The Australian Ballet has welcomed three new principal artists to its ranks. Artistic Director David McAllister made the surprise announcement onstage at Telstra Ballet in the Stadium in Penrith tonight. Senior Artists Daniel Gaudiello (28 from Brisbane), Kevin Jackson (26 from Perth) and Lana Jones (28 from Canberra) were told the exciting news during curtain calls at the free outdoor performance, surrounded by colleagues and their families.

McAllister praised each dancer, citing a number of exceptional performances as a factor in their elevation to principal artist. “Daniel, Kevin and Lana each have a star quality that has seen them dazzle in a broad range of principal roles. They are wonderful artists in their own right and demonstrate the breadth of talent in the company that will ensure our ongoing success as we head towards our 50th anniversary.”

Kevin becomes the youngest principal artist at The Australian Ballet, while Daniel and Lana share their success both on and off the stage, having married on New Year’s Eve 2009.

It is the first principal artist announcement since Danielle Rowe and Adam Bull were promoted in June 2008. Daniel, Kevin and Lana will take up their coveted positions in January 2011. All three are performing in Edge...