The Australian Ballet

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Hallberg Ascendant

Last night, David Hallberg, Principal Dancer of American Ballet Theatre and the Bolshoi Ballet, gave the last of his performances as Franz in our Sydney season of Coppélia. This was not just any season: David was returning to the stage after two-and-a-half years rebuilding himself after injury. He has spoken at length about the role that The Australian Ballet’s Rehabilitation Team played in his recovery. His debut as Franz was an emotional night for the dancers, the rehabilitation staff and the artistic staff, all of whom had supported him on his journey. David generously allowed us backstage and into the wings to capture these intimate scenes of his return to the firmament.

All photography Kate Longley

Makeup david

Before the performance

Moet david
Orange david
Prayer david
Ambz david

David with his Swanilda, Principal Artist Amber Scott

Elbow david

Act I

Foot doot

Interval

Camera
Run

Act II

Stand up

Act III

Call

Curtain calls

Hug

Backstage after the performance, with Amber Scott

Gorgeous backs

With Principal Ballet Mistress Fiona Tonkin