1960s
In 1964, The Australian Ballet School opened its doors to the very first students, just 15 months after the formation of The Australian Ballet.
1970s
Throughout the 1970s, The Australian Ballet School expanded its curriculum, staged its first major student performances, and began to gain international recognition, all while continuing to flourish under the leadership of Dame Margaret Scott.
1980s
In the 1980s, The Australian Ballet School entered a period of refinement and innovation, introducing new contemporary repertoire, strengthening ties with The Australian Ballet, and nurturing a generation of dancers who would go on to achieve international acclaim.
1990s
The 1990s marked a new chapter under Director Gailene Stock, who expanded the School’s international profile, enhanced the academic and artistic programs, and honed a more holistic approach to dancer development. In 1998, Marilyn Rowe, one of the first students of the School, took over as director.
2000s
The Australian Ballet School continued to thrive under Gailene Stock's leadership in the 2000s, embracing state-of-the-art facilities, expanding international student exchange programs, and deepening its commitment to producing versatile, world-class dancers.
2010s
In the 2010s, under the direction of Lisa Pavane from 2015, The Australian Ballet School focused on artistic excellence, student wellbeing, and innovation, while celebrating milestones like its 50th anniversary and expanding its outreach and performance opportunities.
2020s
The School adapted to the global challenges of the early 2020s with resilience, continuing to deliver world-class training. In 2024, it celebrated its 60th anniversary with a gala performance at the Sydney Opera House, it also marked a leadership transition when Megan Connelly became the fifth Director (Artistic Director & Head of School) in the institution’s history.
Celebrating Over 60 Years of The Australian Ballet School
