The story of Swan Lake has been captivating audiences for over a century. Prince Siegfried falls in love with the Swan Princess Odette, who has been cursed by the sorcerer Von Rothbart. The Prince is tricked into declaring his love for the sorcerer’s daughter, the black swan Odile, and a distraught Odette throws herself into the lake – Siegfried, horrified by what he has done, follows her. The spell is broken, Von Rothbart is killed, and the lovers are forever united in death.

^{Evgenia Obraztsova and Victor Estevez. All photos © David Kelly}

Tchaikovsky’s lilting score was beautifully performed by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Queensland Ballet Music Director Nigel Gaynor, and choreographer Ben Stevenson, OBE, joined the company all the way from Texas to coach the dancers and add his finishing touches to their rendition of his choreography, staged by Tim O’Keefe. Sumptuous sets and stunningly detailed costumes designed by Kristian Frederikson, and innovative lighting design by Glenn Hughes brought the enchanted lake and the colourful royal court to life.

Alina Cojocaru, who joined Queensland Ballet as Aurora for two special performances of Sleeping Beauty in 2015, was initially advertised...