Ballet International Gala’s (BIG) Private Sunset Launch

Former Governor of Queensland and Governor-General, Dame Quentin Bryce; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I too acknowledge the traditional owners of these lands, the Turrbal and Jagera peoples, and extend my heartfelt respectful greetings and best wishes to Elders.

Graeme and I were delighted to receive an invitation from Marisa to attend this afternoon’s sunset launch of the Ballet International Gala here in these beautiful, historic grounds.

Sustaining a vibrant, thriving arts and cultural scene has never been easy, but especially so these past 18 months.

I know there have been significant challenges, and intense periods of disappointment and heartache.

But Queenslanders have been deeply impressed by the way the entire arts sector has responded – with grit, determination, optimism and innovation.

The Ballet International Gala we today celebrate, is an impressive manifestation of these characteristics.

What our three budding Brisbane producers have achieved is nothing short of remarkable.

Over seven performances in January, Brisbane audiences are set to be thrilled by a carefully curated selection of pas de deux, featuring principal dancers – including many Queensland-born alumni – from some of the world’s best companies, including The Royal Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Astana Opera, The Paris Opera Ballet, Stuttgart Ballet and our very own, Queensland Ballet.

I thank and applaud the Ballet International Gala founders, Joel Burke, Beck Phillips and Khalid Tarabay for their vision, creativity and perseverance.

I further thank the many businesses and individuals who have generously supported the Gala, and ensured that the initiative can be taken to greatly-appreciative regional audiences, starting in Caloundra.

If early ticket sales are anything to go by, there is an enormous appetite in the regions for cultural experiences of this calibre.

Finally, I thank everyone for their support and attendance here this afternoon.

Graeme and I very much look forward to this afternoon’s performances.

We wish everyone involved with this inspirational programme every success.

It is now my great honour, as Governor, to officially launch Ballet International Gala 2021. Thank you.