On Wednesday 6 August, students of The Australian Ballet School returned to The Round in Nunawading for two special sold-out matinee performances. Following last year’s warmly received debut at the venue, the School was once again welcomed by an enthusiastic audience as part of The Round’s 2025 Midweek Matinee Season.

The performances showcased students from Levels 4 to 7.  Audiences were treated to a selection of classical and contemporary works.

 

The performance opened with the Class Presentation, which included a showcase of talent from all students.

 

2025. Class Presentation. Photo by S . Konstantinov.

 

Performed by our Level 4 and 5 students and choreographed by Paul Knobloch, Dvořák Divertissement was a lyrical and expressive piece that highlighted the students’ growing musicality and ensemble work. 

 

2025. Dvorjak. Photo by S . Konstantinov.

 

Our Level 6 students then went on to perform Garland Waltz, a timeless excerpt from David McAllister's The Sleeping Beauty. This ensemble showcased the dancers’ refinement and classical technique.

 

2025. Garland Waltz. Photo by S . Konstantinov.

 

This was followed by Lyra, Prue Lang’s debut work for The Australian Ballet School. In this bold and modern piece, our Level 7 students showcased their versatility through striking contemporary choreography.

 

2025. Lyra. Photo by S . Konstantinov.

 

Hopak, choreographed by Melanie Moravski Dechnicz and performed by our Level 6 students exploded onto the stage in a joyful and energetic tribute to Ukrainian folk traditions — a highlight full of cultural vibrancy and athleticism.

 

2025. Hopack. Photo by S . Konstantinov.

 

Choreographed by Stephen Baynes and performed by our Level 7 students, Serenata was a masterclass in neoclassical style. With intricate phrasing and musical sensitivity, this sophisticated work challenged our senior students to embody fluidity, precision, and artistic maturity.

 

2025. Serenata. Photo by S . Konstantinov.

 

We now look ahead to our Brisbane Season, taking place on 12 and 13 September at QUT Gardens Theatre. The program, titled The Australian Ballet School: NOW, will feature excerpts from George Balanchine’s Scotch Symphony, as well as highlights from the classical and contemporary repertoire. Later in the year, our students will return to the stage for the much-anticipated End-of-Year Season at Arts Centre Melbourne in December.

The Australian Ballet School extends its sincere thanks to the team at The Round for their ongoing support, and to all who attended and cheered on our students.