate movements, as tension and harmony strive to coexist.
The setting is subterranean and the score is a reimagining by Louis Frere-Harvey of Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 From the New World. The haunting composition was enhanced by additional sound effects. I noted that Nigel wore headphones while conducting this piece.
Putting aside their classical training, the dancers convincingly immersed themselves in this very contemporary creation.
Following the first interval, we settled into Natalie Weir’s poetic 4Seasons. Performed to Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, this is a neoclassical work. In alignment with Bruce McKinven’s lovely costumes, the choreography is exquisitely fluid and highly expressive. The performance flowed like an idyllic, unimpeded stream somewhere beautiful where there were no distractions. Peace and tranquillity prevailed.
After a second interval, the evening concluded with Greg Horsman’s A Rhapsody in Motion. The notes state that Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini is one of Greg’s favourite musical pieces.
A former ballet principal, Greg is a gifted choreographer. I have been immensely impressed by every one of his works I have watched. He has an uncanny ability to weave humour into both classical and contemporary creations. Greg is Queensland Ballet’s Assistant Artistic Director and curator of the 2025 program.
The use of the barres in A Rhapsody in Motion as multi-potentialite, versatile props was both brilliant and intriguing. Zoe Griffiths was once again the costume designer. There was one breath holding moment when a beautiful dress settled upon the head of a male dancer during a lift. The situation was rapidly, safely and gracefully rectified.
Overall, Queensland Ballet’s 2025 Triple Bill is a testament to the company’s commitment to showcasing Australian choreographic talent. For those seeking a dynamic and enriching ballet experience, this Triple Bill is a must-see!
Queensland Ballet: Triple Bill
Playhouse – QPAC, Russell Street, South Brisbane
Performance: Friday 27 June 2025
Season continues to 5 July 2025
Bookings: www.qpac.com.au
For more information, visit: www.queenslandballet.com.au for details.
Images: Gemini by Jack Lister photo by David Kelly | 4Seasons by Natalie Weir – photo by David Kelly | A Rhapsody in Motion by Greg Horsman – photo by David Kelly
Review: Michele-Rose Boylan