The Royal New Zealand Ballet Comes To Te Papa

Visitors to Te Papa have the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the Royal New Zealand Ballet this Sunday 19 May. ‘A day in the life of a dancer’ consists of a series of demonstrations narrated by dancer Toby Behan, and features members of the Royal New Zealand Ballet.

The event is ideal family entertainment, and will demonstrate how different ballet steps have evolved, explore different ballet styles, and look at the ways ballets are constructed and rehearsed. The audience is encouraged to ask questions during the workshops.

The afternoon will finish with a pas de deux (dance for two) from the Royal New Zealand Ballet’s production of Swan Lake, which tours nationally from 31 May.

Te Papa’s Chief Executive, Cheryll Sotheran, said that the day will ‘let visitors to Te Papa, especially children, experience our world-class ballet first hand. It is a rare opportunity to go “backstage” and see what’s involved in the preparation process.’

The Royal New Zealand Ballet’s Artistic Director, Gary Harris, said that ‘this day is going to blow our cover! We’re giving the public a chance to go behind the scenes, to witness all the hard work that goes on backstage, which helps create magic when the curtain goes up. Day in, day out, the dancers work incredibly hard. It’s a nine-to-six job, five to six days a week. As well as rehearsals, they have a daily 90-minute class – even when they’re touring.’

The workshops runs on Sunday 19 May from 12 noon until 2pm, on The Marae, Level 4. Admission is free.

ENDS

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