Luxury Lodges of Australia

Four of Australia’s finest dancers from The Australian Ballet will once more take to an open air stage at qualia for another weekend of Pas de deux in Paradise. From 1 – 3 July 2011, guests will be treated to a weekend of culinary delights by qualia Executive Chef, Jane-Therese Mulry, a Q&A session with the dancers, and an exclusive outdoor performance with a stunning Whitsundays backdrop.

Now in its fourth year, ‘Pas de Deux in Paradise’ has become a must attend event for ballet lovers. Guests will enjoy an intimate weekend during which they are treated to an exclusive performance by four principal artists - Olivia Bell, Adam Bull, Yosvani Ramos, and Leanne Stojmenov.

Internationally renowned choreographer, Graeme Murphy AM, and creative associate Janet Vernon AM – an acclaimed dancer and artistic director, will attend the weekend for the first time.

The weekend begins on Friday night with a welcome dinner prepared by qualia Executive Chef, Jane-Therese Mulry.  A Q&A session is held during the evening with The Australian Ballet’s Artistic Director, David McAllister and the dancers.

On Saturday morning, guests are treated to a behind the scenes look at a dance class on stage followed by lunch at the spectacular Hamilton Island Yacht Club featuring Moet and Chandon champagne.

All of this sets the scene for an unforgettable pre-dinner performance by the dancers on Saturday night beginning on the outdoor stage as the sun sets over the Whitsunday passage.

“The evening will begin with two colourful and exuberant pas de deux from The Merry Widow, which was the first full-length ballet created by The Australian Ballet in 1975 by Sir Robert Helpmann and Ronald Hynd. This will be followed by a grand solo from Don Quixote, performed by Yosvani Ramos,” said McAllister.

“The finale will be Graeme Murphy’s pas de trois from Swan Lake performed by Adam Bull, Leanne Stojmenov and Olivia Bell. With the beautiful Tchaikovsky score, the pas de trois between Prince Siegfried, Odette and Baroness von Rothbart is sure to be absolutely breathtaking under the stars at qualia.”

In recognition of their attendance, the weekend will also feature eight rarely seen costumes from Murphy’s previous works with The Australian Ballet: Nutcracker – The story of Clara, Firebird, The Silver Rose and Swan Lake.

The weekend will again be emceed by popular Getaway travel presenter and qualia devotee, Catriona Rowntree.

For further information and bookings click here.