History of Queensland Ballet

Queensland Ballet was established in 1960 by Charles Lisner OBE. Charles trained with Edouard Borovansky and danced with his ballet company before going to London to continue dance studies with the Sadler's Wells Ballet School. He later joined The Royal Ballet , Covent Garden. In 1953 Charles returned to Australia to open the Lisner Ballet Academy, and in 1960, the Lisner Ballet Company.

The Company was re-named Queensland Ballet in 1962 and became the first ballet ensemble in Australia to tour regionally, a commitment that continues today.

In 1974, Charles stepped down as Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer, and was replaced by Harry Haythorne. Following Harry's departure in 1978, founding Company member and Principal Dancer, Harold Collins, was appointed as Artistic Director. Harold Collins led the Company until his retirement in 1997, maintaining Charles Lisner's commitment to the creation of uniquely Australian dance, and to forging a strong and independent company.

Following an impressive career in Europe as a principal dancer, teacher and choreographer, François Klaus was appointed Artistic Director and Chief Choreographer of Queensland Ballet in 1998. Under his artistic stewardship, Queensland Ballet has continued to prosper and grow, cementing a place in the Australian cultural landscape and winning international acclaim.