Joe danced with The Australian Ballet as part of the corps de ballet from 2012, and was later promoted to coryphée in 2015. In 2018, he joined The National Ballet of Canada, where he performed as a Second Soloist. We are delighted to welcome him back to Australia and have him join the Queensland Ballet family.
Describe the moment that you discovered your love for ballet.
The moment I remember most clearly, is seeing Paris Opera Ballet perform their version of Swan Lake, Nureyev’s Le Lac des Cygnes at The Opéra Bastille. I had watched a video of the production countless times and to witness it live was something I will never forget. I could watch that production forever! If I could have one ballet video to watch while stranded on a desert island, that would be it!
What aspects do you find most rewarding about the artform?
Performing is always rewarding. It induces a euphoric feeling that stays with you for a few hours, but then eventually disappears, which can sometimes feel strange. I find the most rewarding aspects of the artform are seeing progress or making discoveries through consistent daily work - through that work the execution of the steps becomes second nature, and I can be present emotionally for those fleeting on-stage moments.
What do you find the most challenging?
Not being busy! I have to keep myself busy because I don’t like the idea that I could be wasting time!
What is your favourite role you have performed?
It’s so hard to choose just one! Franz, in Dame Peggy van Praagh’s Coppelia was my first full-length ballet in a Principal role, so that was very exciting. I had grown up watching a video of the production, so it felt very special to have the opportunity to interpret the role myself. By far the most fun I’ve ever had, was as ‘The March Hare’ In Christopher Wheeldon’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland!
What is the most challenging role you have performed?
Another one of my favourite roles, but definitely one of the most challenging, would be the role I danced in Frederick Ashton’s Symphonic Variations. It was something I never thought I would have the opportunity to dance; it was very nerve wracking, but the process with my coach prepared me well for the performances.