The Australian Ballet Returns to New York in 2012

After a more than decade-long absence, The Australian Ballet returns to the United States as part of their historic 50th anniversary celebrations.

The company will visit New York from June 12 - 17, 2012 with three works making their North American stage debut at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center. Two distinctly Australian programs will be presented, allowing American audiences to discover a company in peak form.

Graeme Murphy's critically acclaimed Swan Lake is the perfect illustration of the company's innovative and dynamic style. This brilliant interpretation has won more than ten major awards and sold out theatres at home and around the world.

The contemporary counterpart to this program is an all-Australian mixed bill, featuring Wayne McGregor's rule-breaking Dyad 1929 (created on The Australian Ballet's dancers in 2009) and an entirely new work choreographed by Stephen Page in an exciting collaboration with Bangarra Dance Theatre. This work will have its world premiere in Australia in February 2012. Joining this bill is a third yet-to-be-announced piece.

The artistic director of The Australian Ballet, David McAllister, is thrilled to be bringing the company back to New York with a stellar repertoire that showcases the company's strength and artistry.

"This is an amazing opportunity to see The Australian Ballet perform stunning works which have defined and shaped us. This is our eighth tour of the United States, and we love performing there," said McAllister.

"These works are all unique to the company and I can't wait to share them with American audiences for the very first time."

International touring has always been an important part of The Australian Ballet's vision. The company has visited 37 countries and 87 cities in its lifetime, developing a global reputation for technical excellence, versatility and dramatic flair.

On The Australian Ballet's last visit in 1999, The New York Times proclaimed "the company has a sleekness, clarity and modern spirit", while the New York Post praised the "Wonder from Down Under".

In 2012, the company will be travelling to New York with a touring party of 120 members. The dancers will be joined by artistic, technical, wardrobe, medical and music staff. More than 650 costumes and 250 pairs of pointe shoes will travel 16,500 kilometres to reach their destination.