The Australian Ballet presents Prism, an ambitious triple bill that blends international brilliance with Australian innovation.
Featuring landmark works by William Forsythe and Jerome Robbins alongside a world premiere from Stephanie Lake, the program invites audiences to experience ballet through a fresh, dynamic lens.
Artistic Director David Hallberg describes Prism as a celebration of “three radically different choreographic voices… allowing them to shine through the unique artistry of our dancers.” He calls it “a bold demonstration of how ballet can speak across genres, generations and audiences.”
Forsythe’s Blake Works V (The Barre Project), conceived during the pandemic, transforms stay-at-home barre exercises into a virtuosic explosion of movement, set to James Blake’s genre-bending score. Robbins’ Glass Pieces captures the kinetic pulse of New York City, blending classical technique with postmodern style against the hypnotic rhythms of Philip Glass.
Lake’s Seven Days, a stripped-back, intimate work for seven dancers, reimagines J.S. Bach’s Goldberg Variations through Peter Brikmanis’ bold adaptation. Sharply lit by Bosco Shaw with costumes by Kate Davis, it explores rhythm, form and connection, delivered with Lake’s trademark physicality and wit.
Running in Melbourne from 25 September to 4 October with Orchestra Victoria, and in Sydney from 7 to 15 November, Prism is a kaleidoscopic exploration of ballet’s possibilities. It reflects The Australian Ballet’s fearless commitment to pushing the art form forward while honouring its heritage — a vivid showcase of how dance can illuminate, challenge and inspire.
