Join a Queensland Ballet master class on the Fraser Coast

Fraser Coast residents are being encouraged to register for school and community workshops being held by Queensland Ballet in Maryborough next month.

Mayor George Seymour said the workshops catered for all ages and abilities with something on offer for everyone.

“It is always fantastic to see the state’s top performers in any field visit our area to share their skills, entertain and inspire us,” he said.

“It is because the region has a world-class facility such as the Brolga Theatre that we can host such events and bring such talent to our region.

“Our community, like communities around the world, has been turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s fantastic that we are starting to see businesses, sporting groups and cultural institutions re-open and re-emerge.”

The workshops are an excellent opportunity for students, Aldridge High School dance teacher and recipient of the Fraser Coast Australia Day Senior Cultural Award, Tegan Symes said.

“Unfortunately due to COVID-19 students haven’t had as many performance opportunities as they normally would,” she said.

“So to be able to work with professional artists is a great opportunity.”

Fraser Coast Australia Day Junior Cultural Award recipient Bonnie Quinn Hennessy is also looking forward to the workshops.

She has danced with the Queensland Ballet and the Russian Ballet during past visits by the troupes to Maryborough.

“It is such an incredible opportunity for regional dancers to be able to train with such professionals.”

The workshops help inspire and give regional communities an opportunity to experience the physical, social and emotional benefits of dance, Queensland Ballet Artistic Director Li Cunxin AO said.

Community classes, presented by Ergon Energy Network and Energex range from QB Petit Pointers aimed to enthral the littlest lovers of dance, to a tailored Ballet for Adults class for mature active adults. 

The tour also includes In-School workshops which complement the Early Years Learning Framework, Australian Curriculum and Senior Dance Syllabus.

“All workshops will adhere to COVID safe guidelines and Queensland Ballet’s strict WHS processes to ensure the safety of our Teaching Artists and participants is prioritised at all times,” Queensland Ballet Education Manager Martha Godber said.

“Education Teaching Artists and participants will have to follow guidelines, including keeping 1.5 metres apart at all times. Certain choreography has also been adapted, including partnering activities, pas de deux, sharing of props or costumes and collaborative group work.”

Registrations for the school and community workshops are required to ensure all necessary contact details are recorded and the program adheres to the 4m2 per person regulation.

Find out what is on offer in Maryborough and register your spot here.

• Petit Pointers (2-5yrs): $10, August 30, 3.30 to 4pm;
• Community Class (6 - 11yrs): $10, August 31, 4.30pm to 5.30pm:
• Community Class (12 - 17yrs): $10, August 31, 5.45pm to 6.45pm:
• Teacher Professional Development (school teachers): $35, August 31, 4pm to 6pm.

Tickets available here.