A fond farewell to Libby Christie AM

Libby has been with The Australian Ballet for just shy of a decade and, in that time, has made an enduring contribution to the organisation, which has grown and evolved with amazing speed under her direction. Since commencing the role in 2013, Libby has worked alongside both David McAllister and David Hallberg; she has overseen the expansion of the company and the growth of our audiences, and initiated Storytime Ballet - annual seasons for young children that are inspiring the next generation of ballet lovers. Libby’s outstanding direction has resulted in The Australian Ballet being able to undertake major international tours to the USA, China and the UK and invest in some brilliant new productions including Anna Karenina, Sylvia, Harlequinade, The Sleeping Beauty, Spartacus and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland©. Moreover, during her tenure, Libby has overseen the acquisition of Orchestra Victoria and the extensive remodelling of The Australian Ballet’s home, The Primrose Potter Australian Ballet Centre, to provide world-class facilities for our dancers and Artistic Health team.

In recent times, Libby’s financial management ensured we remained in the best possible shape to meet the many challenges of the pandemic, subsequently laying the foundations for a vibrant and fruitful future. Reflecting on Libby’s departure at the launch of our 2023 season, David Hallberg commented, “Libby’s exemplary leadership qualities came to the fore as she steered the company through the stress and upheavals of our time away from the stage with immense professionalism, energy, and resolve and helped to ensure we would all be standing here today. I am hugely grateful for the support and mentorship Libby has shown me since I joined the company and began the journey of my directorship.”