The Australian Ballet and Tony Award-winner Christopher Wheeldon are reuniting again to retell the life and extensive work of famed writer, Oscar Wilde.
After the runaway success of An American In Paris, the powerhouse production company and legendary choreographer are gearing up to present Oscar, a mesmerising, new ballet performance leaning heavily into two of Oscar Wilde’s most influential stories.
Whether you are an ex-ballerina or are in the market for a night spent with your closest crew, this show is suitable for any occasion. Taking place from September 13-24 at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre, it's not long untill this unforgettable evening of all-frills entertainment hits the stage so we recommend putting the feelers out in the group chat now.
To start your night at the ballet on the front foot, we recommend clearing a few hours in your schedule and reserving a table at the nearby Supernormal aka the jewel in our burger-loving, martini-drinking crown.
Expect A New Era Of Ballet
Long after his passing, Wilde continues to make his mark on the world—he’s just that influential. With Artistic Director David Hallberg at the helm, Oscar expertly blends the Irish icon’s complicated life with two of his most notable pieces: The Nightingale and The Rose and The Picture of Dorian Gray.
Watch in awe and a touch of envy as professional ballet dancers reconstruct the wild tales of Wilde—both real and make-believe—through a full-length exhibition of the human body’s capabilities. ‘Don’t try this at home’ isn’t just reserved for hare-brained stunts; the dancers on the Regent Theatre’s stage have spent years mastering their craft. So, despite a deep-set desire to go home and practise your Grand Jeté, it’s best to leave it to the pros.
Serenade Your Ears With A Score From Joby Talbot
Composer Joby Talbot, the creative force behind the score for Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, is joining Wheeldon and The Australian Ballet once more to work his magic on Oscar.
Performed by Orchestra Victoria, prepare to be serenaded by a flurry of instruments as they guide you on a whirlwind journey through Wilde’s fascinating ordeal through the mid-to-late 1800s. Your ears will be treated to an elegant and delicate score that can only be the work of Talbot and his meticulous team.
Feast Your Eyes On Showstopping Set Designs
Adding to the countless merits held by the team behind Oscar, Olivier Award-winner Jean-Marc Puissant will be bringing his unrivalled eye for detail to the Regent Theatre. His elaborate costumes and the show’s intricate set will not only have you craning your neck for more, but these eyecatching designs will also leave you pondering how you can bring a touch of Wilde into your own home and wardrobe.
The Details
What: The Australian Ballet’s world-premiere of Oscar© - Christopher Wheeldon, with Orchestra Victoria
Where: Regent Theatre, Melbourne
When: 13 – 24 September 2024
For more details on this world-premiere performance and to secure your spot in the stands today, visit here.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by The Australian Ballet and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.
Image: The Australian Ballet, Regent Theatre Melbourne.