The Australian Ballet
The Nutcracker Act II and Other Works
The Australian Ballet is delighted to share its artistry and passion outside the metro cities in 2025 so more audiences can now experience the magic on their local stages. In partnership with The Australian Ballet School and Principal Partner Telstra, Australia’s national ballet company will captivate audiences in Mount Gambier, Warrnambool, Geelong, Wollongong, Orange, Dubbo and Tamworth.
Audiences will experience a breathtaking program of timeless classics and bold new works. The tour features The Nutcracker Act II, adapted by Paul Knobloch, transporting audiences to the dreamlike Land of Sweets.
A world-premiere commission by award-winning Australian choreographer Lucy Guerin will push the boundaries of movement, offering a daring contemporary perspective on ballet. A captivating pas de deux from Diamonds by George Balanchine will highlight the grace of classical technique, the richness of storytelling and the skill of The Australian Ballet’s dancers.
The program also includes George Balanchine’s Allegro Brillante, a dazzling showcase of pure dance set to Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 3. Known for its speed, precision, and musicality, this exhilarating work exemplifies Balanchine’s signature style.
The Australian Ballet Artistic Director David Hallberg said: “There’s something truly special about taking ballet beyond the big stages and into regional communities. Taking The Australian Ballet on tour is our way of sharing the magic, bringing audiences a taste of everything we love about this art form, from timeless classics to bold new creations.”
“This program celebrates storytelling, movement and connection. We’re thrilled to bring it to audiences outside metro cities and proud to continue this tradition of making ballet accessible to more people, no matter where they live,” Hallberg added.
Audiences can also experience Class on Tour, a rare chance to witness the dancers’ daily training, accompanied by live commentary from artistic staff providing insight into the discipline and preparation behind each performance. For young dancers looking to refine their technique, the Youth Masterclassoffers an exclusive session led by Artistic Staff from The Australian Ballet and The Australian Ballet School bringing expert training directly to regional communities.
Beyond the stage, ballet teachers in Warrnambool, Orange and Tamworth will have the opportunity to apply for the Emerging Teachers Immersion Program, offering a behind-the-scenes week-long placement observing rehearsals, coaching sessions and artistic operations at The Australian Ballet’s Melbourne studios. Applications are now open.
The Australian Ballet’s Education and Outreach team will engage with local communities through immersive programs designed to inspire and connect ballet lovers of all ages. Programs including Dancing Story (ages 3-5), STEAMDANCE (primary and secondary school incursions), youth dance workshops, ballet classes for adults and seniors, and professional development sessions for educators will further expand access to high-quality dance education in regional communities.
Since 2001, Principal Partner Telstra has proudly supported The Australian Ballet On Tour, reinforcing a shared commitment to bringing world-class ballet experiences to regional audiences. The Australian Ballet remains dedicated to ensuring live performance continues to enrich communities across the country.
