Queensland Ballet has announced that Artistic Director François Klaus has accepted an extension of his current employment contract through until 31 December 2013, at which time he will retire as Artistic Director. Following his departure from Queensland Ballet, François plans to continue to pursue his interests of choreography, filming of dance and teaching methodologies.
Queensland Ballet Chair, Adjunct Professor Joan Sheldon AM, said the Board and management commend François for the remarkable contribution he has made to the Company since joining in 1998.
“François has built a tremendous legacy in the high standard of technical and artistic expertise of our dancers and the success of the Company through his popular repertoire of classical ballets and innovative works.”
“All arts companies constantly need to rejuvenate in order to remain relevant for their audiences. We will commence an international search for a new Artistic Director and Choreographer and will ensure the interests of our loyal patrons and supporters, and the needs of new audiences discovering the art of ballet are met with this appointment.”
“What will always remain constant however, are our foundations as Queensland’s classical ballet company. The Board is committed to continuing Queensland Ballet’s reputation as a leading classical ballet company with a distinctive spirit and vitality that is proudly reflective of Queensland,” Mrs Sheldon said.
Mrs Sheldon said one of François’ many achievements has been in attracting a diversity of principals, soloists and corps de ballet dancers from Australia and around the world. “We are fortunate to have been able to attract so many talented dancers to the unique lifestyle in Queensland and the quality of the Company. François has also been instrumental in establishing Queensland Ballet’s standing in the international dance community. The Company’s successful tour of China in April this year is the latest in a series of international tours that have generated positive recognition for the high standard of performance of both our dancers, and the creative team who support them with beautiful costuming, sets, lighting and music.”
Mrs Sheldon said the Board hopes Francois’ final season in 2013 will be a celebration of his legacy with Queensland Ballet, and will include highlights from his choreographic repertoire as well as a number of special events.
Queensland Ballet was established in 1960 and remains one of only three professional ballet companies in Australia. The Company employs 26 professional dancers, 15 staff and works with over 100 musicians, designers, choreographers and creative workers each year. Queensland Ballet also promotes and develops dance education, principally through a partnership with the Queensland Dance School of Excellence (QDSE), and its Professional Year and Junior Extension Programs which will continue to be part of the Company’s core business.
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