Premier and Minister for the Arts Annastacia Palaszczuk and Minister for Tourism and Major Events Kate Jones today welcomed Ballet Preljocaj exclusively to Queensland, announcing a three-year agreement to secure some of the world’s finest performing arts companies for the state.
Ballet Preljocaj will perform their edgy production of Snow White, featuring costumes by Jean Paul Gaultier, only in Brisbane from 2 to 11 September 2016 in the 2016 QPAC International Series.
Premier Palaszczuk announced Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) would partner with QPAC in supporting theQPAC International Series for a further three years.
“It’s great to welcome Ballet Preljocaj – one of the leading contemporary ballet companies in the world – to Queensland’s exclusive Brisbane season of Snow White at QPAC,” she said.
“I am also very pleased to announce TEQ will continue to partner with QPAC and support the highly successfulQPAC International Series for the next three years.
“This agreement acknowledges the impact exclusive seasons, like Ballet Preljocaj and previous Series such as American Ballet Theatre and the Bolshoi Ballet, have on our economy in attracting audiences from across Australia and around the world.
“There is also growing demand from the Asian sector who have a desire to see the world’s best in performing arts closer to home which connects with TEQ’s Queensland Asia Tourism Strategy 2016-2025 in offering exclusive and unique experiences,” Premier Palaszczuk said.
Ms Jones said the QPAC International Series had a proven record of bringing visitors to the state and creating jobs for Queenslanders.
“Our commitment to securing the world’s leading artists to perform exclusively in Queensland attracts visitors from interstate and continues to grow Brisbane’s reputation as a leading cultural destination” she said.
“Since its inception in 2009, the QPAC International Series has attracted an audience of 112,000 people, 30% from outside of Brisbane and generated more than $12 million for the Queensland economy.
“I congratulate QPAC on the breadth of their international connections in luring the world’s best in performing arts and creating a program of unique experiences for Queenslanders and visitors to our state.”
QPAC Chief Executive John Kotzas said that the continued support from TEQ was warmly welcomed as another of the world’s best dance companies settles in to their residency at QPAC.
“We are at the ready to deliver our sixth QPACInternational Series and welcome Ballet Preljocaj and visitors from around Australia to our vibrant cultural precinct in Brisbane,” Mr Kotzas said.
“Future funding ensures that these exchanges will continue to grow and to ensure Brisbane is a place where international artists and companies can work and create and contribute to the artistic and cultural vibrancy of Queensland.
“The extension program for the Snow White season exemplifies the value of our International Series residency model.
“Alongside performances, Ballet Preljocaj will become temporary residents of Brisbane. This idea of companies in residence creates opportunities for dialogue between audiences, local and future artists and ensures a genuine cultural exchange.
“The enduring legacy is a depth of engagement that will last long after Ballet Preljocaj returns to France.”
Ballet Preljocaj’s Snow White comes to the Lyric Theatre, QPAC from 2 to 11 September 2016; an exclusive Brisbane season as part of the QPAC International Series with costuming by world renowned fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier, and music from Mahler, performed live by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra conducted by Johannes Fritszch.
In addition to Tourism and Events Queensland, the QPAC International Series is supported by QPAC’s new Preferred Accommodation Partner, Mantra Hotels, Resorts and Apartments, as well as JC Decaux, Treasury Casino and Hotel, Brisbane Marketing and this year is presented in association with Brisbane Festival.
Tickets are on sale now via qpac.com.au or 136 246.