Congratulations to Kevin Jackson. The Australian Ballet (AB) principal artist is flying to New York this week to guest star with America’s national ballet company, American Ballet Theatre (ABT). Jackson will perform the role of des Grieux in the company’s production of Manon in performance on June 4 and 6 at the Metropolitan Opera House. “It’s particularly special to be dancing in Manon as my first big break was in this ballet in 2008, shortly after winning the Telstra Ballet Dancer Award, remarks Jackson.
It’s the first time in more than 20 years that a dancer of the AB has performed as a guest artist with ABT, and Jackson is only the second AB company member to receive such an invitation. “This is a huge honour and one that Kevin thoroughly deserves – everyone in the company is so excited for him as he takes up this rare opportunity,” says the Australian Ballet’s artistic director, David McAllister. “American Ballet Theatre is considered to be one of the greatest dance companies in the world and held in high esteem for its quality, innovation and athleticism – dance qualities that Kevin also possesses.”
The first AB dancer to be invited to guest star with ABT was Steven Heathcote, who performed with the company in 1991 and 1993.