Li Cunxin has announced his plans to retire from his role as Queensland Ballet’s Artistic Director after 11 years at the helm of the company.

Troubled by serious health concerns since 2022, Li, 62, is stepping down in order to prioritise his recovery. His wife, Mary, has had her own health issues over the past year, will join Li in retirement at the end of the year from her role as Ballet Mistress and Principal Repetiteur.

Li Cunxin. Photo © David Kelly

Queensland Ballet Chair of the Board, Brett Clark, made the announcement to staff and company dancers this morning (Tuesday 20 June).

“I want to acknowledge and congratulate Li for his selfless, generous and visionary service to Queensland Ballet over the past 11 years,” said Clark. “When I think about what Li Cunxin has achieved in life, for his family in China, for his family around the world, for ballet, for Queensland, for Queensland Ballet, it is nothing short of sensational. Where words elude us, actions might save us. Over the next few months, we plan to celebrate Li and acknowledge his sensational contribution.”

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