Queensland Ballet is delighted to announce that Ivan Gil-Ortega has officially arrived in Brisbane to commence his role as the Company’s seventh Artistic Director. With an extensive international career and a deep passion for ballet, Ivan brings a dynamic vision to the Company’s future while honouring their rich legacy.
Media were invited to meet Ivan this morning at Queensland Ballet’s hub, the Thomas Dixon Centre. Executive Director Dilshani Weerasinghe touchingly described Ivan as the new ‘guardian of the art form,’ while Ivan emphasised legacy as being at the heart of everything the Company does. He described a future that was vibrant, no fuss and entertaining.
Company Soloist Georgia Swan presented Ivan with a stunning native plant on behalf of Queensland Ballet. The Kangaroo Paw, she said, symbolises growth, strength, and resilience. Ivan was also presented with some uniquely Australian gifts including a large jar of Vegemite!
Brett Clark AM, Board Chair said:
“We are thrilled to welcome Ivan to the Queensland Ballet family following a stellar career on stage, in studio and working alongside some of ballet’s leading lights. Throughout the recruitment process, Ivan articulated his vision very clearly with a particular focus on our dancers of today and our dancers of tomorrow, through the work of our Academy.”
“I am truly excited to begin this new chapter with Queensland Ballet,” Ivan said.
“One of my first priorities is to work closely with the Company dancers and to meet each team member, ensuring that we are all aligned in our aspirations. I believe in fostering an environment where creativity and collaboration thrive, and I look forward to getting to know everyone who contributes to making Queensland Ballet the incredible organisation it is.”
Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek highlighted Ivan’s appointment as a significant milestone in the Company’s 65th anniversary year. “Queensland Ballet has a reputation for creating breathtaking productions, including its sell-out seasons of Strictly Gershwin,” Minister Langbroek said. “Ivan’s involvement with this production demonstrates his appreciation and understanding of the talent within Queensland Ballet, and he joins at an exciting time, with the Company entering a new era.”
Within his first month, Ivan aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of Queensland Ballet’s repertoire and upcoming productions.
“It is crucial to know what we have in hand, especially as we look ahead to 2026. I will be looking at ways to keep things fresh and exciting, including bringing in international choreographers without straining our budget,” he explained. “At the same time, I am keen to explore First Nations programming and commissioning new works for future seasons.”
Another key focus for Ivan will be building strong relationships with donors, sponsors, and partners. “These connections are the foundation of our success, and I am eager to engage with those who share our passion for the arts,” he said.
Beyond the stage, Ivan is also keen to explore how the Company can maximise the use of the Talbot Theatre and surrounding corporate areas, ensuring they are leveraged to their full potential. “We have wonderful facilities, and I want to see how we can use them to further engage our community and create new opportunities.”
International collaboration is high on Ivan’s agenda, as he looks to strengthen ties locally, regionally, nationally, and globally. “Building stronger connections will enhance Queensland Ballet’s reputation as a leading company in the dance world,” he said. “Touring, co-productions, and collaborations are key to expanding our reach and bringing our performances to audiences around the world.”
Ivan also places a strong emphasis on Queensland Ballet Academy and nurturing the next generation of young dancers. Community engagement, diversity, and expanding the Company’s online presence are also offstage priorities.
“These initiatives are vital to making ballet accessible to a wider audience and ensuring its continued growth,” he said.
Executive Director Dilshani Weerasinghe emphasised the importance of Ivan’s appointment.
“Given our intense growth and transformation since 2013, we have some unique considerations including the need to continue to advocate for Federal funding parity for Queenslanders, Queensland Ballet and arts organisations in Queensland. Ivan joins us with some exciting ideas in all these spaces, is already known to some in our donor family, and we are very much looking forward to his fresh thinking and energy,” she said.
As Ivan settles into his new role, Queensland Ballet eagerly anticipates the fresh energy and artistic direction he will bring.
Tickets to the first production of 2025, Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo and Juliet are on sale now! The season runs from 21-29 March at Lyric Theatre, QPAC.
Website: https://www.queenslandballet.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/qldballet/
Photo credit: Ivan Gil-Ortega observes an open rehearsal on stage at Talbot Theatre with the Queensland Ballet Company. Photo by B’rit Mobbs, by Brit Creative.
