The Australian Ballet
The Nutcracker
The Australian Ballet is thrilled to announce the promotion of 11 talented artists, recognising their exceptional skill, dedication, and contributions to the Company.
The announcement was made during the Company’s season of Sir Peter Wright’s The Nutcracker at the Sydney Opera House, the final production for The Australian Ballet’s 2024 season.
The promotions are as follows:
• Davi Ramos from soloist to senior artist
• Drew Hedditch from coryphée to soloist
• Grace Carroll from corps de ballet to coryphée
• Benjamin Garrett from corps de ballet to coryphée
• Serena Graham from corps de ballet to coryphée
• Samara Merrick from corps de ballet to coryphée
• Joseph Romancewicz from corps de ballet to coryphée
• Elijah Trevitt from corps de ballet to coryphée
• Belle Urwin from corps de ballet to coryphée
• Yichuan Wang from corps de ballet to coryphée
• Annabelle Watt from corps de ballet to coryphée
The new ranks take effect in January 2025, however audiences can watch these artists in The Nutcracker Livestream from the Sydney Opera House, available on-demand for 14 days after airing.
These promotions reflect Artistic Director David Hallberg’s commitment to celebrating and nurturing talent within The Australian Ballet, ensuring that the next generation of artists are recognised and supported as they continue to grow and excel.
The Australian Ballet Artistic Director, David Hallberg said: “It’s a thrill to announce the promotions of these exceptional artists. This is such an exciting way to finish 2024, celebrating those who have flourished throughout the year. Some of these artists have already taken on principal roles in 2024, and their impressive growth and dedication have earned them these well-deserved promotions.”
“Each of them has demonstrated remarkable commitment and resilience in their careers, while also contributing to the positive culture of the Company. Their talent embodies the artistic vision I have for The Australian Ballet, and I am excited to see them thrive in their new roles, bringing renewed energy and confidence to their performances,” added Hallberg.
The Company eagerly looks ahead to the 2025 season, opening in Melbourne with John Neumeier’s Nijinsky, a stunning tribute to one of ballet’s most legendary figures. The season continues with a dynamic mix of timeless classics, including Manon and The Sleeping Beauty, alongside contemporary masterpieces such as Johan Inger’s Carmen and the triple bill Prism, featuring works by William Forsythe, Jerome Robbins, and Stephanie Lake.
