The Australian Ballet is set to mesmerize audiences in Horsham, Victoria, with its enchanting event, Ballet Under the Stars, scheduled for February 21, 2026. The City Oval will transform into an outdoor theatre, providing a unique backdrop for a captivating evening of dance that promises to showcase both classic and contemporary ballets.
The event is free and family-friendly, presenting a rare opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience Australia’s national ballet company in a stunning outdoor setting. The evening will kick off with a curtain-raiser performance featuring local high school students, part of a series of community engagement initiatives coordinated by the Company’s Education and Outreach Team. These initiatives include ballet classes for various age groups, such as Dancing Stories for ages 3-5 and Adult Ballet for those aged 18 and over.
The main performance will feature a dynamic program, beginning with the elegance of *The Sleeping Beauty* Act III Polonaise and Grand Pas. Audiences can expect the ethereal beauty of *La Bayadère’s* Kingdom of the Shades and the technical brilliance of the heritage showpiece *Grand Pas Classique*. The high-energy *Flames of Paris* will ignite the stage, while the much-anticipated return of *Grande Tarantella* is set to thrill ballet enthusiasts with its virtuosity.
In a significant highlight, the Australian premiere of Marco Goecke’s striking duet *Morpheus’ Dream*, featuring music by Lady Gaga and Keith Jarrett, will take centre stage. Additionally, a world premiere by Yuiko Masukawa, the 2023 Telstra Emerging Choreographer award-winner, underscores The Australian Ballet’s commitment to fostering new talent in the art form.
The performance will also include a unique opportunity for attendees to watch The Australian Ballet dancers participate in a warm-up class on stage prior to the main event. This engaging aspect is designed to immerse the audience in the ballet experience.
Cr Brian Klowss, Mayor of Horsham Rural City Council, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “This is an amazing opportunity for everyone in our municipality and beyond to see these astounding performers beneath the summer sky at our own Recreation Reserve.” He added that inviting visitors from the wider region enhances the event’s significance as a unique cultural experience.
Artistic Director of The Australian Ballet, David Hallberg, shared his excitement about bringing Ballet Under the Stars to Horsham, noting it as the furthest the program has ever travelled in Victoria. “There’s something uniquely special about seeing the Company perform outdoors,” he remarked. Hallberg emphasized the breadth of talent within the company, showcasing the strength and athleticism of the dancers through works that are both thrilling and beautiful.
The event is supported by the Victorian Government’s Regional Events Fund, highlighting its potential impact on local tourism and community engagement. Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, noted, “A free, world-class performance is a pretty special way to showcase Western Victoria, and it’s the kind of event that turns a day trip into a weekend stay.” He further emphasized the importance of such events in driving business for local cafes, hotels, and small enterprises.
Gates for Ballet Under the Stars will open at 16:45, with pre-show entertainment commencing at 17:30. The main performance is set to begin at 19:45. Guests are encouraged to bring their own picnic or enjoy offerings from onsite food trucks. While attendance is free, advance bookings are required to secure spots. For additional details, visit The Australian Ballet’s website at https://australianballet.com.au/performances/ballet-under-the-stars.
This event is poised not only to deliver an unforgettable evening of dance but also to strengthen community ties and promote the cultural vibrancy of Horsham and its surroundings.
