Prismatic is a historic celebration of the Royal New Zealand Ballet, bringing together the past and the present.

I’m honoured to pay homage to the original work Prismatic Variations, created by Paul Gnatt and Russel Kerr, by adopting the same music from Johannes Brahms’ Variations. I’ve been very lucky to reclaim and re-hang the original (ancient!) stage backcloth from the very first work; however, I really wanted to modernise and revitalise the choreographed piece itself.

With the support of the company, I’ve developed my choreographic voice over the last decade, and I’m glad to have the chance to create a fun, dynamic and playful piece which showcases the dancers and the company. By revamping and stretching the classical ballet technique I’ve attempted to forge a piece which highlights the talent of the Royal New Zealand Ballet that you see today.

My wish is for the audience to ‘see’ the music, as well as feel the strength and pride of the company in its present-day moment – permanently anchored at its official home in the renovated St James Theatre, vigilantly guarded by the original Prismatic backcloth in all its coloured grandeur, and standing proud to bring true art to Aotearoa New Zealand and the world.

I’d like to sincerely thank all of the custodians of the Royal New Zealand Ballet, without whom this opportunity could not have been possible.

Tēnā koutou and mā te wā