Image by The Australian Ballet  

Lisa is the epitome of strength, prowess and humility. Rising quickly through the ranks to Principal artist with The Australian Ballet, she later moved to London and danced with The English National Ballet as a Senior Principal Artist. Internationally acclaimed, she was an immaculate artist with a quality that inspired generations of dancers.  Lisa continues to inspire and lead young dancers as the Artistic Director of The Australian Ballet School. A master of her craft.... what an incredible mentor and leader the students have.                                 

When auditioning young dancers, I firstly look for a few key elements: coordination, musicality, and a sense of movement. These qualities are interwoven, and I believe, are essential. Our audition classes are always simple, including moving arms and legs in simple patterns connected to the music. When the exercises are simple, the student has the chance to show their natural ability, coordination and ability to hear and feel the music, unhindered by learning and presenting complex combinations. We find this the best way to assess those elements. The audition process also needs to be a positive experience, enabling the dancers to feel at ease and express a joy of dance, no matter the age and stage of training.

When auditioning for companies, we remind our graduating students to be themselves, present their individuality and artistic qualities and be proud of the dancer they are. It is important to remember that the Director auditioning them is eagerly looking for that dancer they may see as suited to their company. They are not looking for a finished product. I believe they are looking for dancers who are engaging, open, curious and ready to continue learning and growing. With more diversity in company ranks and repertoire than ever before, being open to exploring all opportunities and remembering that not getting a call back right away, does not define you! Learn from the experience and keep going if it is your dream.

Lisa shares a story that began her Journey to the artist that she became.

My entry into the world was extraordinary. I was born in 1961, at only 28 weeks and weighing a mere two pounds. I was baptised two hours later as the chance of survival for such a premature baby in those days was unheard of. My mother said I would survive and one day I would be a ballerina. She gave me the Christian name Lisa-Pavane (Pavane being a dance). I started dancing at three years of age to assist with my significant lung issues and chronic asthma rehabilitation. I was an often unwell and introverted child and in my early teens, found solace in dance. I joined The Australian Ballet School in 1978 and The Australian Ballet in 1981 and was promoted to Principal in 1986. My mother was in the audience on the night I was promoted. Her vision came true. Along the journey, she would often remind me of her favourite phrase, ‘Those who reach, touch the stars’! I lived my dancing career and my life by that phrase. We are all extraordinary – remember to remind yourself of that regularly!

Lisa Pavane, 2022