ARTICLE ARTICLE THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET TOUR OF GISELLE DAVIDMCALLISTER,ARTISTICDIRECTORSHARESHISINSIGHTSINTOTHISPRODUCTION The Australian Ballet is touring Australia, both regionally and in some larger cities, as it presents the quintessential classical ballet Giselle. This critically acclaimed production will be presented in Tasmania, Victoria and New South Wales including Riverside Theatres on October 7. Since its creation in 1841, Giselle has captured the hearts of audiences all over the world with its heartbreaking love story, famous mad scene, sea of ghostly white tutus and impressive display of ballet technique. Since 1982, The Australian Ballet Regional Tour, formally known as The Dancers Company, has brought the enchanting and transformative experience of ballet to communities across Australia. The tour showcases the artistry and technical skills of artists of The Australian Ballet and graduating students of The Australian Ballet School. In 2017 the tour is expected to reach over 11,000 people in regional locations through performances and community engagement activities. Artistic Director David McAllister said “Regional touring has been an important feature of the company’s activities since our very first tour back in 1966. Since 1980 the tour has partnered with The Australian Ballet School to undertake annual tours to regional centres, presenting a wide selection of our company’s diverse repertoire across the country. This year we are taking one of the most treasured works - the romantic classic Giselle on the road. This is a ballet that all dancers love dancing and I am sure these dancers will follow in the footsteps of world-famous Italian ballet dancer Carlotta Grisi, who was so well known for performing the role of Giselle.” Executive Director Libby Christie said, “From our earliest years, The Australian Ballet has been committed to bringing world-class ballet to regional communities and we’re thrilled to be taking this production of Giselle on tour in 2017. Beyond performances, we will also connect with regional communities through a range of activities in theatres and local schools. Our touring party of 49 is preparing to cover more than 5,000 km this year. “PHENOMENAL DRAMATICIMPACT” The New York Times PHOTO JEFF BUSBY 6