Queensland Ballet Celebrates 10 Years of Artistic Director Li Cunxin AO

Queensland Ballet is celebrating 10 years of Li Cunxin as Artistic Director. In 2013, Li Cunxin AO arrived at Queensland Ballet studios in Brisbane filled with dreams, drive, and an ambition to make an extraordinary impact. 

What followed was just that: 10 years of growth, stunning productions, standardising live orchestras at mainstage performances, expansions into education, community and regional spheres, and new building endeavours including a new Queensland Ballet Academy facility and the redevelopment of the historic Thomas Dixon Centre. 

Li’s effect on Queensland Ballet has been monumental and has changed the lives and aspirations of many. When he began, the company had 26 dancers. Today, the troupe has grown to 58.

Devoted to artistic excellence, his international reputation alongside a remarkable skill set and intense passion for the artform elevated Queensland Ballet to new heights and firmly placed the Company on the world stage. From standardising live orchestras at mainstage performances to securing grand-scale Sir Kenneth MacMillan productions and new building endeavours, Li’s effect on Queensland Ballet has been monumental. 

As the first curatorial choreographer in the company’s 52-year history, Li joined with high hopes, a vision to grow the number of dancers to allow the Company to perform any ballet without restriction, to attract the best choreographers and lead a company of international standing.

As part of Queensland Ballet’s 2022 season, Li’s Choice celebrates his 10 years as Artistic Director. It is a special triple bill curated by Li featuring Greg Horsman’s Glass Concerto, capturing the pulse of Philip Glass’ music, Natalie Weir’s emotive war-themed Who We Are Left and Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s dazzling, high energy Elite Syncopations, with the king of ragtime, Scott Joplin. Li’s Choice will run 10-25 June at QPAC’s Playhouse. Tickets range from $59 to $110 for individuals.

To continue the celebration, you can take a tour through Li’s decade of directorship with a special on Queensland Ballet’s site here This page features photos, videos, quotes and more, celebrating Li’s accomplishments over the last decade.