On the 2nd of March 1964, The Australian Ballet School first opened its doors to 24 young hopefuls, to begin the very first day of training at our national ballet school.

Born out of the vision of two great women, our founding Director Dame Margaret Scott – who sadly passed away this year – and Dame Peggy van Praagh, the School has achieved an incredible amount in its 55 years.

The School has well and truly established itself as a leader in dance education and teaching internationally. Today, students enjoy unparalleled care and services beyond the studios – including an enviable health team, and a boarding programme to care for young dancers who now have a home away from home.

Our graduates continue to contribute to our nation’s artistic success and heritage with their remarkable careers.

For us to remain at the forefront of dance education, we need your help more than ever.

With two-thirds of our annual funding from non-government sources, your donation today to our 55th Anniversary Appeal will truly help us continue to soar.

Your generosity ensures we can provide extraordinary level of training and care to our future dancers each year. Together with parents, family, and our committed, passionate and dedicated staff, we all play an important role in supporting the journey of tomorrow’s dancers.

“There are many people I am indebted to throughout my journey. Some people have given so generously to my family to help me reach my ballet dreams. To the donors and benefactors who have supported us along the way, I cannot thank you enough” – Mathilda Ballantyne, School Captain 2019

Your gift today will help us in so many ways. We can continue to support the one in three students in need each year through our Bursaries and Scholarships Fund, we can stage performances to the highest standard – so important to our students’ vocation training, and we can continue to excel as a global leader in dance education and training.

No matter the size, your tax-deductible donation to our 55th Anniversary Appeal will make a difference – to the lives of our students, and the future of ballet in Australia.

Best wishes,
Lisa Pavane, Director

How will the funds be used?

Donations will be used to assist the School in training talented young dancers. Gifts can be directed to specific areas if requested including bursaries, scholarships, our exchange programme, performances or our Endowment Fund.