Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo & Juliet

Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo & Juliet returns to captivate Brisbane, with the famous impassioned tale of the star-crossed lovers performed by Queensland Ballet at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC from March 21-29.

MacMillan’s enduring production is known as one of the great modern classical ballets in repertory, and captures the passion of young love, from the iconic balcony scene to the couple’s final tragic moments, with breathtaking pas de deux and theatricality. 

The exhilarating production evokes the grandeur of Renaissance Verona, where boiling tensions between the Capulets and Montagues escalate into electrifying sword fights and emotionally charged dance.

Step into the grandeur of Renaissance Verona, and marvel at the exquisite costumes and breathtaking sets. Add the powerful live performance of Sergei Prokofiev’s score by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, and Romeo & Juliet becomes an unmissable cultural event. 

First performed by Queensland Ballet in 2014, Assistant Artistic Director Greg Horsman says the production’s return this year is significant. “It is a privilege to be bringing this greatly celebrated production to Brisbane audiences during its 60th anniversary year. The ballet was an instant success when it debuted in 1965, with ballet royalty Margot Fonteyn and Rudolf Nureyev in the leading roles. It has since become a signature work for internationally renowned companies including The Royal Ballet and American Ballet Theatre.

“Queensland Ballet is the only Australian company to be granted the right to perform this work by the MacMillan trust, and the dancers, having now performed multiple MacMillan works, have a strong understanding of his choreography and the artistry required to perform such a momentous ballet”.

With a cast of over 72 dancers and over 720 individual costume pieces, Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo & Juliet is one of the largest productions Queensland Ballet performs. 

From its sweeping romance to its heartrending tragedy, Romeo & Juliet is a masterpiece that transcends generations, reminding us of the enduring power of love. 

Book your seats now and immerse yourself in an evening of unforgettable beauty and emotion!

Photography by David Kelly

Queensland Ballet is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com