The Australian Ballet Announces 2022 Telstra Ballet Dancer Award Nominees
The Australian Ballet has announced their 2022 Telstra Ballet Dancer Award nominees. This prestigious competition showcases artists of The Australian Ballet who have shown exceptional dedication, growth and potential over the past year. The awards are now in their 19th year.
These five extraordinary talents are the rising stars of The Australian Ballet and for them, dance is why. Discover their unique inspirations and vote for your favourite to win the People’s Choice Award.
The first nominee, Adam Elmes, grew up in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, surrounded by a family of dancers and creatives. He encourages ballet boys to listen to their heart and dance to the beat of their own drum. Adam connects with his audience through vulnerability. He opens himself up completely, immersing you in an emotive performance.
Up next is Thomas Gannon. Thomas joined The Australian Ballet right as the pandemic hit, but it hasn’t stopped him from already achieving career highs, having been chosen as a soloist in Pam Tanowitz’s Watermark in Sydney in 2021. He connects with his audience through joy. Thomas’ dancing glows with infectious optimism, transporting you into a world of happiness.
Lilly Maskery is the third nominee. Lilly left her NZ home for Australia at age 15 and graduated as Dux at The Australian Ballet School. Lilly has climbed the ballet ladder quickly, and was recently cast as Juliet in Romeo and Juliet. She connects with her audience through freedom. Lilly gives herself over completely to dance, captivating you with her raw, fearless energy.
Nominee number four is Rina Nemoto. Born in Tokyo, Rina moved to Paris at age 15 to chase her ballet dream. She knew The Australian Ballet was to be her next home after seeing Graeme Murphy’s Swan Lake when she was 19. Rina connects with her audience through grace. She is pure composure, entrancing you with her elegant movement.
The final nominee is Lucien Xu. Born in China, Lucien studied at the renowned Beijing Dance Academy (made famous by Mao’s Last Dancer) before joining The Australian Ballet. He follows in the footsteps of his father, who was also a dancer. Lucien connects with his audience through storytelling. He delights in surprising you, masterfully crafting a narrative to pull you in.
To learn more about each nominee and cast your vote for this year’s 2022 Telstra Ballet Dancer Awards click here Voting closes March 20th.