West End’s Queensland Ballet has entered a new chapter with the appointment of Ivan Gil-Ortega as its artistic director. The Spanish-born dancer and choreographer steps into the role following the unexpected resignation of Li Cunxin, who led the company for 11 years and placed it firmly on the world stage.
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Gil-Ortega brings a wealth of experience, having spent a decade as a principal artist with Stuttgart Ballet (1997-2007) and a season with Dutch National Ballet (2007-2008). His career has seen him perform in numerous acclaimed productions and collaborate as a guest artist with prestigious ballet companies worldwide, including Ballet of Santiago de Chile, Bayerisches Staatsballett, Finnish National Ballet, Croatian National Ballet, and West Australian Ballet, among others.
Having previously performed with Queensland Ballet in its sellout Strictly Gershwin seasons in 2016 and 2023, Gil-Ortega is no stranger to the company. Now, as artistic director, he is looking ahead to shaping its future. While the 2025 season, including Romeo and Juliet (March) and Dangerous Liaisons (October), is already set, he is working on his vision for 2026.
He described this transition as a fresh start, emphasising the importance of looking forward rather than dwelling on the past. He expressed optimism about what the company could accomplish in the coming years.
Gil-Ortega aims to build on the company’s strong foundations while balancing artistic ambition with financial sustainability. He is also keen to attract younger audiences, supporting initiatives like Peter and the Wolf, which will be performed at Queensland Ballet’s West End home in June.
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Having spent recent years in Switzerland, he is now settling into life in Brisbane. The company has welcomed him warmly, presenting him with a toy kookaburra, a book on dangerous Australian creatures, and a jar of Vegemite. Ivan Gil-Ortega acknowledged the warmth of his reception and is embracing the start of his four-year tenure in Queensland.
Published 26-February-2025
