Win a Trip to See The Australian Ballet Perform in Sydney in 2013; Deadline Jan 21

In celebration of the Collette Dinnigan for The Australian Ballet at Target collection launching in selected Target Stores and online from today, the ballet is giving away one amazing prize to its biggest young ballet fan.

One lucky young dancer will win the Ultimate Ballet Experience, including return airfares to Sydney and two nights’ accommodation at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel, premium tickets to any 2013 main stage production, as well as tickets to a Public Programs education event.

In addition, the winner will be treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Sydney Opera House and Joan Sutherland Theatre, where The Australian Ballet performs each year. There will be the opportunity to meet the dancers, see costumes and their incredible detail up close, and witness the excitement that goes on backstage as dancers prepare for a performance.

To enter, nominate the tiny dancer in your life (between the ages of three and sixteen), and tell us in 25 words of less what they love most about ballet. It might be twirling and whirling in a dance class, wearing their favourite dance costume or pretending to be a prince or a swan.

Enter via our website at www.australianballet.com.au/targetcomp. Entries are open to all Australian residents and close on 21 January 2013.

The Artistic Director of The Australian Ballet, David McAllister, said he was excited to give young ballet fans a chance to share their love of dance.

“As a young boy growing up dancing, I would have given anything to see a ballet performance and have fond memories of being taken to the theatre as a special treat.

“I can’t wait to meet the winner and personally give them a guided tour – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience I’m sure they’ll never forget!” said McAllister.

The Collette Dinnigan for The Australian Ballet at Target range features a sweet collection of ballet-inspired clothing for girls, ranging in sizes from 3 – 8. Priced between $19 and $59 with a distinct vintage feel, it’s an affordable range available in selected Target Stores nationally as well as online at shop.target.com.au.

By supporting the range, you’ll be giving back to The Australian Ballet’s Education programs, as 10% of the proceeds from all sales will fund their visits to schools around Australia.

“Target Australia is delighted to bring the Collette Dinnigan for The Australian Ballet collection to our customers who can play a part in supporting The Australian Ballet’s Education program,” said Dene Rogers, Managing Director, Target Australia.

In 2012, almost 12,000 children experienced one of The Australian Ballet’s Education programs. More than just dancers in tutus, Out There -The Australian Ballet in schools is the company’s flagship education program. These fun workshops are delivered by a specially trained Dance Education Ensemble of two male and two female dance educators.

Participating students, aged between five and twelve years, experience a series of interactive demonstrations designed to foster movement skills, promote fitness, and encourage artistic engagement.

International research shows that children who take part in the arts perform better academically and have overall more positive outcomes than those who go without arts experiences.

Check out the full collection and watch the behind-the-scenes video starring our very own Principal Artist Madeleine Eastoe, by visiting www.shop.target.com.au/designersfortarget/collettedinnigan.

Pictured: Madeleine Eastoe. Photo by Jez Smith.