Paris Opera Ballet Opens Tonight in Sydney

2013 marks the triumphant return to Sydney of The Paris Opera Ballet, universally regarded as one of the greatest, if not the greatest ballet company in the world. The Paris Opera Ballet will give 13 performances of Giselle for an exclusive Sydney Season at the Capitol Theatre, Sydney from tonight, 29 January.

Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Arts, George Souris, said he encouraged as many people as possible to take this opportunity to see one of the world's best ballet companies exclusively at Sydney's Capitol Theatre. "The NSW Government, through our tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, is pleased to have worked with Leo Schofield AM and Ian McRae AO to bring the internationally celebrated Paris Opera Ballet exclusively to Sydney for this wonderful presentation of Giselle," Mr Souris said. "This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime cultural event, which is a highlight on the 2013 NSW Events Calendar."

Founded in 1661 The Paris Opera Ballet has an unbroken tradition of two hundred and fifty years at the forefront of this ever-evolving art form, producing great works, legendary dancers and exceptional choreographers.

In addition to being the oldest company, The Paris Opera Ballet is also the youngest with an average age of 25. The vast majority of the dancers have come through the company school, many commencing their training in the unique French technique as early as eight years of age.

The Paris Opera Ballet made its sensational Australian debut in 2007 when it performed in Sydney. That season comprised a Gala at the Sydney Opera House followed by a fortnight of Swan Lake and Jewels at the Capitol Theatre.

Giselle is the quintessential romantic ballet. The tale of an innocent country girl who, deceived by her noble lover, dies and joins the ranks of other young maidens, similarly betrayed, in a spirit world where she is able to save his life through her manifest love for him.

The tour to Sydney by The Paris Opera Ballet is with the support of Destination New South Wales on behalf of the NSW Government.