International star Ivan Gil-Ortega Returns to the Stage

The Spanish-born former principal dancer (Dutch National Ballet, Stuttgart Ballet) will portray the Father of Armand Duval in the beloved story, marking a significant event in the dance world. Throughout an extensive international career, Gil-Ortega was celebrated for his emotive depth and skilled partnering abilities.

Based on the landmark 1848 novel by French author Alexandre Dumas fils and set in 19th century France, The Lady of the Camellias charts the passionate romance between Parisian courtesan Marguerite Gautier and the young bourgeoise Armand Duval. Horrified by the scandalous relationship and reputational repercussions and unbeknownst to Armand, his father - portrayed by Gil-Ortega, convinces Marguerite to leave.

Gil-Ortega said he was excited about his upcoming return to the stage, and particularly to perform alongside the esteemed Shanghai Ballet.

"I am thrilled to be returning to the stage after several years away," Gil-Ortega said.

"There's an exhilarating energy in dusting off my dance shoes and stepping back into the spotlight. The chance to perform again, especially with such a prestigious company like the Shanghai Ballet at QPAC, is invigorating. I'm eager to reconnect with the audience and share the joy of dance once more.”

The Shanghai Ballet's production of The Lady of the Camellias opens on the 5th December at QPAC's Lyric Theatre, blending the grace and power of classical ballet with the emotive storytelling of Alexandre Dumas' novel. Shanghai Ballet is one of China’s most prestigious ballet companies.

Choreographer of The Lady of the Camellias, former Artistic Director and current Artistic Consultant of Shanghai Ballet, Derek Deane OBE, expressed excitement over Ortega's return.

"Ivan Gil Ortega is a dancer of extraordinary talent and depth, and his return to the stage is a celebration for the ballet community. We are thrilled to have him bring his interpretation to The Lady of the Camellias, and I am confident Brisbane audiences are in for an unforgettable experience," he said.

Deane is a distinguished British choreographer and former principal dancer, renowned for his dynamic and innovative contributions to ballet. A graduate of the Royal Ballet School, he rose to prominence as a principal dancer with The Royal Ballet. Transitioning to choreography, Deane became Artistic Director of English National Ballet, where he revitalised the Company with his bold and large-scale productions, including his iconic Swan Lake in-the-round at the Royal Albert Hall.

Currently serving as the Artistic Consultant of Shanghai Ballet, he continues to shape the future of dance on an international stage. Deane’s blend of dramatic flair and emotional depth has elevated the Company to new heights, engaging both traditional ballet audiences and new generations of dance lovers, while solidifying his status as one of the most influential figures in contemporary ballet.

In recent years, Shanghai Ballet has gained international recognition for its artistic excellence and innovative productions.