Overview
During New Zealand's first COVID-19 lockdown the Royal New Zealand Ballet broadcast striking live performances to living rooms across the country. Now, as we're getting closer to some sense of normality, the company is heading back to the stage with a magical production of The Sleeping Beauty.
As part of the company's ever-popular Christmas season, the production will hit theatres across the country from 29 October, visiting Wellington, Invercargill, Dunedin, Christchurch, Palmerston North, Napier and Auckland.
The quintessential classical ballet is led by RNZB Artistic Director Patricia Barker, with New Zealand costume designer Donna Jefferis and American scenic designer Howard C. Jones bringing to life the fairy tale woodland sprites, grand princes and enchanting princess. RNZB's production in Auckland will be an absolute treat for the senses with Russian composer Tchaikovsky's orchestral score performed in full colour. The live orchestral accompaniment will be led by RNZB Principal Conductor Hamish McKeich.
Barker says, "We considered our production of this beautiful, enchanting story from all angles – from the original ballet, to the Disney story, and even as a Netflix-style compelling drama with storytelling and characters at its heart. The result is a bold new production with all the brilliance, grandeur and beauty of the beloved classical ballet."
Image: Ross Brown.