Queensland Ballet Academy Talents Shine at Prix de Lausanne 2024

Queensland Ballet is proud to announce the outstanding achievements of two of its Academy rising stars, Ruby and Jenson, who emerged as remarkable finalists at the prestigious Prix de Lausanne 2024.

The Prix de Lausanne, established in 1973, is a globally recognised international ballet competition dedicated to young dancers aged 15-18. This esteemed event aims to discover, promote, and support the most exceptional talents worldwide.

Out of the 88 initially selected candidates, Ruby and Jenson represented Australia as the only finalists from the country. The competition concluded with 20 finalists participating in the Finals held in Lausanne, and our talented dancers showcased their extraordinary skills and dedication.

At the conclusion of the Finals, the distinguished Jury, presided over by Dame Darcey Bussell, President of the Royal Academy of Dance and Prix de Lausanne 1986 Prize Winner, announced the nine Prize Winners for 2024. We are delighted to share that Jenson Blight has been honoured with the Bourse Astarte Scholarship Award, marking a significant achievement in his promising career.

Additionally, Ruby Day was recognised for her exceptional talent and dedication, receiving the Rudolph Nureyev Foundation's Best Young Talent Award. This accolade acknowledges Ruby's outstanding contributions to the world of ballet and reflects her potential to become a leading force in the dance community.

Queensland Ballet Academy Director, Christian Tàtchev, extended his heartfelt congratulations to both Ruby and Jenson for their remarkable success at the Prix de Lausanne.

“I couldn’t be prouder of their success at the worlds’ most prestigious ballet competition,” he said.

“Their achievements mark their outstanding dedication and passion for the artform, whilst underscoring the Academy’s commitment to nurturing and fostering world-class ballet talent.

I’d also like to acknowledge the Academy’s teaching faculty, and the Company’s new Artistic Director, Leanne Benjamin OBE AM, who spent some time with the students last month as they prepared for the competition.”

As the recipients of these prestigious awards, Jenson and Ruby will have the opportunity to further their training by entering one of the renowned Partner Schools and Companies associated with the Prix de Lausanne.

We eagerly anticipate the return of our accomplished dancers to Queensland Ballet Academy, where they will continue to inspire and elevate the standards of excellence in the field of ballet. Once again, congratulations to Ruby and Jenson for their exceptional achievements on the global stage.