Derek Deane’s The Lady of the Camellias

Derek Deane’s The Lady of the Camellias

A glittering tale of Parisian love and tragedy performed by Shanghai Ballet.


Queensland Ballet is proud to present Derek Deane OBE's The Lady of the Camellias by Shanghai Ballet, in a season exclusive to Brisbane.

Based on the landmark 1848 novel by French author Alexandre Dumas fils, this tale of forbidden love and tragedy has inspired countless stage, operatic and film productions, including the feature film and award-winning musical Moulin Rouge!, and Verdi’s opera La Traviata.

The story follows Marguerite Gautier, regarded as the most beautiful and brazen courtesan in all of Paris and known as The Lady of the Camellias as she is never seen without her favourite flowers. In 19th century France, she discovers and falls in love with Armand, a young and handsome bourgeois, and embarks on a passionate romance.

Featuring sumptuous choreography, exquisite set designs and elegant costumes, this compelling production was created by distinguished British choreographer Derek Deane OBE (Strictly Gershwin). Music by American composer Carl Davis will transport audiences to Paris.

The brilliant Shanghai Ballet was founded more than 40 years ago, and is a sister company to Queensland Ballet, renowned for its classic masterpieces, contemporary ballets, and Chinese historical dance dramas.

Premiering in 2019, Derek Deane OBE’s The Lady of the Camellias is a celebration of literature, love, and art told through the artform of lyrical dance.

Derek Deane’s The Lady of the Camellias performed by Shanghai Ballet runs 5 – 8 of December, 2024, at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC.

view the 2024 season

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we work and perform. Long before we performed on this land, it played host to the dance expression of our First Peoples. We pay our respects to their Elders — past, present and emerging — and acknowledge the valuable contribution they have made and continue to make to the cultural landscape of this country.

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