Sydney-based youth ballet company, Premier State Ballet, will present La Bayadere at Riverside Theatre, Parramatta this September.
First presented in 1877 by the Imperial Ballet in St Petersburg, Russia, La Bayadere is the story of Solor, a warrior, and Nikiya, a temple dancer, who fall in love. Set in a mythological Indian world, it’s a tragic tale, with Nikiya murdered by her jealous rival, Gamzatti.
The production represents a departure from tradition for Premier State Ballet, which has performed comedic and pantomime-influenced ballets for the last few years, says artistic director Joshua Consandine. La Bayadère has a strong dramatic narrative with themes and events that revolve around unrequited love, jealousy and revenge,” he remarks.
Premier State Ballet has provides the opportunity for students to be a part of a semi-professional ballet company, which has kick-started the careers of many well-known local and international dancers. Some of PSB’s alumni include Robert Curran
(artistic and executive director, Louisville Ballet), Amanda McGuigan (the Australian Ballet), and Harrison Lee (Royal Ballet School).
La Bayadère is presented by Premier State Ballet and The McDonald College, 22-23 September 2017 at Riverside Theatre Corner Market and Church St, Parramatta.
More information: mcdonald.nsw.edu.au
Pictured top: Premiere State Ballet rehearsing La Bayadere.