Overview
Strictly Gershwin comes roaring back to evoke the glamour and romance of the golden age in this spectacular tribute to George and Ira Gershwin. Summoning the silver screen magic of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Queensland Ballet takes audiences on a dazzling journey through ballet, jazz, tap, and ballroom dance genres, to the big band era soundtrack of the thirties. It’s a true celebration of the Gershwins, with Derek Deane’s choreography a sensational match to their larger-than-life Broadway creations and seductive Hollywood tunes.
With music adapted by Gareth Valentine, Deane’s Strictly Gershwin was choreographed for the English National Ballet in 2008 and has since been adored across the world. Queensland Ballet performed it in 2016 to rave reviews.
Featuring the Gershwin’s greatest hits including “Rhapsody in Blue”, “Summertime”, “Strike up the Band”, “Someone to Watch over Me”, “‘S Wonderful”, “Shall We Dance”, “I Got Rhythm” and many more, experience the music synonymous with the romantic ideals of post-war America, jazz, Broadway, and debonair dance routines, culminating in a sparkling grand finale from An American in Paris.
Book now for this fabulous homage to the art deco era.
Accessibility
For wheelchair users, Companion Card holders or those requiring assistance, dedicated seating options are available, and bookings can be made through our Call Centre by giving us a call on 136 246. You can also find information on access and accessibility at QPAC here.
Presented by Queensland Ballet
Derek Deane’s Strictly Gershwin is generously enabled by the Ken Talbot Foundation.
Presenting partner – Margot McKinney
Strictly Gershwin Production Image
Credits
- Choreographer and Director Derek Deane OBE
- Assistant to the Choreographer Ivan Gil-Ortega
- Stager Amy Hollingsworth
- Words and Music George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin
- Music Adaption Gareth Valentine
- Orchestrator Don Sebesky
- Tap Choreographer Bill Simpson
- Costume Designer Roberta Guidi di Bagno
- Lighting Designer Howard Harrison
- Revival Lighting Designers Cameron Goerg and Ben Hughes
- Conductor Michael England
- Conductor Nigel Gaynor
- Music Performed by Queensland Symphony Orchestra
- Featuring Pianist Daniel Le
- Costumes and props are co-owned by Queensland Ballet and Tulsa Ballet.
- Gershwin is a registered trademark of Gershwin Enterprises and is used under license.
Guest Artists
- Conductor Michael England
- Tap Choreographer and Tap Artist Bill Simpson
- Tap Artist Kris Kerr
- Tap Artist Rachael Walsh
- Singer (Tenor) Luke Kennedy
- Singer (Mezzo) Naomi Price
- Singer (Soprano) Nina Korbe
- Singer (Tenor) Ben Mingay
- Principal Artist Camilo Ramos
- Pianist Daniel Le