Flora
The Australian Ballet and Bangarra Dance Theatre
The Regent Theatre
12th March 2026
Flora, a collaboration between The Australian Ballet and Bangarra Dance Theatre, is an awe-inspiring fusion of the creative talents of two leading Australian dance companies that is both visually stunning and profoundly moving. This world premiere, a joint vision of Bangarra’s Artistic Director Frances Rings and The Australian Ballet's Artistic Director David Hallberg, is a powerful and timely exploration of our continent’s deep history, told through the enduring story of its native flora. From the moment the curtain rises, the audience is transported into a world of visceral beauty and raw, elemental power.
Rings’ choreography elegantly merges the refinement of classical ballet with the earthy, soulful dance and narrative traditions of First Nations Peoples. The ensemble of over 35 dancers from both companies moves with a unified spirit, yet individual artists are given moments to shine. Standout solo performances from Jill Ogai, Callum Linnane, Kassidy Waters, Elijah Trevitt, and Courtney Radford are particularly memorable, each bringing a unique and powerful energy to their role. The dancers embody the resilience of the Australian landscape, from the delicate unfurling of a new leaf to the fierce, regenerative power of fire. The result a dynamic and ever-shifting tapestry of movement that is both technically brilliant and emotionally resonant.
The production offers a rich sensory experience, not least because of the magnificent score by William Barton. His music, a blend of traditional Indigenous sound elements and contemporary classical composition, is performed with exquisite sensitivity and power by Orchestra Victoria under the masterful direction of conductor Jonathan Lo. Barton’s score is a character in itself, driving the narrative and evoking the very soul of the land. The stunning costumes by Grace Lillian Lee and the imaginative set design by Elizabeth Gadsby further enhance the immersive experience, creating a world that is both ancient and utterly contemporary.
But Flora is more than just a beautiful spectacle. It is a deeply intelligent and moving work that grapples with the complex history of this nation. The narrative traces the impact of colonization on both the land and its people, yet the overwhelming feeling is one of hope and resilience. The production’s final act, a vibrant explosion of colour and movement, is a testament to the enduring power of nature and the unbreakable spirit of First Nations culture.
Flora is a triumph, a work of profound beauty and importance that will stay with you long after you leave the theatre. It is a celebration of collaboration, of storytelling, and a vital reminder of our connection to the land we call home.
- Anne Runhardt