2019 Annual Report Celebrating 55 Years of The Australian School

1 School 2019 Annual Report “The highly entertaining program for Summer Season 2019 again highlights The as not just an esteemed and invaluable institute but as a trusted brand for brightly polished, modestly priced performances.”

Simon Parris: Man in Chair (Theatre, Opera and Ballet Reviewer), December 2019

2 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 3 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Vale Dame

In the 55th year of The Australian Ballet School, Founding Director Dame Margaret Scott AC DBE passed away peacefully on 24 February.

Born in Johannesburg, , Dame Margaret began her professional career with Sadler’s Wells Ballet in London, where she was appointed Principal in 1941. She soon joined Ballet Rambert, also in London, and was Principal from 1943 to 1948. She arrived in in 1947 as part of Ballet Rambert’s overseas tour and chose to remain.

Dame Margaret was a founding member of the National Theatre Ballet in and danced in its early seasons as Principal. In the late 1950s, she was involved in negotiations with the Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust, which led to the formation of The Australian Ballet. In 1964, she was appointed Founding Director of The Australian Ballet School, and continued in that role until 1990.

She was invested as a Dame Commander of the British Empire (DBE) in 1981 for services to ballet. This followed the earlier award of an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1976. In 2005, she was honoured as a Companion in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AC).

Her legacy lives on in the thousands of students she nurtured as Founding Director of The Australian Ballet School. Many of whom went onto making their own indelible mark in and beyond—including The Australian Ballet’s Artistic Director David McAllister AM, the School’s third Director Marilyn Rowe AM OBE, and current Director Lisa Pavane. She had a great passion for choreographic development. Choreographer AO was also one of her protégés.

“We are incredibly sad to lose one of Australia’s greatest ever dance educators. She was a visionary and Australia’s great ballet tradition would not be what it is today without her pioneering work.” Leigh Johns OAM former Chair of the Board of Directors, The Australian Ballet School (retired May 2019).

“From fostering the development of a distinctive Australian classical style and curriculum, through to the establishment of the School’s administration and facilities, Dame Margaret set the foundations of The Australian Ballet School, paving the way for the School to become one of the world’s top ballet training schools. It is impossible to tell the story of dance in Australia without her. As the founding Director of The Australian Ballet School she guided its development for almost three decades. As a student under her tutelage and care during the late 70s, I am indebted to her passion, dedication and commitment. She was my teacher, friend and mentor and I am deeply honoured to carry on her incredible legacy.” Lisa Pavane, Director, The Australian Ballet School.

On 2 February we celebrated the School’s 55th Anniversary with students and staff and held an assembly commencing with a minute silence in honour of Dame Margaret, remembering everything she has done for The Australian Ballet School, and the future of ballet.

The Dame Margaret Scott Endowment Fund was established in 2019 to honour the founding Director of The Australian Ballet School and ensure that Dame Margaret Scott’s legacy continues.

3 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Table of Contents

Vale Dame Margaret Scott 3 The Australian Ballet School 6 Message from the Chair 8 Message from the Director 9 Message from the General Manager 11 Our People 14 Our Students 22 Our Activities 26 Marilyn Rowe House 31 Our Achievements 34 Financial Report Summary 46 Our Supporters & Partners 48

6 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 5 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report The Australian Ballet School

The Australian Ballet School is Australia’s national centre for elite vocational classical dance training.

Over 55 years The Australian Ballet School has transformed hundreds of young and aspiring dancers and produced artists of the highest calibre for The Australian Ballet and other significant dance companies around Australia and the world.

The Australian Ballet School aims to balance the rigorous demands of professional training with a unique and nurturing environment where creativity and excellence can flourish. We are informed by history, and motivated by the exciting possibilities of the future of dance in Australia and abroad.

As Australia’s national centre for elite vocational classical dance, our goal is to remain at the forefront, internationally, as a provider of a professional dance training programme that:

• produces exceptional dancers with a distinctive Australian style; • balances technique and artistry with educational needs and holistic care; • trains teachers and develops the artistic leaders of the future; and • advances the art of ballet.

Our eight-level accredited program combines studio dance training and academic classroom studies, led by expert teachers and supported by health and wellbeing professionals.

In 2019 there were 107 students enrolled in The Australian Ballet School’s eight-level Training Programme. Our students come from all over Australia as well as neighbouring countries. They are both artists and athletes in training with exceptional talent and drive, and a commitment to the art form. We reached many more young and aspiring dancers through our community access activities.

As we nurture the future generations of Australian dance artists, and train the stars of the stage today to become the teachers of tomorrow, we are proud of our role in the history and future of dance in Australia.

6 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Message from the Chair Message from the Director

In May 2019, I was honoured to be appointed Chair of the Board of The Australian Ballet I must begin by congratulating all of our students on the stunning performances that School. The pride I feel in being entrusted to take on this role is dwarfed by the pride in concluded our 2019 school year. It was not just the technical standard, which was a very seeing our students excel as they did in so many ways over the year, culminating in the end of high, but also how each ballet was danced with such charisma and enthusiasm. We cannot year Summer Season performance. I know I am not the only one in the audience who forgets underestimate the benefit that our students gain from the opportunity to advance their that they are, in fact, students. This is why our graduates provide the primary pipeline of technical ability and develop their artistry when performing from the major classical talent for The Australian Ballet, a company which is justifiably famous both here at home and repertoire. Without the support of David McAllister AM and The Australian Ballet, we internationally. It is also why the technique and artistry of our graduates is in high demand would not have had access to the beautiful costumes for our production of ‘Aurora’s in state companies, and takes them to the world’s leading dance companies, with their Wedding’. I am forever grateful for David’s energy and his commitment to the artistic distinctive Australian style. Congratulations to every one of our students on their individual outcomes of The Australian Ballet School. To all the dancers in Journey, Pizzicato, Con Brio progress and achievements throughout 2019. and Sketch Tone, you danced with total commitment and sheer joy. We cannot forget the stunning addition of La Tarantella Italiana! danced so brilliantly and with such a collegiate On behalf of the Board, I thank all the staff whose expertise and energy puts the School at energy and adaptability. And last, but not least, huge congratulations to our students for the forefront—internationally—in providing a unique program that truly advances the art the wonderfully entertaining performances of Who Cares? At the end of the performance of ballet. I also take this opportunity to congratulate Lisa Pavane on her leadership of the as our students all gathered in the corridor after the show with emotions running high and School this year—again, delivering exceptional student outcomes within a nurturing culture. I said to them—“you will remember this day forever” and I truly meant that. I graduated from Now in her fifth year as Director, Lisa is part of a cohort of exceptional women who have The Australian Ballet School in 1980 and I also danced ‘Aurora’s Wedding’ in my graduation shaped the vision of this School. Early in 2019, the ballet world lost one of its leaders—and performance, as the 1st Florestan Sister—that was nearly 40 years ago. I remember that the School, its founding Director —with the passing of Dame Margaret Scott. I pay tribute graduation very clearly and will cherish it always. to her, and am delighted that we can honour her legacy with the establishment of the Dame Margaret Scott Endowment Fund. The purpose of this Fund is to secure the long-term I travelled extensively in 2019 and can confidently say we are doing exceptionally well. We financial sustainability of the School, so we can continue to support young dancers to are fortunate to have strong relationships with other top schools and during the year, I achieve their potential. personally visited HET National Training Academy and School. I attended the and sat on juries for the (YAGP) in General Manager Sandra Ball oversees the operations of The Australian Ballet School. On Malaysia and Japan. It is essential to highlight; such is the calibre of our teaching staff behalf of the Board, I thank her for her tireless efforts in leading an administration team that their expertise was called upon as guest teachers, for adjudication, masterclasses that is constantly creative in managing the resources of the School. The School depends and auditions, collectively travelling nationally to New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, on a number of essential partnerships. In this regard, I acknowledge again the symbiotic Canberra, Adelaide and Perth and internationally to Singapore, China, Korea, Germany, relationship we have with The Australian Ballet, and in particular thank its Artistic Director, England and Canada. These opportunities support staff professional and organisational David McAllister AM; Executive Director, Libby Christie; and Chair, Craig Dunn. I also learning and allows us to benchmark ourselves, confirming we are achieving high standards acknowledge the ongoing financial support of successive Federal governments represented of best practise and that we are at the forefront nationally and internationally as leaders by the Minister for the Arts. However, we cannot operate on fees and government support in vocational education and training. So, The Australian Ballet School’s alone. We are deeply appreciative of the support of our generous donors, and I thank Board 55th anniversary year was filled with many highlights and significant events, and it is fitting member, Zich Woinarski, for his leadership of the Development Committee, which raises vital to start with the passing of the School’s founding Director Dame Margaret Scott AC funds, and share his delight in welcoming Amanda Bailey, our recently appointed Director of DBE. We were humbled to adorn the auditorium and perform at her memorial service, and Development. Thank you also to our partners: Bloch Australia, the Australian , we honoured her with Simon Dow’s specially created Défilé. We participated in the Prix Friends of The Australian Ballet New South Wales, Friends of The Australian Ballet South de Lausanne’s Choreographic Project and performed in New York in the YAGP 20th Australia, Mantra, Allens, Fred & Ginger Catering, Cacao, Remedy, Salt Lab and Whitemoss. Anniversary International Dance School Gala. The Australian Ballet School was very well received—affirming our stance in the international ballet school training arena. Our students For their significant contribution to the governance of the School, I also thank my fellow were exposed to an exciting and diverse repertoire performed in our Morning Melodies Board members: Robin Campbell, Deputy Chair; Paul Cross, Geoff Guggenheimer, and again, and Showcase Seasons, and our graduands performed Coppélia on The Australian Ballet’s Zich Woinarski; and our newer members, joining the Board during 2019, Adrian Burnett; Regional Tour. Ruth Picker; and Stephen Adrian. They each bring important skills to the Board. Many of you will know that the School’s long-serving Chair, Leigh Johns OAM, retired in May One of our many aims is to continue to expand our student’s creative influences, and we 2019. We are grateful for Leigh’s guidance and advocacy over the past 17 years, and for his do this not only through the student’s daily training and repertoire learning opportunities, continued support of the School. I also thank Geoff Rush for his long service on the Board. participation in events but also their own creations. Again, in 2019, we saw some very high quality works through VCE Dance Units studies and our Level 8 student-inspired Students of The Australian Ballet School collectively play a vital role in creating the future of Gala Dinner creation Table pour Neuf. Congratulations to Mathilda and Benjamin for their dance, as does your continued interest and support in the School. Thank you. sensational creation and to all Level 8s for your input and diversity of talents on display Sarah Matheson that night. We continue to look at how we can support and nurture student creativity. It Chair, The Australian Ballet School has also seen an exceptional year of secondments—116 ABS students, sourced from our Early Learning Programme right through to our graduate year level, were employed by The Australian Ballet for their seasons of Alice’s Adventures In Wonderland, Giselle, Sylvia and The Nutcracker.

8 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 9 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Message from the Our community programmes continue to inspire young students to train with us at The Message from the General Manager Director Australian Ballet School and this year we have expanded our ITP to include outer Melbourne students. Students have also been busy in the classrooms, and so I take this opportunity to thank VCASS as our academic provider and all our specialist teachers who deliver our allied education including Psychology, Nutrition, Anatomy, Music, EAL, Family Planning and our Connecting with School Community programme. We strongly encourage all our students to remain focused on their academic education during their time at the School and 2019 was again a very busy yet inpiring year; it is with the sincerest thanks to the Australian congratulate them on their academic achievements. Government and the Minister for the Arts that The Australian Ballet School again performed interstate, in Sydney. 2019 has seen our boarding programme continue to flourish, providing a world-class facility and home for our students, providing the very best care. Health and Wellbeing is at the The philosophy of The Australian Ballet School is to maximise ability; to produce thinking core of everything we do at this school and we are proud of our accomplishments and are artists who are healthy in body and mind. We nurture students to emerge fully prepared to continually looking at what we can to further succeed. I acknowledge the many wonderful fulfil their potential as members of The Australian Ballet and other dance companies around people who make up our organisation; the artistic team, our musicians, our world-class health the world, as well as individuals capable of making valuable contributions to society. and well-being team, the teacher training department and the administration department. Alongside the dance training and formal accredited Vocational Education in Training To the Board of Directors, thank you for trusting in me to uphold the artistic leadership of qualifications studied through our Full-Time Programme, students are provided with a well- this great School. I sincerely acknowledge every friend, supporter and committee member rounded education programme. This integration of dance and academic studies is integral to most sincerely—your contribution in so many ways, makes an enormous difference. the development of the whole person, and encourages dancers to continue studying during I also acknowledge the incredible work of the Family Support Programme. Following a year professional careers. Beyond the world stage, alumni of The Australian Ballet School can of planning in 2018, it was fantastic to be able to launch and implement many initiatives be found studying or working in fields such as physiotherapy, Pilates, education, exercise throughout the year. Sincere gratitude to the inaugural parent members for their significant science, arts management, psychology, information technology, design, communications, contribution. To all students, congratulations on your personal and individual progress and photography, human resources, aviation and, of course, the dance industry. achievement in 2019; please never stop learning and striving to be your best. To the Level 8 It has been another eventful year for the School. Our 107 Full-Time Programme (FTP) graduates of 2019, we wish you great happiness and very best wishes as you embark upon students have been involved in a year of intense and steadfast training. Our national tour your next pathway. and community access programmes engaged a further 3,000 students Australia-wide. The Lisa Pavane School provided specialist training to over 400 gifted students (aged 9-14) years, both in Director, The Australian Ballet School Melbourne and on our national tour, as part of our Intrastate, Interstate, International and Invitee Programme (ITP).

In ensuring we continue to increase community awareness and prominence, and in building support for the School, community events have been significant. Events included: Parent Access week and Public Access Day, our collaboration with e.motion21, our participation in the ARTS8 annual event, World Ballet Day – Fed Square Activation, An Afternoon at The Australian Ballet School where community participants were able to take master classes and observe our Level 8 students in class and rehearsals, Christmas Window unveiling in Bourke St and La Trobe Distinguished Alumni Awards.

Further to training the next generation of Australian dancers, the School also provides a training pathway for elite professional dancers who may wish to move into a vocational teacher role. Our fully accredited Graduate Diploma in Elite Dance Instruction is delivered as a one-to-one mentoring course. I take this opportunity to acknowledge the pedagogical trainers of this vocational course, and the graduates who continue to play a vital role in advancing the art form into the future.

I am constantly heartened by the generosity and keen interest of those who support the School. With two thirds of our income coming from non-government sources, philanthropy is a cornerstone of all that we do. My most sincere thanks to all of our donors, partners and friends. We couldn’t do what we do without you.

I will also take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the Board of Directors, all our staff, students, families and supporters who share in our vision to honour the past, achieve in the present, and create the future.

Sandra Ball General Manager, The Australian Ballet School

10 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 11 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report

Our People Our People Bachelor of Laws and a Master of Taxation Law from Monash University. He is a Chartered Accountant, a Fellow of the Taxation Institute of Australia and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Board of Directors Mr Adrian Burnett

Chair, Ms Sarah Matheson Adrian is an Artistic Director with extensive national and international experience, an award- winning choreographer and a leading Dance Artist. He joined the Australia Council for the Sarah Matheson joined the Board of Directors (formerly Council of Management) in March Arts in 2011 and was appointed Director of Dance in 2015. Adrian’s art-form expertise and 2005 after acting for The Australian Ballet School in a pro-bono legal capacity. In 2009, national overview has informed grant programs, strategic initiatives and policy outcomes 2010, 2011, 2013 and 2016 the members of The Australian Ballet School re-elected Sarah to at the Council. After graduating from The Australian Ballet School, Adrian joined the the Board. Sarah was elected Chair of the Board effective May 2019. Sarah holds a Bachelor Australian Ballet where he held prominent artistic roles including; Senior Artist, Resident of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws from the . Sarah is a partner of the Choreographer, Guest Teacher and Executive Producer. During this time, Adrian was also law firm Allens and practises in intellectual property. She is a member of the firm’s national Guest Artist with Basel Ballet in Switzerland, The National Ballet of Canada and Scottish pro-bono committee, and regularly acts for not for profit organisations in the arts, health, Ballet. As a choreographer he has been commissioned to create over 20 new ballets social investment and social justice sectors. Sarah also holds a staff partner role at Allens, including for; Dutch National Ballet, Houston Ballet, Singapore Dance Theatre, New York with responsibilities including recruitment, training, performance assessment and pastoral City Ballet’s Choreographic Institute, The Australian Ballet, West Australian Ballet and care. Sarah served on the Board of the Victorian Public Interest Law Clearing House (now Royal New Zealand Ballet. Adrian has worked extensively as a guest with Justice Connect) from 2001 to 2010 (the last 2 years as President), and the Advisory Boards international companies including staging seminal works by Glen Tetley and Twyla Tharp for of the law schools of Melbourne University, Monash University and Deakin University. In 2019, the Scottish Ballet’s season at the Edinburgh International Arts Festival. In 2019 he joined Sarah was made a Member of Honour of the International Association for the Protection of the Australian Ballet School Board and is Chair of SAMAG (Sydney Arts Management Intellectual Property for her service on the Board of that association (2009-2018). Advisory Group

Deputy Chair, Ms Robin Campbell Mr Paul Cross

Robin Campbell joined the Board in January 2015, appointed as Deputy Chair in March 2017 Paul Cross joined the Board of Directors in June 2008. In 2011 and 2012 Paul was elected as and was re-elected to the Board by members of The Australian Ballet School in 2018. Robin a Director to the Board, he was re-elected to the Board by the members of The Australian is a Founder and Chair of the Robin Campbell Family Foundation and was a Trustee of the Ballet School in 2009, 2010, 2014 and 2017. Paul holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the Parncutt Family Foundation (2001-2017), both of which support a large number of arts and University of Melbourne an MBA from the Melbourne Business School and is a graduate of education organisations nationally. Robin is currently a member of the Foundation Council, the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He is an experienced software entrepreneur, State Library of Victoria and has been a member of The Australian Ballet Foundation Board investor and executive and has launched a number of successful start-ups and held senior since its inception in 2011. She served as a Member of the Executive Committee of the positions in global software and marketing services companies including Responsys and Foundation, Trinity College, University of Melbourne, from 2008 to 2014. Robin is a Life Oracle Inc. Over his career Paul has advised a number of not-for-profit organisations on Member of The Australian Ballet and the National Gallery of Victoria. She has held senior fundraising, marketing and cause-campaigning in Australia, Europe and North America. He management roles in investment banking and information technology and has provided currently advises technology start-ups and is an energetic participant in The Australian consulting services in the business technology sector. More recently Robin has been lead Arts community. producer of the award-winning show “Songs for Nobodies” in London’s West End. Robin has a Bachelor of Science (Honours) from the University of Cape Town and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Mr Geoff Guggenheimer

Geoff Guggenheimer joined the Board of Directors in August 2016. In 2017 Geoff was Members of the Board of Directors elected as a Director to the Board by the members of The Australian Ballet School. Geoff is the Director of Student Development and Head of Boarding at Melbourne Grammar School. Mr Stephen Adrian In these roles he oversees the pastoral and well-being programmes, leading a team of people responsible for the academic, social, spiritual and physical development of students in the Stephen Adrian joined the Board of Directors in June 2019 and is a member of the Audit senior school. Prior to this he had been the Director of Boarding at Christ Church Grammar Risk and Compliance Committee. He is a Consultant Director at ShineWing Australia and in Perth. Geoff has a Bachelor of Applied Science from RMIT and a Graduate Certificate in has been with ShineWing for more than four decades. Stephen’s skill areas include finance, Sport management from Deakin University. tax and business structures focusing mainly on private groups. He has also acted for many not for profit organisations and is the responsible person of a number of private ancillary foundations. He is a director for a number of private companies, and a past director of listed public companies. In addition to being a director of The Australian Ballet School, he is a Ms Ruth Picker director of Food and Wine Victoria Ltd and Waterski and Wakeboard Australia Ltd. He is Ruth Picker joined the Board of Directors in June 2019. She has 36 years’ experience the chair of the Corporate Governance Committee of Food and Wine Victoria and a member with Ernst & Young (EY) and her current position is Asia-Pacific Risk Management of the MLC Foundation. Stephen authors the Company Directors Manual, recommended by Leader, based in Melbourne, responsible for enterprise-wide risk management for EY in the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Stephen holds a Bachelor of Economics, a

14 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 15 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our People the Asia-Pacific Area. In this capacity she is a member of the Asia-Pacific Area Executive Our People Patron Lady Southey AC Leadership team. She is also a member of EY’s Global Risk Management Executive based in London. Ruth is also a member of EY’s Global Practice Group which comprises partners in Board of Directors leadership positions from around the world and is a member of EY’s Asia-Pacific Diversity Chair Leigh Johns OAM (retired May 2019) and Inclusiveness Committee and chairs the Asia-Pacific Ethics Oversight Group. Prior to Sarah Matheson (appointed June 2019) this Ruth was Global Leader - Global International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Services, based in London, for four years. Ruth was a member of Ernst & Young’s Global Deputy Chair Robin Campbell IFRS Policy Committee for nine years. Prior to this she was the Managing Partner of Ernst & Young Melbourne, Oceania Leader in Climate Change and Sustainability Services while Members of the Board Stephen Adrian also holding a senior IFRS partner role in the Australian firm. Ruth is a Fellow member of Adrian Burnett the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia & New Zealand and a Fellow member Paul Cross of CPA Australian. She is also a Fellow member of FINSIA and a member of the Australian Geoffrey Guggenheimer Institute of Company Directors. Ruth Picker W. Brind Zichy-Woinarski Q.C.

Mr W. Brind (Zich) Zichy-Woinarski Q.C. Life Members Honorary Life Members Julie da Costa OAM Zich joined the Board of Directors on 25 May 2017, he was re-elected to the Board by the Jenny Kaye members of The Australian Ballet School in 2018. He has been a member of the Philanthropy Gordon Tasker AM Committee of The Australian Ballet School since 2012. Zich holds a Bachelor of Laws Josie Woodgate OAM with Honours from the University of Melbourne and has practised as a barrister at the Victorian Bar since April 1970, practising in a wide variety of law including white collar and Staff commercially related criminal matters, professional disciplinary matters, equal opportunity Lisa Pavane and discrimination law. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel in November 1987. Zich was a Director founder of the Criminal Bar Association, a former Chairman and is an Honorary Life member. He served on the Victorian Bar Council between 1990-1994, was a member of its Executive, General Manager Sandra Ball Junior Vice-Chairman in 1994 and was Chairman of the Ethics Committee from 1993-1999. He has been a member of the Advisory Board for the Sir Zelman Cowan Centre at Victoria Student Training Programme University since its inception. Zich has been a director of the Newsboys Foundation since Ballet Mistress, Level 8 Teacher Joanne Michel December 1991 and its Chairman since December 2009. He was a member of the Board of Try Youth and Community Services from 1972 to 1995 and 1999 to 2008, was junior Vice- Ballet Master, Level 8 Teacher Andrew Murphy + President between 1989 and 1995 and was appointed a Life Governor in 1989. He is a past Vice-President of the International Commission of Jurists in Australia, Victorian Branch and Levels 5-7 Coordinators & Lynette Wills was also a member of the Board of Westside Circus. Level 7 Classical Teachers Simon Dow

Classical Megan Connelly Jiayin Du Members of the Board of Directors who retired in the year ended 31 December 2019 Michela Kirkaldie Commissioner Leigh Johns OAM Irina Konstantinova Sergey Konstantinov Commissioner Leigh Johns was co-opted to the Board of Directors (formerly Council of Sabrina Lenzi Management) in March 2002 after acting for The Australian Ballet School for a number of Kirsty Martin years in a legal advisory capacity. In 2005 Leigh was elected as a Director and re-elected Christine Vavladellis to the Board by the members of The Australian Ballet School in 2009, 2010, 2013 and 2016 (his term expired in May 2019). In March 2011 the members of the Board elected Contemporary Margaret Wilson Leigh to the position of Chair of the Board of Directors. Leigh retired as Chair in May 2019, and is the longest serving Chair of the ABS. Leigh holds a Bachelor of Economics Character/Folkloric Christine Howard and Bachelor of Laws from Monash University and a Master of Laws from the University of Melbourne. Leigh is a Fair Work Commissioner having previously held senior roles in Resident Choreographers Simon Dow private legal practice and in government as the Chief Counsel of the Fair Work Ombudsman Margaret Wilson and then appointments as the Chief Executive Officer of two independent Commonwealth Government statutory agencies. Leigh is Deputy Chair of the Victorian College of the Arts Spanish Guest Teacher Areti Boyaci Secondary School which is the ABS’ academic provider. In 2017 Leigh was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the General Division for services to the performing arts, Student Development Coordinator & Katrina Edwards primary health care organisations and industrial relations. Conditioning Specialist

Strength & Conditioning Coach Sakis Michelis

16 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 17 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our People Pilates Instructors Michela Kirkaldie Our People Connecting to School Community Programme Debra Ferguson Margaret Wilson Katrina Edwards Boarding Programme Sakis Michelis Head of Boarding Benita Bowles

Guest & Melbourne Community Access Teacher Christine Vavladelli Senior Boarding Assistant Rachel Cotra Natalie Clark Rachel Rawlins Boarding Assistants Joanna Holland Kalman Warhaft Chelsea Maron Reshma Raju Music Stuart Tyson Head of Music/Audio Visual Coordinator Paul Brickhill Ella Westblade

Pianists Tatiana Levitskai Academic Staff Waldemar Lis English Sarah Colman (VCASS Level 7) Neil McNeill Eden Greskie (VCASS Level 6) Izabella Mouguerman Huda Ali (EAL Overseas Students) Larissa Oberfeld Maree Strachan (Level 8 IELTS Overseas Students) Diane Palmer Keith Ng Anatomy Sarah Way Oliver Northam (Melbourne Community Access classes) Career Management Pauline Ryan (Levels 7 & 8)

Vocational Graduate Teacher Training Programme Cultural Studies Pauline Ryan Executive Head of Teacher Training & Digital Sheryl Bates Resources Curator Dance Perspectives/VCE Dance Pauline Ryan (Levels 5, 6 & 7)

Pedagogic Instructor & Specialist Ballet Coach Michela Kirkaldie Drama VCASS Steven Thorne** (Levels 6 & 7)

Online Educator and Facilitator Huda Ali Music Penne Webster (Levels 4 & 5 & VCASS Levels 6 & 7)

Digital Producer Nicholas Forster Nutrition Katherine Shone

Student Health & Wellbeing Performance Psychology Kim King School Counsellor Philippa Ziegenhardt Philippa Ziegenhardt VCASS Elizabeth Townshend/Felicity Rodda (VCE Psychology Consultant Natalie Kyan BApSc Levels 6 & 7)

Physiotherapist Sarah Way Academic Provider Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School VCASS Principal Hilary Bland Rehabilitation Coaching - Classical Michela Kirkaldie Megan Connelly VCASS Deputy Principals Donatella Mannollini Kirsty Martin Michael Sargeant

Rehabilitation Coaching - Contemporary Margaret Wilson Administration EA to the Director Marijke Franken Strength & Conditioning Katrina Edwards Sakis Michelis EA to the GM & Operations Coordinator Maree Strachan

Dietician Fiona Sutherland International Student Coordinator Maree Strachan

Sports Physician Dr. Andrew Garnham Finance Accountant Mona Yin-Hung Pit (until December 2019) General Practitioner Dr. Vicki Higgins Davone Pope (from November 2019)

Myotherapist Leigh Holliday

18 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 19 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our People Philanthropy Director of Development Amanda Bailey (from November 2019)

Development Manager William Vo (until June 2019) Dana Moran (from July 2019)

Development Coordinator Alicia Rozenblum

Marketing & Communications Coordinator Aisling O’Sullivan

Front Office Student & School Administration Coordinator Christine Howard

Registrar & Student Administration Coordinator Amanda Georgiou

Administration Assistant & Digital Producer Nicholas Forster

Administration Assistant Tiffany Liew

After Hours Student Coordinators Madeleine Ball Norma Drew Ian Drew Reshma Raju Siobhan Robb

** VCASS (Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School) teachers

20 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our Students Our Students

Student Leaders As part of the holistic philosophy in vocational training, student leadership builds on the positive and healthy culture that the ABS has carefully developed and continues to nurture. Students present their written applications to the Director to be considered for a leadership role within the School. Level 1-3 Level 4

School Captains: Mathilda Ballantyne & Lachlan Mair

Vice Captains: Briana McAllen & Adam Elmes

International Student Liaison: Karina Arimura

Level 7 Class Leaders: Maidie Widmer & Izaak Westhead

Level 6 Class Leader: Charlotte Stratton-Smith & Flynn Stelfox

Level 5 Class Leaders: Indiana Scott & Tadgh Robinson

Level 4 Class Leaders: Tiombe Davey & Jeremy Hargreaves

Level 5 Level 6

Student Numbers In 2019 The Australian Ballet School trained and nurtured 107 young dancers through our eight-level Training Programme.

Beyond the School’s core training program, our reach and resources extended to over 2,400 young people across Australia who took part in our Open Masterclasses, Early Learning Programme, auditions, Winter School and Summer School and special events.

Student Origin Students of The Australian Ballet School come from all over Australia and neighbouring countries. Level 7 Level 8 Full Time Student Origin

Photography by Arthur Reed

22 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 23 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our Achievements

44 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our Activities Our Activities effortlessly into The Australian Ballet and top professional dance companies in Australia and around the world.

Graduate Diploma of Classical Ballet 10296NAT

Duration: 1 year (Level 8) Our eight-level programme combines studio dance training and academic classroom studies, Aims: To prepare students for the dance profession at a virtuoso level by refining their led by expert teachers and supported by health and wellbeing professionals. dance technique and developing their professional skills through career development activities and performances.

Relationship between ABS training level, programme, academic year and student age After School Programme (Levels 1-3) ABS Level ABS Training Programme Victorian Academic Year Approximate Age The Australian Ballet School conducts after-school-hours vocational training for students After School studying Levels 1, 2 and 3, at approximately 9-13 years of age. Access to the After School Level 1 Years 5-6 10-11 Programme/ITP Programme is by audition. Teachers give individual attention and nurture students to After School Level 2 Year 7 11-12 establish strong foundations of technique upon which the following years of training Programme/ITP

develop. Classes are conducted at The Australian Ballet School facilities in Southbank, After School Level 3 Year 8 12-13 Melbourne, in the late afternoon to early evening on weekdays and during the day on Programme/ITP Saturdays. Class sizes are small, and the number of classes per week varies for each level. Level 4 Full Time Year 9 13-14

Level 5 Full Time Year 10 14-15

Interstate, Intrastate and International Training Programme (Levels 1-3) Level 6 Full Time Year 11 15-16

Entry is by audition. All ITP students continue to attend ballet classes with their regular Level 7 Full Time Year 12 16-17 dance teachers, studying their syllabus of choice. In addition to these local ballet arrangements, they have to access The Australian Ballet School’s training through the Level 8 Full Time Year N/A 17-18 following opportunities:

1. Personal Visits/Participation in the Melbourne-based Programme. ITP students can access the Melbourne-based programme as often as personal circumstances allow. National Audition Tour Some students may attend for three consecutive days; others may visit once per month or for two consecutive weeks. Classes are usually held after academic hours, for 2-3 Each year staff of The Australian Ballet School travel across the nation to capital cities hours. and major regional areas to hold auditions and to provide community access programmes 2. Specialised Coaching Classes, conducted in most Australian capital cities once a year for teachers, health professionals and dance students. The 2019 touring programmes and delivered exclusively for ITP students. community access short courses attracted 2,842 enrolments*. The 2019 tour included 3. Intensive Training Sessions, delivered annually over four days at The Australian Ballet Launceston, Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane, Cairns, Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne. Through School in Melbourne during a Victorian school holiday break. an extensive audition process, students compete for an invitation to join the School’s world- class programmes. In 2019 over 950** young dancers registered to audition for a place in the School’s 2020 programmes. Full Time Programme (Levels 4-8) * Excluding Melbourne based Summer School and Winter School which attracted 450 enrolments ** Audition numbers are specific to new and external students only. In most cases, students currently enrolled in Level 4 is the first year of full-time training at The Australian Ballet School. Training is the ABS’ ITP and After School Programme (ASP) are not required to re-audition for entry into the Full-Time Programme (FTP), they are advised of their status as part of their annual assessment/review and, therefore, offered alongside Academic Year 8 or 9 at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary not included in this statistical data. School (VCASS). Students in Level 4 are expected to achieve well in their academic studies as well as consolidate and expand their technical and artistic dance skills.

The Australian Ballet School is a NVR Registered Training Organisation (provider code International Intensive 3132, CRICOS code 00253A) offering the following, accredited courses: In 2019 programmes held at The Australian Ballet School during student term breaks Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) CUA50113 attracted metropolitan, regional, interstate and international participants to Melbourne. Following its inception in 2016, the inclusion of the International Intensive programme Duration: 2 years (Levels 5 and 6) provided 21 students with four-consecutive days of training at The Australian Ballet Aims: To encourage the special qualities of Australian dancers including youthful freshness, School, and residing at Marilyn Rowe House during their stay. expressiveness, athleticism, musicality and strong technique.

Advanced Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) CUA60113

Duration: 1 year (Level 7) Aims: To produce graduates of the highest calibre who are capable of integrating

26 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 27 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our Activities Early Learning Programme Our Activities integrated with learning to support participants’ capacity to self-monitor, think critically and develop independent, lifelong learning skills. The Australian Ballet School offers regular weekly Early Learning classes in Melbourne for girls and boys aged 4 to 10 years. These classes aim to instil a love of dance and music. 2019 Community Access Short Courses and Audition Participants Enrolment is on a term basis and no audition is required to access these classes. Delivered (at 1 December 2019) by vocationally trained teachers and featuring live piano accompaniment. Open Specialised Winter Summer Origin Allied Auditions Masterclasses Coaching Classes School School

NSW 118 147 111 258 16 85 Boys Programme ACT 79 - - 69 1 17 The Australian Ballet School delivers regular weekly classes for boys aged 10 to 15. These classes provides a rare opportunity for young male students to be taught in same NT - - - - - 5 gender classes, in a programme designed specifically for them and delivered by vocationally trained teachers. Enrolment is on a term basis and no audition is required to access these QLD 152 97 62 141 10 21 unique classes. TAS 12 7 - 33 - 11

WA 46 27 - 80 2 8 Community Access Short Courses SA 48 16 - 59 1 16 For almost 40 years, the School’s Community Access programme has offered short course opportunities for the wider dance community. These sessions are accessible and there is no VIC 85 - - 247 53 180 International/ audition to participate. Open Masterclasses (including audition classes), Summer School - - - 66 7 41 and Winter School offer students fun and informative workshops with specialist teachers Private/Digital

from the School, The Australian Ballet and the community. Sub total 540 294 173 953 90 384

Total 2,434 Participants

Public Access Days * Melbourne-based programmes—recorded separately to National Tour numbers. The Australian Ballet School’s annual Public Access Day, held in November, provides the community with an opportunity to view the students training at The Australian Ballet School facilities. In 2019 we introduced “An Afternoon at The Australian Ballet School” in Melbourne for students aged 9-13 years and welcomed 40 students who participated in several masterclasses in Classical, Contemporary or Character, and were treated to a private class and demonstration by ABS Level 8 students.

Teacher Training The Australian Ballet School delivers world class accredited teacher training; the Graduate Diploma of Elite Dance Instruction.

The Graduate Diploma provides a training pathway for elite professional dancers who may wish to move into a vocational teaching role, in particular, dancers from The Australian Ballet. Other leading training organisations and vocational dance schools have expressed strong interest in employing teachers who have been trained in the highly-regarded teaching methodology created on the curriculum delivered by The Australian Ballet School.

The training course is delivered over two years of full-time study, however in most cases is taken in part-time mode. The customised course structure includes a strong focus on the methodology of vocational dance training based on The Australian Ballet School System of Training with written support materials, on-the-job observation and supervised teaching practice, delivered by specialist staff. This is enhanced through the study of pedagogy, music, anatomy, nutrition and psychology. The majority of the course is delivered face-to-face, on a one-to-one mentoring basis and is self-paced with flexible entry points. The approach to teaching and learning of the theoretical components is informed by constructivist and adult theories of learning and incorporates a range of customised learning opportunities to take individual needs, strengths and interests into account. Assessment is continuously

28 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 29 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Marilyn Rowe House Student Residence & Boarding Programme

The Boarding Programme reflects the vision, culture, and character of the ABS; informed by The Australian Ballet School’s extensive history, energised by creativity, artistic expression and passion. Unique programmes and exciting approaches to pastoral and residential care devoted to nurturing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—foster distinctive signature experiences that support the growth of young dancers into mature, professional performers. The experience of an enriched environment with opportunities for self-discovery, leadership and success, affords students every chance of emerging as individuals capable of making valuable contributions to society.

Marilyn Rowe House is the purpose-built boarding facility of The Australian Ballet School, named after former Director Marilyn Rowe AM OBE. This premier facility at any one time is capable of housing approximately 40 students and associated support staff. Led by the Head of Boarding, Marilyn Rowe House enables our students to experience the highest levels of pastoral care, whilst living in a community based on the needs of dancers. The students who live in MRH range from Level 4 to Level 8.

The design of the house allows for flexibility of segregation depending on gender numbers each year. Students come together in the Marigold Southey Study, the Bowness Foundation Dining Room, the Robin Campbell Recreation Room and other areas of MRH. Main meals are enjoyed in a shared ‘family’ environment, bedlinen and towels are provided. Personal laundry and a kitchenette for students form part of The Australian Ballet School’s mission in creating a home-away-from-home where students are cared for and nurtured in a positive learning environment.

2019 Boarders: ABS training level and origin

VIC NSW NSW QLD QLD SA SA WA 2019 TAS ACT Japan NZ Other Total Reg Reg Syd. Reg Bris. Reg Adel. Perth

L4 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2

L5 0 1 0 0 5 1 3 0 1 2 0 0 1 13

L6 2 1 0 0 3 0 5 0 1 0 4 1 0 17

L7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1

L8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 2

Total 2 2 0 0 10 1 10 0 2 2 7 1 1 35

31 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report

Our Achievements Our Achievements Graduate Diploma of Classical Ballet (10296NAT) The Class of 2019 (Level 8) Karina Arimura Grace Heinnen Mathilda Ballantyne Shu Igarashi Alexandra Cramer Alain Juelg Graduation 2019 Amelia Dawe Larissa Kiyoto-Ward The year culminated in The Australian Ballet School’s Graduation and Awards Ceremony, Ziggy Debrincat Lachlan Mair held at ; an opportunity for the community to come together Adam Elmes Lilly Maskery to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of many students be it through dance Heidi Freeman Briana McAllen achievements or academic accolades. Mao Fujita Jett Ramsay Thomas Gannon Louis Ramsay Benjamin Garrett Leisel Rose Ines Hargreaves Belle Urwin Diploma of Dance Elite Performance (CUA50113)

The Diploma of Dance Elite Performance is awarded following the successful completion of all units of competency delivered across Level 5 and 6.

2019 Recipients: Mio Bayly Rhiannon Tringas Philippa Crawley Georgia Waite Abbey Hansen Helena Williams Layla Kluss Harrison Bradley My Le Oliver Evans Emily Masters Oliver Hoddinott Samara Merrick Nicholas Johnson Ion Ohta Rikuto Kubota Ella Pukallus Bryce Latham Anna Stewart Flynn Stelfox Charlotte Stratton-Smith Hibiki Tsukamoto Jessica Stratton-Smith Hirotaka Yamada

Advanced Diploma of Dance Elite Performance (CUA60113)

The Advanced Diploma of Dance Elite Performance is awarded following the successful completion of units of competencies studied in Level 7. Graduate Diploma of Elite Dance Instruction (10689NAT) 2019 Recipients: The Graduate Diploma of Elite Dance Instruction is awarded following the successful Pamela Barnes Sophie McDonald completion of all units of competency and is generally completed part-time over a period of Sophie Beaty Hannah Sergi two to three years. Stephanie Blann Ella Vivian-Kay Lily Boston Annabelle Watt 2019 Graduates: Jemma Braun Maidie Widmer Jiayin Du Chengwu Guo Emma Dowling Benjamin Anderson Hannah Goetze Luca Armstrong Bonnie Grice Hugo Dumapit Lilla Harvey Rab Flanigan Graduate Employment Saya Ikeda Luke Tabbernal Izabella Kriek George Thomson The Australian Ballet School consistently produces dancers of the highest calibre, Emily McCracken Izaak Westhead meeting the vocational standards of The Australian Ballet and other important state and international dance companies. In this regard, the majority of The Australian are graduates of the School and, typically, 91% of our graduates secure contracts of employment with professional dance companies within 12 months of graduation.

The number of employment opportunities available to graduates of The Australian Ballet School will vary from year to year and depends upon the number of contracts available with

34 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 35 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our Achievements The Australian Ballet and other dance companies. The Australian Ballet’s Artistic Director Our Achievements ranks of companies such as Queensland Ballet, , West Australian has first choice in offering contracts to our graduands and, in most cases, the contracts Ballet, Royal New Zealand Ballet, and in dance companies throughout North America, Asia available for new dancers at The Australian Ballet each year are filled by our graduates. and Europe, including the Mariinsky in Russia and the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet. More than any other school, The Australian Ballet School is best positioned to channel the finest talent into Australia’s national ballet company.

Number of graduates employed as dancers by year (includes short-term contracts) Awards 2019

% ABS graduates employed as % of ABS graduates employed Total % of ABS graduates Encouragement Awards, kindly supported by Bloch Year dancers by The Australian Ballet as dancers by other companies employed as dancers within 12 at time of graduation within 12 months of graduation months of graduation Level 3 Encouragement Award: Emma Gavan 2011 33% 67% 100% Level 4 Encouragement Awards: Charlie Tough & Jeremy Hargreaves

2012 11% 79% 90% Level 5 Encouragement Awards: Indiana Scott & Tadgh Robinson

2013 28% 55% 83% Level 6 Encouragement Awards: Jessica Stratton-Smith & Hirotaka Yamada

2014 23% 69% 92% Level 7 Encouragement Awards: Sophie Beaty & Matthew Maxwell

2015 69% 31% 100%

2016 27% 60% 87% Special Awards, kindly supported by Bloch

2017 36% 57% 93% The Berezowsky-Howard Award For Excellence in Character Dance, awarded to:

2018 24% 57% 81% Mio Bayly Anna Stewart Samara Merrick Hibiki Tsukamoto 2019 43% 43% 86% Flynn Stelfox

Average Total 31% 59% 91% The Graeme Murphy Award For Excellence in Contemporary Dance: Sophie Beaty Hannah Sergi By December 2019, our Class of 2019 graduates had received the following contract offers: Hugo Dumapit Izaak Westhead Lilla Harvey Karina Arimura: The Australian Ballet, full contract Mathilda Ballantyne: Projection Dance Company Alex Cramer: Universal Studios Japan The Areti Boyaci Award For Excellence in Spanish Dance: Heidi Freeman: Queensland Ballet, Young Artist contract Ines Hargreaves: Queensland Ballet, Young Artist contract Luca Armstrong Hugo Dumapit Grace Heinnen: Universal Studios Japan Larissa Kiyoto-Ward: The Australian Ballet, full contract Lilly Maskery: The Australian Ballet, full contract Academic High Achiever and BBM Awards Briana McAllen: Queensland Ballet, Young Artist contract Leisel Rose: The Australian Ballet, Storytime Ballet contract; BBM Youth Travel Nominee of the VCASS Junior Academic Most Improved Award: Seth Marshall Scholarship recipient Recipient of the Level 5 VCASS/ABS Academic Award: Amy Ronnfeldt & Sophie Burke Belle Urwin: The Australian Ballet, full contract Excellence in Maths Methods Award from Virtual School Victoria: Jessica Stratton-Smith Ziggy Debrincat: WA Ballet The BBM Youth Support Ballet Travel Scholarship: Leisel Rose Adam Elmes: The Australian Ballet, full contract 2019 ABS Community Award: Bryce Latham Thomas Gannon: The Australian Ballet, full contract Benjamin Garrett: The Australian Ballet, full contract Alain Juelg: The Australian Ballet, full contract Awards for Excellence kindly supported by Bloch and the generosity of our supporters Lachlan Mair: Queensland Ballet, Young Artist contract Jett Ramsay: The Australian Ballet, full contract Level 2 Award for Excellence: Lilly Keith Louis Ramsay: Queensland Ballet, Young Artist contract Level 3 Award for Excellence: Rebecca Lopes Level 4 Awards for Excellence: Tiombe Davey & Nateeqa Sazali Over 55 years, alumni of The Australian Ballet School have gone on to notable careers in Level 5 Awards for Excellence: Indira Mayrani & Amy Ronnfeldt a range of career paths as classical and contemporary dancers, choreographers, artistic Level 6 Awards for Excellence: Samara Merrick & Flynn Stelfox directors, creators of independent dance projects, musical theatre and entertainment Level 7 Awards for Excellence: Lilla Harvey & Hugo Dumapit industry performers, actors and recreational and vocational teachers. In addition to the graduates who are employed by The Australian Ballet, our alumni can be found filling the

36 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 37 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our Achievements Honorary Diploma of Dance

The Australian Ballet School Honorary Diploma of Dance recognises the achievements of outstanding professionals who have trained at The Australian Ballet School but were either not able to complete the course/qualification or entered the course part way through. Previous recipients for this award were outstanding students during their training at The Australian Ballet School. They have had, or continue to have, significant careers in such areas of the industry as dance, artistic direction, teaching or choreography. Because these artists were of the standard to graduate but were unable to attain the qualification, this Honorary Diploma of Dance is criteria based and recognises the contribution made by them to ballet in Australia or overseas. In 2019 this was awarded to Ako Kondo.

Events & Performances Key Events 2019

19 February: Spanish Presentation with the Consul-General of Spain in Melbourne and supporters 4-10 March: Parent Access Week 5 March: Generation Next: Introducing the Level 8’s, School Captains & Teachers 7 March: Film Night: Highlights from The Australian Ballet School’s Film Archive 21 May: Morning Melodies, Hamer Hall 31 May: Gala 2019—a dinner in support of The Australian Ballet School 22 September: Showcase Melbourne 27-28 September: Showcase Sydney 13 October: Music Behind the Dance 13 November: Studio Lunch 16 November: Public Access Day 2 December: Dinner with the Director 6-7 December: Summer Season 2019, End of Year Performances 8 December: Graduation & Awards Ceremony

Generation Next

Coinciding with Parent Access Week, Generation Next was held in March for an audience of approximately 100 guests comprising parents, supporters and students. Attendees were delighted to hear from The Australian Ballet School student leadership team, Level 8 teachers and Director. School Captains, Mathilda Ballantyne and Lachlan Mair, Vice- Captains Briana McAllen and Adam Elmes with International Student Liaison Karina Arimura enchanted the packed studio with their inspiring and moving insights on what drives them to achieve as they get ready to take on their final year.

Spanish Presentation

Areti Boyaci delivered The Australian Ballet School Level 7 students Spanish technique classes in an intensive two-week study block, culminating in a Spanish examination in February. This included a visit by Antonio Polidura, Spanish Consul-General in Melbourne who visited the School to witness a Spanish class and rehearsal under Areti Boyaci He was accompanied by Olvido Martin, Cultural Officer from the Consulate and joined by members of The Australian Ballet School Board Directors and Patrons.

38 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our Achievements Morning Melodies at Arts Centre Melbourne Our Achievements End of Year Performance—Summer Season 2019

The Australian Ballet School performances at Hamer Hall, Frankston Arts Centre and The annual Summer Season was presented on 7 & 8 December 2019. Over 100 students Clocktower Moonee Ponds, were very well received. The varied programme included took to the stage at Arts Centre Melbourne in an enchanting display of talent. classical, contemporary and character ballets, beautifully demonstrating the students’ diverse technical skills; as well as artistic expression and maturity. Summer Season 2019:

“The performance today was just beautiful. Thank you so much for all the work that • Sleeping Beauty Act III, ‘Aurora’s Wedding’; you do to deliver these shows. It is such a wonderful highlight of the Morning Melodies • Sketch Tone by Richard House; calendar each year. We are so pleased to have such a longstanding relationship with • Con Brio by Simon Dow; the ABS. Please pass our congratulations on to all the talented dancers.” Producer • Journey by Margaret Wilson; Arts Centre Melbourne • Who Cares? by George Balanchine © The George Balanchine Trust, staged by Victoria Simon (Saturday Performances); • Pizzicato by Irina Konstantinova & Christine Vavladellis; and • La Tarantella Italiana by Leigh Rowles (Opening Night). Showcase, Melbourne & Sydney “It was a delight to see both contemporary and classical pieces performed together. As the Every year we provide our students with exceptional performance opportunities. One of graduates head off to take up professional ballet contracts, the show represents a rare these is the annual Showcase, presented in Melbourne (Arts Centre Melbourne) and in occasion when Australia’s future ballet stars all dance together.” Sophia Dickinson for Sydney (The Concourse, Chatswood) in 2019. Stage Whispers

In 2019, The Australian Ballet School had the great privilege of working with one of “The passion of all the young dancers was incredibly evident and compliments are given to Balanchine’s most respected répétiteurs Victoria Simon, staging the programme’s closing all The Australian Ballet School artistic staff involved in training these young dancers for ballet, Who Cares? set to George Gershwin’s music. It is an exciting, entertaining and this phenomenal display of classical artistry.” Tisara Pathiranage for Theatre People enjoyable ballet, and as a school, it is an honour to be able to present this work generally performed by major international companies. Students enjoyed the experience of working with the ABS’ Resident Choreographers, Margaret Wilson and Simon Dow, in their revised works, Journey and , as well as new creations, After Escher and Con Brio. Students relish in the opportunity of the learning that comes through the process of choreographic exploration. It was also a delight for Level 5 students who worked with (2010) ABS alumnus Richard House, creating his first work for the ABS,Sketch Tone and former Resident Choreographer Leigh Rowles returned to The Australian Ballet School to restage her inspiring work, La Tarantella Italiana on Level 7 students.

The Showcase performances were dedicated to Dame Margaret Scott AC DBE, honouring her with students from across all levels who came together in The Australian Ballet School Défilé, specially choreographed by Resident Choreographer, Simon Dow. Each performance opened with an address by The Australian Ballet School Director, Lisa Pavane, acknowledging the 55th anniversary year and the launch of the Dame Margaret Scott Endowment Fund.

2019 Showcase performances were of an exceptionally high standard and The Australian Ballet School acknowledges all staff for their commitment in making the performances so outstanding. The ABS’ fourth annual interstate performance season was held in Sydney and was also a resounding success. The Melbourne Showcase presented nine ballets, four of which were premieres. The standard of the performance was testimony to each student’s ability to ‘go for it’.

“It’s a pleasure to return to the magic that The Australian Ballet School conjures for Collaborations and Opportunities its yearly showcase of talent. This year is no exception, proving that Australia continues Prix de Lausanne Choreographic Project to raise artists for the global stage.” Leeor Adar, Theatre Press, reviewing 2019 Melbourne Showcase The Prix de Lausanne is a pre-eminent dance competition held in Switzerland each year, and over the last 40 years contributed to the launch of many successful dance careers and enabled global leaders in the dance community to come together.

As a partner school of the Prix de Lausanne, The Australian Ballet School has exclusive access to special opportunities, and is listed among the elite international training institutions from which the scholarship winners of “The Prix” may select to train. The Director (or delegate) of the School attends the competition each year. In 2019 Level 8 students Karina Arimura and Benjamin Garrett joined Lisa Pavane in representing the School and participated in a new creation by Dutch Choreographer, Didy Veldman, along with 24 other students from 12 other partner schools.

40 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 41 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our Achievements “It was an unforgettable experience… Creating a contemporary piece with a Our Achievements Rowe House. During their visit they toured the Great Ocean Road, visited choreographer, dancing together with students from all over the world and performing and enjoyed Melbourne CBD excursions. On their final day at the ABS, an ‘Aussie’ farewell the piece after 10 days was really rare and inspiring. Working with people who have never party was enjoyed by all. met ,and who don’t speak the same language, who come from a different culture and different education in a very short time was challenging... but we gradually got to know and understand each other as the days passed; we were even breathing together at the end... I cannot thank the School enough for giving me this experience…” Karina Arimura, Level 8 International Student Liaison Vice-Captain

Youth America Grand Prix

In 2019 Lisa Pavane attended the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) scholarship classes and events in Melbourne, Jakarta and Osaka. These events provide an opportunity to offer scholarships and acceptances to our Full Time Programme and ITP, and to connect with international schools and company directors.

Lilly Maskery and Jett Ramsay represented the School in the 10th Anniversary Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) International Partner School Gala, held in New York. They were exemplary ambassadors as they performed a newly created pas de deux choreographed by Stephen Baynes. The feedback from other schools and company directors was extremely complimentary; they were commended on their training, lines, artistry and classicism.

“I wanted you to know that I was most impressed with your [students’] pas de deux. It was my favourite of the day. Thank you so much for bringing them to New York. Both dancers and the pas were stunning. Congratulations.” Cynthia Harvey, Director JKO School of Bloch Ambassadors American Ballet Mao Fujita and Adam Elmes were selected as Bloch Ambassadors for 2019. This opportunity continues to provide support and further strengthen the relationship with Bloch, as the ABS’ uniform provider.

Arts8

ARTS8 is a group of eight national elite training organisations in the performing arts: The Australian Ballet School, Australian Film Television and Radio School, Australian National Academy of Music, Australian Youth Orchestra, Flying Fruit Fly Circus, NAISDA Dance College, National Institute of Circus Arts and National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA).

Each year, ARTS8 comes together to collaborate, learn and grow together over three days. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to both share, and step outside of, their art form, while working with students from each training organisation. In 2019 the event was hosted at the wonderful home of the Flying Fruit Fly Circus in Albury, and centred on the theme ‘Belonging.’ Students Mathilda Ballantyne and Shu Igarashi represented the School, joined by Contemporary Teacher and Resident Choreographer Margaret Wilson. For students, the annual collaboration fosters critical and flexible thinking, leadership and teamwork. For teachers, there is beneficial exchange of ideas around teaching practices, assessment strategies, curriculum design, creativity, innovation and artists’ wellbeing.

Student Exchange Programme

The Australian Ballet School has developed cultural exchange programmes for students with La Trobe University Distinguished Alumni Awards several overseas schools. In 2019, five ABS Level 8 students (pictured below) participated Level 6 students performed Margaret Wilson’s Journey at La Trobe University Distinguished in a three-week exchange during January with Canada’s National Ballet School, experiencing Alumni Awards at the Metropolis on Monday 11 November. La Trobe is a partner of The Australian training in Toronto, meeting new friends, enjoying the freezing temperatures, as well as living Ballet, and the School was delighted to be able to provide the performance for the guests. at the student residence of Canada’s National Ballet School’s.

Then, for the first three weeks of the term three, The Australian Ballet School hosted four visiting students from the National Ballet School of Canada, and housing them at Marilyn

42 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 43 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our Achievements World Ballet Day

World Ballet Day is an annual global digital initiative and collaboration of leading ballet companies worldwide. The Australian Ballet School was invited to activate the outdoor stage and screen at in Melbourne to provide a live and public performance element to the World Ballet Day celebrations, while the World Ballet Day live stream was broadcast on the big screen. The School’s Ballet Master Andrew Murphy and Resident Choreographer Simon Dow hosted the activation, which featured demonstrations and performances by our Levels 7 and 8 students.

e.motion21

e.motion21 is a not-for-profit organisation that provides Australian-first, innovative dance and fitness programs for children and young adults with Down syndrome. Their vision is to enhance lives and change perceptions of Down syndrome within society through dance, fitness and performance. In 2019 ABS Level 7 students participated in an exciting collaboration with e.motion21, culminating in a performance at e.motion21’s 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner on Saturday 25 May. This very rewarding, creative collaboration was the second time The Australian Ballet School and e.motion21 have worked together.

Royal Children’s Hospital

On Good Friday, five ABS students spent the day at the Royal Children’s Hospital to support annual Good Friday Appeal and bring some joy to the kids.

Myer Christmas Windows

ABS Resident Choreographer Simon Dow created a short dance work for four Level 7 female students which was performed on Friday 8 November, outside Myer (Bourke Street, Melbourne) as part of the festivities for the unveiling of the 2019 Myer Christmas Windows.

44 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 47 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Financial Report STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION Financial Report Summary Summary as at 31 December 2019

2019 $

Current assets 8,468,858 CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT Non-current assets 7,756,804 for the year ended 31 December 2019 Total assets 16,225,662 2019 $ Current liabilities 1,582,203 Revenue Non-current liabilities 186,519 Grant Income 1,990,782 Total liabilities 1,768,722 Fee Income 1,875,008

Student Performances 186,191 Net assets 14,456,940 Philanthropic Support (including student residence) 785,369 Interest Income 124,940 Equity Boarding Income 561,755 Retained Earnings 9,091,095 Other Income 34,403 Scholarship reserve 5,365,845 Total Revenue 5,558,448 Total Equity 14,456,940

Less Expenditure (5,807,962)

(Deficit)/Surplus on operating activities (249,514)

SOURCES OF OUR REVENUE

● School Tuition & 2019 Boarding Fees

● Grant Income

● Student 17% Performances & Philanthropic Support 44% ● Interest Income & Other Income 36%

The audited Annual Financial Report is available upon request from the Australian Ballet School’s registered office.

46 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report 47 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report Our Supporters & Partners

We sincerely thank every individual who has provided financial and in-kind support to The Australian Ballet School. All philanthropic support, at every level, is valued.

The School also gratefully acknowledges our government and corporate partners for their commitment in 2019:

Government Partner

Major Partners

Friends

Corporate Partners

48 The Australian Ballet School 2019 Annual Report The Australian Ballet School Level 5, 2 Kavanagh Street Southbank VIC 3006 +61 3 9669 2807 [email protected]

Facebook /theaustralianballetschool Instagram @theaustralianballetschool

The Australian Ballet School is a registered provider of vocational education training for Levels 5–8 NVR RTO No: 3132 CRICOS Code: 00253A