Ballet Under the Stars
For the first time in 53 years, The Australian Ballet will stage its free outdoor event Ballet Under the Stars in regional Victoria, hosting this year’s event in scenic Gippsland. This year, it’s performing Giselle – a mystifying story of first love and forgiveness with a supernatural twist – in leafy Lardner Park in a free community event for all ages (with an outdoor all-weather policy).
Getting down early to Lardner Park won’t just guarantee you a good spot to see the stage. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how performers prepare to take the stage.
Aria Award-winning musician Megan Washington and The Australian Ballet’s senior artist Jarryd Madden will co-host an afternoon of pre-show entertainment to keep ballet fans and little ones entertained.
For those who want to connect with the on-stage stars of the night, there’ll be Q&As, an opportunity to watch the dancers warm up, and autograph-signing sessions. Kids can also take a dance class led by a member of the Australian Ballet’s artistic team.
To keep you well fed, there’ll be food stalls and a bar showcasing the best of regional Victoria’s produce and wine. If you prefer planning ahead, you can pre-order a gourmet hamper filled with fresh baguettes, local cheeses, salads and sweet treats.
BYO picnic blankets, low beach chairs, cushions, blankets and rugs to keep things cosy as you settle in for the main performance under the Latrobe Valley night sky.
Whether you’re planning a family escape, a nature-friendly getaway or a daytrip to the ballet, the local scenery, history and range of dining and drinking options will be sure to win you over.
Gates open at 4pm. Pre-show entertainment from 5pm. Performance from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.
This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with the Australian Ballet.
