Telstra Ballet in the Bowl Comes to Melbourne, March 8

The Australian Ballet kicks off its 2013 Melbourne season with the return of Telstra Ballet in the Bowl. It's the first time in five years the event has been staged in the city.

This FREE outdoor performance will be held under a canopy of stars at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl on Friday 8 March 2013.

This is a free but ticketed event. To register for tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.com.au from Friday 15 February.

The company will perform a specially selected program featuring some of the greatest hits of ballet, including excerpts from the lively Don Quixote and the iconic Swan Lake.

Complementing the stunning dancing will be the exquisite musical accompaniment of Orchestra Victoria, making the evening a truly sublime experience for the senses.

The event will also serve as a triumphant homecoming for Victorian dancer Amy Harris, the 2012 Telstra Ballet Dancer Award winner. It will be the first time Harris performs in her home state since winning the coveted accolade in November.

The Australian Ballet's Artistic Director David McAllister calls Telstra Ballet in the Bowl a fantastic way for families and friends to come together and usher in the Labour Day long weekend.

"The Sidney Myer Music Bowl is one of Melbourne's iconic stages, and we relish the chance to dance there - even more so when we can share ballet with our fans for free!" he said.

Principal Sponsor Telstra has sponsored the company's annual free outdoor performances since 2000. Past events have been held in Brisbane, Penrith, Darwin and Canberra.

Telstra Area General Manager for Melbourne CBD and West, Paul Harrison, said they were proud to bring the Telstra Ballet in the Bowl back to Melbourne.

"The free performance is always a highlight of the year, giving ballet fans and dance enthusiasts the opportunity to witness The Australian Ballet perform in a unique setting - it's an event not to be missed," Mr Harrison said.

Telstra Ballet in the Bowl is a free event for everyone: bring family, friends and a picnic rug to enjoy a spectacular evening of the very best that dance can offer.

THIS IS A FREE BUT TICKETED EVENT. Please register for tickets at ticketmaster.com.au from Friday 15 February 2013. The performance will begin at 8pm sharp on Friday 8 March 2013. Gates open at 4pm. No glass, bottles, cans, or audio and visual recording equipment can be brought into the venue. Food and beverages are available for purchase at the venue.

If the weather is inclement, check australianballet.com.au from 3pm on Friday 8 March for updates.

Photo Credit: Georges Antoni