Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s family concert series returns in March with The Peasant Prince, an enthralling musical production, in collaboration with the Queensland Ballet.
Based on ballet dancer Li Cunxin AO’s inspirational autobiography Mao’s Last Dancer, The Peasant Prince traces the journey of a young boy from rural China who, against all odds, becomes one of the most famous dancers in the world.
The charming production stars exceptional young Brisbane-based dancer Hugo Tang from the Queensland Ballet Academy, performing choreography by Paul Boyd (Tall Poppies, The Red Shoes, Tormented Tangos).
Conducted by Brett Kelly, The Peasant Prince is an interactive experience for all ages complete with composition byKaty Abbott, narration by award-winning Queensland actor Bryan Probets and big-screen projections of hauntingly beautiful illustrations by Australian artist Anne Spudvilas.
Queensland Symphony Orchestra Chief Executive Craig Whitehead said, “We are thrilled to be working with Queensland Ballet Academy on presenting The Peasant Prince, a heartwarming story performed with such passion by our exceptional Orchestra, alongside impressive young dancer Hugo Tang. Our family concerts are always a great opportunity for young music lovers to get a taste of classical music in a fun and interactive environment.”
Queensland Ballet Artistic Director Li Cunxin AO said it will be so exciting to see his story come to life, and even more heart-warming to have a young Queensland Ballet Academy Student performing in the production.
“It will be wonderful to see this children’s version of my autobiography on the stage produced by Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Paul Boyd’s choreography, coupled with Hugo Tang’s performance promises to delight audiences,” Mr Li said.
As well as the two family performances on Saturday 21 March, four mid-week educational performances will be held on Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 March. These performances of The Peasant Prince are designed especially for primary school-aged children and complement the Queensland curriculum, but all are welcome to attend.
The Peasant Prince is guaranteed to be a wonderful introduction to both classical music and ballet for first-time attendees of all ages.
The Peasant Prince
18 March: 10am + 11.30am SOLD OUT (Learning Concerts)
19 March: 10am + 11.30am (Learning Concerts)
21 March: 9.30am + 11am (Family Concerts)
Queensland Symphony Orchestra Studio, South Bank
qso.com.au
