Strictly Gershwin
Queensland Ballet
It was a day of promotions for Queensland Ballet, with two dancers recognised in two separate productions of Derek Dean’s Strictly Gershwin. Queensland Ballet’s Alexander Idaszak was promoted to Principal Artist following the Matinee performance, and Chiara Gonzalez was promoted to Senior Soloist following the evening performance.
Strictly Gershwin has been warmly received by audiences and following each dazzling performance, Artistic Director Li Cunxin AO jumped on stage and announced the promotions.
“It is very gratifying as Artistic Director to acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and growth of Alexander Idaszak. During Strictly Gershwin he has shown exceptional dedication and professionalism and it’s been a pleasure to watch him grow as an artist since he first joined Queensland Ballet as a company dancer in 2013,” he said.
Career highlights for Idaszak include ‘Oberon’ in Liam Scarlett’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, ‘Albrecht’ in Ai-Gul Gaisina’s Giselle, ‘Franz’ in Greg Horsman’s Coppelia , as well as ‘The Prince’ in Ben Stevenson’s Cinderella and Swan Lake.
That evening Li was back on the stage with another promotion.
“Another artist who deserves to be recognised is Chiara Gonzalez. During her time at Queensland Ballet the 26-year-old has shown exceptional aptitude in the lead roles of Manon and Giselle in their namesake productions, Aurora in Greg Horsman’s The Sleeping Beauty and the Sugarplum fairy in Ben Stephenson’s The Nutcracker and other leading roles.
“And so tonight, I’m promoting her to Senior Soloist. Chiara has demonstrated exceptional drive and artistic excellence over the last five years. She is truly a wonderful dancer, who brings a certain elegance to all her roles.
“Both these artists have displayed such artistry and I look forward to watching them progress in the coming years.
“As Artistic Director there is nothing more rewarding than watching our talented dancers grow and develop into accomplished artists,” he said.
Derek Deane’s Strictly Gershwin is generously enabled by the Ken Talbot Foundation, with Presenting Partner – Margot McKinney.
Queensland Ballet performs Derek Deane’s Strictly Gershwin until 7 October at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC. Tickets are still available.
