Ballet Theatre Queensland returns to QPAC these school holidays with its highly acclaimed production of Snow White. Premiering in January 2025 as a brand-new full-length ballet, it marked a significant milestone for the company, featuring original choreography by Clare Morehen and a newly commissioned score by Lucas D. Lynch.
Following a successful Gold Coast tour, the company’s first in recent history, BTQ brings this enchanting fairytale back to local Brisbane audiences.
Under his own baton, Lynch’s original score, brought to life by the Cadenza Chamber Players, entrances from the opening bars, sending chills through the audience. The cinematic score is emotional and unapologetically romantic, particularly Snow White’s recurring melodic motif. The score has even been pressed onto vinyl and is for sale, alongside copies on CD, in the foyer.
A loving adaptation of the Grimms’ classic fairy tale, Ballet Theatre Queensland’s Snow White uses the expressive power of music and dance to bring one of the world’s most beloved stories to life on stage.
The Prologue introduces King Frederic (Guest Artist Jayden Grogen) and Queen Lillian (Imogen Shirreff) as they welcome their newborn daughter. A swift passage of time brings us to a carefree young Snow White (Harli Grieve), who spends her days reading books and playing with her friend William (Bryan Lindsay) in a happy and prosperous kingdom.
Their idyllic world is shattered when Queen Lillian falls gravely ill and dies. Before long, the King remarries, and the arrival of his new Queen marks the beginning of a darker chapter for both Snow White and the kingdom.
The story soon settles into its timeless battle between good and evil. Sophia Gougoulas commands the stage as the vain and menacing Evil Queen. She is supported by Matilda Kimlin as the Crone (Queen Transformed) and Katie Holman as The Queen’s Reflection.
Chloe Hough is the embodiment of Snow White’s warmth, innocence and compassion. Seeking sanctuary in the forest, she finds an unlikely family in the adorable Seven Pixies.
Each ensemble brings another layer of magic to the ballet. The Seven Pixies steal every scene, their whimsical costumes and distinct personalities proving irresistible. The Fireflies are delightful, fluttering across the stage in neon wings and glowing antennae.
The Dark Forest ensemble is particularly enchanting. Draped in flowing black veils, their ghostly silhouettes evoke something ancient and otherworldly. The Queen’s Ghouls heighten the sense of menace, their skull masks and wild hair lending a chilling supernatural edge.
Choreographically, the People of the Realm (Military) provide one of the ballet’s strongest visual moments. Their sharp arm movements and perfectly symmetrical formations around black stools create a powerful display.
Meanwhile, the young choristers from Hillcrest Christian College and St Rita’s College bring touching emotional depth with their onstage vigil for the sleeping Snow White.
The sets and costumes remain among the production’s greatest triumphs. Bill Haycock’s original set design transitions effortlessly between the fractured, foreboding world of the Evil Queen and the lush, organic realm of the Pixies. His ingenious use of the magic mirror becomes an integral storytelling device, weaving seamlessly into the narrative.
Sound and lighting by Wil and Glenn Hughes are equally impressive. Eerie dripping effects conjure the Queen’s cold, oppressive castle, while vibrant washes of colour heighten the ballet’s most dramatic moments. Even the smoking, bubbling cauldron becomes a theatrical delight.
Rebekah Ellis and her costume team deserve enormous praise for creating 150 exquisite costumes comprising more than 400 individual pieces. Keep an eye out for a wondrous costume reveal during the Liberation scene in Act Two.
Snow White is a triumph for Ballet Theatre Queensland and a testament to what youth ballet can achieve. Rich in imagination, musicality and theatrical magic, it is a wonderful introduction to ballet for young audiences while showcasing the dedication and artistry of Queensland’s emerging dancers.
Return seasons are a rare privilege, offering audiences the chance to rediscover exceptional work, and Snow White more than rewards a second visit. It is a beautifully crafted Australian ballet that deserves to enjoy a long life on our stages.
Snow White is presented by Ballet Theatre Queensland and runs to 12 July at the Concert Hall, QPAC.
Tickets: https://www.qpac.com.au/whats-on/2026/btq-snow-white
Website: https://btq.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ballettheatreqld/
Photo credits: Quince and Mulberry
