In a coup for Queensland Ballet, international stars and Principal Artists of the Royal Ballet Calvin Richardson and Akane Takada will perform as Guest Artists in Queensland Ballet’s blockbuster ballet event of the year, Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo and Juliet.
Akane and Calvin will take to the stage as Romeo and Juliet on the evenings of Wednesday 26 March and Friday 28 March. They are joining the 72 strong cast of Queensland Ballet and Queensland Ballet Academy dancers.
Acting Artistic Director Greg Horsman says the company is very excited to welcome the accomplished performers.
“These artists have reached the top ranked position in one of the most celebrated ballet companies in the world. The Royal Ballet is the home of the MacMillan repertoire and is renowned for strong dramatic performances and brilliant storytelling. Calvin and Akane will no doubt bring exceptional artistry and star quality to their performances.”
“A massive thank you to Kevin O’Hare for enabling Calvin and Akane to join us. It’s wonderful to be able to celebrate QB’s strong connection with the Royal Ballet during the production’s 60th anniversary year.”
Hailing from Traralgon, Victoria, Richardson started ballet later than most, at the age of 14. He trained at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School in Melbourne. After completing two years at The Royal Ballet Upper School, Calvin joined the Royal Ballet Company in 2014. There he quickly rose through the ranks, reaching Principal Artist in 2024. His guest appearances with Queensland Ballet will mark his first performances as a Principal Artist on home soil.
Japanese dancer Akane Takada studied at Hiromi Takahashi Ballet Studio and the Bolshoi Ballet Academy. In 2008 her performance at the Prix de Lausanne earned her a scholarship with the Royal Ballet. Just eight years later she was made a Principal Artist there.
Mr Horsman also recognised Queensland Performing Arts Centre whose financial support has made this opportunity possible.
“We’re very grateful to QPAC for their generous financial contribution to Calvin and Akane’s guesting. We’re particularly excited to be bringing this iconic production to QPAC during their 40th year anniversary.”
Queensland Ballet will also welcome back several former dancers as Guest Character Artists. These include Christian Tátchev, Janette Mulligan, Matthew Lawrence, and David Power. Additionally former Australian Ballet and English National Ballet Principal Artist, and former Director of the Australian Ballet School, Lisa Pavane, will appear in select performances.
These experienced artists bring authenticity to mature roles including Friar Lawrence, Lord and Lady Capulet, and Juliet’s Nurse.
Hong Kong born Jonathan Lo will be guest conductor for the following performances: Friday 21 March 7:30pm, Saturday 22 March 7:30pm, Tuesday 25 March 6:30pm, Wednesday 26 March 6:30pm.
Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo & Juliet is Queensland Ballet’s cultural event of the year, offering a night of drama, romance, and timeless beauty for audiences of all ages.
Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo & Juliet runs from 21 – 29 March 2025 at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC.
Tickets are on sale now!
Website: https://www.queenslandballet.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/qldballet/
Photo credits: Hero image by David Kelly. Other images supplied by Queensland Ballet.
Akane Takada and Calvin Richardson performing the roles of Romeo and Juliet are generously supported by QPAC 40 program, celebrating 40 years of curiosity, inclusion, gathering and stories.
Akane Takada and Calvin Richardson’s performances are with permission from Kevin O’Hare and The Royal Ballet.
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