The Australian Ballet Premieres David McAllister's The Sleeping Beauty

The Australian Ballet's The Sleeping Beauty will tour Australia, starting in September.

The production, directed by Australian Ballet Artistic Director David McAllister of 14 years, will have its world premiere in Melbourne on 15 September, before heading to Perth in October and Sydney in November. 

It has been described by McAllister as a "classical retelling", based on Marius Petia's ballet, with choregraphy that "reflect[s] the glory of the art form and majesty of the music". McAllister said in a statement: "To reveal a deeper, more meaningful story, the ballet will showcase the drama and double-cross of twists and turns, of characters we can relate to, of the sense of triumph that resonates when the human spirit prevails. Aurora is strong and independent and aware of her responsibilities as princess and future monarch. She connects with her prince and their hearts are united, their future destiny entwined with love's first kiss."

The role of Aurora will be inhabited by Australian Ballet Principal Artist Lana Jones. Tchaikovsky's score will be performed by Orchestra Victoria in Melbourne; West Australian Symphony Orchestra in Perth; and Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra in Sydney. The lavish Louis XIV-style sets and costumes have been created by award-winning designer Gabriela Tyleslova, with lighting design from Jon Buswell.