The Australian dance community is mourning the loss of Garth Welch AM, one of the nation’s most distinguished dancers, choreographers and teachers. A premier danseur of international standing, Welch’s artistry, generosity and vision shaped Australian ballet across more than six decades.
Born in Brisbane in 1936, Welch began his training with Phyllis Danaher before joining the Borovansky Ballet in 1954. His early career also took him abroad with the Western Theatre Ballet (later Scottish Ballet) and the Grand Ballet du Marquis de Cuevas, before returning home in 1962 as a foundation member of The Australian Ballet. Over the following decade, he established himself as a principal dancer of extraordinary range and sensitivity, performing leading roles across the company’s repertoire and creating memorable characters in new works by Robert Helpmann and John Butler. His partnerships with Marilyn Jones, Kathleen Gorham and Marilyn Rowe, as well as his appearances alongside international stars including Margot Fonteyn, remain part of Australian ballet history.
Welch was also a gifted choreographer. His first ballet, Variations on a Theme, premiered with The Australian Ballet in 1964, followed by works such as Illyria (1966) and Othello (1970). He went on to choreograph and lead Ballet Victoria, create KAL for West Australian Ballet in 1979, and serve as that company’s Artistic Director from 1980 to 1982. In later years, Welch returned to the stage in Graeme Murphy’s After Venice and Late Afternoon of a Faun, bringing a maturity and depth that captivated new generations of audiences. His artistry also extended into musical theatre, where he appeared in productions throughout the 1990s.
Welch’s legacy is not only found in his performances and choreography, but also in the generations of dancers he taught and mentored. Known for his integrity, wit and exacting standards, he inspired countless artists across Australia. In recognition of his immense contribution, he was inducted into the Australian Dance Awards Hall of Fame in 2002.
The tributes flowing from colleagues, companies and students speak to the profound impact he had. Maggie Lorraine Storey recalled, “He made a huge impact on my life, and my love and condolences go out to his family. His contribution to our Art and to generations of dancers has been immense.” The West Australian Ballet paid tribute to his “creativity, vision and dedication,” remembering him with “immense respect and gratitude.” Jane Beckett described him as “a true premier danseur gifted with unique artistry, grace and technical skill… a man with a wicked sense of humour and integrity.”
With fellow principal dancer Marilyn Jones, they created one of The Australian Ballet’s most admired partnerships, and together they raised two sons who both followed in his footsteps: Stanton Welch, Artistic Director of Houston Ballet, and Damien Welch, a former principal with The Australian Ballet. For more than fifty years, Welch also shared his life with his partner Jak Callick, whose steadfast presence was a source of love and support throughout his later career and life.
Stanton’s message announcing his father’s passing reflected the family’s deep love and sense of loss: “Yesterday Dad died. Jak and Damien were with him. It was sudden and fast and not expected. Jak, Mum, Damien and I are all a bit numb but wanted to share the news with all those who loved him. He will be deeply missed. Love you Dad.”
Garth Welch AM leaves an indelible mark on Australian dance, a legacy of beauty, discipline, and imagination that will continue to inspire. The Australian dance world salutes his extraordinary life and mourns his passing with gratitude and respect.