Queensland Ballet Presents a Captivating Australian Adaption of Coppélia

Premiering in 2014, this imaginative adaptation by Greg Horsman draws inspiration from Australia's rich migrant history, offering a fresh perspective on the classic tale.

Set against the charming backdrop of 19th-century Hahndorf, South Australia, Coppélia unfolds the intriguing story of Dr. Coppélius, a German migrant striving to recreate his lost daughter amidst the enchanting Australian landscape.

Mr. Horsman seamlessly merges the classical essence with an Australian aesthetic, resulting in a poignant and ingenious adaptation. The ballet interweaves themes of love and mischief, featuring a life-like doll and quarrelling lovers in a delightful blend of chaos and Australian charm.

Mr. Horsman shared his perspective on Coppélia, acknowledging its popularity in the classical repertoire while expressing the need to bring an Australian context to Queensland audiences. He said the production always had a special place in his heart.

“Coppelia was one of the first full length ballets I performed a lead role in. In my production of Coppelia, I changed the time period as well as the setting. I’ve set this production towards the end of the 1800s in Handoff, South Australia.”

Handoff is classified as Australia's oldest surviving German settlement and thousands of people, young and old, enjoy its charm and hospitality each year. It is the jewel of the Adelaide Hills and one of South Australia's most popular towns and was zoned as a state heritage area in 1988 by the Government of South Australia.

“By setting the ballet in Handoff, that gave me the capacity to elaborate on Dr Coppelius’ character.”

“Coppelia is a light-hearted mischievous ballet, that will charm audiences of all ages,” Mr Horsman said.