The Australian Ballet’s Storytime Ballet is on tour around the country and presents The Sleeping Beauty, a timeless tale beautifully designed in an interactive format for children ages 3 and up. Brisbane marks the final stop on the national tour which has enchanted young audiences in Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Canberra.
The Sleeping Beauty debuted in 2016 in Canberra and the Storytime Ballet series is one of the most eagerly anticipated dance events for young ballet lovers.
David McAllister and Creative Associate Nicolette Fraillon have condensed this three act ballet into a 50 minute production. A lovely touch is the incorporation of magic wands into the story, and colourful light up wands can be purchased before the show or brought along from home. There’s plenty to enjoy in the foyer, with tutus to try on in a costume corner, a photo wall and special ballet items to purchase as a cherished memento. With this in mind it is encouraged to arrive an hour prior to the performance time.
Drawing on the original fairy tale, the story is set in an opulent palace and follows a King and Queen, who invite the fairies to the christening of their only daughter, Aurora. The King’s servant, Catalabutte, has left a very important fairy off the list. Named Carabosse, she is furious at this oversight and curses the baby. Luckily the kind Lilac Fairy steps in and saves Aurora from the curse, instead she will sleep for 100 years. Of course, a brave Prince eventually saves the day, breaking the spell with true love’s kiss, and they all live happily ever after.
As the narrator and King’s Servant Catalabutte, Sean McGrath balanced royal grace, warmth and just the right amount of comedy. He had the main job of taking the young audience on the journey, and his conversational style ensured they stayed enraptured. At one point I could hear a child quietly sobbing behind me as Aurora was struck down by the curse, a testament to the power of this production.
As Carabosse the ‘evil’ fairy, Elena Salerno gave a standout performance. Her characterisation was excellent, her wild eyes and physicality was believable but not overwhelming. Her costume, designed by Hugh Colman, was divine. It was interesting to learn that all costumes in the production were originally created for Maina Geilgud’s 1984 version of The Sleeping Beauty. As the Lilac Fairy, Grace Campbell perfectly complemented Salerno with her kind face and gentle presence.
The choreography, by Marius Petipa with additions by David McAllister, was delightful and the dancers displayed charm, beauty and comedy. The set, also designed by Hugh Colman was evocative of a fairy tale palace and was brought to life by vivid lighting designed by Jon Buswell.
The Australian Ballet’s Storytime Ballet is a wonderful way to introduce the very young to the joys of the art form. It is clear to see why it has remained a staple on the annual calendar. Young at heart ballet lovers will also find something to appreciate with a stunning score, breathtaking costumes and beautiful ballet dancing. With multiple sessions to choose from over the next few days, it will make a special outing to wrap up the summer holidays.
The Sleeping Beauty is on now at the Brisbane Powerhouse until Saturday 26 January.
Performance details:
Friday 24 January 11am, 2pm
Saturday 25 January 11am, 2pm, 4pm
Sunday 26 January 11am, 2pm
Tickets: Available through Ticketek
Website: https://australianballet.com.au/performances/storytime-ballet
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/ausballet/
Photo credits: Daniel Boud
