The Australian Ballet

Season 2024 has been revealed. Explore the season.

Romeo & Juliet

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For upper primary and secondary

Set in the Pop Art culture of the 1980’s.

The Montagues and Capulets are two feuding families whose children Romeo and Juliet fall in forbidden love. They marry in secret and when Juliet learns she is pledged to marry of her father’s choice, a fight breaks out and leads to the death of a Capulet for which Romeo is banished. In a desperate attempt to be reunited with Romeo, Juliet fakes her own death. She sends news of this to Romeo but he never receives it. Believing Juliet is dead, Romeo takes his own life and Juliet upon awakening takes hers. In suffering, peace is made between the two families and they realise that love should conquer all.

This 30-minute modern retelling explores themes such as fate, choice, love, prejudice and family, with 4 professional dancers and bright Pop Art inspired costumes and set. This performance is best suited for upper primary and secondary audiences.

Watch the video below to find out more.

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Credits

Choreography Paul Knobloch

Music Sergei Prokofiev

Costume Design Christie Milton

Set Design Kat Chan

Bookings

$800 + GST

This price includes a two-hour workshop for secondary students (30 students per workshop) plus a performance of Romeo & Juliet.

Please note: travel and accommodation are additional outside of metro Melbourne.

Contact [email protected] or call 03 9669 2525 to book.

This performance is also offered as part of our funded STEAMDANCE program, which is aimed at increasing access to ballet and the arts, and providing opportunities to spend time with professional artists. We prioritise schools in low socio-economic areas and those that are disadvantaged socially, financially and geographically. If you believe your schools or group fits the criteria, please contact us at [email protected] to discuss.

Content warning

Content warning

Romeo & Juliet is a story about fate and love, but it is also about a community impacted by violence. The storyline involves the deaths (by poison and stabbing) of young people (suicide and homicide) and this content may be triggering to some members of your school community. We encourage you to engage in conversations with your students prior to the performance, and to work with students and parents to make appropriate decisions regarding the viewing of the performance. If you are concerned about a student, the below resources may be helpful.

The production uses theatrical (fake) swords and knives. Blood is indicated theatrically using red silk scarves.

Due to the performative nature of ballet, the violence depicted tends to be less shocking and less realistic than in film. However, if you have any questions or concerns regarding the content please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss.

Resources

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