We had the privilege of attending opening night of Oscar – a new production from the Australia Ballet at the iconic Sydney Opera House. Based on the life and writings of Oscar Wilde, the exquisite new production was choreographed by Tony and Olivier Award winner, Christopher Wheeldon OBE.
A collision of creative genius: Wheeldon’s Oscar fuses Oscar Wilde’s wit with awe-inspiring ballet, in a full-length World Premiere production commissioned exclusively for The Australian Ballet’s repertoire.
Known for his innovative, rich and awe-inspiring productions, Wheeldon returns to the company with the fascinating story of Wilde – history’s famous humourist. Weaving the playwright’s personal experiences through his beloved stories and characters, Wheeldon brings Wilde’s biting wit and flamboyant style to the stage in a powerful production.
Brought up in Dublin, Wilde took the glamorous social circles of London’s elite by storm. His fame was at its height when he was convicted and sent to prison in 1895 in an early instance of the ‘celebrity trial’. He was an extraordinary genius, whose work continues to inspire and delight 130 years later. His life, stories and sparkling turn of phrase lay the groundwork for Wheeldon’s visionary ballet.
The Australian Ballet last collaborated with Wheeldon on his award-winning musical, An American in Paris. His unique choreography makes him one of the most sought-after and highly regarded choreographers of his generation. Wheeldon was joined by composer, Joby Talbot who wrote the score for Wheeldon’s smash hit ballet, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and set and costume designer Jean-Marc Puissant.
This story of an infamous dandy and his tales was a sensational addition to the company’s repertoire. Bravo!
