The Australian Ballet

The Sleeping Beauty & Philanthropy

Every gift starts a magical story

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Ten years ago, something very special happened. A new chapter in The Australian Ballet’s story began – one written not just by our artists, but by our community. 

For the first time in our history, a major production – David McAllister’s The Sleeping Beauty – was brought to life through the generosity of our supporters.

You’ve seen the magic unfold. Now, we invite you to help us write our next chapter.

Every gift starts a magical story

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Together, we awaken the magic — again and again.

Give today

Creating Beauty

Every shimmering detail of The Sleeping Beauty – from the sensational hand-sewn costumes to the lavish, golden sets – was a triumph of imagination, artistry and community. Thanks to our Ballet family and the expertise of celebrated creatives, this vision became reality.

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  • Over 300 bespoke costumes were designed by internationally acclaimed Set and Costume Designer Gabriela Tylesova and hand-sewn over 12 months by our costume department and dedicated volunteers.
  • 5,000 metres of tulle were used to craft the iconic tutus.
  • The Lilac Fairy tutu alone took one month to make and weighs about 5kg. 
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  • 130 sets of fairy wings fluttered to life on stage. 
  • Each of the 20 Nymph costumes was adorned with 200 handmade leaves – a total of 4,000 leaves. 
  • Gabriela Tylesova designed each fairy’s crystal-beaded tutu to reflect the unique gifts they bestow upon Princess Aurora. 
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  • For the final act, the prince and princess wore gold organza cloaks trailing six metres behind them. 
  • The Baroque-style sets were painted with real gold leaf
  • Nicolette Fraillon and David McAllister spent 18 months refining Tchaikovsky’s score. 
  • Our wigmakers hand-stitched 88 wigs, strand by strand. 

Will you help us write the next chapter in our spellbinding tale?

If you feel inspired to join our giving community, know this: every gift – large or small – helps to shape the future of our national ballet company.

With every gift, our story continues – and new ones begin

Ten years ago, more than 2,000 generous individuals helped awaken David McAllister’s vision of The Sleeping Beauty.  Today, this breathtaking production continues to enchant audiences of all ages – and stands as a shining example of what we can create together. We remain deeply grateful to everyone who made it possible.

Give today

A thoughtful gift

A donation in honour of someone special supports The Australian Ballet’s future and offers a lasting, heartfelt alternative to conventional presents. To celebrate this gift, you can download and personalise an editable The Sleeping Beauty certificate.

Download gift certificate

Get in touch

Are you interested to learn more about how you can play a part in the long-term success of The Australian Ballet? Click below to learn more or get in touch with us by calling 1300 752 900. 

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